Friday, June 15, 2012

What we've been up to...



It is a bit overwhelming to realize that you have bled your whole heart – the ugly sin, the raw emotion, the unbridled truth – out on paper for the whole world to read.

It is a bit exhausting to hear over and over again how “awesome” you are when you, in fact, know very well that you are not.

People expect romantic, and all I have is a wildly disorganized bookshelf and dirty children shrieking with too-loud laughter. People expect that the days all hold life-saving medicine given to children on the brink of death and profound revelation and while some do, most consist more of peeling potatoes and wiping spills and listening to recited memory verses and biting my tongue as spaghetti sauce splatters everywhere and I light the pot holder on fire, again.

I believe the lie that I must meet expectation, and I try harder. I stay up later answering emails and I desperately try to finish a book that I said I would endorse and I organize the bookshelves and wipe down the counters again. I brush past the children who hold my heart in order to be a “good mother” who has homemade food on the dinner table on time. We finish lessons and recite Psalms and fold laundry and welcome visitors. Life gets too busy, it gets so fast and so full that at the end of the day it can feel just empty.
  
* * * 


This was not the first time I had been here and I knew what to do. I pull back, I dig into the Word and I listen. The lesson whispered in the quiet is always the same. My friend Sara calls it Adoration. My friend Ann counts it all up as Eucharisto. Paul says it’s the secret of contentment, hands full or hands empty. Whatever we name it, it is astounding Truth: Communion with the Savior is the only thing that makes anything matter.

I choke because my every day life begins too feel small compared to the expectation. And He breathes truth that a life is not made by lives saved or bellies fed or words written. To adore the one who created the Heavens and the Earth, to give thanks for who He is and all He has given, to worship and commune with Holy God, whispering in the quiet, clinging in the noise, believing in all circumstances – this is what makes a life large.

The miracle is joy in Him in a day that goes all wrong. The miracle is standing in awe of abundance as I chop carrots and bathe babies and fold laundry. The miracle is a Son sent to die for the very likes of me and His ever-pursuing love for me still.

Paul knows the secret, and even when I think I learned this lesson already Jesus teaches me again: we can live a full life wherever we are – even in the days that seem to small – when we live in communion with the Savior. We look up, praise on our lips, and as we worship Him for all He has done our hearts open wide to more. We wait, expectant, for all that He is doing and this is it, this is life to the fullest.

Foster babies go back to their families. How do you raise a child as your own and then say good-bye? I guess because you know that God ordained their family to be another one, but that doesn’t make it easy. My baby will start therapy before she starts kindergarten. I do not like the idea of a child having to endure trauma so that one day she may learn from it, or teach another about it. But I still believe He has purpose, even when I can’t see it. I look outside at the insanely noisy game of tag taking place in my yard: 4 Hindu neighbors that my children are praying desperately to reveal Christ to, 2 little girls off the street who lost their mother 2 weeks ago and passed by for a drink of water, 13 little girls that have walked through hell and made it out on the other side with a family. Is there anything my lips could say but thank you? I don’t know what to make of it all, but I can’t think of anything to do but praise the God who is always working and will not leave us here. Where I end, He is only just beginning.

Paul says he strains to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of him and isn’t this why He took hold of us -that as we open our lips to praise Him for who He is, He opens our hearts to be transformed in His likeness. He trades my dirty rags for the splendor of Him, breathes new life into dry, dead spaces.

We know the secret: Christ Jesus crucified and risen from the dead reaching out for relationship with you and with me. And a heart turned toward Him is the only way to live full of joy.

On the days when children run around the yard happy and the bread rises warm in the oven and those we’ve been nursing return home with new life in their veins, and on the days when the reading doesn’t get done and I half carry a mother up the hill to the place they will lower her 3 year-old’s body into the ground because of a fever – a fever! -  and life seems too unjust and the head wants to shake “no”, my lips will say yes to all that is Christ and I will adore my Savior.

