montana maiden

Reformation Day 2009

2009-10-31T11:19:00.006-07:00

Happy Reformation Day,

the 492nd anniversary of Martin Luther's nailing the 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, on October 31, 1517! May today be a day of remembering and celebrating the light that God especially revealed to the world on that day in 1517, rather than a day of revelling in the dark things of the world, the latter of which even many Christians tend to do. God has given light in darkness (in history's darkness and in our souls' darkness) and it is glorious!

"But the path of the just is as the shining light,
that shineth more and more unto the perfect day."
(Proverbs 4:18)

"The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light:
they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death,
upon them hath the light shined" (Isaiah 9:20).

"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying,
I am the light of the world:
he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness,
but shall have the light of life" (John 8:12).

"The night is far spent, the day is at hand:
let us therefore cast off the works of darkness,
and let us put on the armour of light"
(Romans 13:12). (HT: C.S. Hayden)

Last night we gathered with some friends from our church for a Reformation Party at Bryce and Sarah's house--an evening they intended to be a first annual event. It was a wonderful time of sharing Reformation truths and Reformation themes, and Bryce did well at compiling some quotations and giving some background on the cultural environment at the time of Luther's actions. Our group watched a clip of Luther's speech from the 2003 Luther movie and watched a slideshow that Sarah made of Reformation characters and sites. We asked several dozen trivia questions and sang hymns about the Christian faith and the Church--three of them written by Luther. We listened to the Reformation Symphony, written by Felix Mendelssohn for the 300th anniversary of the Augsburg Confession--the founding document of the Lutheran church; the fourth movement is based on "A Mighty Fortress is our God." My mom and Sarah and some other ladies made a delicious German meal of spaetzle noodles, creamy meatballs, red cabbage, soft caraway pretzels, vegetable soup, filled German dessert crepes, and German chocolate cake.

There are so many historical accounts and rich concepts that could be shared regarding the 16th century Protestant Reformation. I feel like I am not doing it justice to just mention it in passing today, on this momentous anniversary. However, due to time constraints and the fact that many others have excellent written volumes on this subject, I will leave it as that. Following are a few resources that we have used in studying for this Reformation Day. Bryce had many other sources, but these will have to suffice for now. Studying the Reformation is a fine way of learning what the Church must reform and how it should be done. May we always be reforming back to the Word of God.

C.S. Hayden's posts for Reformation week

Pastor Serven's articles on the Reformation

History of the Reformation by D'Aubigne
A Vision Forum article on historian D'Aubigne's work

Martin Luther at the Diet of Worms--movie

Fourth movement of Reformation Symphony

Some past posts on my blog:

Soundbites from the Reformation 500 conference

One Thousand Years of truth obscured

D'Aubigne quotation on God's power

A note about Mendelssohn's birthday

Facts behind the Reformation Symphony

H. Bonar poem on the theme of church history

Resources delayed in the mail...maybe we'll use them next year:

DVDs of Reformation 500 lectures

Illustrated Reformation timeline

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Mid-September Update

2009-09-16T19:16:00.003-07:00

~ I know my blog has been pretty silent lately, other than the addition of pictures. I've been working on other writing projects and can only focus on so many directions at a time! I do hope to post a few pictures this weekend, of our camping trip to Glacier National Park last weekend.

Other than camping and writing, my mom and I have been harvesting a variety of produce from our garden and canning some apples and pears. The yard work is dwindling somewhat, though our weather has hardly cooled down yet. This summer has been uncommonly cool, so September hasn't seemed any cooler than July and August were. We have been getting together frequently with Bryce and Sarah; this afternoon I had lunch with my sister-in-law after browsing the library together and before I went to my nannying job.

Last night, a wonderful Christian couple whom we met in Glacier, stayed with us on their way through town. It is always special to find commonality in Christ and have a good time of fellowship with people we had never met before, and who live across the country.

A few things that haven't needed attention for a while, are now getting it: I have been going to a chiropractor, and my car needs to go to the mechanic. While work like this is never convenient, I think it is better not to procrastinate! I think chiropractors really understand the basis of how the whole body functions, and would definitely recommend them far above any other kind of medical practitioner. I think the mechanic will understand far more about the locks and windows on my car than I do, as well!

I thank God for the talents that He gives to each person, and pray that I will use mine diligently and productively. I enjoy hearing of the things my friends are involved with, not only to get ideas and inspiration, but to be able to appreciate the diversity of labors that are being completed, in complement to each other, for God's service. We must be redeeming the time that He gives us, for Kingdom-oriented purposes! ~

This is a verse I have been meditating on of late: "Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant." (Psalm 35:27)

That's all for now,
~Renée

Book Promotion Contest! by Pajama School and Advent Film Group

2009-09-01T10:24:00.002-07:00

~Have you ever made a short film?

~Would you like the opportunity to win a pass for the San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival or Filmmakers Academy?

~Do you want to support homeschooling?

Well, here is a chance to be involved with all three of the fabulous things mentioned above! Miss Natalie Wickham will be awarding a free family pass to the SAICFF to the person who produces the best 30-60 second film short about her recently published book, Pajama School.

You definitely do not want to miss Natalie's book; Pajama School is a remarkable testimony to the success of homeschooling, and an intimate story into the lives, joys, struggles, and acheivements of one homeschool family. I loved reading it and entering into the things she shared. Enter this contest and you'll get the book for 50% off!

