88.7FM - The Cross Blog

The Blessing of Giving

2010-03-17T14:14:00.000-05:00

"The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself." (Proverbs 11:25)
It helps me when I can help you. It blesses me when I can bless you. And I will let you in on a little discovery I have made: I am probably more blessed giving than those who are receiving. If you apply that principle yourself, then you will learn a wonderful secret: the joy of giving in every area of your life. Have you discovered that secret yet? We don't know how long we will live. But I believe that if we live each day as unto the Lord, then we won't have to worry about the length of our lives. So make every day count. Don't waste your life. Give out of what God has given you. Live your life well.

I Leave You With A Few Things

2010-02-24T12:13:00.000-06:00

Well, it's that time! :) This is my last official post as the Midday Host here at 88.7FM, The Cross. WOW!! It's hard to believe! So, I'd like to leave you with a few things . . .

If you are reading this, then you have SOME level of awareness of The Cross. I encourage you to INCREASE it . . . take a greater level of ownership in God's ministry here!! First, if you haven't yet given financially, you can do it right here online!! EASY!! If you don't feel you can commit to a monthly payment, don't miss out on investing at least a one-time gift back into a ministry that has already basically "paid it foreward!" Secondly, at all points, the greatest commitment "NONE OF US can afford NOT to make" is to intentionally pray for all aspects of the ministry here, from the leadership, to the finances, to the listeners - WORLDWIDE - and all areas in between!! So, I challenge you today to get TAKE OWNERSHIP in the Source that has provided encouragement, strength, and hope through the Truth available here!!

I was a listener for 3 1/2 years before I came onboard as the Midday Host here, and The Cross served as a "lifeline" for my family and I through some critical times - - as many of YOU have expressed over and over!! The opportunity for me to give, not only of my finances, but my heart, my time, my energy and effort has been INVALUABLE to ME!! I have GAINED so much more than I could ever GIVE, because, that's just the way God works!! We step out in obedience, surrender what we have to offer and He multiplies it, accomplishing His purpose, and pouring out a blessing we cannot EVEN contain!!

Regardless of whether I have an obvious presence here on The Cross, please know I will continue shoulder-to-shoulder wth you in our crusade to keep Christian radio moving out over the airwaves in our area and over the internet, touching hearts and changing lives, . . . MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR ETERNITY!!

I will still be around!! :)) So, I will look forward to seeing many of you in August at the "It's A Mom Thing" event!! Until we meet again, "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you; the Lord be gracious to you, and give you peace" (Num 6:24-26), in Jesus name, AMEN!!

Much love and continual prayers,
Jenny :)

My First Valentine

2010-02-14T18:00:00.000-06:00

Having Valentine's Day on Sunday felt almost religious for me. I mean, here we are on the day that we are to celebrate love and it falls on the day that we are to celebrate the Sabbath. I woke up this morning, intentionally mesmerized by my First Valentine.

You see, there was a time in my life when the thought of having a family, finding a spouse - feeling that kind of love - probably would never happen. I was messed up and unworthy of such a blessing. But, today surrounded by a family that loves me without shame, I am reminded of the One that loves me most.

He didn't send me roses or buy my chocolates, but He took my sins on His shoulders and drove them into the grave! He didn't buy me dinner, but His body was broken for me. He didn't toast me with champagne, but he poured out His blood so that my sins would be covered. He didn't take me out to dinner, but He has always been by my side, loving me, spending time with me, sharing with me. He didn't buy me a gift, but He paid the price so that I could live forever in His love and in His peace!

Jesus Christ is my First Valentine, and at the end of time He will be my only Valentine...a lifelong Valentine that will never leave me or forsake me. After all, His name is Love - He always hopes, always trusts, always perseveres; He never fails!

Frogs, Flies, and Locusts

2010-01-24T15:20:00.000-06:00

In our Sunday school class we've been looking back at the deliverance of Israel from the Egyptians. As we read about the frogs, flies, and locusts I can't help but feel the heebie-jeebies! Gross! Can you even imagine? The thought of being swarmed, surrounded, and overwhelmed with those crispy, slimy, buzzy creatures makes me squirm. And you wonder, why in the world did Pharoah hold out so long!?

It reminds me of times in my life when I heard the Spirit say, "Well, Les, we can do this the easy way or the hard way!" And, like a rebellious Tween I said, "I'll take the hard way." Well, I don't think I ever SAID that, but I implied it with my disobedience. And I wonder, why would God give me the option? Well, maybe the answer can be found in Exodus.

Moses went to Pharoah, asking him to let the Israelites go! But even when God turned the Nile to blood, when He decimated the livestock, when He rained hail down from heaven, when He inflicted them with boils, Pharoah would not be moved. Why? Well, God tells us in the 9th chapter, "I have spared you for a purpose, to spread my fame throughout the earth." I don't think the story of liberation would be quite as powerful and world reknown if Moses would have simply gone into Egypt, told Pharoah to let the people go, and Pharoah immediately complied, bowing out gracefully! No, instead, you see a bull-headed man, convinced that He will stand firm against God until the very end...now, the frogs, flies, and locusts make for a whole new incredible story!

