Mayra Bunny

Spirit of Gentleness

2010-07-22T01:16:00.000-05:00

Lately, the Lord has helped me notice the people around me who exhibit a spirit of gentleness.

That is definitely a quality that I need to work on. I've been praying that the Lord will develop this in my life and next week I will have several opportunities to do so!

Deliver Me....

2010-07-01T22:29:00.003-05:00

Deliver me out of the sadness
Deliver me from all the madness
Deliver me this cross that I'm bearing

Oh, deliver me

Jesus, Jesus how I trust You
How I've proved You o'er and o'er
Jesus, Jesus precious Jesus....

Deliver me

Work

2010-06-06T11:43:00.006-05:00

A year and a half ago I needed a job.

I've been an RA at HBU since May 2008. However, my Campus Living position only provides a Housing stipend. I don't get cash like I did at SFA.

So, around April 2009 I started praying and asking God to help me find a job and lo and behold, Aaron Shust offers me a position. That was truly a blessing from God!! Who else gets to work for their favorite musician???

However, as summmer began I needed to find something else to occupy my time. I was a little worried and was afraid nobody would hire me. I'm not entirely sure why I felt this way... Anyways, I applied for a job at the Wellness Center, and I got it a few days later!

Last fall, my hall director said that some shifts needed to be covered at the Corner Pawket so I got ANOTHER job.

This summer I got a job as a YMCA camp counselor and because enrollment was low I decided to find an additional job to supplement my income. I applied at Lifetime Fiteness and once again, got hired.

So this summer I will be a Y summer camp counselor, at Lifetime Fitness I work child care, birthday parties, and summer camp, I am an RA, I will continue to update Aaron's website and I still work at the Wellness Center (I'm here now :)).

I can't believe that I have 5 jobs when a little over a year ago I was worried about finding one!!!

I am a little anxious about graduation. Already people are asking, "what are your plans after graduation?"

Truth is, I have no idea. I don't do well with desk jobs. I get bored. That's why stabucks was a perfect fit for me. I did it for three years. I was always making drinks, and If I got tired, I could work the register or clean. I wouldn't mind being a teacher. I love kids, especially liitle ones. However, elementary education is one of the lowest paying jobs and I would have to get ACP certification for that.

I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do, but I know the Lord will provide. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

I choose to trust him.

dad

2010-06-06T01:29:00.002-05:00

today was hard. my dad is facing another hardship, and although he puts his best foot forward i know he's struggling.

i dunno why bad things always seem to happen to him. i know God never gives us more than we can handle, but seriously he's had enough!

what's really weird is that this whole week God put it on my heart to pray for him. i mean REALLY pray for him.

please keep him in your prayers. he needs the Lords comfort during this difficult time.

Mayra, Mayra, Mayra

2010-05-17T01:57:00.002-05:00

I haven't updated in awhile....I'm not entirely sure anyone reads this! Well, I wanna blog about me!

Did you know.....

I know my ABC's backwards
I know all ten commandments
I know the first ten amendments to the constitution
I memorized all three of those just so I could say that I could do it
I dunno know how but I have 3 classes left till graduation. I shoulda graduated about a year ago but I don't always think everything through...
I love lists
Sometimes I'll make a To-Do list and the first thing I'll write is: Make To Do list
I'm really tired so I'm probably gonna go to bed. Goodnight!

Yet

2010-03-07T16:14:00.001-06:00

All attempts have failed
All my heads are tails
I'm losing ground and gaining speed
I've lost myself or most of me

But you haven't lost me yet
I'll sing until my heart caves in
No, you haven't lost me

Nightmares haunt my days
Visions blur my nights
I'm so confused
What's true or false
What's fact or fiction after all

But you haven't lost me yet
I'll run until my heart caves in
No, you haven't lost me yet

If it doesn't break your heart it isn't love

remember me?

2010-02-28T15:47:00.003-06:00

I'm at work and it's super slow...

I read the following proverb this morning: A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult. 12:16

and I really feel like God has given me several opportunities today to stay calm "when insulted."

For example, I work as a receptionist at the Wellness Center. My job mostly consists of checking members in. Well, today I greeted a member and stretched out my hand so they could hand me their membership card like i usually do and they placed it on the counter. That really annoyed me, but remembering the proverb I just smiled and said Thank you. If my flesh was at work I would not have handed it back to them... I would've put it right back on that counter!

I won't go into more examples because remembering them kind of puts me in a bad mood, but I will share some blessings with you. I lost my phone and some basketball players from building one found it. Also, some girl scouts were selling some cookies and a member bought me a box!!! i was genuinely surprised!

well, i better go now. it's time to reconcile my till!

i'll try to blog more often.

Confessions- St. Agustine

2009-09-01T01:37:00.002-05:00

St. Agustine, I can tell we're going to be great friends. Never mind that your dead- your prayers are my prayers. You verbalize what I struggle to say. So I'll borrow your words.

Too late have I loved you, O Beauty so ancient, O Beauty so new. Too late have I loved you! You were within me but I was outside myself, and there I sought you! In my weakness I ran after the beauty of the things you have made. You were with me, and I was not with you. The things you have made kept me from you - the things which would have no being unless they existed in you! You have called, you have cried, and you have pierced my deafness. You have radiated forth, you have shined out brightly, and you have dispelled my blindness. You have sent forth your fragrance, and I have breathed it in, and I long for you. I have tasted you, and I hunger and thirst for you. You have touched me, and I ardently desire your peace.

Lord Jesus, let me know myself and know You, and desire nothing save only You.
Let me hate myself and love You.
Let me do everything for the sake of You.
Let me humble myself and exalt You.
Let me think of nothing except You.
Let me die to myself and live in You.
Let me accept whatever happens as from You.
Let me banish self and follow You, and ever desire to follow You.
Let me fly from myself and take refuge in You,
That I may deserve to be defended by You.
Let me fear for myself.
Let me fear You, and let me be among those who are chosen by You.
Let me distrust myself and put my trust in You.
Let me be willing to obey for the sake of You.
Let me cling to nothing save only to You,
And let me be poor because of You.
Look upon me, that I may love You.
Call me that I may see You, and for ever enjoy You

The house of my soul is too small to receive you; let it be enlarged by you. It is all in ruins; do you repair it. There are thing in it - I confess and I know - that must offend your sight. But who shall cleanse it? Or to what others besides you shall I cry out? From my secret sins cleanse me, O Lord, and from those of others spare your servant.

My God, let me know and love you, so that I may find my happiness in you. Since I cannot fully achieve this on earth, help me to improve daily until I may do so to the full Enable me to know you ever more on earth, so that I may know you perfectly in heaven. Enable me to love you ever more on earth, so that I may love you perfectly in heave. In that way my joy may be great on earth, and perfect with you in heaven. O God of truth, grant me the happiness of heaven so that my joy may be full in accord with your promise. In the meantime let my mind dwell on that happiness, my tongue speak of it, my heart pine for it, my mouth pronounce it, my soul hunger for it, my flesh thirst for it, and my entire being desire it until I enter through death in the joy of my Lord forever.

I'll share other treasures as I stumble across them

-m

Reflections-One Year Ago

2009-07-08T04:43:00.003-05:00

One Year Ago
Moved out of my house!
Lived with Sarah
Met Aaron Shust for the first time
Worked at Viscount Travel
Became an RA
Met Isis
Saw Faith for the first time in two years
Was not comfortable praying out loud
Was driving a Honda Accord
My closest friend at HBU was Sarah.
I was in summer school
Had only been to one other state
LA moved to Houston!
Attended Wilcrest Baptist Church

This Year
Live in a new apartment with no roomie =(
I'm friends with Aaron!!
I have a new job
Isis has moved
Have no problem praying aloud
Drive a Honda Civic
Have several close friends at HBU!
Can't imagine how boring my summer would be w/o my Colorado friends!!
Have been to 5 states
Attend Ecclessia

Where will I be a year from now? I can only imagine....

Go forth to life, O child of earth!

