|
 Kris Swiatocho
    Categories  Archives 
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Joey, a single man who spoke a word of truth in my life.
Kris Swiatocho @ Mar 9, 2010 09:17 PM
Joey...a single young man who spoke a word of truth to me While traveling back from Dallas, Texas recently, my flight got delayed and I would eventually miss my connection. The airline gave us a free hotel and food voucher. It was the prettiest hotel I have ever stayed in. Even in the midst of a "minor" storm, God prevailed and even blessed. While waiting for the first flight that would be delayed, I met a young single man named "Joey." Joey was sitting with me and a couple of other ladies, chatting about various things. We then asked the question, "where is everyone going?" One lady said Richmond, another Detroit and then Joey started to say Orlando and quickly changed it to "rehab." He said, guys, I am going to rehab due to a coke addiction. I have a very good business that allows me to spend a lot of money each day on cocaine. But, its gotten out of hand. I am checking myself into a rehab center to get my life back. All of us proceeded to congratulate this young guy for his courage. He walked away to get on the plane and the rest of us started to talk about him. How it took a lot of courage to admit what he said. Then all of a sudden, he walked back up to us and said he was hesitant to say anything about where he was going but it felt good to tell us. It felt good to tell the truth. I asked his named and told him I would pray for him. Pray that he licks it this time. Pray that he gets his life back. Pray that he accepts the Lord in his life. This young guy could have been you or me, a neighbor, a child, a friend, etc...one step away from destruction or one step away from healing. Where could he go with his life? What could he accomplish? Pray and ask God each day for an opportunity to speak truth into someones life. An opportunity to pray for someone. An opportunity to encourage someone. You don't know if what you say or don't say could affect someones life. Maybe Joey will lick it this time but either way, his words, changed my life.Yes, it feels good to tell the truth. Psalm 86:11 Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. PRAISES/PRAYERS: -Praise: The conference in Austin, TX for the state level singles leaders and singles was awesome. I was able to teach 3 workshops and lead the icebreaker for the whole event. I had some great folks who were very encouraged to learn more about singles ministry. I wrote a new workshop on connecting to our singles and a new icebreaker that went over very well. -Praise:I was able to spend some time with friends that encouraged me. Folks in the same business as myself. -Praise: I connect with a TV network to work on some new projects. -Praise:I was able to pray with several individual singles, offer advice and encouragement. -Praise: I conducted some Sunday school training also in Shreveport, LA at First Baptist, Bossier City. It went amazing. Several singles told me how the information was very helpful in ways to grow their Sunday school classes. -Praise: I was able to meet with my editor from Crosswalk Online Magazine to be encouraging to each other, talk about future projects. -Praise: I added 45 new leaders to the ENEWS database. -Praise: I was able to talk with 2 churches about future work. -Prayer: Continue to pray for more doors to open for work and fro the Navigate Conference. -Prayer: For new items, ideas, suggestions, etc..to improve The Singles Network Website. Also for what to take off. -Prayer: Traveling to Charlotte, this weekend for the Connections10.com conference. I am going to help out vs. teach. I will be doing the icebreaker on Friday night. I am also meeting with a producer from the Inspiration network, another single who speaks, and a church about doing a fall conference. Please pray for God's hand in all parts, his direction and peace. Thanks guys, Kris -- Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Singlesness is like Lice
Kris Swiatocho @ Mar 2, 2010 04:33 PM
Recently as I was doing one of my daily devotions where the writer was the famous Corrie ten Boom. She shared how the conditions in her barracks at the concentration camp of Ravensbruck were terrible. She shared how when she arrived, the lice were unbearable. They were in people's hair, the blankets and the mattresses. Her friend there told her that she must be thankful for the lice. She was like, what, thankful for the lice? But yes, thankful. Thankful because the lice kept the guards and the officers at a distance. This distance allowed them to have a bible study without interference. Yes, God had used these horrible lice for His glory. And yes, we need to be thankful. I was thinking to myself what other kinds of things similar to this, should I be thankful? Things that seem to be horrible to me or you? Maybe its a client or a job, maybe a person or where you live, maybe a family member or being single. I remember years ago I shared with a man in Poland while I was traveling on a train about my singles ministry. He just couldn't believe I could be happy as a single adult. That I could find fulfillment. To him singleness was something horrible. And you know what, to some it is. I am thankful that to the world singleness can sometimes appear as lice, something you don't want but for me, its open doors that being married wouldn't not be able to do. Thank you Lord for the things that seem bad to others. That even my singleness can be used for you. Matthew 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
-- Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Singles are pain the.....