It's the same way in my life...If I would have easily given in and been obedient, maybe I wouldn't have quite the testimony I have today. If I hadn't eaten crow, and bit my tongue, and suffered pain, my story wouldn't be quite as powerful. But, God in His grace allowed me some distance, a chance to choose, to try to walk on my own, so that I would see that I have to depend on Him to keep from falling. And because of that, I can do as Jesus instructed Paul, "...go back and strengthen [my] brothers." Because, thankfully, what I have learned can be transferred to others to inspire, encourage, and strengthen! Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Free to be me!

2010-01-10T19:00:00.001-06:00

Getting ready for church this morning the melodic voice of my oldest daughter rang throughout the house. She is our singer. She loves music- to listen to it, to play it (piano), and to sing it! Every night she even sings herself to sleep. This morning her song of choice was "Free to be me" by Francesca Battastelli.

I like that song, but what I like most about that song is that in this age of feel good about who you are, find the ability to do and be anything within yourself, this song shares a message that says basically that I don't have to be perfect, because in Christ I am free to be me! The power is not found simply within MYSELF, but the power is given by an amazing loving Saviour!

I smiled as I watch her heartfelt worship bursting forth in song...that is exactly the message I want to sink deep into the bone and the marrow, to saturate her heart in truth and acceptance...Christ makes her free...free to be exactly who HE created her to be! And the invitation is offered to each of us without limit and without abandon! Live free... :)

AN EPHESIANS 3:20 NEW YEAR!!!

2010-01-06T12:40:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!! . . . and I hope this finds you Healthy, Happy and full of Hope for all that God has ahead for us this year!! With the dawn of 2010, I certainly feel the reality of the threshhold of an open door - - I sense a certain measure of change ahead in this new year, as with every year, actually.

If we are to TRULY take God at His Word, we must ALL walk in EXPECTATION, anticipating what is AHEAD!!   In Jeremiah 29:11, we read, "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, to prosper you and not to harm you; plans for a future and a hope."   So how are we walking that out today?   Are we looking for God's plans in our lives?   Or are WE making our plans, and looking for God to sign off on them?   HELLO?!?!

Well, personally, I am EXPECTING an Ephesians 3:20 New Year!! :))   I am believing God for a year that is "EXCEEDINGLY . . . ABUNDANTLY . . . ABOVE ALL . . . that we can ASK or even IMAGINE . . . according to HIS POWER that is AT WORK within us!!"   AMEN?!?!

So, let's GO FOR IT!!!   Look for the signs, and ignore the cost; pursuing God with our whole hearts . . . and TRUSTING HIM WITH THE OUTCOME!! :)   What do you say?!? Blessings!! :))   Jenny

I resolve to...

2010-01-03T15:41:00.001-06:00

It's a new year, and as always, there is a list of things that each and everyone of us resolve to do. I am not an exception. But, as I was thinking about the last year, and looking forward to this new year, I began to think about all the other things I had "resolved" to do, and well...they didn't exactly happen. For instance, I am not 15 pounds lighter than I was this time last year, I have not taken up piano lessons, I didn't master the art of knitting, and I did not take the time each and every night to write a journal to my daughters! Then I thought, "Maybe if I would take it slower, resolve to do the possible, commit to attaining the necessary, maybe this time next year, I won't look back in shame."

So, this year I am resolving to be easier on myself. To start off, the things that I am committing to do are not only possible, probable and attainable, but they are necessary! Here are the three things that I am focusing on this year:
1. I resolve to wake each and every day to a conversation with God.
2. I resolve to take each day as it comes, not rushing forward or looking back; one day at a time.
3. I resolve to show God's love to someone each and every day.

As I look at the list, I think, that's not so hard, but when I really contemplate what each one of those things means, the time that it will take, the energy it will require...maybe it isn't so attainable! Oh, but it is necessary! So, with jaw clenched and head held high I march into the year...not rushing forward or looking back, one day at a time...afterall, it is what I have resolved to do and do it, I will. You'll see!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Jesus Christ is Alive and Well!

2009-12-23T12:54:00.000-06:00

Hope this finds all of you blessed and encouraged today, even in the midst of all the hustle and bustle of the season!! First, let me extend a heartfelt, sincere "Merry Christmas!" to each and every one of you . . . and follow that up with the thrilling proclamation that "Jesus Christ IS alive and well today!!" Hallelujah! Again, we can join with the heavenly host saying, "Glory to God in the highest! And on earth, peace, good will to all men!" HE IS HERE!!!