2009-07-02T02:31:00.000-05:00

Go forth to life, O child of earth!
Still mindful of thy heav’nly birth;
Thou art not here for ease, or sin,
But manhood’s noble crown to win.

Tho’ passion’s fires are in thy soul,
Thy spirit can their flames control;
Tho’ tempters strong beset thy way,
Thy spirit is more strong than they.

Go on from innocence of youth
To manly purity and truth;
God’s angels still are near to save,
And God Himself doth help the brave.

Then forth to life, O child of earth!
Be worthy of thy heav’nly birth!
For noble service thou art here;
Thy brothers help, thy God revere!

Distracted

2009-06-27T00:58:00.008-05:00

God of everything I see, Come create again in me. You were yesterday, and You will always be. So take each breath that I breathe, and be the life that I bleed. Create again in me...

The past month has been interesting.

Blessings: made some awesome new friends who I instantly bonded with, got a job, saw Aaron, have had a lot of free time to spend with the Lord.

However, I feel like I've been distracted. I stopped working out as consistently as I used to, I've started spending more and more time with people that I probably shouldn't.

Some days, I feel so content with my relationship with God. I can't even explain it. But somehow, negative thoughts creep in and bring me down. I'm training myself not to dwell on those things, rather on "whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Paul always gives great advice.

I really wanna see Robbie Seay in concert on Sunday. I need to be in a place of corporate worship soon. That's when I feel closest to God.

I feel like I've been spending a lot of time in the Word lately, but I feel like the more I draw near to Him the farther I feel away from him. Does that make sense? The more I learn about His compassion, grace, and mercy the more clearly can I feel the depth of our fall and the weight of it all.

Well, it's getting late, and I have to go in to work in 6 hrs. I should try to rest.

My favorite Psalm....

You are kind, God! Please have pity on me. You are always merciful! Please wipe away my sins. Wash me clean from all of my sin and guilt. I know about my sins, and I cannot forget my terrible guilt. You are really the one I have sinned against; I have disobeyed you and have done wrong. So it is right and fair for you to correct and punish me.I have sinned and done wrong since the day I was born. But you want complete honesty, so teach me true wisdom. Wash me with hyssop until I am clean and whiter than snow. Let me be happy and joyful! You crushed my bones, now let them celebrate. Turn your eyes from my sin and cover my guilt. Create pure thoughts in me and make me faithful again. Don't chase me away from you or take your Holy Spirit away from me. Make me as happy as you did when you saved me; make me want to obey! I will teach sinners your Law, and they will return to you. Keep me from any deadly sin. Only you can save me! Then I will shout and sing about your power to save. Help me to speak, and I will praise you, Lord. Offerings and sacrifices are not what you want. The way to please you is to feel sorrow deep in our hearts. This is the kind of sacrifice you won't refuse.

Please pray for me! My prayer is the same as David's "create pure thoughts in me, and make me faithful again....Make me as happy as you did when you saved me; make me want to obey!"

King Canute deserved his own post!! If you never read any of my blogs @ least read this one....

2009-06-24T05:09:00.000-05:00

Long ago, England was ruled by a king named Canute. Like many leaders and men of power, Canute was surrounded by people who were always praising him. Every time he walked into a room, the flattery began.

"You are the greatest man that ever lived," one would say.

"O king, there can never be another as mighty as you," another would insist.

"Your highness, there is nothing you cannot do," someone would smile.

"Great Canute, you are the monarch of all," another would sing. "Nothing in this world dares to disobey you."

The king was a man of sense, and he grew tired of hearing such foolish speeches.

One day he was walking by the seashore, and his officers and courtiers were with him, praising him as usual. Canute decided to teach them a lesson.

"So you say I am the greatest man in the world?" he asked them.

"O king," they cried, "there never has been anyone as mighty as you, and there never be anyone so great, ever again!"

"And you say all things obey me?" Canute asked.

"Absolutely!" they said. "The world bows before you, and gives you honor."

"I see," the king answered. "In that case, bring me my chair, and we will go down to the water."

"At once, your majesty!" They scrambled to carry his royal chair over the sands.

"Bring it closer to the sea," Canute called. "Put it right here, right at the water's edge." He sat down and surveyed the ocean before him. "I notice the tide is coming in. Do you think it will stop if I give the command?"

His officers were puzzled, but they did not dare say no. "Give the order, O great king, and it will obey," one of then assured him.

"Very well. Sea," cried Canute, "I command you to come no further! Waves, stop your rolling!. Surf, stop your pounding! Do not dare touch my feet!"

He waited a moment, quietly, and a tiny wave rushed up the sand and lapped at his feet.

"How dare you!" Canute shouted. "Ocean, turn back now! I have ordered you to retreat before me, and now you must obey! Go back!"

And in answer another wave swept forward and curled around the king's feet. The tide came in, just as it always did. The water rose higher and higher. It came up around the king's chair, and wet not only his feet, but also his robe. His officers stood before him, alarmed, and wondering whether he was not mad.

"Well, my friends," Canute said, "it seems I do not have quite so much power as you would have me believe. Perhaps you have learned something today. Perhaps now you will remember there is only one King who is all-powerful, and it is he who rules the sea, and holds the ocean in the hollow of his hand. I suggest you reserve your praises for him."

The royal officers and courtiers hung their heads and looked foolish. And some say Canute took off his crown soon afterward, and never wore it again.

Amazing story! What unworthy things am I praising??? What unworthy things are you praising??

A lesson in Virtues

2009-06-24T01:30:00.003-05:00

I recently bought "The Book of Virtues" and am greatly appreciating the lessons it is teaching me. Here are some of the passages I have really enjoyed:

Demosthenes had great ambition to become an orator, but suffered natrual limitations as a speaker. Strong desire is essential, but by itself is insufficient. According to Plutarch, "His inarticulate and pronunciation he overcame and rendered more distinct by speaking with pebbles in his mouth." Give yourself an even greater challenge than the one you are trying to master and you will develop the powers necessary to overcome the original difficulty. He used a similar strategy in training his voice, which "he disciplined by declaiming and recruiting speeches or verses when he was out of breath, while running or going up steep places." And to keep himself studying without interruption, "two or three month together," Demosthenes shaved "one half of his head, that so for shame he might not go abroad, though he desired it ever so much."

Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'- Matthew 5:37

The Flies and the Honeypot- Aesop

A jar of honey chanced to spill
Its contents on the windowsill
In many a viscous pool and rill

The flies, attracted by the sweet,
Began so greedily to eat,
They smeared their fragile wings and feet.

With many a twitch and pull in vain
They gasped to get away again,
And died in aromatic pain

Moral

O foolish creatures that destroy
Themselves for transitory joy

"He that has not a mastery over his inclinations, he that knows not how to resist the importunity of present pleasure or pain, for the sake of what reason tells him is fit to be done, wants the true principle of virtue and industry, and is in danger never to be good for anything." -John Locke

I hope u enjoyed that. I had to type alllllllllllll of it!!!

I want him to be my treasure...

2009-06-06T05:08:00.003-05:00

What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord..." Philippians 3.8

I take this to mean that when I get a glimpse of Christ, because he is so infinitely beautiful and valuable, I will naturally give up anything that gets in the way of knowing Him better. Beholding Him is what dulls the power of this world around us. Gazing on Him is what releases us from this awareness of ourselves. Fixing our mind on Him is our only hope of being released from this unrelenting tyranny of self. I find that I spend too much time organizing sin and success in my life. I spend too much time thinking about, well, me. I want what Paul had. I want to be sooooo distracted by the beauty of Christ that I actually forget about myself altogether.

Is it possible? Is it attainable?

I think it is the goal, the prize, the point. I want to know Christ. I want to become, beautifully unaware.

Trusting the Lord.....

2009-06-01T04:50:00.003-05:00

Trust in the Lord at all times you people, pour out your heart before Him, the Lord is a refuge for us. Psalm 62:8

God not only gives us permission to unload on Him, but He actually commands it.