You definitely do not want to miss the San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival, either. This event is giving a voice --or a screen--to small filmmakers who desire to glorify God in their productions. I loved attending and being inspired by the steps being taken to Christ's Lordship over the film industry. Enter this contest and you might just get to go for free!

This book and this film festival have been some of the most encouraging things happening this year for homeschoolers. For an opportunity to reap the benefits of both, you'll want to go to learn more about the contest at Natalie's Pajama School blog. There, you'll find out how to upload your film to You Tube, when the deadline is, who the judges are, and more.

Films for Natalie and the Advent Film Group need to be produced by the end of October, and the Film Festival is in October of 2010, with the Academy taking place in the spring of 2010. I hope you take advantage of this great opportunity!

Our House in Summer

2009-09-01T10:17:00.004-07:00

These are just a few pictures I've taken on our property this summer. The next few are the irrigation ditch and the view from the top of the hill behind our house, and then a couple pictures of our garden and landscaping.

One warm weekend (there have been few), Bryce, Sarah, Mom and I went rafting on the Madison River: it is slow, shallow, and relatively warm. Bryce and I got out and swam for much of the three miles that we floated--the perfect way to enjoy a summer Saturday!

Weekend in Idaho

2009-09-01T10:08:00.004-07:00

In the middle of August, my mom and I went to Boise, Idaho, for a weekend to visit some dear friends whom I had once helped when they lived in Texas. I have such special memories of living with them, that any time to be in their home again is a real treat! (Above: Me, Hannah, Hayden, Kathryn, Hope, and Holly.)

...In which Holly and I stop to smell the roses:)

One day we went to the rose garden and state historical museum; the next day we walked along the river and went shopping together.

I don't have pictures of this, but on Sunday they blessed me by celebrating my birthday a day early, complete with cheesecake and candles!

Activites with Friends

2009-09-01T09:56:00.003-07:00

After the Montana reception for Bryce and Sarah (see post below), Sarah's family and friends, and some other in-town and out-of-own guests joined us for some fun activities the next few days. On Sunday after church, everyone came to my mom's and my house for visiting. Some of us young women are on the porch, above.
The next day we went on hikes to two different waterfalls. It was special to be able to develop our relationships with Sarah's family even more than before. Also, I enjoyed spending time with all these other young ladies--we had a blast together! After our hikes, we went out for pizza in town, and then walked down the street (by then it had warmed up to a perfect summer evening) to an old-fashioned ice cream parlor.

Our friends Jeannie and Cassie, who were indispensable helpers at the reception, and welcome companions to our hikes.
I was teaching Caroline how to drive my manual-transmission car.

A few days after the company left, Bryce, Sarah, my mom and I went on this hike. It's been a relatively cool summer but we have still been able to experience the outdoors a fair amount, thankfully.

Montana Reception

2009-09-01T09:48:00.004-07:00

Five weeks after Bryce and Sarah's wedding, my mom and I hosted a reception for all our friends from Montana (and Idaho and Colorado). Sarah's family and grandparents and cousin came up from Texas to join us, as did one of the bridesmaids, Elizabeth and her sister from Kansas. There were about 160 people and we all had a grand time of setting up, celebrating with friends, and then dancing. My mom made the gorgeous, delicious cake pictured below.

To a Faithful Reader

2009-08-10T09:55:00.007-07:00

Hello Mr. G. in California,

My mom said you read my blog every day,

so I just wanted to say good morning!,

and thank you!,

and that I'll try to post things consistently for you to see:)

Please give our greetings to your wife, as well.

Your friend,

Renée

Bryce and Sarah's Wedding -- Formals

2009-08-07T16:12:00.009-07:00

~ Bryce and Sarah ~

~ Jefferson, Texas ~ June 27, 2009 ~

Left to right, back to front:
Philip, Casie, Abe, Elizabeth, William, Susanna,
Renée, Daniel, Bethany, David, Caroline, Christopher
...Sophia, Sarah & Bryce, Hannah.

~ Flower girl Sophia and I ~

~ L-R, Hannah, Elizabeth, Bethany, Renee, Sarah,

Susanna, Caroline, Casie, and Sophia. ~

~ L-R, Abe, Christopher, Daniel, Bryce, Philip, David, and William. ~

~ Knives and bouquets! ~

~ Our family ~

~ Sarah and her siblings, L-R Daniel, Rhyne, William,

Sophia, Susanna, and Hannah ~

~ Both families, and Sarah's grandparents ~

~ Jefferson Cumberland Presbyterian Church ~

"For this cause shall a man leave his father and his mother and cleave unto his wife."

Families are barometers of the godliness of a culture...
What you are seeing is a symbol of heaven;
What you are hearing is a message from heaven. --Pastor Greene

~ Acclamation and rejoicing! ~

~ Leaving for life together. ~

~ The parents: Laura, David & Susan ~

Reformation 500 Thoughts

2009-07-26T18:22:00.002-07:00

One thing that impressed me through the week of the Reformation 500 was watching all of the children take part in the events. Of course, all the boys and girls loved the festivities—the songs and music, the parade, the fireworks, and the time with their friends. But even more than that, I could tell that they were very serious about learning about the Protestant Reformers and learning from the “Reformers” that were reenacting. The looks on their faces, the questions they asked, and the comments from some of the “Reformers” (see Doug’s Blog for a few of these) demonstrated that the children were not playing history or pretending to be costumed characters just for fun. They are serious about becoming, with the guidance of their parents and the inspiration of events like this, the next wise leaders—valiant men and courageous women.