May we allow the glory of God to shine forth through us (and our homes) to the world around us - - in desparate need of the Reason for the Hope that is within us!! The Lord Jesus Christ bless you with the gift of His precious presence this Christmas . . . that each one of us would come to know Him in a new and different way, drawing us closer to His heart and His will for our each one of our lives. I am so thankful to be a small part of your world through His ministry here at 88.7 FM, The Cross!! Stay blessed! Jenny

Give Christmas Away This Year

2009-12-16T13:25:00.002-06:00

Today, I am so impressed with all the possibilities of what our world, in our immediate areas and abroad, could look like if we would collectively purpose to move SELF out of the way, and reach out to actually "Give Christmas Away" this year!! To give away OUR "rights" : the things we might believe we "deserve" or that someone "owes" us. Then, redirect our passions to lift up those around us as God has SO CLEARLY directed us to do :

Romans 12:10 "Love each other with genuine affection and take delight in honoring one another."   TAKE DELIGHT ... in HONORING one another!! WOW!!

Then, check out Phillipians 2:3 "Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others.   Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves."    In The Message, it reads : "Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends.   Don't push your way to the front, don't sweet-talk your way to the top.   Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead.   Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage.   Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand."   That sums it all up . . . clearly !!

Is there anything else to say ... to more effectively articulate the heart of God for each one of us as we relate to those around us?! And there's no time like NOW to make the necessary adjustments in our lives . . . to come into line with God's heart . . .  as we celebrate His effort of putting Himself aside. . . and sending His Son, to be our Savior!!!   HALLELUJAH!!!    HE IS WORTHY!! Let us prefer one another!!   :) Jenny

...and a Happy New Year!

2009-12-13T16:19:00.001-06:00

Christmas time is here, and for many it marks a time of true reflection. And for me, this year, marks a monumental moment in my life.

A year ago, I would have never believed it. A year ago, I was facing surgery and grieving its necessity. A year ago, I thought I was losing so much. A year ago, I was sad and burdened and scared. Not a fun place to be. You see, God often takes us to places that knock the breath out of us, humble us to the point that we can't look up, and we are left wondering if we really have a purpose. But, oh! how lovingly He has a way of making it all work out!

This year, I am overwhelmed, and so excited about what the next holds! This next year begins with something new; a dream come true! I am now something that I have dreamed my whole life of being! I am officially a published author! The road hasn't been easy, and I have been highly disillusioned in the process, but it has taught me to put God first, to wait for Him, to acknowledge Him every step of the way, and most of all, never to doubt His calling in my life!

You know, I don't know what He has in store for me, or for my ministry, or for this book. And, maybe it will all fizzle out and dry up...but even if that happens, I know one thing: I am seeking His will. I love Proverbs 19:21. It says this: "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but the Lord's will prevails!" He is a good God! And His plans are precious for His children. So on this night I am reminded of the angels herald, "Glory to God in the highest, peace to all good men on whom His favor rests!"

Merry Christmas, and have a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

In The Thick of the Holiday Spirit

2009-12-02T13:46:00.001-06:00

YAY!! :)) I love this time of year and all that it represents in my life . . . from childhood to today!! This has always represented a time to pull in to our home and enjoy the blessings of family!! From the food preparations and decorations, to extra opportunities for fellowship and fun, with game times and special visits!!

This year, for the first time, all my children and I are in the Family Church production of The Gospel According To Scrooge - - an amazing Broadway-style holiday event that brings the reality of our need for Jesus into the traditional story of the life of Ebenezer Scrooge!! If you're in the area, you can get tickets online, FREE :), at www.familychurch.org and click on Scrooge! Opening night is this Thursday, running this weekend and next, so plan to come out and join us and bring someone with you!! You'll be blessed!

I pray that all of us, each one, can remain focused on the true meaning of the season and truly value the treasure of those God has granted us to share this life with . . . giving Him the gift of honoring our friends and families and making special moments this year that REALLY COUNT!!

Blessings!! :) Jenny

"Christmas time is here"...lalalalala

2009-11-30T10:07:00.001-06:00

Yes, it is that time again...and as always A Charlie Brown Christmas is enjoyed over and over and over again at my house. So it is no wonder that song plays in my mind throughout the whole season! Of course, he's in good company with Rudolph and the Grinch, and we can't leave out old Frosty! What I love about putting up the tree and making Christmas goodies and watching Christmas classics isn't really the act itself, but the inclusion of family - namely my girls.

Christmas is a special family time of year. We make an extra effort to spend time together whether it is reading a portion of the Christmas story each night or enjoying cocoa by the fire or just wrapping presents to place under the tree. Christmas is about togetherness, and I think that is precisely the way that God would have it!

So take advantage of it! Run with it! Enjoy it! I know that I will! :)

Wrapping up an incredible season

2009-11-27T18:46:00.003-06:00

Wow!
I am amazed at God's plans. I never imagined when I called Phillip Brooks to ask if I could come see the new building downtown (they had just moved in -- literally, the paint was still wet)...
...that I would begin a journey that would bring me closer to God in every area of my life, working as a host on a station called 88.7FM The Cross.