"Pour out your hearts before Him." There it is, right up front, loud and clear. Pour it out. Hold nothing back. Don't filter what's right and what's wrong. If there are no words, don't worry about coherency. God knows our hearts, and He wants it all. The good, the bad, and especially the ugly. Maybe God is simply saying, "Stop trying to make yourself presentable. Stop trying to figure things out on your own. Stop trying to play it safe. Come to me and I'll give you rest. Tell me your problems before you go complaining to a friend. I can handle it."

Being presentable is something I struggle with. I don't think there is one person that I trust enough with all of my worries. Sure, I talk to my friends about issues that come up, but I never unload it on just ONE person. I talk it out, with the ones that I trust. I don't unload on just one person because I don't want to burden them. Also, I'm afraid of being judged. I'm afraid they'll think that I don't have it as together as they thought.

I sometimes get fooled into thinking that if it isn't holy, then I need to keep it secret, but then, maybe that's the only way He can make us holy...when all that darkness is brought into the light.

Think about it. God's very own Son had reservations about the cross, but He brought it to His Father. He sweat blood, but hey, I'm sure glad that He didn't turn to the disciples for counsel. They were asleep.

God wants us to bring our whole hearts before Him. He already knows it, He just wants us to know it. I heard it said once that every man's most desperate desire is to be known completely and loved still.

When we bring everything before the Lord; no sensors, no filters, no reservations, when we finally stand as Adam and Eve once stood, naked and bare in His presence, only then will we see the true measure of His grace and love.

Imagine that....

God knowing every dark and hidden place that you've worked so hard to keep secret, and then saying, "You are my child. I love you. I died for love of you." I cannot think of a more confident refuge in all this world or the next.

What have you held back? What are you afraid to bring before Him?

I need to trust in the Lord's forgiveness, it's been bought with the blood of Jesus. There is no stain so deep that it cannot cleanse. I need to pour out my heart, let loose my soul, throw down every question, dream, hope, fear, and failure at the foot of the cross.

The Lord bids us to come.

Come and rest, for He is our refuge. His love never fails.

~Locker Room Connections~

2009-05-12T02:19:00.005-05:00

I must confess that I've been really bad the last couple of weeks! How so? Well, today was the first time I worked out this month, and I've been going out to eat..a lot! I can blame it on a lotta things...stress, finals, drama, injuries, but ultimately it was my lack of willpower. If I really wanted to, I would've kept going strong.

Today, I finally went back to the gym. Thank goodness! I forgot how much it can help with clearing your head. While I was running, I started thinking about working out in a spiritual manner. Hope it makes sense.....

When I workout everyday I don't make as many unhealthy food selections because I remember how long I have to run to burn it off.
- Same with Jesus. When I'm in a season of constantly spending time with Him, I easily resist temptations and can more clearly recognize his voice.

Another example is the pain/discomfort that accompanies a good workout. I welcome it because I know that the pain is temporary, and helping me be healthier.
- It's the same way in our spiritual lives. When we face trials of any kind we can trust that God is just helping us mature: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

So far, I've had an awesome summer. I wish I could go into all my blessings but I won't because I'm exhausted and I still have some other things to do before I go to bed.

Next week I'm going to Colorado with Younglife! I'm excited and anxious. Please join me in prayer, I need the Lord to prepare my heart for whatever I encounter there.

Thanks for reading! I love you!

!!!FRUSTRATED!!!/Prayer request

2009-05-07T12:34:00.003-05:00

Last night, I sprained my ankle. Normally, it wouldn't be such a big deal buuuuuuuuut look at my schedule:

Thursday: Move to my new apt and Check out my residents
Friday: Continue to check out my residents and YL/Astros Game
Saturday: Mother's day thing in the afternoon, babysittin in the evening, and continuing to checkout residents.
Sunday: Finish moving into my new apt

NEXT WEEK

A trip to Colorado.

I'm also afraid of losing my motivation to workout by the time I'm healed =(

AHHHHHHH, Please pray for quick healing!!!

Also, if you have crutches can I please borrow them? Plllllllllllllllllllllllllease!!!

pt 2 of Belief over Misery

2009-05-02T01:04:00.003-05:00

I talked to a friend about how I was feeling, and just telling him made me feel a whole lot better!!! I feel like I'm no longer carrying this huuuuge burden! I love when friends lift you up like that because you can feel a hint of God's love in those relationships.

Maybe, that's why scripture calls us to confess our sins to one another..haha. God knew what he was talking about!! =)

I'm working on being patient.

I need to be patient.

Lord, help me be patient!

I just have one more week and then school ends. How crazy is that??? Ahhh!

I'm giving myself a challenge for the month of May. Depending on how well it turns out I may challenge myself to do something every month.

Anyways,

In May, I want to tell 4 people that I love them. I'm sure they assume it, but I want them to hear it from my mouth... for the first time ever.

Belief over Misery

2009-05-01T13:32:00.004-05:00

I'm scared.

Lately, I have been living a life unworthy of the calling I have received. I'm being convicted by God. I guess this is my confession...

For some reason, I feel like I know what's best for me, which is ridiculous because when I walk in God's will he blesses me. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; Jesus comes so I may have life, and have it abundantly! If I know this, then why am I still doing thing's that I probably shouldn't? Don't get me wrong, I'm not participating in some terrible sin that would surprise you, but then again all sins are equal in our Fathers eyes, aren't they? I guess I should stop trying to justify my behavior. I am called to be a light in this world, and currently I am not.

I'm tired of this world. I hate it. I'm tired of waiting. Why can't he just come to rescue us all? I'm done with it all. I'm thankful for the lot in life that the Lord has given me, but how long must we wait? I'm ready for the day when He will wipe every tear from our eyes and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, because the old order of things has passed!

I guess I really need to pray that the plans I have for myself align with what God has in store for me because I keep on getting dissapointed. I just really wish he would take these desires away from me! That would keep me from going off and making my own plans. I'm sure the summer will help. I know it will.

My God is a faithful God. Come and comfort me Lord! I need to feel your presence. Make me believe that you are all I need when I'm surrounded. Be my feast in the presence of enemies! Let Your rod and Your staff comfort me. I'm empty Lord, please fill me!

EDIT

If I claim to love God, then I will follow his commands. I'm either Hot or Cold...not Lukewarm.

I see the Heart of God in His commands. He doesn't give commands to limit my life, but He gives them to direct and guide my life into the joys he has in store for me!

I will try not to push back from His commands. I will accept them as the gift that they are because He loves me!

Faithful Advice

2009-04-20T09:43:00.002-05:00

So i have a friend who is so very wise. I was reading her blog and found out that she was also trying to get fit. I found the following to be very encouraging. Hopefully, you will too!

"I need to be a good steward of my body. Jesus made it and loves it. I need to take care of it. If I keep my weight in perspective and not make it my treasure but to make it my act of worship. By keeping myself fit- I honor God with my body. I don't have any illnesses, I don't have any genetic things that make me more likely to be in bad health. I honor God by taking care of what He has entrusted me with."

Me losing weight will be an act of worship to God. I won't make it my treasure! Also, i hope to make it a bonus for my future husband...wherever he is! haha.

Blessing

2009-04-14T15:51:00.002-05:00

I have a friend who encourages me to be a better person. Both spiritually and physically.They are such a blessing to me and they don't even know it. Mostly, because I'm afraid to tell them.

...Maybe, cuz it's a guy and I don't want him to think that I'm in love with him. We're friends, but we're not that close.... I believe he'll get his treasure in Heaven. Or maybe one day, I'll be comfortable enough to tell him.

But for now this will have to do: Thank you! I dunno if you'll ever read this, but thank you for making me a better person!

I just had to throw it out there =)

Happy!

2009-04-07T03:34:00.000-05:00

The Lord has heard our cries and prayers! My dad's biopsy proved that the masses he has our not cancerous.

PRAISE THE LORD FOR HE IS GOOD!

Sad

2009-03-19T18:23:00.002-05:00

My dad went to his oncologist today. Turns out he may have Hodgkin lymphoma again =(

I'm gonna go to the doctor with him tomorrow. he's getting a PET scan. We'll know more when he gets the results of that.

I'm sad. I really really am. How do you feel at peace with a situation like this? I need prayer for him and for me. lots and lots and lots of it.

when your dad is sick, how can you worry about anything else?

other things just don't seem to matter as much....