The children at this event seemed to be loving and striving to be faithful to God’s covenant, and Lord willing they will be for the rest of their lives, making a great and Godly impact on our nation. It was so encouraging to see those a decade or so younger than my peers and I, who are learning to take up the torch, or the cross, whichever it may providentially be, and follow in their parents and spiritual ancestors’ steps. They are learning alongside of people in my generation and people in my mother’s generation (and even older), to hold up the Word of God as the sole standard for faith and practice, and then to follow it to the best of their understanding, by God’s grace. They learn this from the example of the Protestant Reformers in Europe and Scotland, and the Puritans of England and America.

At the same time as everyone was celebrating many things the week of July 4^th—especially children, who love celebration and enter in passionately—there was a more sober sentiment coursing through it all. While we celebrate the works of God in the past, particularly 500 years ago when God raised up a noble man, John Calvin, we also recognize that the same kind of Reformation is needed in our day. This is sobering, because we cannot just remember people and events and pass them by; we learn from them so that we can glean from their expansive wisdom and let it teach us as we strive to uphold God’s Word as the Reformers so fearlessly did in Wittenberg, Geneva, Edinburgh, Paris, Strasbourg, Amsterdam, and later in London, Plymouth, and even Boston.

While we take joy in the freedom that America has, as we did on Independence Day, we know that it is due to the reverence for God’s Word that was prevalent in the colonial era, and we know that there is little reverence among the masses today, for which reason our freedoms are rapidly diminishing. We will not be able to keep rejoicing in our liberties in future generations unless we act today to preserve them, by fearing God and keeping His precepts. This is why it is wonderful to see children that are excited about knowing and following God’s truth and about loving His works in history since they teach Christians how to act today. One generation—the present-day adults—cannot make any true changes unless the next generations are trained to continue in the same reforms. The obedience of Godly families, of virtuous boys and girls, is the first step toward instilling the fear of God back into society.

Great hope was kindled at the Reformation 500 conference as friendships were made, and as we learned about the Reformers. Many of the 16^th century reformers were just normal people—usually scholars of some kind—whom God convicted and converted. Most of them were pursuing their gifts and callings when God showed them how they could be used for His kingdom and glory. They started by obeying in the small things, taking a stand for truth in their own church or community, but probably not expecting to influence the course of entire cities, countries and civilizations. They simply wanted to obey the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Lord provided many opportunities for them to rise to great accomplishments. John Calvin helped to shape Geneva into a “school of Christ.” John Knox toppled the state-ruled church in Scotland and debated with Mary, Queen of Scots. Martin Luther challenged the Pope’s seemingly iron grasp on a religion that only the priests were allowed to study.

Great things start by obedience to God’s Word. If that much is secure, men and women will be in a position where God can use them to advance Him work, either in the spotlight, as a few of the Reformers, or by quietly fulfilling their callings in righteousness and faith. Not only was there a Martin Luther in Germany, a John Calvin in Geneva, and a John Knox in Scotland, but there were countless, nameless families that comprised all the Lutheran, Calvinistic, Presbyterian, and Reformed churches in these countries; there were Christians continent-wide that corresponded with these Reformers; and there were members of royalty that supported the reforming work with remuneration and protection.

I am so thankful that children, starting small, are building a firm foundation for obeying and fighting for God’s truth in our nation for the rest of their lives, Lord willing. It is wonderful to see a younger generation doing what is right; it gives confidence to those who are just a little older than the girls-in-bonnets and boys-with-swords, to know that what we believe in should not fade away with our parents or with us, but will live on as long as boys and girls are trained to serve God wholeheartedly! Thank you to any young boys and girls who showed such fervency and sincerity at this event—may you be the next faithful men and women of America, and continue to be a reminder your parents of the significance of obedience and reformation.

Semper Reformanda!

Reformation 500 Posts

2009-07-19T14:02:00.003-07:00

Here are links to some friends who have been writing about the Reformation 500 Celebration:

Vision Forum's list of the week's top ten achievements.

C.S. Hayden

Serven Clan

Mountain Musings

Stinnett Family

Emily Elizabeth

I'm sure there are more that I don't know about yet!

Soundbites on Reformation

2009-07-12T19:08:00.006-07:00

Said by the George Washington impersonator:
" 'Tis the set of the sail and not the gale, which determines the way you go."

Dr. Paul Jehle shared that:
The heart of God, mind of God, and law of God are best represented only by the doctrines of God's grace and sovereignty as understood in Calvinism.

Marshall Foster shared that:
It's one thing to say something; it's quite another to write in down in a document, and die for it.

From Doug Phillips in opening speech:
When America began to relegate the doctrines believed by our fathers, into obscurity, our liberties were diminished.

Christ gave the Great Commission; Christ preserves His Church.

To be American and ungrateful for the Reformers is like being a Hebrew without knowing about Moses and the Exodus.

