Discipline of the Lord

Today’s Bible study led me to Heb 12 and a look at the Lord’s discipline. We are not to despise His discipline – but love it, endure it, be trained by it, strengthen ourselves through it, pursue peace and sanctification….all good stuff. BUT since this is a passage often brought up when I teach on parenting, I decided to look it up again.

I struggle not to see God as a crotchety, old man with a big belt in the sky, waiting for me to step off the blanket so he can WHACK me back into line….Know what I mean? Do not think this reflects on my father….it’s how these passages and much of the Bible were caught by me…. It’s what I created in my mind. It’s why I NEED to discipline myself to DIG into the Word of God. My perspective colors my perceptions of who God is.

Somehow, in some circles of society and church, we’ve come to equate discipline with physical spanking and such. And we’re to LOVE it.

But the word for discipline is Strong’s 3809 – paideia….it means “instruction of children, training the Lord approves, nouthesia is mainly instruction by word but paideia is instruction by DEED”. Synonyms of the word are INSTRUCTION and RECTIFICATION.

It is NOT 2851(Kolasis) or 5098 (timoria) which mean penalty, punishment, penal infliction, retribution

If God wanted to say that he punishes His children as a father and we’re to love it, He would have. He would have used either Kolasis or Timoria.

He didn’t. He painted Himself as a father who graciously and lovingly takes the time to instruct His children by word and DEED. He educates us and trains us…can we do less for our children? Can we see Him as a father who shepherds and mentors, as well as the “stern disciplinarian”? How can the children of this father not love Him? He cares for their good and takes the time to train them.

Gone is the crotchety old man, to be replaced by a picture of Michael coming home late from work and STILL taking young men out for a walk to discuss how godly men handle anger, authority and purity. Training in word and DEED. THIS is discipline. THIS is a picture of my God.


Catch that the rest of this chapter ties instruction/discipline to grace, holiness, sanctification…..How can I NOT love the discipline/instruction (paideia) of the Lord? How can I NOT commit to train my children by word and deed for the same purposes? It takes time; but look at the fruit that this training brings in the lives of God’s children.

Bring it on.
De’Etta

Devotional first posted on Asia Region's Blog.

Cafe Group Photos!

Windy emailed me some photos....She captured four of our five cafe groups.

Maisha's Cafe Group (minus Laura)

Mary's Cafe Group

Twyla's Cafe Group

Rhonda's Cafe Group

Windy didn't manage to capture Lisa's Cafe Group. Someone out there have a shot?

The retreat planning team desired to see our ladies mix it up - both with each other and with our guests from The Hill. We knew we wanted a small group element Incorporated into the retreat.  We trusted God to place each woman in the perfect group for her...with a friend or two if she were shy, with totally new people if that were best.  The cafe group formation was totally random. It was a delight to see how God used the small group experience to deepen our interaction with the Word and to begin to form new relationships. I think cafe groups will reappear at future retreats (though we'll need a new selection process now that all know the "mug thang").

 I'll continue to post photos as I receive them.

Give us YOUR Feedback on PWOC 2009/10

PWOC is a needs based ministry.

As our new board prays and plans the upcoming year, your feedback is vital. Please take a minute to answer our nine question General Survey. Click here to take survey We value your input regardless of which study you attended. We value your opinion even if you did not attend PWOC this year.

Just in case you are wondering, no, we won't lead by survey....but a well-written survey can help determined felt needs.

We'd love your input.

2010 Retreat Wrap!

Woot! It's here!

From 2010-05-23

Early on the 21st the retreat planning team and decorating team began to converge at Lake Towada. Sweet Life Cafe - where we planned to Savor God's Presence and Christian fellowship - was about to kick off.