Kris Swiatocho @ Feb 23, 2010 03:09 PM
 OK, yes, singles are sometimes a huge pain. If I have heard it once I have heard it a hundred times that singles have issues. That these issues are the reason why churches don't want to minister to them. These issues are what keeps them from moving ahead in their walk as a Christian. These issues cause others to stumble. First let me clear up something, we all have issues, whether married or single. What I see as the biggest difference between singles and marrieds is that married typically deal with their junk before they come to church. They have each other to sort out, solve and resolve problems. But with singles, we bring all our stuff to church because we aren't married. Our significant other is the church family. As a result, singles appear to be more needy, more problematic, and more troubled. But, actually, if you get down to it, we aren't. I can't tell you how many marrieds I know where only one attends church. Their marriages are divided spiritually. I also know many married couples that don't communicate that well. You can see them arguing in their cars right before church. Of course, as soon as they leave their cars they put on their church face and act like nothing is wrong. How do I know this, I am a professional greeter. I watch people everywhere I go. I see their expressions, the worry they carry, the hurts and the pains. You see guys, the Lord did not come for the health, He came for the sick. And, in a round about way, we are all sick at some level. We all need help. Sure, there are a few of us out there that are doing pretty good but for the most part, I have found everyone (singles and marrieds) to be struggling in some area of their lives. This is why we all need a Savior. This is why we all need each other. This is why we our marital status should have nothing to do with what our church values in terms of who they try to reach. The church should want to reach ALL for Christ. For we ALL need a Savior. We ALL need His help. We ALL need to make changes. Mark 2:17 On hearing this, Jesus said to them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." When we come along and support each other, pray for each other, and encourage each other, we help the whole body to grow. So that instead of separating us based on what we can give, how we can serve, how "sick" we might be, it matter because we can use it all to build the "whole body" to a place of maturity. Ephesians 4:1-13 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says: "When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men." (What does "he ascended" mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until WE ALL reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. So are singles a pain in the... yes, sometimes but then again, aren't we all? Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Shopping for Men?
Kris Swiatocho @ Feb 19, 2010 11:21 AM
I use facebook like most everyone in the world. Now, you know, based on your profile, the websites you list, the content of your emails, interest, etc...facebook places ads that they hope match your profile. Ads of products they hope you are interested in. Due to my main website being www.TheSinglesNetwork.org, AND that I am listed as being single, I get a ton of dating site ads. And it seems no matter how may times I delete them and tell facebook to stop putting them on my page, the continue to show up. All the ads were pretty much the same..."Find Your Own Bob" where you live or "Meet Eligible Singles" where you are, etc.. But recently a whole new ad showed up on my facebook page.  When I first saw the ad I started to laugh as I have a talk called "Wanna Get Hitched and Not to a Uhaul" in which I talk about how Walmart's in China and Germany (and the US), (on Friday nights) have a thing where you can put a red bow on your grocery cart and shop for man/woman. I go on to share of what kinds of things would you say to someone who had a red bow as well as what kinds of things would you have in your cart. The talk focuses on our motives while searching for the "one." How we are so desperate to find someone we would even shop at Walmart for them. So as you can imagine, when I saw this ad it reminded me of my talk. How crazy is was for Walmart to do this "hookup" program and how dangerous it could be. I mean, how would you know anything about this person? They could be a nut! Anyway, but as I continued to look at the facebook ad some other things came to mind that took my laughter to disgust or perhaps sadness. We have now reach an all-time low. It's not the normal dating ads that say "hey, find the love of your life on hookmeup.com." It's shop for a man/woman. Shop???? Like going to the grocery store? Like looking at the labels to see what its made of, if the price is affordable, if the packaging is the way you like it? Like will it have a long shelf life, can I return it if I don't like it or if it doesn't perform? Hmmm, is that what I want someone to be thinking of me when they are looking for a date or mate? That I can be returned if I don't give