Calvin's offering his heart "promptly and sincerely" to God is an example for children to honor their parents, and for parents to keep God's covenant by training their children in the Lord.

Dr. Joe Morecraft said that:
Calvin believed in republican state government and presbyterian church government. The church, state, society, and culture are to exist in harmony and order, all under God.

He quoted Calvin as saying, paraphrased, that "We must not judge God's kingdom by the present stability of things, but by His promises for its continuance."

Marshall Foster shared that:
What years of proper Christian historiography had done was to lead parents to teach their children about the providence of God.

Great terrors have struck the world, and those with divine wisdom, in covenant with God, have triumphed over these terrors!

Rome was the pinnacle of pagan culture, and the French Revolution was a repeat of the same sins of Rome. At the same time, across the Atlantic, an "antidote" to paganism was being raised up--a nation built on utmost respect for and knowledge of the Bible. The American war for independence was not to destroy justice and order, but to restore it.

If we understand history, we can learn the lessons, survive the times, and be part of God's victorious work.

Marcus Serven shared that:
John Calvin was the steady organizer of the Protestant faith.

His writing is not austere and legal sounding as many think; his love for God's truths come through genuinely in his tender letters.

Calvin studied Latin, Greek, and Hebrew during his academic training.

It was the desire of the people of Geneva that a man who is justified must also be sanctified.

The qualities that Calvin looked for in a wife were not outward beauty, but chastity, economy, and a concern for health. He found a very suitable match in Idelette.

Calvin wrote commentaries on 24 Old Testament books and 24 New Testament books.

Scott Brown shared that:
"General reformations will fall short without family reformation."

The kernel of Geneva's reformation came to America. The pilgrims and patriots came with the doctrines of the Reformers in their hearts [and in the Geneva Bible.]

Applying Sola Scriptura transforms every aspect of family life. This principle launched a whole reformation in Europe and it can certainly reform our families today.

The Reformers believed what they preached, and started by renovating their own families. The examples of their homes are as important as their sermons.

To have reformation today, we need to see a return to biblical fatherhood, early manhood, rejection of feminism, large families, modest dress, generational retention, expository preaching, clarification of the Gospel, doctrinal awareness, and family-integrated churches.

Col. John Eidsmoe shared that:
Man is totally depraved, but most concepts of government are based on the idea that man is basically good. Two-thirds of colonial Americans were from Calvinistic churches, and the understanding of man's depravity was a large influence on the system of government they chose. Because of the nature of man, they wanted checks and balances to separate the powers.

God gave boundaries to the authority of rulers, beyond which they become tyrants.

The powers delegated in the Constitution are separated vertically (federal, state, county) and horizontally (legislative, executive, judicial.)

If people don't have discipline from within, the government will step in and supply it from without.

The belief that "all men are created equal" served to minimize the distinction between clergy and laity, between the magistrate or nobility and the citizen.

The doctrine of the priesthood of all believers and the Protestant work ethic led to responsible citizens in the state and knowledgeable laymen in the church.

Boston was the first bastion of Calvinism in America, but by the mid-1800's, it was more rejected than was atheism, in Boston. [Illustrates the importance of safeguarding the strongholds of truth, and the importance of godly education passed down to the next generations.]

Dr. Joe Morecraft shared that:
We don't worship God in order to do anything else [i.e. feel good...], but simply to worship God.

The Roman church used pictures and icons to supposedly help the unlearned, but God did not reveal Himself in a picture book. He gave us a book with words. The Reformers took images out of the churches, out of corporate worship.

The Regulative principle is that what God commands is required, what He forbids is prohibited, and that what God has not commanded is forbidden. However, most evangelical churches today think the opposite of this last point.

Christians are often more concerned about how worship makes them feel, rather than how it pleases God. This is the origin of all superstitions, as carnal man is delighted with his own inventions.

Simplicity of worship does not mean infantile or disorderly, but reasonably orderly, though without empty ceremony. There should be a wedding of inward sincerity and outward faithfulness in worship.

Since Jesus came to save both body and soul, we must use both to serve Him.

Dan Ford shared that:
Spanish dominion of New World lands was furthered by the king who believed in divine right, and whose settlers were only there for the sake of gold and treasure [and the fountain of youth!].
English dominion of New World lands was furthered by minority groups of people who believed in serving God, and who settled the land with a mind toward future generations and enduring communities.

Kevin Swanson shared that:
"Our faith needs to come out from our heart through out hands."

For 200 years in schools, men have been taught not to fear God. And we are surprised when Congress does not fear God?

In the 1670's and 1680's in Boston, the bestselling sermons were on multigenerational faithfulness.

Christians keep trying to prop up flawed systems instead of realizing there are two systems--two kingdoms completely opposed to one another. Christians are working on a totally different project than non-Christians.

Money is the god of 85% of graduates--and they end up trashing relationships to get it.
We will establish relational living, mentorships, and do things differently. While the world is destroying itself, we'll build gardens in the ashes. We are following in the Puritans' footsteps. They faced the Renaissance; we are facing postmodernism.

We need to be a hopeful minority; the blood of our forefathers is precious.

Doug Phillips shared that:
Find friends you can respect because friendships change the world. The enemy uses relationships to bring great destruction, but Christian friendships have a deep love the world cannot understand, and Christian minorities, working together as comrades-in-arms, have changed the world. Disciples, mentors, and friendships multiply the effect of ideas.