I'm moving into a new chapter of my life now, following a calling that I don't completely understand, but that I'm obeying anyway. My wise friend Leslie Lamb says when God directs you, it doesn't always feel easy or smooth, but it always works out... always! I'm walking in that promise. (Romans 8:28)

Thank you to all of you who've shared your car, your home, and your office with me as I've made a journey as a disciple, some of it on the air. Thank you to the callers who've encouraged me along the way, and for the prayer requests that allowed God to use me in a way I could never have realized on my own.

That being said, I may be leaving afternoons, but I promise I'm not going far. We're still looking at what kind of role I can play to help the mission of The Cross, and bring value to the incredible ministry that goes on here. I'll still be filling in from time to time, and you'll definitely hear from me when it comes to Sharathon time!

By the way: you are going to have a blast with Sam Lenox! Give him the encouragement, the love, and yes, the grace he needs as he steps in to fill a new role and a new calling of God on his life to serve you; bringing you God's word, entertaining you, and sharing his heart and his Christian walk with you on the air. (I'm looking forward to it, too!)

Blessings!

Jay
jay@887fm.org

The Blessing of the Season

2009-11-18T11:13:00.004-06:00

I have to say, all things considered, this IS my favorite time of year . . . continually turning our focus to home, community and fellowship. With school letting out for the holidays, I will not be teaching voice lessons in the afternoons and no basketball games, so I am looking forward to at least SOME "home" time! I am hoping to get some things reorganized that have been let go for crazy schedules, maybe some Christmas decorating and definitely a lot of cooking!! :)) Mmmm! When we're not in rehearsal for the upcoming "Scrooge" production at Family Church in West Monroe ( www.familychurch.org), I also hope to have some fun family times with special treats, popcorn, movies and games!

We, like many of you, will have an empty seat in our family circle, that we are believing God to redeem and restore. So, today, I would encourage you to join us in focusing on what IS . . . and NOT what IS NOT this holiday season. Let's bind our hearts together to bear one another's burdens and agree for the restoration of relationships, according to God's perfect plan. Then, let's also PURPOSE to leave it in His hands to handle, as only He can, so we can be FREE to enjoy the precious 'present' - - the GIFT God has right in front of us this holiday season (and everyday of the year) of our family and friends!!

There may be an empty hole in our hearts, but if we'll let Him, God will fill up the spaces all around it . . . to overflowing!! Let's give Him the opportunity!! If you don't have a church family, let me invite you to join us at Family Church in West Monroe. Let's do our part, by making ourselves available to our families, friends and local church, . . . and I assure you, GOD WILL BE FAITHFUL to do His part!! After all, He's the One who began the whole "relationship" thing - - it's the REASON for the Season and the reason WHY we're here!! TRUST GOD for the blessing of this Season!! HE IS FAITHFUL!! :)) Blessings! Jenny

My Case For Christian Radio

2009-11-11T13:01:00.002-06:00

As I was getting started on today's blog, there were so many things coming to mind confirming the continual goodness of God :)) - - and I am ALWAYS up for a "bragging session" on our great God - - but, He gently quickened my heart [ through the music playing on air ] to those who need a ray of hope today. Those who may feel like they are drowning in their circumstances, who need a word of 'TRUTH' to apply to the 'facts' glaring at them in their faces, cheering them on to "KEEP ON FIGHTING - - DON'T GIVE UP!!"

So, allow me to share with you the partial lyrics of a few songs that have just played - - letting you in on why I keep Christian music / worship on, at ALL times :

1000 Generations "You Fail Us Not" : " ... No matter the war, our hope is secure! You fail us not! ... Whatever may come, we'll rise above! You fail us not! You're bigger than the battle has ever been! You fail us not!"

Kutless "That's What Faith Can Do" : " ... You're stronger than you know. Don't give up now! The sun will soon be shining. You've gotta face the clouds to find the silver lining. ... Life is so much more than what your eyes are seeing. You will find your way, if you keep believing. Overcome the odds when you don't have a chance. When the world says, "You can't!" It [faith] says, "YOU CAN!"

Building 429 "Always" : " ... Maybe you're fighting for your life, about to throw the towel in. Hold on! Hold on! Hold on! ... I believe always, ALWAYS our Savior never fails! Even when all faith is gone, God knows our pain and His promise remains ... ALWAYS!"

I don't know about you, but on any given day . . . I could be at a place to crater and give up under the weight and the pressures of my world . . . BUT GOD!! So, keeping music on, whether singing 'ABOUT' or 'TO' the only One Who can DO anything about it and Who truly cares more than I can comprehend, sets my eyes and my heart on HIM, and my hands and feet to DO His will!!

I encourage you today to allow the music of the Word to wash over you, and to direct you to the One Who can save, heal, deliver and restore you . . . making all things new, for His glory!! Hallelujah!! :) Jenny

God IS IN The Unexpected

2009-11-04T13:17:00.000-06:00

Good Morning!! I hope this day finds each one of you blessed and encouraged . . . KNOWING that our GREAT GOD is on the throne and IN CONTROL!! He is WITH US, even in the midst of "the unexpected!"