From 2010-05-23

From 2010-05-23

From 2010-05-23

Twyla served as a wonderful supply coordinator and she took over hospitality too. Between her work, our amazing decorating team's work, and Windy's sweet service behind the front desk, we felt loved and welcomed. It was a delight to see all the detailed work of the past months come together to bless our ladies. It was a true joy! Twyla and Lisa arrange the kitchen - our nerve center

From 2010-05-23

From 2010-05-23

From 2010-05-23

From 2010-05-23

They didn't realize if they came early to decorate, they'd be allowed to be in a skit too! Thanks, Laura and Sarah.

From 2010-05-23

Susane was our President this year, and will be our President in the upcoming year. God has blessed us with continuity and many new ladies to come alongside and build on the foundation of a great 2009/10 team.

From 2010-05-23

Tatami/Futon room.

From 2010-05-23

They are really quite comfortable when all the futons are stacked on top of each other. ::snort::

From 2010-05-23

I also loved the onsen and the robes for schlepping around the hotel.

From 2010-05-23

What happens at retreat stays at retreat! Though all should remind dear Rhonda that I have a PHOTO RELEASE! ::snort::

From 2010-05-23

Cafe Groups...

From 2010-05-23

From 2010-05-23

Skits...

From 2010-05-23

Service Projects...

From 2010-05-23

Worship and the Word....

From 2010-05-23

Free time in a great location on a sunny day...ah the joys of Onsens....

From 2010-05-23

Practical Jokes...The kids thought this was VERY funny! 

From 2010-05-23

 All served to create a Refreshing PWOC Retreat

Do note our only male - front and center - Steven was a perfect angel and a blessing to all who watched him light up the hotel. I was glad Tanya took us up on the offer for nursing moms to attend this year's retreat. Steven is the little guy who decided to make his appearance at the end of an Inductive Bible Study Workshop......and he blazed the trail by being our first baby at the ladies retreat. Go Steven - already doing great things in the Kingdom.

God blessed us with BEAUTIFUL weather in a gorgeous location. Sweeter still was the fellowship we shared.

Thanks to ALL who served in big jobs and little jobs, up front jobs and behind the scene jobs....you allowed God to challenge you and work through your giftings. You are so appreciated.

Feel free to comment below. We'd love to have you take the Sweet Life Cafe - Retreat Survey. It will be a huge help to us as we begin planning next year's retreat. If you'd like to serve on next year's retreat, please contact De'Etta, our Retreat Coordinator. Click here to take survey.

*Note: More photos will be shared when others mail their photos to De'Etta.

Retreat Weather!

From Drop Box

Woot! Look at that. A "small" chance of rain Friday night - but we'll be indoors.

Gorgeous day on tap for Saturday. You'll have 3 hours of free time to enjoy the area Saturday afternoon.

"Small" chance of rain on Sunday, but we'll be coming home!

I'd bring your umbrella and rain gear anyway - but this is very promising.

Excited to spend time together this weekend!

Directions to Towadako Grand Hotel

“Sweet Life Cafe” PWOC Retreat May 2010

Time to Destination: 11/2 hours

From Main Gate you can either pass the train station and turn left at the T intersection light and then turn Right onto Route 10 OR you can catch the POL gate and continue it (going under the toll road) all the way to Towada on Route 10. Either direction will merge into Route 10 just outside of Misawa where you will pass a Lawsons and Ramen shop on the way to Towada.

Once you are into Towada City the road will fork. You will veer left towards the Mazda sign. Homac/Hard Off will be on your right. Turn left at the light on the bridge. There is a blue sign that says Towada Lake 39K before you turn.

Pass Tori gate on right. Turn right at 3rd light. You’ll see a blue sign that says Route 102 to Towada Lake.

*Oirase Roman Park is a great place to take a restroom break. It is about half-way to our destination.

Continue on Route 102 until you get to a blinking light with a Shell gas station on right. Turn left. This will take you onto Oirase Gorge. It is a VERY curvy drive so be careful and take your time!

Route 102 will come to a T intersection with a sign for the Bronze Statue of Maidens and Lake Towada straight ahead. Turn left at this light. You will continue on this road around the lake and go through a tunnel.