John Calvin was not an isolated hero, but had a fraternity of devoted friends who all sharpened one another. He was an unfailing friend and gained many loyal friends, and wanted them around his as he died.

At the Reformation 500, we are learning many things, but the friendships formed are the most important. That is the material of reformation! Seek out likeminded people; visit them, correspond with them; do things together.

We each have talents and roles to combine in advancing God's kingdom, but Christians today are often anemic and complacent. We need to set aside small difference and talk about the big, important things.

In 500 more years, countries will have changed, but the church of God will still be communicating the truth. The church always presses on in the darkest hours. The church of God is here to pick strategic missions and fight for the things that matter. We need to repair the ruins so the sciences and arts are the domain of Christians.

We have often forsaken the hard work of our forefathers, but may we start working again, such that our grandchildren will know how hard their forefathers worked. This is an archival and prepatory generation, preparing our children to be leaders, and renewing the old stories from the past.

Every time we make a right choice, we advance God's kingdom.

God gives hope through our families, our friendships, and celebrations such as this.

Dr. Joe Morecraft shared that:
John Calvin helped us to see the power of the Gospel of God's sovereign grace, but most evangelicals don't know or love the Reformation. John Calvin gave Christians a vision for God's world conquest. This is God's plan and promise, and Christians are commanded to make the nations into Christ's disciples. John Calvin provided tools for Christian knowledge, dominion, and service. The church, when she has left these great things in the past, has grown weak.

We don't need to teach anything new, just the old truth. This is the powerful weapon to unravel humanism, and is represented by the preaching of God's Word, the prayer of God's people, and holy lives--which lives, in their humility, righteousness, and joy, are sounding boards for presenting the Gospel.

The Reformers loved truth and hated error; they were bold when duty called, and yet had gracious Christian spirits. Every good lover of something must be a hater of other things.

Read the Bible devotionally and intelligently.

~Semper Reformanda!~

~These are notes only from the lectures I was able to listen to, and the opening and closing ceremonies. To hear all of the messages, see the conference album! ~

The Reformation 500 in Boston

2009-07-12T14:46:00.011-07:00

~The Reformation 500 Celebration conference by Vision Forum in Boston was a week of rejoicing, remembering, and rekindling friendships. From hearing historical lectures about the Protestant Reformers, to hearing speeches of challenge for reformation in our own time, it was a rich time of learning. From taking mini-tours about colonial meeting-places and Calvinist preachers with Dr. Jehle and Mr. Brown, to walking the Freedom Trail on our own, it was a grand time of exploring. From meeting with families over meals, to singing around the piano in the hotel lobby, and talking to people lingering around the vendor hall, it was a unique time of fellowship. We celebrated the Revolutionary history of Boston on July 4th, we celebrated the 500th anniversary of John Calvin's birthday, we celebrated God's works in history that led to where we stand today, and we celebrated the commonality that we had as brothers and sisters in Christ our Lord!

~Here is a sampling of pictures from our various activities:

Boston is full of beautiful churches.~
This is the Old State House.
Park Street Church.
Old State House on a different day--rainy!
Ben Franklin and the City Hall.
Boston Public Library.
From the library looking toward the John Hancock Tower.
Paul Revere and a church opposite the Old North Church.
Somewhere in Beacon Hill.
Bunker Hill Monument. Yes, we climbed the 294 steps to the top!
Friends Anna and Joy, from California and New Jersey, who were there with my mom and I.
Anna, Joy, and I at the Boston Common lagoon.
View over Boston from Bunker Hill.
George Washington in the Boston Common.
The street in front of the Park Plaza hotel.
Some of the weekend's speakers, Pastor Serven and Pastor Morecraft. (Notes from some of the lectures, coming soon...)

The Park Plaza complex at night.
Anna and I enjoying an al fresco lunch between lectures.
With some Haydens, Anna, Charmagne, and Steven before church on Sunday.
Dear Rebecca portrayed Mrs. Idelette Calvin; her sister Sarah is pictured here too, in her authentic Reformation maiden costume.
A mediocre picture of the elegant Imperial Ballroom, where the audience gathered for speeches, awards, singing, music, and Sunday worship.
The Liberty Bell replica in the foyer was rung 13 times at exactly 2 pm on Independence Day. Here, Mr. Phillips, in the lower part of the picture, has just rung it for one of the times:)
Some of the music we were treated to: fife and fiddle music from the Thomas family.
And here, Charlie Zahm's ballads accompanied by his guitar, bohdran, and Mr. Phillips' accounting of memorable times in history, that went along with each song.
"Samuel Adams" made a single appearance, and all the children clamored for his signature!
Meeting the Reformers was an activity between all of the lectures. Young men and women reenacted figures from many countries and times of reformation, and they did so quite accurately and authentically, making the listener feel as if she was really at that place and time.
"Katharina von Bora" encourages the children to stand for truth--telling the boys what a great man her husband Martin Luther is, and telling the girls how wonderful it is to show hospitality, manage her home, and raise her children.
"Princess Renée of France" told of how relatively alone she was as a Reformed Christian among her noble friends, and of what she did to advance the Reformed cause. This princess was a recipient of John Calvin's correspondence and counsel.

