Making room for hope.

This line got me, it's why I'm not sleeping---
'I know what he’s thinking: “If I hadn’t been able to do anything — I wouldn’t have been able to bear it.” If I hadn’t been able to do something to help bear other’s burdens — I wouldn’t have been able to bear living."'-Ann Voskamp
~~~~~~.
I should be in bed...well, I am in bed, but I should be sleeping because tomorrow is a big day (our first GED students are graduating!) but I am up with a racing mind.

It tosses me around thinking about all that our GED students have overcome to get to this day. You don't even know, people, the stories I can't tell you- but trust me, these kids are inspiring. They are so much more than the visible and invisible scars of their circumstances and past mistakes. These young American adults who, with the help of community, have reached this milestone- this victory- that is just the beginning for moving away from their past and towards hope.

My mind also is tossed around by the grief I feel thinking about what our ESOL students have had to overcome just to breath free. You don't even know people, the stories I can't tell you, but trust me these families are inspiring and they are so much more than the wars and horror they have fled. What I can tell you is this- by definition a refugee has survived torture or trauma, and while some scars are visible others are revealed only after time and trust, born from consistent love, give room for them. It is just the beginning of moving away from the past and making room for hope.

This blog by Ann Voskamp could have been about any one of the dozens of our volunteers who love and live with our international students (I am uncomfortable calling them refugees unless it is necessary- they are so much more than that).

It's not just Brian and me...it's dozens of ordinary people who feel just like us and could not turn away from loving our neighbors. And for those of us who are Christians it is because we love Jesus so much that we see Him in the faces of our students and we could not turn away from Him.

Any one of our volunteers has thought this.

I know what he’s thinking:
“If I hadn’t been able to do anything — I wouldn’t have been able to bear it.”
If I hadn’t been able to do something to help bear other’s burdens — I wouldn’t have been able to bear living.
I look into Fatin and Zaccharias’ faces — and they bear the image of God.

“Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison and not help you?” – Matt. 25:44

Am I insulting God?

"If your prayers are not intimidating to you then they are probably insulting to God, right?"

Those words were said to me tonight by friends of ours serving abroad and they really are making me think.

How intimidating are my prayers?
...

We have some big dreams for this coming year and with big dreams come big mountains that only Jesus can move. What's funny is those mountains don't seem as intimidating to me now as they would have a year ago...even 6 months ago!

Why? Because every time we come to the foot of a mountain and look up at it we see Jesus is already there doing that thing he does best. Taking our wee little faith and saying to that mountain, "Move!" (Matthew 17:20)

There are few things that build our faith like answered prayer and this year we have certainly seen him answer our prayers.

But are we praying intimidating prayers? Are the size of my prayers insulting to God?

Perhaps what is behind the statement my friend made is this- if my prayers are not intimidating to me it's because I limit them to the size of my faith in my ability. And if I'm limiting them to my ability then that means I am limiting God too.

What happens when I don't take my ability into account? What happens when I dream as big as a mountain? What happens when I decide to pray as big as that mountain?

What happens is I start to see mountains move...at first it's just a pebble. Then a boulder. Then a hill. Then a mountain. What's next? A mountain range!

If God gives orders to the morning and can loosen Orion's belt then surely he can move what intimidates me the most! (Job 38:12,31)

This past year we have seen God do exceedingly more than we could imagine. (Ephesians 3:20) Our faith is growing because we believe God. We believe Him!

So, we are asking that you will believe Him with us. We are seeking God to reveal to us His plans for Hope Academy in 2017 and to provide for all that He is able to accomplish. We want to ask Him for things that intimidate us so that His love will be made known and His glory will be revealed. Please pray with us as we seek Him.

Thank you!
Brian and Heather

Sniffing out the news: Stop, Look & Listen- not necessarily in that order.

"It has gotten to where watching the news is like watching a televised version of the National Inquirer! I'm sick & tired of it!!!
How can we get just the news...the real news? ~L.C. of Georgia"








I don't watch news anymore. I read it from a variety of papers online- different sources so I can recognize the biases. Learning to recognize bias and how to pull out facts from commentary is a skill that takes time and intentionality.