You will eventually come to a Y intersection in which you will veer right and pass the Towadaso Hotel on your right. Continue on to the next Y intersection in which you will veer left. Continue straight to a T-intersection and turn R at the JR House (on your right).

The first parking lot on left is where you will register. You will see either a sign or balloons and a couple of Y plate cars already there.

If you get lost please call De’Etta’s cell: or Susane’s cell: sent in email.



We can’t wait to see you!



In His Hands,



The PWOC Retreat Team

Sweet Life Cafe Retreat Schedule

Ladies,

You'll be given a full schedule when you register. Here are a few times that will be helpful for you to know as you plan for NEXT weekend.

Registration - 21 May, 4:00 -5:45 pm (directions below) You'll receive your room key and retreat material at this time.

Dinner on 21 May - 6:00 - 7:15 in the hotel dining room. This is downstairs in the main hotel (not the building where you are registering).

First Session - 7:30 p.m. in the Sweet Life Cafe - (directions below - follow the chatter) If you arrive after 5:45 we will try to register you between dinner and the first session or after the evenings activities are completed. Thanks for your understanding.

Our retreat will conclude by 11:00 a.m. Sunday, 23 May.

If you have any questions about the retreat schedule or registration, please don't hesitate to contact Windy or De'Etta. 

Looking forward to spending the weekend with you!
PWOC Retreat Registration Team

Items to Bring to Retreat

Hello Beloved Retreaters!


We are SO excited to have you join us for a little R & R with God. It will be such a blessing! We would like to begin the blessing by sending out a list of items you may want to consider bringing to make your stay more comfortable.

Please note that this is a very informal retreat and there is no need for “Sunday” dress. However, please do what is most comfortable for you!

*Bible
*Blow dryer (there are none in the room)
*Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste etc)
*Clothing for layering – sweater; jacket...
*Wet weather gear
*Umbrella
*Tennis shoes or hiking shoes for walking the Oirase Gorge (if you’d like)
*Board games to share
*Extra pillow for those who like more than one
*Camera
*You may want to bring some kind of comfortable clothing for walking to and from the onsen
*Yen for vending machines, souvenir shops and activities
*Personal snacks for your room, if you tend to get the munchies and have favorites!
*Sweet Life Café will be open much of the weekend and will have snacks and drinks

Again, we are looking forward for a time of Savoring God’s Presence with you.

In His Hands,
The PWOC Retreat Team

RETREAT PRAYER CALENDAR WEEK 4

PWOC ~ SAVORING GOD ~ SWEET LIFE CAFÉ RETREAT


We covet the prayers of all prayer warriors, regardless of age or gender, as we prepare for our upcoming retreat.


YIELD

Thursday, May 13 – Wednesday, May 19

God knows the plans He has for this retreat. May His will be done!

Thursday, May 13 – Yield to His ways
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

Friday, May 14 – Yield to His control
Psalm 46:10
Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

Saturday, May 15 – Yield to His plans
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Sunday, May 16 – Yield to what He might ask you to do
Isaiah 6:8
Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: "Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?" Then I said, "Here am I! Send me."

Monday, May 17 – Yield to what He might bring into your life
James 1:2-4
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

Tuesday, May 18 – Yield to changes He might want to make in you
Isaiah 64:8
But now, O LORD, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand.

Wednesday, May 19 – Yield to His will
Luke 22:42b
…nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.

Favorite Day Trips

By De'Etta

This is our first summer in Japan. Most of you know that my husband is deployed. I'd love to hear YOUR favorite day trips. Where should the kids and I be sure to explore this summer?

We have discovered Liberty Park, Swan Park and Momoishi Beach. Other suggestions? C'mon, leaving a comment is painless. If you don't have a google account, click anonymous and there you go, sign your name so I know who ask for details and directions. ::grin::

Wonder what we DO at the Nursing Home?

By Twyla

Nursing Home Visit Information

The PWOC visit the Harugaoka Old Aged Home every other month. Traditionally, we alternate each month with Catholic Women of the Chapel. The visits are usually scheduled on a Friday @ 3:30.

