My Bubbling Teapot

Poland is a Christian nation. Every person considers himself a Christian. They go to church, they uphold the traditions, keep the sacraments and try to live good lives. And now during the Christmas season here in this Christian country, I was wondering, Where is Christ in this Christan country? Is Christ really here? Or has he been left in the manger 2000 years ago, a helpless infant? Is Christ making a difference in the daily lives of these precious souls? Or is he still hanging on the cross of Calvary? I quote: " Poland is a land of intriguing traditions traditions and legends. So important is the first star of the night that Christmas Eve has been given the affectionate name of "little star" or "Gwiazdka," in remembrance of the star of Bethlehem. The moment the star appears, everyone exchanges greetings and good wishes. Families unite for the most carefully planned meal of the year, "Wigilia," Christmas supper. According to tradition, bits of hay h...

More times than not, my December 17th birthday nearly gets forgotten with all the busy Christmas festivities that try to crowd it out. But a few times in my life I have been totally surprised and this year was one of them. We three American ladies got together on Friday for our annual "candy and cookie" day when we make American goodies to give as gifts to our friends here. I thought it a bit strange that everyone was wishing me a cheerful "Happy Birthday" first thing in the morning when I arrived at my friends house. What are they thinking? It's a day early! Oh, well, I thought, they just don't want to forget this year. But I was secretly thinking about the night out that my husband had planned for the two of us the follwing evening. (At a romantic Italian restaurant in Warsaw, at that!) And I thought about the brunch that my oldest son promised to make on my special day. (Imagine that he is old enough to give me such a gift!) The morning passed and at time...

I just wanted to share with you the words of the birth announcement that my brother and wife sent to us this week. "How sweet to hold our newborn baby And feel the pride and joy she gives, But greater still, the calm assurance. This child can face uncertain days, because Christ lives." Jolynn Marie Sent by the One Who holds Carmen, Jana, Carinna, Jerryl, and Craig in His loving arms. Born to Jeff and Carolyn Schrock December 14, 2005, 4:40 P.M. 7 lb., 12 oz., 21 1/2 inches long "Because He lives, we can face tomorrow; Because He lives, all fear is gone, Because we know He holds the future... And life is worth the living, just because He lives." - Gaither What a testimony of God's goodness in their lives.

Isa. 55:8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," saith the Lord. This is the verse I've been clinging to this last month when a lot of questions have bombarded our minds. Do I really believe in the sovereignty of God? Where was God on November 1 while my brother Jeff was driving to meet his wife Carolyn in Spokane, Washington? Had he turned his back for a brief moment when my five nieces and nephews were tragically killed? Is a death as horrible as this in God's perfect plan? Many people say, "God knows best," but at a time like this it sounded so pat, so trite, so glib. Does God know best? What else can we believe? Even in such a terrible situation, God has been abundantly glorified. He has lavishly poured out His blessing, grace, and strength in the lives of Jeff and Carolyn more than they ever imagined. Does God know best? God has used this for good. His forgiveness has been shown to many people in a very tangible way. We...

I never planned to start a blog. In fact, I don't have time to blog. But my dear sister (I think it was her. I'll blame it on her) told me that this would be a great place to post my monthly updates for everyone to read. It scares me a little to think that anyone and everyone around the world can read about my little life here in Poland, but I will try it and see if I really do feel exposed. So, here I go!