them what they are expecting? Then on top of all of this, the top of the graphics says "adopt" a guy. Adopt??? What is that supposed to mean. Adopting like getting a kid? Why would I adopt a boyfriend? Now don't get me wrong, I do think that when we are looking for a possible spouse we are in a way, reading the label (getting to know them and what they are about, are we aligned with our interest, emotionally, spiritually, etc...), checking the price (are we matched economically, what is our debt situation/how do we pay our bills), packaging (do they believe in the same way of living such as health, goals, dreams), etc. And yes, if we aren't equally yoked and God says no (because we took the time to ask before, and during the relationship) we can return. But return not like when you return moldy bread or a flat soda. Returned but hopefully in better shape then when you received because you both grew closer to God in knowing you weren't the right ones for each other. Returned to a friendship because you can. You didn't go so far in your dating relationship that you can't just be friends now. Returned so that the next step is smarter with more time as friends, more time to get to know them and yes, more time to pray about the choice you make. So if you see this horrible ad on facebook, do like me and "x" it off. I am a woman in Christ and I am valuable, love and cherished by my Savior. I am not an object on a store shelf to be shopped for. I am already adopted by my King, my Lord and my Abba. If you want to find a spouse, my suggestion is draw closer to the only one that knows where they are..Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:21-23 ...and since we have a great priest over the house of God,let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Rent from Red Box...Nevermore
Kris Swiatocho @ Feb 3, 2010 12:58 PM
Have you ever received victory over a sin in your life and have said "I
will never..." only to have it come back. Recently I found my self back
to watching rented movies that I had made a decision in the past I
would not watch again. Let me explain...I had decided a while back,
years I think that I would not see a rate R movie nor a pg 13 unless I
did some research and felt it was OK to watch. Some of you know that I
do not own a TV. Not because of the good things on TV but because of
the bad stuff. Also, because I am like a lot men out there in that I am
a channel surfer. Hours can go by of me watching empty TV. Because I don't have TV, I watch DVD's. I own a ton of great movies..some Christian and some secular. All of which I use to teach by or are simply entertaining. I also have a ton of TV shows like Andy Griffith and the Waltons all of which feed the Spirit. But recently I had started renting from "red box". Why, well, its cheap and easy to get to. But one big draw back was the waiting in line and no matter what was on the wall, red box would be out of it. I would instead have to rent whatever. The problem was the whatever. Due to the folks in line behind me, tapping their shoes and sighing because I was taking too long to read the bios of the movies, I started just taking whatever so I could check out. I started watching the movies and notice that so many of them had bad language, violence and sexual comments. At first I would skip past certain scenes or tell myself there isn't anything to rent without cuss words. I just have to ignore the bad words. Then God did something wonderful. Upon one of my trips to take the movies back, the red box rejected them. I was so frustrated so I called redbox and I had to go through this long process, in front of the box to return them. Redbox assured me it was something that happened ever so often. So I took a chance and rented 2 more movies. Well, it happened again. So I went to another redbox to return, again. I was like, that is it..no more renting from red box..too much of headache. Then I got a God-moment. The machine is rejecting these movies just like I should have been. Now don't get me wrong, even without reading the movie bio's I didn't rent a horror movie or obvious sexual movie. I rented movies that most people are watching. But the key was the link to my spirit. The movies were affecting my attitude, my thought process, my prayer life. The Bible talks about what we hear, see, goes into our heads and then into our hearts and comes out. You feed it junk then that is what comes out. It's hard enough to keep clean things coming in without watching movies. So, yes, I have victory today. But I know that I still live in a sinful world. A world anxiously looking for its prey. A world led by the enemy. Thank you God for using something so simple as a reject button to remind me to reject the world and to embrace you as you have embraced me. Luke 6:44-46 Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. -- Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Crisis of Belief
Kris Swiatocho @ Jan 26, 2010 01:41 AM
Do you know what a crisis of belief is? You sometimes get to a point
where God is asking more of you than you could possibly imagine doing?