Communion with God is what we are standing up under here – on the days that go as planned and on the days that don’t. On the days with expectations left unmet and dinner running late because of an extra game of hide-and-seek, on the days that seem mundane and the days that seem magnificent, we are saying yes to all He gives and we are saying thank you.
















O God, you are my God,
I earnestly seek you;
my soul thirsts for you, 
my body longs for you,
in a dry and weary land
where there is not water.

I have seen you in the sanctuary
and beheld your power and your glory.
Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.
I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands.
My soul will be satisfied as with the 
richest of foods;
with singing lips my mouth will praise you. 

Psalm 63:1-5


Awesome photos by my awesome friends Jackie and Kate

272 comments:

«Oldest   ‹Older   201 – 272 of 272
Reflections in the Rearview said...

THANK YOU Katie.... Thank you for listening to Gods voice and surrendering to His will. Thank you for sharing your life and heart to us all. Thank you for de-romanticizing what you do.
You are a beautiful woman, Daughter of the King and Mother to your beautiful daughters.
Im praying for you Katie :-)
Hope that one day our paths will cross....
your sister in Christ,
Aundria

Leanne Pratt said...

Dear Katie,

I know you get oodles of comments, so please don't feel the pressure to respond to mine. I just wanted to say I spent about 5 mon. in Uganda and recently returned. I read a few pages of your book, and from it God brought me great comfort. While there, I learned to be content with God and with Him alone. It was PURE joy, each day, despite the millions of trials, and often because of them. I miss my closeness with God as I have now returned to the US, and to read that you did too meant so much to me. Daily I am crying out to Him, and He is faithful, here to show me He is here with me just as He was in Uganda.

I too knew the love of children at a school I was teaching in, and would have given my life and time to serve them. God has me here now, and I am learning to be content in that too for now.

I'm sure you know the heart crying out for insanity feeling of being in the US after living so sparsely, and living amongst those who have no idea what is going on, and who perhaps think its a phase. I have gotten rid of about 95% of my belongings and it's so great. What's more is I can use the money from them to give to a friend in Uganda. Well the book has encouraged me because in a way in some of my darkest days because we experience/d the same thing, and it meant a lot to me. God bless you, and maybe one day I will see you again in Uganda. :) Leanne

Leanne.Pratt@arbor.edu

Rachel S. said...

Katie,
Everytime I read your blog, I am so encouraged! The words that God gives you to write are life to those that read it!! God's character and heart for us as individuals is so clear as you write about what God is doing in your life! God is using you powerfully! Please, maybe you could share with us how you were first saved, your testimony of how you met Jesus?

Rachel S. said...

Katie,
I thank God I found your blog! I am so refreshed and feel God's powerful love for me and hope for my life as I read your blog! God is using your words and experiences powerfully not only to touch/change your life, those you love and minister to, but also the readers of this blog!! Please, can you share how you first met Jesus and how you were saved?

Amy Lynne said...

Katie,

You have such a gift for drawing others into the joy of communing with Christ. I pray that His anointing power will keep rising up in your spirit!

Love in Christ,
Amy

Hamlton said...

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THAT-GIRL said...

I am reading your book! I am amazed by what God is doing with you! I just wanted to say thanks for telling the world about your story! I spent a week in Guatemala and while we were there someone read your "Bent low" story for one of our devotions. I just want you to know that your story resonates with me! May God continually use you and your love to bring His children to Him!
Much love,
Jenn

Anna Blount said...

Thank you for your book and your blog. I direct a wrap-around Christian ministry for at-risk families in Georgia where we feed, tutor, counsel, and do a host of other things. Many times, it is totally overwhelming. I guess one wouldn't necessarily think that the needs in the States rival those in a 3rd World Country - and in physical terms, they surely don't - but in the sheer need for Jesus and the poverty (not just of possessions but of purpose), it's still really challenging. Your blog is SUCH an encouragment to keep loving the one in front of me. Here's what I wrote about it on my blog:
http://teamupmentoring.wordpress.com/2012/07/18/not-so-organized-chaos/

Brandon Y said...

just finished reading your book late last night (much to late :) but wow! amazing! thanks for the huge encouragement your life has been to me and so many others! God bless you Katie!