Listen-
I listen to National Public Radio and other podcasts that focus on specific areas.  While several of the shows on NPR do have biased hosts the news itself tends to be well reported with more details than the TV soundbites. It's a good idea to keep in mind that podcasts and radio talk shows are not reporting news. They either explore more details of a news story or they present a commentary. It will be biased but can still be informative.

Look-
I read news stories from CNN, Washington Post, New York Times and several others from different countries. Foreign news agencies tend to not have the same bias about happenings in the US or around the world- still biased but different. I try to challenge my own bias by reading a variety of view points. I also make sure to notice if what I am reading is editorial or a news story. (Editorials are commentary on facts- opinion.)

Stop...

https://cdn2.geckoandfly.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/

napoleon-bonaparte-quotes-religion-war-politics34-830x466.jpg

When I see posts that get spread around on social media with alarming or inflammatory headlines I pay attention to the author or publisher. Is it a recognizable news source or is it a blogger, a site name that is not a news agency or even a satire site? I see people share those all the time thinking they are legitimate news stories. The Onion and The Babylon Bee are satirical and are different than the bloggers and pundits who are commenting on the news but present their opinion as fact. Both types of sites want to stir up emotion for their benefit whether that is to drive people to their site for ad revenue or to persuade people to their point of view but it's not journalism.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O1d1gP_V0JU/UUbzcVkSukI/

AAAAAAAAAFo/FPrlLRp1SkQ/s1600/churchill.png

...and look some more.
If it is a story I truly care about or is very alarming I look for links to the facts being reported or I go ahead and do my own internet search to verify facts. That often means going to local news from where the story originated or looking to agencies that track specific data that is mentioned in the article.


Grandpa* knows best~
It takes work but it is what my grandfather taught me to do with print news- learn for myself what is happening and then decide what my opinion is.

*My grandfather taught me more about how to learn and how to think than anyone I have ever known. The Great Depression forced him to drop out of school in the 8th grade but he never stopped learning, reading or thinking.

Heather M. Flood served as her mother's Daily Reporter for several years before growing up. She has taught and written history, government, and geography curriculum for 13 years to home school classes. She is also the co-founder and education director for an adult education nonprofit, Hope Academy of Savannah, that helps adults find their hope and pursue their purpose.

Christmas Carol Contemplations: God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

The world was dark and they were watching for danger in the night when suddenly the night was ablaze with a terrible light! They were terrified.  

"Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide..."

And with those words their world was changed forever.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/pemq/6300016658/in/photostream

I've always liked this carol but felt a bit confused by it. The words themselves speak of finding rest and peace but the melody is anything but peaceful. Yet still I find myself drawn to this song with it's seemingly discordant lyrics and tune.

Listening to the Pentatonix version with its rapid progression and driving voices I am reminded of when the angels suddenly appeared in the dark lonely night to some shepherds watchful for danger. Bursting in on their night with their powerful presence they were quick to speak into their fear with truth; a message that will lead them to the source of perfect peace. (Luke 2:8-20)

Much like the world the shepherds lived in, this Christmas our world is anything but peaceful. Our lives can feel heavy at times. Fears both personal and global can steal our strength and rob us of courage.

Maybe that's what the original carol writer had in mind when he brought together the comforting lyrics with courage inspiring chords resulting in an anthem that calls to the fearful telling them,

"Fear not! We have good news!

Go quickly to the one who can give you Peace."

We need someone to step into our fears, point us to rest and help us lay aside our dismay. Perhaps then we may embrace each other in brotherly love and find comfort and joy.

My prayer today: Thank you Jesus for bringing me courage when I want to hide or close myself off from the world. Give me your peace so I may open my heart to the brother or sister I am afraid to welcome into my life. Remind me of how you came to forgive me so I will be able to give grace and forgiveness. Help me to remain in your rest when all around me beckons me to busyness and worry. Thank you for embracing me and help me to embrace others. You make me able and I have nothing to dismay.