That God is asking you to trust Him beyond your power but in His power.
I have been at this crossroad lately. I am having to trust the Lord
more than I could ever imagine. But in this trust, in this crisis, I
have a choice: accept what the Lord is asking of me thereby
experiencing the Lord in a way beyond my imagination or believe what he
is asking of me is impossible and just stay where I am. Look at
Moses' response to God when God's invited him to join Him in delivering
Israel from Egyptian slavery. Ex 3:11-14; 4:1-17 "But Moses said to
God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites
out of Egypt?" And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the
sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the
people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain." God has asked me to trust Him during this tough time of the economy. Churches are seeing huge losses financially. Ministry programs are being cut left and right. Singles ministry has been one of the areas they are cutting. To me this should be the one area they sow into. So how Lord can I trust you at this time? How? Then God reminded me of what he told Moses and what He had told me. He has called me to be where I am. He will then continue to equip and provide. The key here is, do I believe?
Mark 9:24 ... "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" -- Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Birthday Surprises
Kris Swiatocho @ Jan 19, 2010 07:09 PM
Sunday night I was giving a special surprise..well actually it was my second surprise party for my birthday. The first surprise came on my birthday as my younger brother not only had a "Coldstone" ice cream cake made for me (oh my goodness..the best cake I have ever eaten in my life) but had silly games like pin the tail on the donkey and pointed hats and whistles. Stephen knew I like to have fun at my parties. LOL. He wanted my day to be special and he and his family did just that. I was also able to share this day with my mom as we were on the road visiting relatives around NC. Then to my very much surprise, two of my very good friends threw me a surprise party on Sunday night at my favorite restaurant. The original plans were to eat alone with Sandra. But I woke up Sunday morning feeling very down, again taking back all that stuff that I had given to God. I had managed to take back my fears, my worries, my pain, and my frustration. It waited me so down that I stayed in bed all day, unable to get up. Sandra would call and encourage me to come, to allow God's people to love on me. I pulled myself together and went and was so surprised to see some friends there I wasn't expecting. I was truly blessed beyond measure. You know what is great about God...he gives you what you need and even what you want. I didnt' know I need my family so much till my brother gave me the party. I didn't know how much I needed my friends, community till Sunday night. God knew this too. Sometimes, we get so sidetracked with out junk, God can't get through to us. We have so many walls up to protect ourselves from the world but those walls also keep God out. Our lives have to be opened handed..taking a chance of pain, fear and frustration to enter (but also love, hope and joy) but all the while knowing that my hand is in HIS HAND. And as a result, I do not have to fear. Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. -- Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Rest, Perception, Healing..and not in that order
Kris Swiatocho @ Jan 13, 2010 02:32 AM
It's a new year with new ideas, new hopes, and new dreams. As some of
you might know, ministry opportunities are way down and as a result, my
finances are in pretty bad shape. Everywhere I call I am hearing
similar stories from churches. But a few days ago, God gave me 3 words....Rest, Perception, and Healing. He said that they were not given in this particular order. LOL. I thought about these words for a few days. Hmmm, well, right now I have been in a rest mode..meaning, I have not had any traveling work since Dec 11th and I don't have anything else till mid Feb. So I have been able to rest, catch up on sleep, time with my mom, friends, my home and be at my church. Psalm 62:5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. OK...perception. Perception is how am I seeing the situation I am in. Well, I could see it as hopeless, discouraging, and fearful but then God reminded me to really look at my situation. Why would it be hopeless, discouraging or fearful? Especially when I am in the palm of His Hand. When God is in control? When God has made me promises of hope, encouragement and not to fear. So maybe its not what I see but its my attitude? Yes, things are not looking that great...from my perspective. I need to ask God to see my situation with His eyes. Philippians 2:5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Finally, healing. God reminded me that I was still healing from my dad's death. Perhaps the reason I dont' have much work has to do with God allowing time to heal me. I have a tendency to go from one project to the next and not even breath in between. God really needed me to stop this time.