Anonymous said...

Just heard about you, Praise the Lord for your faithfulness. Praying for you. Look forward to every word.

Kyle said...

I was moved more by your book than any other book i have read (besides the Bible). What a great testimony of Christ's manifestation in your life through your obedience! I hope to serve in an orphanage in Africa in December or January of next year....Proverbs 3:5-6 / Colossians 3:16-17

Mrs. Nobody said...

I was so challenged and encouraged by your book to long for God's presence and give Him my all. Please don't respond - your time should go to your children!

Laura in Montana said...

Beautiful Katie,

I love this post. I love reading all of your posts. They are real and raw and full of the love of Jesus.

My 12 year old daughter, Lydia, has your book on her bedside table. Your physical beauty captivated her. (You look so much like her swim coach.) The story of your life is captivated something in her soul. Lydia doesn't "know Him, know Him", but witnessing a lives like yours bring her closer to the knowledge of who He is.

We love you even though we have never met you. You ARE awesome. Your life is speaking volumes to so many of us in the West. I know you will be overwhelmed with joy when you find out how many lives you have touched.

Love,
Laura

Jessica said...

Just read your book. SO amazing! I am only 13, but how you felt when you were younger is exactly how I feel. I feel a calling to serve. I want something meaningful to do. Your book gave me the inspiration I needed to look more into helping out at an orphanage or something else. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Katie!!!

hannah michelle said...

Katie,
I'm going to keep it short. Here is a christian 13 year old. I live in the U.S.A. and I want to let you know that you are being prayed for. I have been waiting for your book at the library for 2 months now! You encourage me, I hope I can encourage you. God bless you!
~Much Love Hannah~
My blog
http://hannahbanana2699.blogspot.com/

hannah michelle said...

Katie,
I'm going to keep it short. Here is a christian 13 year old. I live in the U.S.A. and I want to let you know that you are being prayed for. I have been waiting for your book at the library for 2 months now! You encourage me, I hope I can encourage you. God bless you!
~Much Love Hannah~
My blog
http://hannahbanana2699.blogspot.com/

deejah said...

Hello

Just came across your blog and am overwhelmed by what your doing for those children. God bless you for giving hope where there seems to be none and may you also find help in times of need. God bless and increase you.

deejah said...

Hello

I just came across your blog and am overwhelmed at what your doing for the children. Am positive and from Nigeria and would love to follow in your foot steps to help kids also. God bless you for giving hope where there seems to be none, may you also find help in times when you need it. God bless you.

Nancy G. said...

I love reading your Journey and am always touched by God's grace through your written word. I pray that your everyday life continues to be just that, an everyday life that brings glory to God. Thank-you again for your inspiration.

jill said...

Katie,
I just LOVE you. I really do. My husband and I have 5 children and we are adopting 2 children from Ghana. We just returned from Ghana applying for our son's visa and I read your book on the plane and read parts of it to my husband. The Holy Spirit is in your book. I too am a believer - of Jesus Christ. I too, share your conviction of loving our neighbor as ourselves and loving one another as God loves us. I too love the Bible and am so grateful for His words.
I wanted to share something with you as well. I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and in addition to believing in the Bible, I believe in the Book of Mormon, another testament of Jesus Christ. It is the history of the ancient people in America and contains the history of when the Savior visited those people in America. I would love to send you a copy if you wouldn't mind. It contains parts of the bible as well - and is a further witness of Jesus Christ.
I am so touched by everything that you are. I am so blessed by your pure example of faith and testimony. Thank you for living your life in a way to bless so many around you. I know Heavenly Father is so proud of everything that you are doing for his children.
Sincerely, Jill Hirst
Please comment to me if you would like me to send you a copy.

Phoenix said...

Dear Katie,
It is an honor to be able to write to you. I praise God for your your testament. I want to encourage you in the work you are doing of laying up treasures in heaven. You are beautiful inside and out, and have inspired me in a deep way. I have been praying recently about coming to Africa as God has laid it on my heart to do so. If God wills, in a year. Do you have volunteer opportunities?
May you be blessed by the Father continually and may the Holy Spirit be your helper and fill you when you have nothing left to give.
your brother in Christ,
Daniel

Gail said...