Seriously?

2009-03-10T17:03:00.004-05:00

It seems to happen every 2 yrs: Dad gets sick.

Why?

It's all I can think about, and it's all I can focus on.

My head hurts. It's throbbing, I can hardly breathe.

Why him? Why us? What are you trying to teach us Lord?

I don't even know what to say

Please, pray for my dad's health! I'm afraid he doesn't want to go through another operation or chemo. My mom said he's scared. Please pray for strength!

*edit*

so, I realize i was being a bit of a brat.

Praise God that my dad did survive 2 other bouts of cancer

Praise God for EVERY extra second that he's given me with him

"Belief over misery" as jon foreman said in 'Home'

I believe that God is faithful

I believe he will be by my side

I believe anything that happens will glorify him

I believe He is a God of comfort....

So come Lord! Come and comfort me! Draw closer to me as I lean on You.

Please show me that You are everything that you say you are.

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us"

"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Weird Human Tricks?

2009-03-04T03:54:00.002-06:00

Lately, I've noticed that I can do "weird" thing's that others can't. Not all of them are special. Just some.

I can wiggle my ears

I can wiggle my scalp

I can raise both my eyebrows

I can raise just one (only on my left side)

I can cross both of my eyes

I can roll my tongue into a taco shape

I can flip my tongue on both sides

I can scrunch it up (my tongue) like a clover

I can whistle

I can snap my fingers

I can crack my thumb by moving it in a circular motion

My hand is not flat. It curves up

My pinky isn't right next to my ring finger when my fingers are closed. (does that make sense?)

I can pop my knees

My toes can spread (i can use them like hands..haha)

umm i think that's it.

WHAT CAN YOU DO???

Corporate Worship

2009-02-26T16:05:00.002-06:00

Last weekend I saw Chris Tomlin on his Hello Love tour. It was AMAZING!! I also had the opportunity to meet him and he was very kind to me.

Something, I've been wondering about is corporate worship. Most of the Christian concerts that I go to are amazing. There have been some, where I don't really connect, but most of them are spectacular. I go to a different place. I'm not sure I can even describe it, my worship becomes transcendent.

I wonder why I get that feeling at concerts, and not at church, bible study or quest. What's the difference? Why do I have to be at a concert to experience that? I wanna experience it all the time!!!

A Prayer for Lent

2009-02-25T22:23:00.001-06:00

How often have I lived through these weeks without paying much attention to penance, fasting, and prayer? How often have I missed the spiritual fruits of the season without even being aware of it? But how can I ever really celebrate Easter without observing Lent? How can I rejoice fully in your Resurrection when I have avoided participating in your death?
Yes, Lord, I have to die—with you, through you, and in you—and thus become ready to recognize you when you appear to me in your Resurrection. There is so much in me that needs to die: false attachments, greed and anger, impatience and stinginess.... I see clearly now how little I have died with you, really gone your way and been faithful to it. O Lord, make this Lenten season different from the other ones. Let me find you again. Amen.

Henri Nouwen

Cyberfast

2009-02-10T02:00:00.001-06:00

is going on a cyberfast. for real. if you need me, call/txt. i need to be mastered by nothing! i'll let you know when i'll be back!!!

25 random "Mayra facts"

2009-01-30T05:04:00.002-06:00

Please join the club!

I would love to learn more about YOU!

1. If I'm out during the evening I look for the moon, stare at the stars and tell God that's he's beautiful.

2. I like to blog, a lot.

3. i secretly want Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears to get back together =)

4. Corporate Worship helps me feel closer to God.

5. I love listening to classical music.

6. I prefer Facebook and Twitter over Myspace.

7. "when i grow up" I would love to be involved with Christian Concerts (in some form or fashion). For now, I'll volunteer =)

8. I don't sleep very much.

9. I love warm weather

10. I love hanging out with my friends. I especially love it when we just sit around and praise God..too bad Abby no longer has her guitar =( .

11. I'm very empathetic

12. I collect crosses and Frank Capra movies

13. I love drinking hot tea. My favorite is peppermint with honey.

14. I long to travel the world alone, and stay in random hostels, but I'm not brave enough.

15. I'm awesome at Monopoly...I NEVER lose. I'm also pretty passionate about Taboo, and think Catchphrase is really unfair.

16. My favorite show EVER is Felicity. If I ever have a baby girl I wanna name her that.

17. The most useful advice I have ever gotten is to never stop preaching the love of God to myself... over and over, day in day out....

18. I truly believe that "We never touch people so lightly that we do not leave a trace." I'm sorry if i have ever offended and left a bad trace. i also wanna take the time to apologize for other Christians who may have offended you and made you think that our "religion" is for hypocrites. I love you. I'm sorry that we have sinned against you. Please don't judge our beautiful Lord based on a few.

19. I learned the hard way that God's way is the best way. All other roads lead to pain and heartache.

20. I've also learned that time heals all wounds.

21. I miss the Piney Woods of East Texas. One day I wanna move to the country. Aww, thinking of Nacogdoches makes me wanna cry..haha. Axe Em Jacks!

22. Being a History major is really tough because historians claim they can disprove Christianity. Sometimes, they provide pretty convincing evidence, but when I feel myself falling into that trap I remind myself that "i am not skilled to understand" and I pray. I believe EXACTLY what the Bible says. I still believe Genesis 6-9 and don't care what you claim to prove with the Epic of Gilgamesh. Ohh, I could go on and on but I won't! haha.

23. My favorite smells include cinnamon, apple, vanilla, freshly cut grass, lemon, pine sol and clean laundry.

24. I have to have a blanket covering me while I sleep!

25. A lot of people have told me that if I had a reality show they would watch it!

Fine in '09!!!

2009-01-10T22:35:00.002-06:00

Well, at the beginning of the year I resolved to stop procrastinating, memorize the book of James, and learn to love jogging..... SO far I have put off a million things, I've only memorized the first 3 verses (i'm supposed to memorize 2 a week) and I HATE jogging! I love how idealistic I am New Year's Eve, and then January 2 rolls around all my plans fly out the window. I think part of the problem is my personality. I hate being made to do things. When I make rules for myself saying you have to do blah, blah, and blah I end up giving up because usually I don't see any eternal value in my "rules."

School starts Monday, and I'm super excited. It's my second to last semester.... I can see the finish line...haha. I'm not sure WHAT i'm gonna do when I graduate. I have faith that God will put me exactly where he wants me to be .

It's only the 10th of January, and I have already been given so many blessings! Lets start with the one that's most evident on my facebook page:

In November I went to itickets.com to look up when Tenth Avenue North would be coming to Houston when I saw that David Crowder was coming in January. I was soo excited because c'mon DCB..'nuff said. Anyways, On Monday, I decided to call the church to see if the concert was free or if you had to pay money at the door because there wasn't any ticketing information on itickets.com. When I called the receptionist and asked about the concert she informed me that the concert sold out when it first when on sale to the church members. I was soo crushed. Seriously, I felt my heart drop! I couldn't believe that DCB would be in Houston, and I wouldnt be able to go. I'm used to going to whatever concerts I want, whenever I want. So, I really thought that would be the end of the story. However, on Tuesday, I had a dream that I was at the concert and it really bummed me out. I tried to push it outta my head, but I couldn't. On Wednesday I decided to call the church and see if I could volunteer to be an usher or work at the merchandise table or volunteer for anything. I just wanted to help and be there! Unfortunatley, all those positions had also been filled. So, i thought "mayra, you've done all that you can do. let it go." but you know me. I couldn't! So i went to the church website and I e-mailed the youth pastor. I asked her if she knew if there was any possible way i could buy a ticket to the concert and Lo and Behold SHE KNEW SOMEONE WHO WAS TRYING TO GET RID OF A TICKET. You can just imagine how happy I was. I called Melissa and asked her if I could please buy her ticket, but she refused to sell it. She wanted to GIVE it to me. Not only that, but she wanted to give me 3 FREE tickets. That woman was a total blessing. How many people can get 3 tickets to a private sold out show? The concert was amazing. I lost my voice. You can check out the footage on my youtube page. I was also able to meet David for the second time in the past year. He didn't remember me, but that's to be expected. I bet he meets thousands of people a year.