"God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"

God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan's pow'r
When we were gone astray
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy

In Bethlehem, in Israel
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
O tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Fear not then, said the Angel
Let nothing you affright
This day is born a Saviour
Of a pure Virgin bright
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan's pow'r and might
O tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Read more: Pentatonix - God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Lyrics | MetroLyrics

Either-Or

Or. It's a word I run into a lot lately.

Definition from Dictionary.com, Image from Microsoft Publisher

Whether it's in the media, heated discussions about hot button issues or high pressure sales from the overly beautiful sales reps at the mall kiosks. It almost always shows up when someone wants to pressure people into making a stand and in situations where it feels like pressure of ‘the Squeeze’ requires an immediate response. It can also show up in the questions I ask myself about life in both choices I have to make and when I’m looking for the ‘why’ behind the hard things in life.  It implies there are only two choices. Either this or that.

The problem with the word ‘or’ is the people presenting the choices ‘this or that’ are the ones defining the problem and influencing the answer. It implies they have a handle on what the situation is and therefore know the only possible options and that influences the outcome. The person on the receiving end of the choice presented by ‘or’ suddenly thinks those are the only two possibilities.

Illustration by W.W. Denslow

In a way the people who are presenting the choices are like a Las Vegas magician who says look over here when in reality his hands are working behind his back to do something else and then what you thought you were looking at is not the real trick at all. It's much like that scene in the Wizard of Oz when the wizard is flashing fireballs and thunderous responses pressuring Dorothy into thinking there is only one choice (run away) but then Toto runs behind the curtain exposing the carnival man pulling the levers and pushing the buttons. Suddenly Dorothy's perspective changes completely and with that she becomes aware of two things- she’s been manipulated and there are other choices she can make.

Yet not every ‘either-or’ question is a result of manipulating someone’s perspective. The ‘or’ can also come from a perspective limited by ignorance. It reminds me of a time the disciples asked Jesus, ‘Why is this guy blind? Is it because of his sin or his parents’ sin?'

Jesus’s response makes me think there's another problem with the word ‘or’ - it limits perspective. And maybe for humans that limited perspective is true sometimes but the funny thing about Jesus is he has a very different perspective on the problems we face.  He sees what we don’t see when we are faced with what we fear, don’t understand or what hurts us.

When Jesus was faced with that ‘why’ question by the disciples they thought there were only two possible root issues. Either, or. What happens when you choose to not be limited by the word ‘or’? Jesus replies with another small, powerful word- but.  His response is not to answer their limited question, rather he shines a light on the bigger meaning of the man’s life and God’s purpose in it. He explains the ‘but’ that matters most because we want to know the ‘why’ before we make a choice.

Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him. We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” (John 9:3-5, ESV, emphasis added)

He focuses on what is eternal instead of the temporary. They're looking for a situation that can be resolved and explained by man but he is looking at it and saying, “Hey, I'm God. I see what you can't see. I see your real need and I see what's really important.” The ‘but’ that matters most is that the light of God’s glory shines in a dark world so more people can know Him before it is too late

So now, when I'm faced with 'either-or' decisions I find myself looking for the 'but'. Sometimes that means taking a step back looking for the sleight of hand and the man behind the curtain. More often it means asking myself, 'What does Jesus see that I don't? And how can I bring hope and light before the day ends?'

Who is Heather M. Flood word association-
Need? Coffee.
Love? Jesus.
Need? Okay, Jesus first then coffee.
Purpose? Love God, love people.

One Year

A year ago Brian and I had never...

been asked by a 4 year old if we were from DFCS when we went to pick her mama up for class.

had a student tell us they couldn't come to class because her neighborhood was in lockdown due to a manhunt for a shooter.

had a student tell us they were sleeping under a bridge.

feared a shooting victim in our city might be one of our students.

realized the murders reported in the news were relatives of our students.

played make believe phone with a toddler and heard them say to their Sesame Street phone, "who got shot?"

worried a student wasn't coming to class because they might be in danger.

prayed it wouldn't rain so our students could walk a mile to class.

fed a student their first meal in over a day so they could concentrate on learning.


A year ago we had never....

helped a homeless man find stable housing.

driven into the projects to bring food, diapers and hope to a family in need.

witnessed a senior citizen learn to read.