Dear Katie,

I read your book out loud to my 88 year old mom, Ruth, who was recovering from a cracked pelvis and severe sciatic nerve pain. She is a dedicated Jesus follower too and was so touched by your tender heart toward Jesus and your trust in HIm.

Last week Mom fell and broke her hip. This week she is recovering in hospital and Jesus is using her to speak to and pray with the people on the unit.

She said, "I keep thinking of Katie and if she can trust like that, then so can I."

God bless you as you continue to trust and inspire us to as well.

You are a treasure!! God bless you and keep you safely in His care.

Romans 15:13 May the God of Hope fill you with all joy and peace, as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Love, Gail Rodgers
www.gailrodgers.ca

Unknown said...

Dear Katie. I've just read your book. I want you to know that many people who have read your book and witnessed your love toward the GOD and other people brought an amazing change in their heart and life. I'll always pray for you and your lovely daughters.

Unknown said...

Dear Katie. I've just read your book. I want you to know that many people all around the world are praying for you, for your lovely daughters and for people in Uganda. Your love toward the God and other people has brought an amazing change in our heart and life. Thank you.

Olga said...

Not knowing where else to "post" this ... I just wanted to let you know I'm saying an extra prayer for you, your family, and the ones you've devoted your life to helping in the country of Uganda as news of the Ebola outbreak reaches us in the States. Prayers for protection and healing and guidance being sent!

Katie Bulmer said...

Well, I think you're awesome too, but I know it's just because of the AMAZINGLY awesome God that shines so clearly through you. Thank you for doing what is hard...being less...so He can be more.

Miraculous Mama said...

What appeals is also what makes you vulnerable to expectation, your ability to take the impossible and to say yes, not to to it but to God who has all the power. We see and admire. We see and are convicted. We see and we seek His face for ways we can say yes.

And when you bleed all these words in hardbound, flashing screen form you bind up these frayed places of detachment from our air conditioned, stop at the mega mart life. When you bleed for us these words broken and beautiful and daring for their vulnerability we are filled up with His light.

And when you bleed for us, for Him, for it's all for Him, the places within you are left washed clean. Empty. Refreshed. Ready. For that much more of Him. That much more of His power. That much more of the breaking off of more life to bleed for Him.

Because of what He's doing, not because of what you need to be typing or writing or doing or any other spotlight of expectation. In the mundane, in the hundreds of suppers or tied shoes, His story weaves them all together. And even though we crave more words from you, children crave more time and more food, and publishers clamor for more hardbound blood it is first Him that begins it. First He that brought you here. First He who made a family out of a girl and a yes. He knew this time would come from that yes. And He knows the next thing. He will fulfill all expectations that need filling and let go the ones that won't matter for His glory.

Sweet woman. Never forget that amidst all the tasks, all the expectations, all the yeses that you are lavishly, crazily, abundantly loved beyond measure-poured out and bled just for you and such a time as this exact one.

Thank you. For the loving. For the faith. For the sharing. For the bleeding Him into our lives

Amanda said...

A simple thank you is all I can offer up for your wonderful words of encouragement. Praying for you and your girls, God Bless!
Amanda M. ~ Ohio

Joanna said...

Dear Katie,
Thank you for being available to the LORD. Thank you for NOT trying to make it look glamorous but for being real about the highs and lows, the questions, the doubts, the struggles. Those days when there is a dead rotting rat behind the stove, the days when you spend cleaning up vomit KEEP remembering it is a glorious thing BECAUSE you are doing it for the Lord.
Thank you for sharing the details of the conditions... though sometimes even hard to read... we need to know and we need to not turn away! Thank you for not turning away.
Praying for you today and that the LORD uses my family to minister to those who are ophaned and in need of the love of our Saviour!
a sister in Christ,
Joanna White

Casey said...