Psalm 25:16 Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. Thank you Lord for allowing me to see your word new every day. Thank you for teaching me something new every day. Thank you for using me to do your work.
Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
I Want a Do-Over Day
Kris Swiatocho @ Dec 29, 2009 11:51 AM
I recently was watching a TV movie at my
mom's in which the main character said something that was profound to
me. She said that she loved the day she just had to the point she
wanted to do it over. She called it a "do-over day." I started to think and wondered did I have any do-over days in my life. Sure, there had been parts of days I enjoyed. Maybe a movie, a dinner with a friend, an outing, a date, a speaking event, etc..but a whole day. A whole day that was so awesome that I would want to do it all over again. It made me think. I wasn't sure when I had had one of those days. I then became sad. Sad to think that I am not living each day that I would want to live it over again. I have had to be honest and say that most of my days are busy with work duties, house work, personal obligations, planning, phone calls, etc.. Sure, I have parts of the day that I love. Parts that I would love to do over (and that is good) but the whole day? So what is my TODAY going to be about? Will I fill it with so much work that its a blurr? Will I fill it with watching TV or movies all day? Will I fill it with laying around even when I am not tried anymore? Will I fill it with eating too much? Spending to much? Complaining too much? Now, I am not living in the clouds and think I can stop working or cleaning or being responsible. That I don't need to have down time to rest. But it does make you think. I am turning 46 in two weeks. The reality of my age has sunk in. Every day is precious. What do I want my days to be about. A "do-over day" to me really has more to do with my attitude then how much fun stuff I can fill it with. Even in the midst of the work that has to be done, how is my attitude. How do I look at this day the Lord has given me? What is my perspective of the task He has given me? How much of my day do I devote to spend time with the Lord? As I look to each day as being a gift from the Lord, that I have drawn even closer to Him, everyday will hopefully be a do-over day. What about you? Would you like to do-over your day? Philippians 2:5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: -- Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com (Register today...5 Locations All Over the US) FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Laughter Really Is the Best Medicine
Kris Swiatocho @ Dec 16, 2009 02:39 AM
Well this past weekend I spoke (did some comedy at a Christmas party) at a church in Charlotte, NC. It was a blast. Despite my fear of doing "comedy,"
it all turned out well. I really do prefer to be marketed as a speaker
or teacher that happens to be funny vs. a comic. The pressure is way
too much to make people laugh. I mean, if it happens..great but if not,
no big deal, right? So why laugh anyway? Why do we need to laugh? Well
in today's world, a good laugh is what we need most (of course, we need
the Lord first). Between the constant news of murder, rape, abuse, kidnapping, adultery, people missing, car wrecks, political issues, abortion, depression, suicide, etc...we have to find ways to laugh. My mother is a fox news watcher. She can't believe I don't own a TV. That I am not staying on top of what is going on in this world. I try over and over to communicate that I can go online and pick what I want to read. That if I sat and listened to the news on TV, I would end up as one of the headlines. So, I try to be funny. I tell humorous and inspiring stories in the midst of sharing Christ. Stories about real people and real life. Stories that make you think and even cry. Stories that leave you with hope unlike our news. Stories that change lives because Christ changes lives. And yes, sometimes stories that make you laugh. I know our Lord laughed. In the midst of the many storms he encountered, he had to laugh. Thank you Lord for laughter. Job 8:21 He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com (Register today...5 Locations All Over the US) FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
I Long To Hear His Voice
Kris Swiatocho @ Dec 8, 2009 09:11 PM