That whole experience helped me learn 2 important lessons. 1. Humbling yourself and begging. E-mailing the youth pastor was really a hard decision, but it was worth it. It was hard because I don't really like asking people for help/things. Maybe it's a pride issue? 2. The Lord delights in me when I delight in him. Does that make sense? I mean honestly, he meets my every need! MY EVERY NEED. I just had a revelation. I think I'm gonna start a blog about all the positive things that happen to me so I can remember when I'm having a bad day. I mean I already have a private blog about my "lamentations" I might as well do the opposite.

This blog is a lot longer than I originally intended, but I'm gonna go ahead and quickly list the other ways that the Lord has blessed me this year.

* The Lord helped me meet my financial aid needs for college
* My dad gave me a new car
* I got a job, possibly substitute teaching.
* Connected with people that I havent seen in awhile!
* and the biggest thing is I think I found a home @ a new church!!!

So far, It's been smooth sailing =)

I pray that it stays that way.

I truly feel that the Lord has great things in store for me in '09.

Psalm 103
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And forget none of His benefits;
Who pardons all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases;
Who redeems your life from the pit,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion;
Who satisfies your years with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
The LORD performs righteous deeds
And judgments for all who are oppressed.
He made known His ways to Moses,
His acts to the sons of Israel.
The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness.
He will not always strive with us,
Nor will He keep His anger forever.
He has not dealt with us according to our sins,
Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him.
As far as the east is from the west,
So far has He removed our transgressions from us.
Just as a father has compassion on his children,
So the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.
For He Himself knows [c]our frame;
He is mindful that we are but dust.
As for man, his days are like grass;
As a flower of the field, so he flourishes.
When the wind has passed over it, it is no more,
And its place acknowledges it no longer.
But the lovingkindness of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him,
And His righteousness to children's children,
To those who keep His covenant
And remember His precepts to do them.
The LORD has established His throne in the heavens,
And His sovereignty rules over all.
Bless the LORD, you His angels,
Mighty in strength, who perform His word,
Obeying the voice of His word!
Bless the LORD, all you His hosts,
You who serve Him, doing His will.
Bless the LORD, all you works of His,
In all places of His dominion;
Bless the LORD, O my soul!

Male Wishlist

2009-01-02T04:54:00.005-06:00

The following qualities if not met are dealbreakers:

Christian
Musically Inclined
Good in Math
Must be between 5'7-6'1.
Manly Voice
Introvert
Deals with anger in a passive agressive way.
Can challenge me/Teach me things
Opens Doors for me
Patient
Can properly use commas, semicolons, and colons.

The following qualities are preferred BUT negotiable.

Strong jaw line
Cleft chin or Dimples or Both
Accent of some sort
Facial Hair
Light colored eyes
Appreciates Coldplay, Aaron Shust, John Mayer, Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley and Jack Johnson (You have to like at least one!)
Enjoys Board Games or Uno

I have the right to add or ammend at my discretion with or without notice =)

Good day!

P.S. I'm halfway kidding!!! lol =)

You've Captured My Heart

2008-12-12T02:21:00.002-06:00

Thank you for proving to me that You are everything that you say you are. Oh my Lord, you heard me begging You for mercy. Thank you so much for not letting this semester go to waste! I love you so much.

This semester was tough.
A million things weighed me down.
I was a mistress
I chased after lovers that didn't satisfy
But You helped me find Micah 7:8: Do not rejoice over me, O my enemy. Though I fall I will rise; Though I dwell in darkness, the LORD is a light for me.
It became my battle cry.
Thank you for the scriptures you have given me to memorize
Thank you for helping me cut through deceptions with the Sword of the Spirit.

I will never stop preaching Your love to myself.

Over and over, day in and day out.....
I will praise you with an upright heart
as I learn your righteous laws.
I will hide your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
Turn my eyes away from worthless things;
preserve my life according to your word.
Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light for my path.
Direct my footsteps according to your word;
let no sin rule over me.

You showed me how much you loved me after I begged you for a sign.
You saw me on my knees begging and crying for you to turn to me, begging you to shine your light on me.
Thank you for giving me the affirmation I was searching for.
Thank you for showing me that You love me in such a tangible way.

You are so beautiful.... I am at a loss for words...

I ALWAYS wanna feel like this. I wish I could bottle up everything that I'm feeling and take a swig of it when I'm weary.

One day I will feel like this for all eternity.

I stand amazed in the presence
Of Jesus the Nazarene,
And wonder how He could love me,
A sinner, condemned, unclean.
O how marvelous! O how wonderful!
And my song shall ever be:
O how marvelous! O how wonderful!
Is my Savior's love for me!

Hold My Heart

2008-12-08T20:12:00.001-06:00

How long must I pray to You?
How long must I wait for You?
How long until I see Your face shining through?

I'm on my knees, begging You to notice me.
I'm on my knees, Father will you turn to me?

One tear in the dropping rain,
One voice in the sea of pain
Could the maker of the stars
Hear the sound of my breaking heart?

One light, that's all I am
Right now I can barely stand
If You're everything You say You are
Won't You come close and hold my heart

I've been so afraid to close my eyes
So much can slip away before I say goodbye.

But if there's no other way, I'm done asking why.

So many questions without answers, Your promises remain

I can't sleep but I'll take my chances to hear You call my name

Father could You hold my heart?

Psalm 73

2008-12-05T09:12:00.002-06:00

I will keep this hidden in my heart so I can remember it when the World tries to pull me in with its affections.

1Surely God is good to Israel,
To those who are pure in heart!
2But as for me, my feet came close to stumbling,
My steps had almost slipped.
3For I was envious of the arrogant
As I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
4For there are no pains in their death,
And their body is fat.
5They are not in trouble as other men,
Nor are they plagued like mankind.
6Therefore pride is their necklace;
The garment of violence covers them.
7Their eye bulges from fatness;
The imaginations of their heart run riot.
8They mock and wickedly speak of oppression;
They speak from on high.
9They have set their mouth against the heavens,
And their tongue parades through the earth.
10Therefore his people return to this place,
And waters of abundance are drunk by them.
11They say, "How does God know?
And is there knowledge with the Most High?"
12Behold, these are the wicked;
And always at ease, they have increased in wealth.
13Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure
And washed my hands in innocence;
14For I have been stricken all day long
And chastened every morning.
15If I had said, "I will speak thus,"
Behold, I would have betrayed the generation of Your children.
16When I pondered to understand this,
It was troublesome in my sight
17Until I came into the sanctuary of God;
Then I perceived their end.
18Surely You set them in slippery places;
You cast them down to destruction.
19How they are destroyed in a moment!
They are utterly swept away by sudden terrors!
20Like a dream when one awakes,
O Lord, when aroused, You will despise their form.
21When my heart was embittered
And I was pierced within,
22Then I was senseless and ignorant;
I was like a beast before You.
23Nevertheless I am continually with You;
You have taken hold of my right hand.
24With Your counsel You will guide me,
And afterward receive me to glory.
25Whom have I in heaven but You?
And besides You, I desire nothing on earth.
26My flesh and my heart may fail,
But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
27For, behold, those who are far from You will perish;
You have destroyed all those who are unfaithful to You.
28But as for me, the nearness of God is my good;
I have made the Lord GOD my refuge,
That I may tell of all Your works.

Revelation

2008-12-02T03:48:00.004-06:00

I'm reading an amazing book called Crazy Love. It's very convicting. I only had a chance to read the first chapter, but I already think it's amazing. I mean really...What do I know about our Lord's Holiness? I know I'm supposed to love Him and set him apart, but why don't I act like it? WHY must I consistently remind myself to have a quiet time or to set aside time to worship him? Why is it not something that I look forward to like watching the latest episode of my favorite tv show? The Lord is better than that! I mean just read Revelation 4:8! The Seraphim angels have to shield their eyes, and their feet from the glory of the Lord! That is the SAME God that I claim to love so why don't I show him the same reverance? I am so ashamed of myself! I wonder if I even act like a Christian. Would people know that I'm a Christian without me telling them?? I need to get my priorities straight. I need Christ to be the center of my life. I'm through with being disrespectful towards my King. From now on I will try my hardest to be a living sacrifice. I only hope that my life reflects that.