Hey Katie,

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

I just wanted to give a quick encouragement to you and say thank you for the example you've set of following Christ. I've been memorizing 2 Timothy and multiple times Paul mentions suffering for the gospel. Even though I know you wouldn't ultimately classify your life as "suffering" for the gospel, I also know that at times it is exactly that. So I just wanted to remind you of Romans 8:18-30 and then on down from verse 31-38. Remember that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing to the glory that is to be revealed to us.

Since I first heard of your life in Christ Jesus and the ministry that flows from it, I have prayed for you often, that you may be ever increasingly filled with the fruits of the Holy Spirit and be able exemplify those to the dying world around us. I just finished reading your book today. It was probably the most timely book I've ever read. In the midst of having some tough decisions to make, through your story God has reminded me of what it means to be obedient to Him in everything and give up the things I continue to hold on to. I thank Him for the story He speaks through you.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Casey

Casey said...

Hey Katie,

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

I just wanted to send a quick encouragement to you and thank you for choosing to follow Christ with your life. Since I have been made aware of your story, I pray for you often, that you would be ever increasingly filled with the Holy Spirit and exemplify His fruits to the dying world around us. I just finished reading your book today and it was probably the most timely book I have ever read. In the midst of having to make some tough decisions, God has used your story to teach me more about what it means to follow Him with everything and to trust that His ways actually are insurmountably high above my own ways.

Over the past few weeks I have been memorizing 2 Timothy. Multiple times Paul talks about suffering for the gospel. I know you wouldn't ultimately classify your life as "suffering" for the gospel, but I also know that at times it is exactly that. So I just wanted to remind you of Romans 8:18-30 and then from verse 31 on down to 38. The sufferings that you face at this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

Thanks again for serving our infinitely worthy Savior.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Casey

Anonymous said...

You are so beautiful, inside and out. Thankyou xx

Hannah said...

Katie, I recently wrote a blog post about how your most recent post was used of God in my life. I wanted to share it with you and thank you!

http://hannahmillerking.blogspot.com/2012/07/clinging-in-noise_31.html

Thankful for your ministry of honesty and openness.

Diane said...

Hi Katie,

Thank you for your book and this blog! I hope you had a beautiful day and maybe are sleeping now. It is encouraging and heartwarming to see all God does, oceans apart from me and right next door to me too. Just wanted to write a quick note and say "thanks" and God bless!

Diane in VA

Stephanie said...

Just finished your book tonight, Katie. Thanks for trusting in God through hard times, for having courage in uncertain times, and for saying thanks in everything.

Your story is truly inspiring and makes my heart ache. In the post-bedtime stillness, I wonder, "What can I, a mother of three little girls do? How can I give more, be more, love more?"

stephanie@stephaniesheaffer.com

Anonymous said...

The first picture is so beautiful! I love it!
Sophie

Meryl Justin and Eden's JOYs said...

So inspired by you. My husband plays MLB baseball and I am going to use his small but big platform to spread GOD'S word and you have been my inspiration! Just put this book down and God is opening doors and I am saying YES to whatever it is he has for me! Life now truly has a purpose and you say it best when you say there is noooo better feeling then to be standing in the middle of God's plan for your life, watching as he orchestrates the rest for you!!!!!! GOD Bless you and thank you for writing the book Kisses from Katie, and for taking the time out of your AMAZING tiring grueling days to connect to so many people in this world. Can't wait to join you in what you are doing, and would love to visit some day. IS that even possible?
Kiss those amazing kids of yours for us Mastersons.
love to you sister.
Meryl

Meryl Justin and Eden's JOYs said...

So inspired by you. My husband plays MLB baseball and I am going to use his small but big platform to spread GOD'S word and you have been my inspiration! Just put this book down and God is opening doors and I am saying YES to whatever it is he has for me! Life now truly has a purpose and you say it best when you say there is noooo better feeling then to be standing in the middle of God's plan for your life, watching as he orchestrates the rest for you!!!!!! GOD Bless you and thank you for writing the book Kisses from Katie, and for taking the time out of your AMAZING tiring grueling days to connect to so many people in this world. Can't wait to join you in what you are doing, and would love to visit some day. IS that even possible?
Kiss those amazing kids of yours for us Mastersons.
love to you sister.
Meryl

Sharon P said...