This past weekend I have been furiously working on a project for a friend of my mothers. Her friend had lost her husband about 9 months ago. Although he was not young in age (78), he was very young in spirit. He continued to practice psychology seeing clients daily until he was diagnosed with lung cancer. When we finally went to the doctor he was already in stage 4. He would have to quickly make some life changes including quitting his practice and focusing his attention on finding a cure. He would spend the last few months with his family at his side as this horrible disease ravaged his body. During his illness, he would receive tons of letters and cards from his patients. Their messages varied from how much they were saddened to hear of his cancer to scriptures with prayer of a cure to admiration of who he is in their lives to thank yous of what he has meant to them to finally one more plea for answers to their problems. My job was to take all these cards, letters, notes, etc..and somehow put them together to create a journal. A journal that could not include their names or anything specific about their illnesses but a journal about how this doctor has helped them, healed them, encourage them and become their friend. My job was to somehow grasp the summation of their thoughts and prayers, their joys and sadness, their struggles and their defeats, and how their doctor had been the key to it all. It would take over 50 hours to create the computer file. I spent hours reading over every card and letter, setting aside and noting to save this phrase or copy this part. I would separate the cards by style, color or saying. I would start scanning and would end up with 200 images and letters. I would then spend hours typing parts of letters, cleaning up images, and sorting. Then there was the task of designing 61 pages. I had to somehow bring it all together to tell a story of this amazing man. I man, that I realized I wish I had known. A man, I knew only through my parents. As I typed and read and sorted, I too could only think of my own father and his legacy. You see his wife wants this journal (5 copies) for her grown children. There was side of their father they never knew. He was a great healer, a great protector, a great care-giver, and a great friend. I title the journal, "we will miss your voice". His voice was what gave them their safety in this loud crazy world. His voice would comfort them. His voice would give them direction. Oh how they long to hear his voice one more time. As I finished the project today and sent it to the printer, I realize, do I have the same zeal for my Savior's voice. Do I long to hear Him speak to me? Do I know that He is my comforter, my care-giver, my healer and my friend. Do I wait, longing for one more time, one more talk to hear his voice. Do you? Job 37:5 God's voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com (Register today...5 Locations All Over the US) FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Military Life: Single Parenting
Kris Swiatocho @ Nov 28, 2009 07:48 AM
I grew up in a military family. My birth father was in the army. Most of my childhood, he was over seas. It started with Vietnam (3 tours) and then Guam, Japan, Korea, Honduras, El Salvador not to mention the tours in the states. Although my parents were married at the time, it felt like they weren't. I mean, due to my father being gone (sometimes a year at a time), it felt like we were being raised by a single mother. At the time, I felt it was normal. I thought all kids lived this way. My mom was both mother and father. She was the one who got up with us as night. She was the one who cooked for us, cleaned the house, and helped us with homework. She was the one who went to the drug store at 8pm at night to get the poster board paper you needed for project due the next day. She was there to pick me up from school when I got sick. She attended all the school events such as plays, concerts and sports. She was the one who kept our home from falling apart but learning to fix things. She was the one who made a dollar stretch way beyond what it was meant to. She was also the one that listened to my cries, my fears and my joys. She was the one who would kneel beside me to pray at night. My birth father would not be there for most of my childhood. I was literally raised by a single mom. I recently read an article [http://www.wral.com/news/political/story/6506863/] about the huge divorce rate among the military. How the stress of the war and the separation of husbands and wives are killing the family. I totally understand as it killed ours. The long absences would lead my father to commit adultery many times on my mother. Unlike my father, my mother would stay committed as she had to raise four children the best way she could. Unlike my father, she thought of us first. But is there hope for the military marriages? Is there hope for those wanting to get married but see these horrible numbers? The article would go on to say "programs run by chaplains, mental health officials and family services