This morning, when I was rushing to finish up tonight's dinner, gather up all my things and head out to work at The Cross, I inadvertantly locked my back door as I was closing it, not realizing my keys were INSIDE on the hook. After making acouple of unsuccessful calls to those who have an extra key, I called Phillip, at the station, to ask for a ride.

Then, as I have come to condition myself, I said, "Okay, God, . . . THIS did NOT take You by surprise. So, what am I supposed to get from this (other than, "haste makes waste!") - - and could we HURRY, PLEASE!!! I have to go on the air in 20 minutes & it takes five minutes to GET there (as You know :) ). I didn't get a profound, booming revelation in the moment, but did begin to realize that I had not really even noticed how beautiful the morning was : the cool air, changing colors of the leaves in the trees framing our home, set against the backdrop of the bright blue skies . . . tiny flowers growing out of the stump of a tree . . . WOW!! I had to take out my phone and snap some pictures!! It wasTHEN that I noticed . . . I wasn't anxious or stressed out!!! In fact, I felt like I was on some kind of 'field trip' in my own front yard . . . because I stopped to consider the truth of Who is ACTUALLY in control. Even in our mistakes, He has a BLESSING - - if WE will but put our reactions and thoughts in check just long enough to give Him an opportunity, even in the small things, to bring joy into the midst of our choices and schedules!! We ARE His heart and He desires to lavish His love on us . . . so LET'S LET HIM . . . even in "the unexpected!" Stay BLESSED!!! :) Jenny

"Light up the Night"

2009-11-01T14:38:00.000-06:00

Last night was Halloween...or "you know, that thing." :) We have made it a tradition in our neighborhood to get together with our friends and let the kids just have a good time, trick-or-treating and playing and just having fun, as God intended! Last night we decided to do something just a little bit different: we invited the WHOLE neighborhood to a "Light up the Night Block Party."

It was amazing! We had food, fun, and fellowship, and at the end of the party, we had a hay ride...or as one sweet boy called it, "A hay back ride!" It was my favorite part of the night as we all cuddled close in a lighted trailor going from house to house. But, the icing on the cake was the songs that ALL the kids began singing: "He has the whole world in His hands" and "Jesus loves the little children". It was beautiful (if not a little loud) as they raised their joyous voices, not only in praise to the Light of the world but in invitation to other children that they passed. One little girl added, "Jesus loves ALL the little children of the world, and that includes you..and you..and you." And she was right, amazingly and abundantly correct, and I am pretty sure that God smiled generously as we traveled the streets last night, shedding just a little light on an infamously dark night!

MORE GOD!!

2009-10-21T12:25:00.000-05:00

Well, here we are after another FULL week of living LIFE!! :) And, AGAIN, I have to quickly add . . . we ARE so very BLESSED!!!

Between the excitement of full schedules at work, school, sports, and other activities, we can sometimes allow a spirit of overwhelm to slip in. When, in reality, what we need to do is PRESS IN HARDER!! MORE GOD!! We WILL be able to hear FROM Him, if we are looking TO Him!!

When we are involved in things that are not "of God," even if they're 'godly,' we find ourselves drained and overwhelmed!! But, as we set our eyes on Him and tune our ears to Him, our hearts will be sensitive to His direction!! Remember : "What God ordains, HE SUSTAINS!!" So, when we find ourselves lacking, in any way, we must look for MORE GOD!! He IS FAITHFUL!! As we LOOK to Him, . . . He WILL show up!! He will direct us, if we will give Him the opportunity, and give us the chance to make the necessary adjustments!!

In EVERY situation . . . our answer IS STILL . . . MORE GOD!!!! Be encouraged today, and STAY BLESSED!! :)) Jenny

One of THOSE days?

2009-10-20T18:46:00.001-05:00

Ugh. Ever have one of those days? I think I'm having one today. It's sad how down we can get when we continue trying to do things our way, instead of focusing on God and how HE wants us to do them. When we look to Him for our strength and quit depending on our own, when we really lean on him and depend on him, that is when he can do something extraordinary with our lives. I'm learning to lean on him today, and that's a good thing.

The Lord directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way? Proverbs 20:24

HOW HE LOVES US!

2009-10-14T12:43:00.000-05:00

OK! So I'm not so happy right now because I had just finished my blog and sat down to do a break live on the air and the battery on my laptop ran out . . . SO! Oh, well, here we go again! :)

Does anything like that ever happen to you? UGHHH!!! The "unexpected disruption" to our plans, leaving you saying, "Now what?" Well, the good news IS, no matter what takes US by surprise, NOTHING EVER takes God by surprise! HALLELUJAH!! And, He's ALWAYS ready . . . with a provision . . . to help us through, whether the simple, precious grace to start over on our blog :), or a healing touch for an ailing body, His perfect peace to settle a restless spirit, the mercy of His forgiveness, or the comfort of His Holy Spirit to a broken or heavy heart !!