Above, men and women gallantly and gracefully arriving for the costume parade around the verdant Boston Common. My friend Joy and I had costumes and greatly enjoyed marching in the parade, singing hymns as we went through the park, around the lagoon, in front of many cameras:) and finally down the streets of Boston back to the Park Plaza.

I believe there were flags for each state, and maybe the countries touched by Reformation, as well. Above, the Texas flag led the way for the group of men directly behind our group of ladies.

We were thankful to find this empty plot of grass on the Esplanade to watch the fireworks from on July 4th. 500,000 other people do exactly the same thing! Even in that crowd, we were blessed to have numerous families--friends from the conference--find us and join us for the evening. Conversation was the order of the day until darkness fell and the fireworks began. The largest fireworks show in the nation was close in front of us and practically above us, as we could feel particles falling down while gazing at the incredible, powerful display!

Below, the Charles River, above which the fireworks were set off. That was a glorious ending to a fabulous conference, and probably the most patriotic Independence Day possible--a Vision Forum event in Boston! I am so thankful to have been there, with 1,000 other attendees.

Bryce and Sarah

2009-07-12T14:20:00.003-07:00

The wedding weekend was glorious! Such fellowship, feasting, and festivities all centered around the covenantal union of a Godly couple, my brother Bryce and new sister-in-law Sarah!

It was truly wonderful to have a week in Texas preparing for the wedding, spending time with other members of the wedding party and then with friends at the rehearsal and reception. Knowing that all these people were standing alongside of Bryce and Sarah and their families, was immensely special and made the parting less bittersweet.

I have fond memories of last-minute sewing, of a first manicure and pedicure, of a bridal luncheon with all the ladies, of dancing at the rehearsal dinner, of getting ready with the other bridesmaids, of managing one pose for the photographer outside in the peak heat of the wedding day, of standing on stage and looking happily at Bryce and then at the whole audience gathered to witness the vows, of seeing so many familiar faces at the reception and talking to all of them, of sitting on the manor's porch into the late evening and reminiscing about the momentous day, of resting and worshiping with Sarah's family and other friends on the Lord's Day, and then of leaving the great state of Texas, enriched with precious memories of a wonderful event.

As part of the wedding, I did not take any pictures myself, but here are two as a preview; and hopefully the professional photographs will be arriving soon!

Home Again!

2009-07-08T19:56:00.001-07:00

~ I'm back home and am trying to catch up on rest and sort through photos when I have time. I just wanted to give a quick update that yes, hopefully there will photos from Texas and Boston here, very soon! ~

An Eventful Two Weeks

2009-06-20T16:05:00.006-07:00

The next two weeks should be a busy, full, and momentous time in our family. My only sibling and dear brother, Bryce, is to be married to a wonderful young lady next Saturday! The three of us are traveling to Texas at the beginning of the week, for a week of anticipation, fellowship, and celebration with Sarah's family, the wedding party, and many other friends. I'll be a bridesmaid, which I am looking forward to with joy!

After that, our family will have to, bittersweetly, part ways for a while, as my mom and I go to the Reformation 500 Celebration with Vision Forum in Boston over Independence Day weekend, and Bryce and Sarah head far, far north for their honeymoon. Reunion will come, Lord willing, when Bryce brings his bride back to live in Montana, and I'm sure we will still see each other:)

I know being in Boston will be an incredible time. With the combination of learning about some of our most revered spiritual forebears, in the historic region of our national heritage, I trust it will be festive, inspiring, and educational. The Protestant Reformation and the American Revolution are most important for us to understand; indeed, the themes of the first strongly influenced the latter. I hope to write about some of our experiences on the blog we have used for other Vision Forum events.

My family was speaking earlier about this being a time of remembering and continuing on in the events of the last couple of Junes. In June 2007, Bryce and Sarah started courting, and I went to the Jamestown 400 Celebration where I also saw Sarah's family. On the same day as today in June 2008, we all went to Scotland for the Faith and Freedom Tour, with part of Sarah's family, and she and Bryce became engaged in Edinburgh.

Now, in June 2009, Bryce and Sarah will be covenanting in marriage, and my mom and I are going to the Reformation 500 in Boston. I'm determined not to leave Montana again next June/July, since one of our short-but-gorgeous summers has just barely begun! I don't have any more siblings to marry off, so unless Vision Forum has something as equally irresistible as they have for the last three years, that might be a possible resolution;-)

~So, I'm heading to the southern border and then the eastern seaboard, and I wish my readers a happy Fourth of July in two weeks! Check out Bryce and Sarah's website and the Reformation 500 website if you haven't already!~

~Fair Isle of Ancient Consequence~

2009-06-04T19:29:00.008-07:00

"Your stones are binders of the centuries,

As before the onlooker’s eyes are spread

Primeval cliffs, ancient walls, princely graves,

Castles, chapels, and monuments medieval;

We remember and cherish."

~From my poem, wherein I attempted to capture my impression of the glorious truths and meaningful lessons that we learned on our journeys in the fair isle of Scotland nearly a year ago at this time. The whole composition may be viewed here, on our Journey to Scotland blog.

Peacful Pondside Evening

2009-06-04T19:21:00.003-07:00

We've been enjoying our pond and all the wildlife around it; it is constantly changing. This is the time of year for new life: goslings, calves, and young sandhill cranes. The credit for all of these pictures goes to my mom, who has been faithful to document the beautiful things we see on our property.