agencies provide service members access to retreats, couples'
counseling, workshops and other programs aimed at easing the strain of
separation." Of course, we all know that with Christ all things are possible. When we allow the Lord to lead us, we can get through anything. As we put Christ first, marriage becomes the second major focus. With Christ, a marriage can make it. By also like the article says, no matter what, parents are going home to deal with kids alone. And it's hard to be both parents. Even with the Lord to help and guide you. So what is our part? As a singles ministry, we can help better prepare young and single adults for marriage. We need to continue to have programs/bible studies/counseling for those wanting to date and get married. We need to encourage personal growth in our walks with the Lord. We need to be sensitive to those who are divorced by offering divorce recovery ministry so that they have the support they need. As a church, we need to be aware of our military families (and any family where the husband or wife is gone due to work) so that we can step in and be a support for that single parent. Maybe its offering to babysit, financial assistance, or emotional support. Maybe its simply prayer and that you are there for them. But also, what are you doing for the men and women who are absent due to work. Are we trying to stay connected to them too? As a traveler myself, my home connections are critical to my own sanity. Start praying for what you can do to help these families, whether they are married or not. Start praying for your part. James 1:27
Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com (Register today...5 Locations All Over the US) FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Secret of Jonathan Sperry
Kris Swiatocho @ Nov 16, 2009 10:20 PM
Recently I went to see the movie "The Secret Life of Jonathan Sperry".
This movie is based on real lives. It's about 4 young boys and their
friendship with a man named Jonathan Sperry. It's about discipleship,
mentoring, commitment, friendship, forgiveness and prayer. It was a
little hokey but has a powerful message. But the movie itself was one
thing but what happened afterwards was much more powerful. A man,
perhaps someone like you are me got up after the movie, turn towards
the crowd as we were leaving the theatre and said, "If you don't know the man, the Savior, named Jesus, come see me and I would like to introduce him to you." Of all the years I have been to movies, I have never had anyone do this. This man was compelled by the message of Jonathan Sperry, of the lives of these young boys and where God would take them. He was inspired by the Holy Spirit to stand up and talk to strangers. He convicted me of my own walk. Was I willing to be that bold? Would I be wiling to ask people if they knew who Jesus is? Would I have courage? Would I not fear what people might say. Even though I am usually confident in sharing my faith, asking waitresses if I can pray for them while I pray for my meal, sitting and talking to a strangers in the doctors office or even calling customer service to complain about bad service at a store only to end up talking about the Lord but still, I can get scared...afraid to share my faith. What if they reject me? What if they reject what I say? Remember the Lord says, as your grow in me, as you share your faith, as you stand for me, you will have rejection. They aren't rejecting you but Me, Christ says. But be obedient. My word does not return void. Keep sharing Kris.
Thanks to the man who got up at the movie..for his courage. What about you? Isaiah 55:11 It is the same
with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will
accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com (Register today...5 Locations All Over the US) FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
I am Never Alone!