Dear Katie,

Kudos on your faith, courage, and compassion. Much weight God placed on your shoulders in following our Savior...and from being a "follower" of Christ, birthed a faithful, courageous, and compassionate "Leader" and with that He bestows an additonal weight of His Cross for you to bear. You, through your book, lectures, and other communications are leading so many to become followers and pick up their cross. That must be an amazing feeling for you to know because you are not just helping save people's lives but helping save souls at the same time around the world...that's awesome. Now that's a Mom doing two things at once!

Remember not to feel guilty that your accomplishments in a day are not as many as you had hoped for or that your goals were not completed as had been desired. For even in your death, your book and life story would continue to bring people to Christ and that also is just Awesome to know! Sometimes the words of Sister Faustina and Saint John Vianney and Sister Josepha Menendez helps to bring things back into perspective for me at times.

His mercy is for All to receive and that every deed we perform from each breath we inhale, each footstep we take, to every time our heart beats, if given up for the glory of God, brings Him consolation and obtains more mercy for others.

As Sister Josepha Menendez wrote in which Jesus told her "I do not look at the act itself, I look at the intention." "The smallest act, if even done out of love, acquires such merit that it gives Me immense consolation....I want only love, I ask for nothing else."(The way of Divine Mercy, pg. 215)

And I say to that...."Amen" a thousand times!
We continue to keep you in our hearts, minds, and prayers daily!
God has bestowed many graces on You.

Sharon :O)

Sharon P said...

Dear Katie,

Kudos on your faith, courage, and compassion. Much weight God placed on your shoulders in following our Savior...and from being a "follower" of Christ, birthed a faithful, courageous, and compassionate "Leader" and with that He bestows an additonal weight of His Cross for you to bear. You, through your book, lectures, and other communications are leading so many to become followers and pick up their cross. That must be an amazing feeling for you to know because you are not just helping save people's lives but helping save souls at the same time around the world...that's awesome. Now that's a Mom doing two things at once!

Remember not to feel guilty that your accomplishments in a day are not as many as you had hoped for or that your goals were not completed as had been desired. For even in your death, your book and life story would continue to bring people to Christ and that also is just Awesome to know! Sometimes the words of Sister Faustina and Saint John Vianney and Sister Josepha Menendez helps to bring things back into perspective for me at times.

His mercy is for All to receive and that every deed we perform from each breath we inhale, each footstep we take, to every time our heart beats, if given up for the glory of God, brings Him consolation and obtains more mercy for others.

As Sister Josepha Menendez wrote in which Jesus told her "I do not look at the act itself, I look at the intention." "The smallest act, if even done out of love, acquires such merit that it gives Me immense consolation....I want only love, I ask for nothing else."(The way of Divine Mercy, pg. 215)

And I say to that...."Amen" a thousand times!
We continue to keep you in our hearts, minds, and prayers daily!
God had deeply graced You.

Sharon :O)

Sharon P said...

Dear Katie,

Kudos on your faith, courage, and compassion. Much weight God placed on your shoulders in following our Savior...and from being a "follower" of Christ, birthed a faithful, courageous, and compassionate "Leader" and with that He bestows an additonal weight of His Cross for you to bear. You, through your book, lectures, and other communications are leading so many to become followers and pick up their cross. That must be an amazing feeling for you to know because you are not just helping save people's lives but helping save souls at the same time around the world...that's awesome. Now that's a Mom doing two things at once!

Remember not to feel guilty that your accomplishments in a day are not as many as you had hoped for or that your goals were not completed as had been desired. For even in your death, your book and life story would continue to bring people to Christ and that also is just Awesome to know! Sometimes the words of Sister Faustina and Saint John Vianney and Sister Josepha Menendez helps to bring things back into perspective for me at times.

