SWEET FRIENDSHIP!

A sweet friendship is one that has the added element of fellowship! I t spans time and distance.........even across the pond, the BIG one.

It's what I share with Katya. A friend who gives wise counsel. (Proverbs 1:5) How grateful I am that she is in my life. Her life is a testimony of ministry to others especially during times of trauma. A friend who loves at all times....(Proverbs 17:17)

Her sweet smile radiates from a heart that loves Jesus!

Today might be World Chocolate Day as the sticky on my keyboard attests but there's nothing in the world any sweeter than a friendship with a sister in Christ! TRUE FELLOWSHIP.

PEACE BEGINS .............

.....wherever we, the peacemakers, are located!

Seek peace and prosperity for your "town." It's a great place to start. The earlier, the better. That's why many SCS schools have an international fair as a culmination of their year long international studies! What an extravaganza! 

It all began with folk songs 

and dances with music from 10 countries, including Norway's Troll Dance.

Each grade focuses on a different country.But....the pre-school focuses on their town. Memphis. We met the "mayor," Elvis, a grizz and a miniature "Penny" along with the duck master of the Peabody Hotel with his ducks all in a row.. Each 4 yr. old knew their speech and then treated all visitors to BBQ (Central) as we left. 

Each grade presented information on their country through displays, speeches and other creative artsy ways.....from computer slide shows to pottery and hands on art. During the Russian tour we were treated to "bottle people" of famous astronauts, ballerina's and conductors, all created by the students.

Plus, an international food tasting......African fruits, French pastries and Nutella, Japanese sushi, Mexican tamales. Russian caviar, borscht and black tea along with good ole PBJ sandwiches from the USA!

Seek the welfare of the city I have deported you to. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for when it has prosperity, you will prosper. (Jeremiah 29:7)

Seek peace and prosperity as Jeremiah says----wherever God has put you.

Why not start in an elementary school!

CHOOSE: TO SMILE

Proverbs 15:13 is all about smiles. 

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance....(KJV)

Smiling Siblings from Hungary

A glad heart makes a cheerful face...(NASB)

A happy heart makes the face cheerful...(NIV)

Smiling Siblings from Ukraine

A glad heart makes a happy heart...(NLT)

No matter how you say it---one's facial expressions speak volumes about one's  heart condition.

Smiles are the international language. Children from any country make most folks smile!

These international beauties made my heart smile---what an easy choice!

Going....Going.... GONE!

Going....Going....this time GONE!

Guess where?

 Go ye into all the world. (Mark 16:15)

Going...............Wherever Jesus calls.......................!

Purpose of Friendship

3/5/13 What is the purpose of establishing friendships on an international spectrum?

Bridges built. Language barriers broken down. Kindnesses given and reciprocated. Fascinating backgrounds shared. Unique experiences of those from another culture but with a like-minded approach to the gospel of God.

All these aspects of friendship I witnessed yesterday at a playground.

Five year old Owen honestly asked, "Why do they talk weird?" I acknowledged that they were speaking Russian and Ukrainian but they had also learned to speak English so they could speak to him as well. Owen replied, "Then I"ll learn to speak English too!"

In the providence of God, it is no accident when our paths cross with internationals. All such meetings bring opportunity for acceptance of new and fresh cultural perspectives. We are so-o-o much more alike than we are different..........For God  pours out His Spirit upon all mankind (Acts 2:17)

Maybe more world leaders should participate in dialogue on a playground rather than in a conference center. The perspectives are certainly fresher there and the prospects of friendship probably much greater!