If we will let Him, He wants to be our EVERYTHING . . . and He is ABLE to BE and DO all that He has promised!! Check out the David Crowder Band's "How He Loves" and let it sink in deep!! In spite of all our 'human -ness' :) we ARE His heart's desire . . . and OH! How He Loves Us!! WOW!! Keep your mind set on Him . . . and STAY BLESSED!! :) Jenny

The Word of God and M&Ms

2009-10-14T12:18:00.000-05:00

Another week has passed, . . . and here we are, still hanging out together!! What a blessing!! I hope your world is well - that your hope is strong and your joy is full!! If you find yourself in a place that is lacking, I'VE GOT GREAT NEWS!! - - God IS Who He says He IS . . . and He CAN DO what He says He CAN DO!!! HALLELUJAH!!

The question IS, DO WE know Who He IS? Really? What about 'what He SAYS He can DO?' If not, . . . why not? God's Word is there FOR US!! GOD IS 'FOR US!!!' Did you know that?

Today, let me encourage you to grab a pen , paper, & your 'Sword' for battle (your BIBLE :) ), and DIVE IN to the Truth of God's Word to find out how it applies to YOU specifically!! And don't forget your M & M's :), so you will remember how important it is to Memorize & Meditate on those truths for your life ( while enjoying some chocolate!! :) HA!)

Ephesians 3:20 (Amplified Bible)
"Now TO HIM Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, IS ABLE to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]--

To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it)."

AMEN!! :) Stay Blessed!! Jenny

Looking Back With Gratitude

2009-10-07T11:13:00.000-05:00

This past weekend I was blessed to be a part of an event celebrating Peggy West's many years of investment and dedication in the Ouachita Christian School Eaglaire Choir. There was a great turnout of students (going back 30 years) touched by her life and her determination to excellence, planting and scattering good "seed" all over the place! What a testimony of a life well lived and the difference ONE can truly make for the Kingdom of God!

It was amazing to see those I've lost touch with - - being reminded of memories faded through the years and vowing to work to stay better connected in the future!! I got to sing again with a group of 3 guys I used to sing with - talk about flashbacks!! Music from The Eagles, John Denver & Anne Murray . . . my kids - unfamiliar with the music - asked if "that music" was Christian. :) Ha! Clearly, we listen to mostly Christian music . . . it's the backdrop of our lives.

When I was growing up, contemporary Christian music was just evolving, with very few Christian radio stations. However, Christian radio is a huge part of my heritage. My grandfather, Dr. C.W. Jones was a radio pioneer missionary to South America, putting up the first tower / transmitter in Quito, Ecuador, (radio station HCJB, The Voice of the Andes- still going, stronger than ever!), which is where my mother grew up. :) In the early years, Christian radio looked a good bit different, with news, teaching / preaching, and music mostly comprised of hymns, as the format.

I don't think I will ever be able to take for granted the gift and incredible blessing, a "life-line" if you will, that Christian radio is to my life!! I have praised God for it over and over . . . and now to be in a position to be a part of it . . . I am privileged, honored . . . and so grateful!! :) Jenny

Too Much

2009-10-06T20:52:00.000-05:00

Let's be real here. In our lives, there's always going to be too much to do -- one more event, game, class, meeting or thing that's just-got-to-be-done-now!

So it comes to making choices. The tough ones, though, are choosing between two things that are good, even two things that are God's work. The question we need to answer, though, is "Is this work something that God's calling me to be doing?" When we make God's calling and use of our gifts at the top of the list, that's when we'll be lining up with His plans for us. It's never easy, and I'll be the first to say I'm still working on it -- but I'm listening for His voice in every choice, and trusting Him to guide (or sometimes shove) me in the right direction!

"He is jealous for me"

2009-10-04T18:17:00.000-05:00

"I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God.." -Exodus 20:5-

"El Kana" is a name for God that we don't visit very often. We are quicker to call on Jehovah Rapha or Jehova Jirah - our healer and our provider, and He certainly is also those things. In fact the names for God are extensive and all conclusive, but it is this name "El Kana" that He himself coined for it means "The Jealous".

We tend to forget that He is a jealous God. He longs to have us completely and totally for Himself. He wants to have us look to Him only for our sense of worth, for our provision, and as our desire. He is vulnerable in that sense. If we don't choose Him, if we look away from Him it offends Him; it hurts Him. We can hurt God - we can break His heart.

He doesn't sit idley by as we fall head long into sin, He doesn't stand aside as we suffer through life and it's consequences. He stands beside us, always reaching, always holding out hope. He wants us to call on Him, he longs for us to embrace Him as the God who desires us! It is this vulnerability, this need, this passion that makes me love Him more. And, when I think about that I don't have time to think through all the things that I have done wrong or should have done better, I only have time to realize that He loves me still.