One Thousand Years

2009-05-23T10:11:00.003-07:00

Of late, I’ve been going back and listening to the recordings from the Vision Forum Scotland Faith and Freedom Tour. These messages would be a trove of wisdom for anyone, but they are especially so for those of us who were there on that romantic isle, and who remember the poignancy of our whole experience. Every word from the speakers calls up the emotion that was felt as we stood on ancient battlegrounds—whether spiritual or political battlegrounds—and remembered events of 500 and 1,000 years ago.

At the beginning of Pastor Morecraft’s talk during the closing banquet (on the last disc in the series), he related something that, when I heard it, really impressed its significance upon me.

The Protestant Reformation in the 1500s -1600s was really the “rediscovery of grace” which had been “all but lost for a thousand years.” A thousand years! Since the time of Augustine, who died in the fifth century, until the sparkings of reformation by now-equally-renowned men of God and men of the Bible, the Roman Catholic Church had obscured the truth of God’s Word by adding to it in their practice, and then essentially keeping the common people from studying the Bible for themselves.

What struck me was that this thousand years is roughly half—half!—of the scale of history between Jesus Christ’s birth and today. Two thousand years ago, He came to earth, enabling the spread of the Gospel to all nations, and giving greater clarity to the truth of His covenant of grace with His chosen people. For one thousand—half—of those years, the Gospel truth was squelched and opposed. While there were isolated groups of evangelical Christians (the Waldensians in France, for instance, or the Culdees in Scotland), the knowledge of the meaning of grace was largely concealed and distorted by the Roman church.

And then, God, in His grace, provided innumerable events of history to come together for one of the greatest revolutions in history—the “Great Christian Revolution,” in the words of Otto Scott—and arguably the most significant event in Christianity since the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Grace was rediscovered [to use the phrase from the title of a book by William Giles Robinson.] God, in His grace, provided the way for a widespread awakening to the truth of glorious, free, unmerited grace extended from a sovereign God to depraved mankind. The Reformers sought the sufficient wisdom and Scripture alone, and found out, systematically, for the first time since Augustine, the doctrine of salvation by grace alone, by faith alone, by Christ alone, to the glory of God alone.

After one thousand years of dishonor and neglect, the Reformation rediscovered grace; it has been “discovered,” then, for the past five hundred years, half of the length of time that it was lost. And yet, many Christians have again forgotten the truths of the sufficiency of Scripture and the sovereignty of God’s grace. Christendom easily slips toward the same things that the Roman church established during the fifth through fifteenth centuries: holding to man’s tradition above God’s commands; and believing in the merit of good works either as part of salvation or after salvation.

Today, we need to know the truths proclaimed by the Reformation, as much as ever. We also need to remember the providential work of Reformation five hundred years ago, so that the thousand years we are in will be more characterized by reformation than the need for reformation. One way to remember the Protestant Reformation, and learn more about applying it to our own lives, churches, and communities five centuries later, is to attend some of the many Reformation conferences and events going on this year on the anniversary of the great reformer, John Calvin.

My mom and I, and many friends, are planning to be at the Reformation 500 Celebration given by Vision Forum Ministries in Boston this July. I know it will be a time to rejoice in God’s deliverance from the thousand years where grace was all but lost, and to rejoice that we are continuing, by God’s grace, to live in the epoch begun when grace was rediscovered. How wonderful that there are those that want to remember.

Jesus Christ was born two thousand years ago. The Gospel was hidden one thousand, five hundred years ago. The Reformation brought it to light five hundred years ago, introducing the greatest age of liberty, knowledge, and expansion in history. What happens next is dependant on what God’s people believe, and how we live. What will you believe; what will you remember; how will you live? May we wholeheartedly believe in the truth, and go on to bear the Gospel torch that our mighty forefathers lighted, carried, and entrusted to their spiritual descendants.

May it be said that “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”—the Lord who works all things in history, and all things in our salvation, but His marvelous, powerful grace.

All in a Day's Work

2009-05-23T10:02:00.002-07:00

The assignment for a recent Saturday was cleaning out some of the irrigation ditches in our valley. Armed with shovels and pitchforks, we had a leisurely slosh through the canal for a few sunny hours. It was pleasant to converse with our friends, who were helping, as we made sure the water was clear of grass and brush.

And then, for most of us, it was one to a different activity. We hiked up to this mountain waterfall. The forest, awakening to the first warm days of the year, was full of fragrance and color.
~ Christopher and Molly.~
The view driving toward the trailhead. We all had a fun day of exercise!

Little Tait

2009-05-14T14:21:00.004-07:00

~These are pictures of sweet Little Tait Zimmerman, whose godly parents are turning to the Christian community, rather than civil welfare, to provide for the medical bills of this premature baby's hospital stay. Please read their story and consider standing with them in their time of need.~

Beth and Jon's Wedding

2009-05-06T08:14:00.007-07:00

The afternoon of April Eighteenth found several hundred people in this church in Missouri, awaiting the covenant celebration of the marriage of Elizabeth Serven and Jonathan Ten Dolle.

One of the verses in the program read: "So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13

The radiant new husband and wife!

Mr. and Mrs. Serven, the parents of the bride.