His mercy is for All to receive and that every deed we perform from each breath we inhale, each footstep we take, to every time our heart beats, if given up for the glory of God, brings Him consolation and obtains more mercy for others.

As Sister Josepha Menendez wrote in which Jesus told her "I do not look at the act itself, I look at the intention." "The smallest act, if even done out of love, acquires such merit that it gives Me immense consolation....I want only love, I ask for nothing else."(The way of Divine Mercy, pg. 215)

And I say to that...."Amen" a thousand times!
We continue to keep you in our hearts, minds, and prayers daily!
God had deeply graced You.

Sharon :O)

Anonymous said...

Dear Katie,
Are you ok?
I just started reading your blog this summer and hope things are ok for you. I pray for you. Heard about ebola virus during olympics. Are you affected in your area?
Praying for you all.
Please blog so we don't worry, if you can.

TC said...

Thank you, Katie! The truths you write about are a great reality check. It's a blessing to hear of your life. Praising God for His work in and through you and asking Him to bless you & yours.

Jesse David Ochocki said...

Hey Katie,

I just read about your ministry. Your story is inspiring. I think a lot of Christian girls could duplicate your type of ministry in other second and third world countries. Keep seeking the Lord. I wish you all the best. -Jesse David Ochocki

Unknown said...

Hi.

I do not know if or how well you know my sister, but she has your blog on her page. I do not know very much about her writing, simply that it is important to her, and I believe the friends she has made through her writing are important to her. Her birthday is coming up, and I am trying to make her a present that will be useful to her through the years. I'm trying to make her a 'love book'.

When I was in high school, my best friend made me one. It's a scrapbook, and on each and every page is a note or letter from a different person. And the point of the letters is to point out something about you that they enjoy or think is wonderful, something that's unique. Something positive about you that you might not notice or always remember. It could be some way you've encouraged that person, etc. So I have my book that I've been able to look to when I’m not feeling so great about myself, and I would like to make one for my sister. Her name is Amy and her blog is http://overweightsofjoy.blogspot.com

If you do know her, and you would like to be a part of her birthday present, Please let me know. I have just over a month (I've always been a procrastinator) to get everything together. I purchased the book already, and I'm assuming that for those of my sisters friends who live far away (like Uganda), if you would like to contribute, you can write whatever you want to say, and I'll print it and put it in the book.

There is a chance that you don't actually know Amy, and if so that's fine, I'm simply trying to get as many people who do know her to contribute as I possibly can.

Thank you,
Chrissy

OH... and it's obviously a surprise. So please don't mention it to her.
Thanks again.
christinshaw@yahoo.com

The Flamingo said...

Finished your book at 12:40 a.m. last night with a new perspective. Just dropping by to say thank you for caring for the widows and orphans. I'm committed now to stepping up and doing my part, whatever that looks like.

Anonymous said...

Hi Katie,
I only just heard about your ministry for the first time this past week. It's such an encouragement to see God using one more person to carry out His work to His world. I just ordered your book so that I can continue to be encouraged by your story. I'm going to take some time away to pray for you and your ministry tonight. May God bless all of the children that you touch.

Your distant brother in Christ,

Paul

Arlene said...

Katie,
I found your book on a "Christian" book table at Barnes & Noble. I bought it on August 8 and finished reading it tonight, August 12th. My daughter wants to read it next.

My husband and I have been on 5 mission trips to Kenya. Our first trip was in 2005 and our last was in February 2011. We had planned to go this September but security in the area we go to prohibits us for now.

From our first trip to Kenya, our hearts were stolen by Africa . . . by the children and women of Kenya. Reading your story, and the story of the children, and seeing their faces is like being there. Maybe one day, God willing, we can come to Uganda.

In the meantime, I will be praying for you and your daughters and the children and people you minister to. I will also give financial support.

Love and blessings,
Arlene

McKenna said...

Katie, I just wanted to thank you for being real. Thank you for pouring out your heart on this blog and in your book. I am getting ready to leave everything I have ever known to go serve in Brazil and as a American teenage girl that can be hard sometimes. But your story and testimony has encouraged me in ways you can't even imagine. Thank you for letting God use your life to encourage me and so many others. My prayers are with you <3

Tina said...