The reason for every visit is to celebrate those who have their birthday in that particular month. This usually consists of 3-7 residents. These are planned visits and so we know ahead of time how many men or women are having their birthday.

When we arrive, we are led to the cafeteria where some staff and the residents are waiting for us. We come bringing gift bags filled with toiletries for each person. They are then introduced to us with their name and age. We sing them “Happy Birthday” and a picture is taken of us all by the staff.

 The next few minutes are spent greeting them and planning the next visitation. Keep in mind, that the residents LOVE seeing our children and this is a short visit.

This year, PWOC is asking for donations for the items that have gone into the gift bags. This allows more people the opportunity to take part in our only outreach ministry, especially if some cannot attend the actual visits. Hopefully this will get the word out about this wonderful opportunity to serve and to be a witness of Christ’s love to the Japanese. I can already see more women and children coming together to help in this way and it is so exciting. The donations collected in December were a wonderful help, but with two months worth of 6-7 residents having a birthday, those supplies quickly vanished.

Along with the gifts, we usually bring brownies or cookies for the “cake”. That is our gift to the staff, for without them, this outreach would not be possible. If you are interested in helping in this way, please let me know.

Our next visit to the nursing home is June, 25. We meet in the BX parking lot, near the gate at 3:30 and caravan and carpool where needed.

Thank you in advance for any support you can give to this precious ministry! To God be the glory!

Click  for currently sought donations.

Twyla – PWOC Increach/Outreach Coordinator
Misawa_outreach@yahoo.com

Are You Excited to Join us at Sweet Life Cafe?

Thursday, Susane, Sarah and I headed up to Lake Towada to write down DIRECTIONS for you to follow, to measure tables, etc.  all in preparation for 21 - 23 May and our Sweet Life Cafe retreat.

The scenery is gorgeous. You will be blessed. Imagine looking out your room window and seeing THIS......

Or this.....

Yes, we have built in free time for you to hike the gorge, take a drive, cruise the lake, or enjoy the paddle boats. The retreat planning team is busy....all is being readied for you. We're praying for all the details we know you must work out to attend.  We're also praying that Holy Spirit begins to soften our hearts now to receive the Word prepared for us. 

Remember - weekly prayer calendars are posted in the forms box or down below.  Please join us in prayer, even if you can't attend this year.

Retreat Prayer Calendar - Week 3

ASK

Thursday, May 6 – Wednesday, May 12

We've focused on God's character and praised Him for who He is. We've repented. This week we will  bring our petitions before the Lord. There are some requests listed below, along with Scripture, but feel free to pray more specifically as the Lord leads.

In addition, Elizabeth, our retreat Prayer Coordinator, has had to go home due to a death in her family. Please remember her in your prayers during this time of family grief...and pray that she'll be able to minister to her family.

Thursday, May 6 – Ask for peace and confidence for our Retreat Planning team as preparations are finalized. Today a team is going up to visit our retreat site. Pray for safety and ease of info gathering.

Isaiah 26:3
You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.

Friday, May 7 – Ask for protection for all attendees and the staff as they travel to and around Towadako

Psalm 91:11-12
For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

Saturday, May 8 – Ask God to anoint our speakers and worship team with His message for our women at this time. Pray for a rhema word.

Isaiah 30:21
Whether you turn to the right or the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying “this is the way; walk in it.”

Sunday, May 9 – Ask God to give each attendee receptive hearts to hear what He has to say during the retreat

James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

Monday, May 10 – Ask for the saving grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to touch every soul attending the retreat

Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus or Lord.

Tuesday, May 11 – Ask God to give clarity to next year’s PWOC board as they seek God’s face for His heart and vision for the women entrusted to their care here in Misawa.

2 Timothy 2:2
And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

Wednesday, May 12 – Ask that each woman would come away from the retreat changed for God’s glory

Jeremiah 32:17
Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.