He loves us...and that alone should give us goosebumps!

Walk Together

2009-09-30T10:07:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Friends!! Hope the middle of this week and the last day of September finds you blessed and determined as we continue to move forward, pursuing a life that matters for Eternity!! For me it's the importance of staying in the "here and now," making today's choices count! :) In the ongoing fullness of life, it's easy to get swept up into the plans and commitments of our tomorrows or pulled back by past successes and failures. . . but, I encourage you and challenge you today, as I am, to focus on this day and the sweetness of this moment - whether in a time of peace or turmoil, joy or pain, health or illness - if you are in it, God has a purpose for you right here! I am continually encouraged by the truth that God is never taken by surprise, and, if I AM? He's already there to meet me with a provision to walk it out!! So let's continue to WALK TOGETHER for the sake of the Kingdom of God! :) HE IS WORTHY!! Stay Blessed!! :) Jenny S. Remsberg

Diva for a day!

2009-09-27T19:32:00.000-05:00

Friday was a special day for my youngest daughter! You see, she got to play dress up; she was asked to come to school as the person that she wanted to be when she grows up...good news! After a bit of a peer pressure delimma, she finally admitted that more than anything she wanted to be a fashion model. This was nothing new to us...this has been her dream for as long as I can remember as she rummages through my closet and my shoes daily to find the perfect outfit!

We had a blast the night before, picking out her clothes, her accessories, her shoes (my 3 inch heels!), and a hairstyle. She was a doll, complete with makeup and a shopping bag from the Fendi store on Rodeo Drive...her diva-ness was complete!

Everyone noticed and commented how confident she was, how she smiled everytime they saw her, how she believed that she was indeed a fashion model! She walked a little taller - of course the 3 inch heels didn't hurt. She was confident and assertive, kind and compassionate, strong and beautiful...a princess, really. She continued her dream until she changed into her pajamas, and collapsed in her bed late that night.

Earlier that night when I asked her, "Lily, did you have fun today?" I could have captured the light that filled her face and provided electricity for ten small villages! She absolutely glowed and said, "It was the best day of my life!" And I believe it was...it was an awesome day for all of us...to see her so happy...it was a blessing!

2009-09-25T08:55:00.000-05:00

Do you ever get the feeling that life is like a treadmill or is it? As you persevere on the treadmill of life, you can count on God's grace empowering those tired muscles. And remember that if you are following the Lord your walk IS really taking you somewhere. You're not just a sweating sufferer on a treadmill; you're a pilgrim on a journey. And you have the promise of God: " BLESSED is the man (or woman) who perseveres under trail; because when he (or she) has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life." (James 1:12) Now that's an encouraging word!

2009-09-23T10:46:00.000-05:00

It's the middle of the week already, so that means it's time for me to blog again!! :) Hope you guys are having a blessed week! I've been a little bit more active than my already full schedule keeps me - - Monday I was hired to cast a commercial . . . that is actually being shot today . . . while I'm on the air here . . . and blogging!! :0 AGHHH! So I've had a couple of busy days rounding up 14 people, clothes and times and . . . well . . . the clock keeps ticking!! Between The Cross, Voice lessons, three kids' school and basketball schedules, church activities, friends and family . . . we are BLESSED . . . and FOREVER THANKFUL to our God and Father, Who orders our steps, leads and provides, keep and protects and continually lavishes His love on us extravagantly!! As our Pastor often says, "We have every reason to be glad, and no reason for which to be sad, . . . even if we do!" The Lord bless you and keep you . . . (Num 6:24-26). Until next week!!! ;) Jenny S. Remsberg

Making it count

2009-09-22T21:17:00.000-05:00

I think it's kind of wierd that we pray, "Use me, God!" and then complain when he does! It's hard to remember sometimes, but it 's true: God's path for us isn't always comfortable; it isn't always fun. Sometimes he's busy shaping us for things to come.

How do you tell the difference between the times that He's stretching you and times that are just tough? You can't! At least not while you're going through them. Our job is to walk faithfully, and put ourselves in a place where we can hear his voice. (Hint: the closer you are, the easier it is to hear Him!)

Striving to walk closer to Him today!

Concerts and You!

2009-09-22T09:03:00.001-05:00

It's not always easy for us to choose which concerts to bring to Northeast Louisiana, or even - at times - which concert promoters to work with in bringing you the shows you want to see. There's more than you would think, and we try to make sure as many shows come to this area as we can.

You can help us!

Our biggest concern is knowing (or finding out from you - the listener) who people WANT to see come. That's why we have polls and opinion segments on the air, asking you to call in and/or vote online.

More often than not, we need to sell tickets to the concerts. If we don't have the response, and not enough people come out to support LIVE Christian music, we stand to take a SERIOUS financial hit. Even when we partner with great Christian concert promoters, like Glory2Glory Productions, we still need your support.