I read some scripture in Revelation in a new and awesome way, but I didn't completely understand it. I looked up several translations to see if that would help but I'm still not completely sure I understand. I put in bold and italicized the verses that I haven't quite grasped.

8 And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all round and within, and day and night they never cease to sing, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!" 9 And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to him who is seated on the throne, who lives for ever and ever, 10 the twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives for ever and ever; they cast their crowns before the throne, singing, 11 "Worthy art thou, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for thou didst create all things, and by thy will they existed and were created." (Rev. 4:8-11)

Does this mean that whenever I give glory, honor and thanks to the Lord there are 24 elders who cast their crowns and also praise the Lord? It seems to me that if this is the case then they will ALWAYS be doing that because I would like to think that at any given moment their is always someone giving praise to the Lord.

11 Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, 12 saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!"

Is this referring to the future? Did he see the day when we will all surround the throne of God and praise him?

Hopefully, I'll be able to share the other things that this book is teaching me. I'll leave you with the lyrics of 2 songs that I heard during my worship time that convicted me as well. I confess my sins of making the Lord to0 small and thinking that i had him all figured out! I was so wrong.

Beg- Shane and Shane

Here I am
One more day of not
Loving Him the way He asks
In fact my heart is singing praises to the things
that make me feel alright

So I’m sinking fast like a stone heart should
And on the way down
I’ve done what I could
To try and try to turn this stone to flesh

I’m haunted by my God
Who has the right to ask me
What by the nature of my rebellion
I cannot give.

So I beg for you to move
I beg for you to move
I beg for you to break through

So here I am
Got my deeds for the day
All my cute little words about
How I am saved
Am I saved?

Could I love you with my mouth like a church kid should
At the end of the day
My words get burned as wood
Oh, but I was good.

I’m haunted by my God
Who has the right to ask me
What by the nature of my rebellion
I cannot give.

These songs are noise
In your ears
A clanging drum
You want my love
What do I know of Holy? Addison Road

I made You promises a thousand times
I tried to hear from Heaven
But I talked the whole time
I think I made You too small
I never feared You at all No
If You touched my face would I know You?
Looked into my eyes could I behold You?

What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?

I guess I thought that I had figured You out
I knew all the stories and I learned to talk about
How You were mighty to save
Those were only empty words on a page
Then I caught a glimpse of who You might be
The slightest hint of You brought me down to my knees

What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?

What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of wounds that will heal my shame?
And a God who gave life it's name?
What do I know of Holy?
Of the One who the angels praise?
All creation knows Your name
On earth and heaven above
What do I know of this love?

What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?

What do I know of Holy?
What do I know of Holy?

Paranoid?

2008-12-01T01:53:00.000-06:00

By nature I've always been a scaredey (sp) cat. I actually think it's helped me more than hurt me haha....but anyways that's not really the point of this post.

On Thanksgiving Day, I drove to Angleton to visit my grandparents and my aunts, and because I’m currently taking an upper level Texas History course I thought it would be cool to visit the grave of Stephen F. Austin (the Father of Texas). I finally convinced some people to go with me at around 6pm which I now regret! While we were at the cemetery we took some pictures and I kid you not when I say there were some weird images in the photos when we looked at them later that evening. You can see the face of a man in a window AND there is person right next to my Aunt Rosa which was NOT there when I took the photo! Even typing this out is really creeping me out =/

That same night my 9 year old cousin Gigi confided in me and told me that she sees a ghost named Jew and he makes her do things that she doesn’t want to do. It really scared me and I asked her if I could pray for her cuz I really felt like I needed to and then I asked her if she knew about Jesus. She said that she did and when she talked to Jew about Jesus the ghost would leave her alone. The only useful advice that I could think of telling her was to rebuke him in the name of Jesus and she told me that she would. I talked to her Mom about the conversation I had with Gigi and she said that she’s unsure if this is really happening or if she’s making it up but doors open and close on their own in her house and other weird paranormal type stuff.

Ever since Thanksgiving I’ve been really scared to go to bed. I guess it would be safe to say that I’ve been afraid of the dark! However, when I do get scared I pray and I do rebuke the fear. I also remembered that scripture can be used as a sword so I’ve been trying to memorize:

You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4

"If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

So really the point of this blog is do you think I’m just being a scardey cat and none of this is real or can this be from the evil one?

I’m not sure what I can do for Gigi except pray….

Repentant

2008-11-06T21:48:00.003-06:00

2 days have gone by and sometimes I still feel bad that McCain did not win the election, but I know I need to get over it.

I'm ashamed of my lack of faith. The Lord is still in control. Maybe I'm upset because for the first time ever, the candidate I voted for lost. Actually, typing that has made me realize that I'm upset because Obama is Pro-Choice, He supports stem cell research (which I feel is selfish because we're just trying to find ways to keep us alive longer), and I feel our healthcare system will suffer with his healthcare plans. I could go on and on but I won't because this too shall pass.

I'm sorry for the negative things I have said/thought, I'm sorry for not trusting the Lord's soverignty in all this. I believe that the God who helped me cope w/my dad's cancer is the same God who is in control today. I believe that the God who healed my broken heart and has helped me overcome many obstacles is the same today as he was back then. My God is unchanging, he is in control and he never lets go. I choose to put my hope in him alone.

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.

On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.

His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.

When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.

The Lord's Will

2008-11-05T00:41:00.005-06:00

I was having a lot of trouble trying to figure out what the Lords will is for my life.

I had a lot of questions for him (should I try out for rec team? should i go to mexico in december? what should my spring schedule look like? what should i do after graduation?)

I kept on hearing people say "pray about it" and "be still"

so i did

but still i heard nothing

i sat still but i could only hear myself

Finally

I REALLY prayed

I prayed believing that God would answer me

and guess what!

HE DID

i randomly flipped to a page from one of my devotionals and this is what it said: "he who holds his tongue is wise." Proverbs 10:19. When you pray, my child, do not make it a one-way conversation. Know I am listening, but know also I will respond and will speak to you if you give Me opportunity. Prayer is not only of the lips, but of the ear also, for prayer is of the heart, and the heart that has learned to love has learned to listen more than to speak. When you come to Me in prayer, you ought to come to enjoy Me, not to entertain me.

that sooooooooooo spoke to me

because as of late Ive been trying to hear from Heaven but all I've been doing is talking. so i decided to pray and listen

but still i didn't feel satisfied

so what did i do?

i opened up ANOTHER devotional! lol

before i opened it I prayed, and i asked God to make this message blatantly obvious because i still wasn't getting it

and guess what i randomly flipped to? (I promise that i'm not making this up! this whole story is so like God!)

anyways i flipped to Do you want to know God's will? " Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path" Psalm 119:105 -One of the mysteries of life is the will of God. While it's true we'll never know all of God's will, we can know a lot of what He wants us to do by spending time with Him. So you can say that the only way to really know God's will is to really know God. How do you do that? By reading the bible and by talking to him as often as you can.

=)

So i'm still praying

The only thing i for sure know is that He doesn't want me to join REC team. The Lord has completely taken away that desire.

Now i just need him to answer the following questions: should i go to mexico in december? what should my spring schedule look like? what should i do after graduation?

Sorry, this blog was so long...Bless your soul if ya read the whole thing! =)

exodus

2008-10-28T01:12:00.001-05:00

1. Put your iTunes, Windows Media Player, etc. on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
Above All- Rebecca St. James (hahaha!)

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
Shine Your Light on Us- Robbie Seay Band

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Can't Hide From Your Love- Aaron Shust

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Rejoice- Chris Tomlin

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Here I am to Worship- Jeremy Camp

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Hear Our Song- Jadon Lavik

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
We won't be quiet! David Crowder Band

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
The Answer- Shane and Shane (Awesome!)

WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Secret Kingdom- Newsboys

WHAT SONG WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR WEDDING?
Life Itself- Aaron Shust

WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
Never Give up on the good times- Spice Girls! Haha

WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
Check you for ticks- Brad Paisley

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?
Your Song- Moulin Rouge

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
Our God Reigns- Brandon Heath

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
Here is our King- David Crowder Band

WHAT DOES YOUR WORK/SCHOOL EXPERIENCE ENTAIL?
Love is here- Tenth Avenue North

WHAT IS YOUR ROMANTIC SIDE LIKE?
In Christ Alone- Bethany Dillon & Matt Hammitt

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOU?
Come, Now is the time to Worship- Brian Doerkson

WHAT WILL YOU REPOST THIS AS?
Exodus- Bethany Dillon

A theory on time travel.....

2008-09-30T02:35:00.002-05:00

Could they be right?!?!?!

Sounds pretty convincing....

Run in such a way as to win the prize....

2008-09-04T15:21:00.002-05:00

God is trying to tell me something, but I'm not sure what it is....That scripture keeps on coming up in various ways so I'm thinking that the Lord is trying to tell me to run in such a way as to win the prize. But really, what does that mean?? First lemme tell you about the different ways it has come and you tell me if it's just coincidences....

I was jamming to my Aaron Shust CD and "Like I never felt before" came on and when I sung "run in such a way as to win the prize" I felt like I was singing those words for the first time. I felt like I was supposed to pay attn to that part of the song.....
I went to convocation and the sermon was on 1 Cor 9:25-27 which contains "run in such a way as to win"
It is the motto of my school this year
I was doing a devotional during my quiet time and that was the verse that was used for reflection

So do you agree with me? lol

I wish I knew exactly how I'm supposed to interpret it but It's all kinda hazy. I'm not exactly one of those intellectual types. All I can do is pray that the Lord will give me insight on how I should apply this to my life.

If you randomly come across this blog I would greatly appreciate it if you joined me in prayer!! =)

Wow

2008-08-30T01:59:00.002-05:00

So I just read the following marriage proposal and it made me cry. I'm not kidding....

I pulled out a scrap book that I had made, chronologically walking her through our entire
relationship. We slowly went through all hundred pictures or so, stopping only
to dance and once to wash her feet. As the last page turned,
I filled a glass of wine and then read to her Jesus' words to his disciples.
"this is my covenant with you, take and drink."
Because, if you know anything about marriage proposals in Jesus' time, then
you'd know that this is exactly how a young suitor would propose to his bride-to-be.
He'd fill a cup with wine, take a drink, and then offer his cup and covenant to his beloved.
And so that it is what I did.
And now, by the grace of God,
I'm going to love one woman for the rest of my life.
For the rest of my human experience, until death do us part,
I will love her, as I have been loved.
"as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her."
That is what I intend to do anyway,
what I hope to do.
To love her as Christ has loved me.
Overwhelmingly,
Sacrificially,
Purely.

That is so beautiful.

I pray that one day I will find a man like that

Values in Worship

2008-07-19T01:46:00.002-05:00

Christ Centred

Holy Spirit Led

Real

Intimate

Sensitive

Transforming

Period.

Who am I?

2008-07-16T17:14:00.005-05:00

Sometimes this world makes it easy to forget who you are. Luckily, the Lord has already told me who I am. =)

I am reconciled to God - 2 Cor 5:18

I'm a child of God - He is my Father - 1 Jn 3:1,2

I am a saint - Eph 1:1; 1 Cor 1:2; Phil 1:1

I am Christ's friend - Jn 15:15

I am a fellow citizen in God's kingdom - Eph 2:19

I am born of God - 1 Jn 4:7

I have been brought near to Christ - Eph 2:13

I have been adopted by God - Rom 8:15

I have direct access to God - Eph 2:18

I am a citizen of heaven - Phil 3:20

I am an heir of God - Rom 8:17

I've been rescued from Satan's domain - Col 1:13

I am a joint heir with Christ - Rom 8:17; Gal 4:7

I am hidden with Christ in God - Col 3:3

I am blessed with every spiritual blessing - Eph 1:3

I am chosen of God - holy, beloved - Col 3:12

I am a child of promise - Rom 9:8; Gal 3:14

I am a child of light, not darkness - 1 Thess 5:5

I've been given great promises - 2 Pet 1:4

I am a partaker of Christ - Heb 3:14

I'm redeemed and forgiven - Eph 1:6-8

I'm to be a stranger to this world - 1 Pet 2:11

I've been justified - made righteous - Rom 5:1

I'm an enemy of the devil - 1 Pet 5:8

I have eternal life - Jn 5:24

I died w/Christ to the power of sin - Rom 6:1-6

I am free from condemnation - Rom 8:1

I am to be salt on the earth - Mt 5:13

I have received the Spirit of God -1 Cor 2:12

I am to be light in the world - Mt 5:14

I have been given the mind of Christ - 1 Cor 2:16

I'm chosen and appointed to bear fruit - Jn 15:16

I have been crucified with Christ - Gal 2:20

I am called to do the works of Christ - Jn 14:12

I am a new creation - 2 Cor 5:17

I am to do what Christ commanded His disciples - Mt 28:20

I have been made alive with Christ - Eph 2:5

I have been given spiritual authority - Lk 10:19

I am God's workmanship - Eph 2:10

I am connected to the true vine - Jn 15:1,5

I am a partaker of a heavenly calling - Heb 3:1

I'm a willing slave of righeousness - Rom 6:18,22

I am a temple of God - 1 Cor 3:16; 6:19

I am one spirit with the Lord - 1 Cor 6:17

I am a member of Christ's body - 1 Cor 12:27

Thank you so much Lord for Romans 5:8 "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."

Drained

2008-07-09T15:08:00.003-05:00

As an RA at a Christian University i'm seen as sort of a role model. I am supposed to represent Christ to the residents, and help them with their spiritual needs. I have come across many oppurtunities to discuss the Gospel with students that I would never of had the chance to if I wasn't their RA. I have also been able to share how faithful the Lord has been in my life.

However, I'm experiencing a problem. I find myself pouring into others, but I don't have anyone pouring into me, and that is draining. I long to have a mentor. I charge myself through prayer and quiet times, but I feel like I need encouragement from a more mature Christian woman. I have tried looking in my church, but I haven't been very successful, and my mother is not really an option.

If you come across this blog I ask you to please join me in prayer, as I look for someone more mature in their faith to encourage me in my walk with the Lord!

The beauty of good times

2008-06-30T09:32:00.008-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I was looking at Aaron Shust's tour schedule and noticed he was gonna stop by Dallas. I really wanted to go because the last time he was near me (in San Antonio) I didn't go because it was on a Sunday and I had classes the next day, but I ended up really regretting it.

So, after prayer I decided to invite 2 of my friends and my sis to go to Dallas with me because I didn't want to go on my own. I had to pray about it because I wanted to make sure that I was not going to idolize the musicians that were going to be there. I wanted to make sure my intentions were pure and I was going for a worship experience.

Amazingly, my sis and my friend Sarah decided to join me. It was really cool because they're usually not into that sorta thing. Laura couldn't go because she had to work =(. A week later I also found out that Faith was gonna be there! That was so freaking awesome because I hadn't seen her in 3 years because she moved to Denton after she received her degree.

Anyways, We got there on Friday and I got to meet David Crowder!! This is the second time I've been led in worship by him and it was amazing. He sang my favorite song, "O Praise Him," and it was just an overall awesome experience.

Then Saturday we woke up bright and early and went to Dealey Plaza to see where JFK was assassinated, and then headed back to Celebrate Freedom.

I was so0o00o looking forward to Saturday because Aaron Shust was going to perform. I've only seen him once and he was opening up for Michael W. Smith.

I headed towards the autograph booth around 3:30 because I knew Aaron was going to be signing around 4:30, and I really wanted to meet him. As I was waiting in line I see him walk up to the tent and I scream "oh my gosh that's Aaron Shust!!!!" I run up to the table and see him getting prepared for an interview. I took like a million pictures, and I felt like a paparazzi person! I was a little embarrassed afterwards, but oh well! lol.