The auditorium befitted for a joyous reception.

Abundant spring flowers!

Rebecca and I.

My mom and Mr. Colin Gunn.

Dancing the Grand March.

Twirling through a circle waltz.

The crowd awaits....

...Beth and Jon navigating through a shower of birdseed....

...and riding off amid showers of fireworks.

Yes, it was good to be in attendance at their wedding, and to see friends and meet new ones, but most of all it was wonderful to consider that God-honoring, reverential celebrations, that Godly, Biblical marriages, and that the gathering of God's people together, are such things as advance His kingdom.

I went away with the impression that if marriage is supposed to be a picture of Christ and the Church, and a wedding is like a forerunner of the wedding feast of the Lamb, then this event met those purposes. And, just think: the earthly joy we experience--even that heightened joy of the newlywed couple--is only a foretaste, a foreshadow, of the heavenly joy God will bestow upon His people eternally.

Journey through Missouri

2009-05-05T20:24:00.010-07:00

My mom and I recently returned from a two-week driving trip to, and through, the beautiful state of Missouri. The purpose was to go to a wedding (see next post), and on our way, we visited a number of friends in various parts of the state.
Historic St. Charles, on the river, the starting point of Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery.

My mom in St. Charles.

We followed much of the length of the Missouri River on our trip. The Headwaters of the Missouri, where the Gallatin, Jefferson, and Madison rivers form this mighty river, is very near our hometown, so we were interested in seeing the change in the river as it flows across five states and joins the Mississippi. Above, the Missouri in South Dakota.

The river in central Missouri.

The beginning of the Ozarks, south of the Missouri.

It's hard to tell, but this, friends, is the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, just north of St. Louis.

Things were blooming there, much earlier than (we are waiting for them to) in Montana.

A tulip tree.

This sign grabbed our attention...I have no idea why this little plant is called this, but our friend noticed our last name on it.

Visiting the dear couple, who moved from Montana, and who have been our pseudo-grandparents.

My cousin and her three boys after their kickball game.

More dear friends from Montana. We spent a pleasant afternoon at their home.

The farm where we stayed in southern Missouri was inviting and full of lovely things:)

My mom and I had a great time conversing with and working with our friends--yet more dear people who moved from Montana.

My mom and Angie.

John, with whom I drove a tractor, ran the rototiller, planted cabbage, corn, beans, and sunflowers, and checked on the cattle, chickens, guineas, dogs, and cats. I find that I have no pictorial evidence of my working on their farm, but I did, for several days! The weather was gorgeous for that little while--a short respite from the cold north where we came from.

One day we visited a sheep dairy and learned all about the operation.

John, Angie, and I, and lots of inquisitive lambs and friendly, furry sheepdogs.

Blooming dogwoods and occupied bluebird houses.

Their peaceful country lane.

John and his friend repairing a 55 year old thresher. They got it running, and it was fascinating to watch all its various parts in motion.

Visiting friends in Illinois.

Sunset on a lake in an Illinois state park.

(Norwegian Hardingfele, picture from National Music Museum.)

On our way home, my mom and I stopped at the National Music Museum in Vermillion, South Dakota. They had instruments from all over the world, and many eras, with many rare stringed instruments dating from the 1600's. There were many instruments we had never heard of, as well as early variations of the now-established types of orchestral instruments. Seeing early organs, harps, harpsichords, and violins was probably my favorite part of the museum. It was interesting to see that the same care taken for painting and architecture in the Baroque and Classical periods were also applied to their instruments.

We didn't have enough time to listen to the audio commentary about, and sample music from, each instrument, but what we did hear was fascinating. This museum is about ten miles from the interstate, in a small, out-of-the-way town, but their extensive musical collection seems to truly be of a "national" caliber, and it was worth the effort to get there.

(Viennese piano, c. 1815, picture from National Music Museum.)

Presidents Washington and Jefferson. For as many times as we have driven through South Dakota, we have never stopped at Mount Rushmore until now. It was well worth seeing and learning about how it was planned, designed, carved, and shared with America.

Yes, it was cold, but I am glad we finally saw this national monument!

We had a delightful trip, made so by the beauties of God's creation, the sweetness of Christian fellowship, and the providences from His hand.

Brief Update

2009-04-03T13:18:00.002-07:00

~These are photos that I took from our yard on the first day of spring. However, it is slow in coming; as I write, it is snowing for the third or fourth time since these pictures were taken. I suppose I should accept the fact that this is spring (characterized by lots of wet snows), and that the green grass, warm sunshine, and wildflowers, will come in May, closer to the end of spring. Regardless, we are eager to have a change in weather.

The cold days give good reason to work on projects inside, though. Nothing very new has been happening around here, mostly usual things: studying, writing, sewing, business administration, and planning some summer events including the myriad of things surrounding Bryce's wedding.

My mom and Bryce have been away for a few days for a short business trip; I enjoyed the quiet time to think and pray, but otherwise I miss the company and activity! I am so thankful for the family God has given us.

The Lord is gracious and faithful; keep serving Him, wherever you are!~

Wedding Website

2009-03-27T08:04:00.002-07:00

~Finally, Bryce and Sarah's wedding website is ready for public view! If you know either of these fine people, please take a look around, and feel free to sign the guest book: bryceandsarah.com.~