To date, Northeast Louisiana and 887FM listeners have a pretty well-known reputation around the nation with Christian artists and their management companies! You've come through for us before, and we need you to keep it up! Tell your friends and family when we promote a concert or event.

Be encouraged, because you REALLY do make a difference. You make it possible.

Call in to the station...ANYTIME YOU WANT TO...and tell us who you'd like to see come. We love those calls! Or, you can email me at rob@887fm.org.

Got a great idea for a promotion? Let us know. We LOVE ideas here at The Cross.

So, worship loud...keep in touch...and let's praise God together!

//rt

Pyromania!

2009-09-20T20:09:00.000-05:00

Tonight, our church did something that we have been working hard towards for the last 3 years, we burned our mortgage! You see, about three years ago we were in some serious debt, we had just lost our pastor, and really we felt we were gonna have to shut the doors of the church. Well, thankfully, God had other plans!

I cannot tell you what it has been like to see our church go from an open grave to a wedding feast! It was a road full of tears and pain, anxiety and passion, and finally reconcilliation and blessing, and setting fire to our mortgage was just one of the rewards.

As I stood there watching the fire and looking around at all the faces, one thought stole my heart, God alone did this! It was nothing that we could have done on our own, it was only through the wisdom, strength, and discernment of God. All of us felt that way, and it was evident on our faces whether we beamed, cried, or sang!

Then, another thought almost took my breath away. I felt God say to my soul..."Now go out and set the community on fire for me!" Another fire, a brighter fire, a consuming fire, that's what our community needs. A fire that brings hope and healing, forgiveness and love...the fire ignited by the love of Christ.

So, I am declaring this Pyromania! Get crazy! Light up your town, set hearts ablaze with the Spirit of Truth! Ignite hearts and burn into souls, the love and the mercy of Jesus Christ! And, then pray...pray that the fire never goes out. Pray that it doesn't stop with this community but spreads to the next. Pray that it takes over the world. And if anyone asks, "What are you doing?" You can say, "I'm a Pyromaniac for Jesus!" :)

AMAZING!

2009-09-18T09:58:00.000-05:00

What an AMAZING God we serve! It is so freeing to truly understand the scripture when it says, "Be still and know that I am God." Wow! When we get still long enough and "wait for it" we really KNOW that He is God. Simple right...well actually it is simple...simple faith in an AWESOME GOD! Be blessed this Friday and ask God to prepare your hearts for when you meet together corporately on Sunday.

Hey, Friends!!

2009-09-17T11:49:00.000-05:00

Hey, Friends!! How fun is this? We've had so much fun here getting to join forces with so many friends, volunteers and staff in this year's Fall Friendraiser!! I personally love having company alongside in the control room : Naomi Carroll, Rob Tucker, Michael Williams and Bob Beyer!! What a blessing!! So appreciate you guys who have jumped onboard . . . who desire to link up with us for the kingdom work going on here at 88.7 FM, The Cross and AM 1230, The Word!!

Tomorrow, we're back to life as usual, enriched and encouraged by our precious listeners, donors and volunteers!! Thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU!! The Lord Bless and keep you, in Jesus name!! :) For His glory!! Jenny

Wisdom or riches?

2009-09-16T08:56:00.000-05:00

When we're making choices with how we spend our time, the stakes are often higher than we think. Are we choosing to do things that will get us more wisdom, or are we doing something allthetimeallthetime that will increase the bottom line of our finances?

I'm afraid that in my life, things often go better for me when I make the time to read my Bible, to pray. When my days are so overscheduled that I don't feel like I have time to read my Bible, it seems I'm learning that time with God can be even better than that extra 10 minutes of sleep! That little extra effort can pay off in big ways!

During our Fall Friendraiser, we're asking for you to make a little extra effort, to support something that can make a huge difference in people's lives. Please consider a gift to 88.7 -- and thank you!

Proverbs 16:16

How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!

I'm blogging!

2009-07-01T05:47:00.000-05:00

Hello to all you world of bloggers...I was a clogger when I was younger but never a blogger...I hope this the beginning of something wonderful! God bless.

Hi There !

2009-03-07T02:48:00.000-06:00

Hi folks! I'm Rob, and I'm the first to get to post a blog!

So, yeah...this is it. The ALL NEW 88.7FM Blog! Subscribe to this blog to check out thoughts, ideas, events, and other little gems from the staff at The Cross.

Each person at 88.7FM will post here, so you don't have to run all over the place looking for different blogs.

Got ideas on how we can improve our new website, 887fm.org? Well, let us know by either leaving comments here, or by emailing us. We'd love to hear from you! We'll be posting on the growth of both the website and the station here in the blogs.

We'll be leaving detailed info on concert and event planning here, as well...so you'll have some inside scoop on how national tours wind up in North Louisiana!

Can we improve the blog? What are your ideas? Got a widget that you think we'd love? Let us know!

Until then, we'll get back to doing what we do best...and that's loving on our listeners!

God bless you, from the station that reminds you, "God Cares."