Kris Swiatocho @ Nov 10, 2009 12:20 AM
On
the eve of my dad's funeral, I had spent some time in prayer and
reading the word. The Lord told me that I needed to go through this
next step in my life. Well, I guess at the time I figured I knew what
he meant. I mean, my dad had been sick for so long I was prepared,
right? Well, the next week was a blur as I was going to be teaching in LA and was busy getting ready. When I got back, and the week following I started to experience what I believed God was talking about. I started to sense the process of grief. I spent each day feeling like I was in a pit that I couldn't get out of. The sense of hopelessness, despair, anxiety, frustration and discouragement kept overwhelming me. Every hour it seemed a different emotion was taking hold. I hesitated to call anyone as I felt like I would be a burden to folks. For so many years I had been asking people to pray for my dad and I felt when he died that I wouldn't have to talk about him anymore. I felt that perhaps others felt the same. I decided not to call anyone during the time. I would just have the Lord and no one else. I also started feeling a new emotion "loneliness." You see, I have never really felt lonely in my life. Sure, there might be a day here or there but because I stay busy in the Lords work, I have never really felt this emotion. Well, I felt it and I didn't like it. I felt the most disconnected from anything and anyone. And what is frustrating about all of this is I couldn't get it to go away. I prayed and prayed for release and it wouldn't leave me. I was like Lord, I know where my dad is..he is with you. He had a great life and was ready. We all prepared for my dad to die. We did think about life without him. I am OK with my dad's death Lord. Then why am I feeling this? Why am I feeling such a sense of loss? Then this past weekend, while I spent time with one of my brothers and his kids and speaking in Concord, it hit. God told me...Kris, I am not going to take it away. I want you go to through it. Through this sadness, this pain, this hurt. But I don't want you to forget that I am with you through it. I will never leave you. But in order to share in my blessings, you must also share in my suffering. I have called you to be a voice for me in this world. You can't help others in their pain if you have never experienced it. You will have good days and bad. Good weeks and bad. But all is for ME, your Savior. I will be with you through it if you allow me. And Kris, call some people that you know love you and let them know you are hurting. I didn't leave you on this earth to be alone in this walk. I have put people in your life. Allow them to be my arms, my ears and my voice to you, my beloved. I did and I am thankful to those who hugged me over the weekend, prayed with me and listened to me when I called. I know this journey of experiencing grief will not be over for a long time..maybe never as some have told me. But one thing is certain, I am not alone. Psalm: 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (This was my dad's favorite verses..all of Psalm 23) Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com (Register today...5 Locations All Over the US) FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10
Oil Change Again?
Kris Swiatocho @ Nov 2, 2009 11:20 PM
Today I went to get my oil changed and tires rotated. I have been using
the same place for nearly 10 years. Why do you ask? Is b/c there is
great service, courteous workers, quick in and out, yes,yes, yes. But
that is not why I go back. You see, about 2 years ago I took my older
Honda to a mechanic to have a catalytic converter done. Something my
local guys could not do. This mechanic I had known for 15 years. He had
serviced other vehicles in the past and any major repairs. He had asked
me to get a list of things my oil change guys had done to my Honda for
the past several years. When he looked at the list he quickly told me
that I had had a lot of things done that weren't needed. I mean, he
said it didn't hurt my car but some of them were done too quickly
between services or didn't add to the life of the car. That these oil
guys had taken me for a ride. But what my mechanic didn't know and I
quickly told him. I haven't been taking my car to these guys just b/c
of their service or how nice they are to me. I have been taking my car
to them b/c each time I have my oil changed, air filter changed, tires
rotated, tune up, and other stuff I can't remember, I was able to talk
with the guys. I was building trust with them so that i would have
opportunities to share my faith. One time, Mark, one of oil change guys
sat down with me as I was waiting. He asked me what I do for a living
as I always had suitcases on my car. LOL. I told him. The he proceeded
to tell me about his marriage not working out. He told me they used to
go to church but as time went on, they left God out of their marriage.
As a result, their marriage started to fail. I was able to encourage
Mark and share about God's promises to Him and how he could always turn
back to God. That it wasn't too late. Since our talk (and several more
after) and prayer, they got back together and started going to church.
You see guys, I can get my oil changed anywhere. There are ones on every block. But we are here on this earth for relationship with Christ that glorifies Him and as a result, a relationship with others for Christ purpose. Think about those you encounter every day. Is it about you or about HIM. 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. Kris Swiatocho, Director TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries NavigateConference.com (Register today...5 Locations All Over the US) FromHisHands.com (Silent Shopper, Greeting, First Impression Ministry) Yes! Marketing and Design Services 919.434.3611 2664 Timber Drive, Suite 307, Garner, NC 27529 The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy but I have come to give life to its fullest. John 10:10 |