After the interview he headed towards the table where I was at and he talked to me!!! I couldn't believe it. He was also nice enough to take a picture with me.

I was so excited about FINALLY meeting him. The music/lyrics that the Lord has blessed him with has really ministered to me in a way that other Christian artists don't quite capture. I mean I really enjoy David Crowder Band and Chris Tomlin, but if Aaron wasn't around I'm not quite sure how my worship time would look like.

After I got his autograph I headed to the stadium so I could get a good seat and I saw Jaci V performing which was really neat. During her performance they interrupted it a lil and told us to brace ourselves for a lil rain which I kind of welcomed because it was scorching outside!!! After Jaci performed Meredith took the stage for one song and I could see Aaron and Duffy on stage setting up all the equipment and doing a sound check.

I WAS GETTING SOOOO EXCITED! FINALLY, I WOULD SEE AARON PERFORM AFTER ALMOST ONE YEAR.

After Meredith sang she said "help me welcome Aaron Shust," and my friends and I screamed!!!! But he didn't come out.... Instead, a person from KLTY came out and said "the show has been suspended. take shelter in your cars!"

I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT.

I thought it was a joke. Seriously

I was thinking please, just let him sing ONE song =(

but an hour later we found out that the show was canceled

I was bummed at first, but I got over it fairly quickly because I freaking met Aaron. He actually knows I exist! lol. Hopefully, I'll see him perform when he tours for his new album. I would seriously do it all over again.

A stay at the Holiday Inn $90
Gas from Houston to Dallas $150
Merchandise $25
Food $30
Meeting Aaron Shust and being led in worship by DCB- PRICELESS
Road tripping with friends- Priceless

An amazing night of worship!

2008-06-23T14:48:00.003-05:00

I saw Smitty for the second time ever on Friday. He was doing a live recording in Houston and the concert was free. That was really cool because I would of paid to see him, so, I kinda felt like I saved some money. Friday was so amazing. I really felt the prescence of God there. Another cool tidbit is he ran right in front of me! That's the closest I've ever been to him. lol.

In between one of his songs he said something really awesome that has stayed with me all weekend. Jesus intercedes for us, he dances over us, he sings over us.

Can you just imagine that??

In the words of Michael W. Smith: Our God is an awesome God!

Praise the Lord for such an amazing night. I hope to have another powerful worship experience this weekend at Celebrate Freedom in Dallas.

I love because He first loved me!

2008-04-11T03:02:00.004-05:00

I can actually say that for the first time ever I am CONTENT with my life.

I dunno what the future holds, but I do know this: The Lord has plans for me to prosper, and He has plans to give me hope and a future.

Thank you for healing me;
I was dying beneath my shame
But You brought me to life again, and I will sing:
Thank you for freeing me
I was dead to the truth of You,
But my healing was in Your wounds, and now I sing:
Thank you for healing me.

I often wonder if i'll find the qualities I long for in a husband. I think I will since the Lord promised that he would delight me with the desires of my heart.

Just in case you're out there hubby, this is what I'm looking for: Christian, stronger in his walk with the Lord then I am so he can lead me, musically inclined, taller than 5'4, college education or higher

that's all for now!!

Grateful

2008-03-11T11:23:00.005-05:00

I was thinking about how I can see the hand of God in everything that has happened to me. None of my experiences have been a waste! When I catch myself worrying I try to remember:

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34

I'm glad my Father has left me with little nuggets of wisdom to get me trough this daily struggle that we call life.

~Mayra~

p.s. I saw "lady for a day" yesterday and it was so funny and heart warming! Frank Capra is such an awesome director. I recommend you see it!!

TGIF

2008-03-08T00:29:00.005-06:00

I told my parents I wanted to get baptized, and it didn't go over well. I wish my parents could support me in my decision to be a Baptist.....
They think I'm joining a cult. *sigh* I can only pray that God will soften their hearts.
Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me. Psalm 27:10

Amazing Grace

2008-03-04T01:19:00.004-06:00

Hola Friends! I have some very exciting news, but first I should give a lil background....
I dated a guy for almost 5 years, and the relationship was really bad because we were unequally yoked. After we broke up a year and a half ago I tried to maintain a friendship with him, but it was difficult because he would only pull me down. I finally decided to give it over to God and of course he helped me overcome.
The last time I talked to my ex was about 2 months ago. I called _____ to tell him that I was no longer going to persue a friendship with him because everytime I talked to him I felt miserable. He seemed perfectly fine with severing ties which kinda sealed the deal for me. Anywayz, last week we were gonna have an end of the quarter bible study party, but I decided I was not gonna attend cuz I was kinda worn out from finals......But, an hour before the bible study party my ex called me! I have never EVER been able to reject his phone calls before EXCEPT for this time! God finally helped me get rid of all that baggage I was carrying around. I raced to bible study so I wouldnt be tempted to call him back and the most appropriate song came on the radio: Amazing Grace (Chris Tomlin version). By the time the song got to "my chains are gone, I've been set free" i was bawling. I love how the Lord is alwayz so faithful to me. I finally feel content in the Lord. I'm glad i was finally put to the test because I would alwayz thank God for helping me control the urge to call ____ or look at his myspace, but the enemy would alwayz whisper in my ear that I had been able to resist the temptation because ____ didn't try to contact me. I was finally able to prove that God helped me overcome! I can't express in words the Joy i feel in my heart.....

~Mayra~

An Alternative

2008-03-02T02:49:00.006-06:00

I hate how Myspace seems to eat up alot of my time. Insead of doing a survey I could be working out, praying, cleaning studying, or something else. One of the reasons I created a myspace account was so I could keep in touch with my friends. However, I can still keep in touch with them through this blog. We'll see how faithful I am with my updates!

Have you ever thought about the moon? It's just a ROCK that reflects light from the Sun. Well, I wanna be like the moon! I want to reflects God's light. I want to accomplish good works so the people can praise my God. They will know that the works are not from me but from my God.

Leap Day!

2008-02-29T11:57:00.003-06:00

Only in Houston, Texas can you be stuck in 3 p.m traffic because of the trail riders that start the rodeo every year. I was stuck in that traffic! It was kinda nice....lol.

I'm gonna go to the Rodeo 4 times this year. I'm REALLY excited. It's part of a Texas tradition. You can't just skip it!!

I've kinda been worried because my school didn't give me all the financial aid that i need for my senior year. I guess all I can do is pray and hope the $3,000 turns up from somewhere.

Isn't music amazing? It's so weird how much it can affect your emotions. I also think it's kinda strange how you can click with musicians. You don't know them personally, but you feel like you do.....For instance, I really feel like I know John mayer, Aaron Shust, Jack Johnson, Chris Tomlin, Coldplay, Matt Redman and David Crwowder. I alwayz listen to every track on their cds no matter what they come up with. I really feel like I could be friends with everyone of them, yet they don't even know I exist. I wonder why I don't have any women on my list??? I really like Christy Nockels, but I don't like every Watermark song. I'm also really starting to like Kristian Stanfill......

I have a huge headache that won't go away =(

Wanna improve your vocabulary??? Go to http://www.freerice.com/ you'll improve your vocabulary and feed hungry people!!

Twin

2008-02-26T11:54:00.002-06:00

I have a twwwwwwin!Not really, but it's kinda like we're twins. This girl lives in Houston like me and has my exact first and last name. That's really weird becasue I hardly ever meet other Mayra's and i have NEVER met anyone with my last name that isn't related to me. Another thing we have in common is our age. I know all of this because I found her on facebook a couple of years ago and we talked. Well, today I got a phone call from her mother becasue she thought i was her daughter. I was really confused, and trying to explain to her that I wan't her daughter even though I had the exact name as her daughter...lol. Finally she figured out that she dialed the wrong number. APPARENTLY her daughter and I almost have the exact same number. The only difference is that my number ends with a 3 and the other Mayra's number ends with a 2. How freaky is that????

~Mayra~