belly laughed with Kurdish, Afghani, Burmese and Iranian refugee women who are learning English.

watched an empty nester white mom sacrifice her time and convenience to coach a poor single black mom and cradle her baby so she could study.

experienced the joy of helping a poor, single mom of 4 realize she is going to get her high school diploma.

helped a single mom prepare for a job interview that could help her get out of the club she works at.

tutored a single mom so she can provide a stable home and change the course of her children's life.

felt like we were part of changing the fabric of our city and the legacy of a person's life.


What a difference a year makes.



Brian and Heather Flood are full time missionaries in downtown Savannah. They are the founders and directors of Hope Academy in Savannah, GA. Hope exists to partner with adults in their adult education needs and to help them discover and achieve their life purpose.To learn more about Hope Academy or how you can impact downtown Savannah one life at a time contact Brian Flood at bflood56@outlook.com.

Visit them at www.hopeacademysavannah.com , their  Facebook page or to donate and Share Hope with a Student go to their Go Fund Me page, www.gofundme.com/hopeacademysav .
 
 

Hope is....no strings attached.

Sometimes unpleasant things sneak into my heart and take up residence without me knowing.

I don't know why I'm surprised when I turn the corner and find them there but I am. They are kinda like cockroaches. You don't always see them but if you live in the south you know they aren't ever that far away. You turn on the light in the middle of the night or you open the garage door and suddenly one is scurrying past your foot.

It's always gross and if it happens in front of a guest it is always embarrassing.

Recently I was startled to discover an attitude of pride and expectation had moved in temporarily. Not cool temporary visitors like backpackers in a European hostile. More like cockroaches that need to be stepped on before they breed.

It was bound to happen. By nature what we do in our ministry is complicated. Tangled. Messy. When you spend your days in urban ministry you find yourself in a position to 'do for' people which can be a dangerous place to be.

Dangerous because you can slip into a role of a provider instead of a facilitator. Shift from being a fellow traveler to a tour guide. When that happens it's a short trip to pride and unwarranted expectation. False ownership.

False ownership? I liken it to the opposite of entitlement (when the other person feels they have a right to my help). Or perhaps a near cousin. It's when I believe I have rights and control over what belongs to someone else. It happens when I have helped a person out and they don't do what I think they should with that help. At that moment a pseudo-righteous indignation rises up in me and says, 'Hey! I did that for you and now you aren't holding up your end of the bargain! You're supposed to make better choices  because I did this for you.'

Perhaps that sounds reasonable to you and it is definitely a natural feeling. But at the heart of it resides a lie. The lie says 'I did this for you.' That's where I mess up and it's also when I leave the door open for those disgusting cockroaches to sneak in to my heart.

Jesus said when you do this for the least of these you do it for me. When I make the mistake of 'doing for' someone instead of serving Jesus first then I'm already going down the wrong path. 

I don't help people because they need help.
I don't help people because I can fix them.
I don't help people because I have something they need.

No. What I do is I love Jesus.

I love Jesus when I feed someone.
I love Jesus when I clothe someone.
I love Jesus when I give someone a ride to a job interview.
I love Jesus when I share a meal with someone no one wants to eat with.
I love Jesus when I listen to someone no one wants to listen to.
I love Jesus when I teach someone to read or help someone with their homework.

I love Jesus. Period.

What happens after that is between Jesus and whomever I have loved in His name.

I don't own that. He does.
 

I was hungry and you fed me,
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave me a room,
I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to me.’

^37-40 “Then those ‘sheep’ are going to say, ‘Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?’ Then the King will say, ‘I’m telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.’

Matthew 25:36-40




Brian and Heather Flood are full time missionaries in downtown Savannah. They are the founders and directors of Hope Academy in Savannah, GA. Hope exists to partner with adults in their adult education needs and to help them discover and achieve their life purpose.To learn more about Hope Academy or how you can impact downtown Savannah one life at a time contact Brian Flood at bflood56@outlook.com.

Visit them on Facebook or at www.hopeacademysavannah.com or to donate and Share Hope with a Student go to their Go Fund Me page, www.gofundme.com/hopeacademysav .

 

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