I just read your book. It was amazing and beautiful. You truly are an inspiration. The way that you listen to the Holy Spirit really is awe inspiring. Thank you for your lessons. I am forever changed by you and your beautiful family. You are now on my prayer list daily.
Tina Winkler

Tiffney said...

Your book has inspired me and I'm only on chapter 5. I got ask the same question "If you had everything and all the money in the world what would you do with it" and I was thinking I heard that question somewhere and it was from you. It was either your book or video. Can't remember which one. I want to be like you one day if God is willing. :)

Kyla said...

I have been recently reading your book "Kisses from Katie" and it is a great book! I have been thinking of becoming a missionary for some time now. The book has been so encouraging, and makes me bunches more excited to be a missionary! I am overwhelmed with every chapter about how God is working in your life! He is so good! Praying for you!

Diana said...

Katie, my girls and I have read your book and are encouraged to see you living so fully in your call to abundant life in Him. I appreciate your view of holding even the small things in life up to Jesus...even if it is messy-as we all moms can testify is not easy! To say the least when you've moved across the world--but life isn't mean to be easy. Or comfortable, which is so easy to become accustomed to here in the states. I appreciate your honesty, truth of God's tugging at your heart, and ability to use your gift of writing and communication for His Glory. Praying for you-

Sarah Beth said...

Your blog has been such an inspiration and encouragement to me. I, too, feel called to dream "outside the lines" per say. My desires are big, His are bigger. I'd encourage you to remember that He is your sanctuary. And every need will be met through Him. :)

Amanda Fischer said...

I am 13 years old. I read your book after my mom did and she recommended that I read it too. I was especially interested in the part where you said when you were about 12 or 13 was when you really started thinking about what God wanted you to do with your life (I think that's what it said; not exactly sure!). The same is true of me. I have been raised a Christian, but it was only this year that I truly "came alive" and my eyes were really opened to what the life of a Christian should be. Part of that was realizing that I have a heart for the nations. I've yet to see where that will go, but I'm sure it will be somewhere amazing. If more Christians were like you...the world would be a very different place. I hope one day, I will get to see amazing results of saying "yes" to God in my own life. Thank you for writing a book that has encouraged so many people.

Anonymous said...

dear katie.
there is so much encouragement in your sharing heart. even though it is not perfect, you just sharing raw realities, truth and hope encourages me tremendously. for now, i am in a place i never thought i would be. america. it was the last place i wanted to go and God sent me. now, i praise Him as He teaches me not to differ between the refugees i had been living with and serving in south africa and my neighbor here in pennsylvania. it is so hard to fight, even just in my heart against the comfort here and the "easy life". and i think it is more of a struggle here than in South Africa. and this is what is on Gods agenda for me right now. Love your neighbor. in africa. in germany. in pennsylvania. everywhere you go. no matter where. so he is changing my heart and its hard. super hard sometimes. and your raw entries of faith shake me and say: you dont have to go to africa to love your neighbor. dont make excuses. love extravagantly. give til it hurts. i need to do that. here. now. thank you for reminding me. again. karise.

Katie Hobson said...

praying for you in Uganda right now! the Lord used your blog years ago to open my eyes... don't even have enough room here to explain all the ways.. but i thought of you just now and prayed for you and wanted you to know. :)

-another katie in (memphis) tennessee

lindsay said...

katie, your sweet life is such an encouragement to my heart. you make me love jesus more. thank you for you faithfulness in following our savior

lindsay said...

katie, your sweet life is such an encouragement to me. you make me love jesus more. thank you for your faithfulness to our savior.

lindsay said...

katie, you sweet life is such an encouragement to me. you make me love jesus more. thank you for your faithfulness to our saviour

Anonymous said...

Hey Katie!
I've read your book and i am praying for you and your dear girls. I am praying for Amazima and all the people you come into contact with in Masease and the women over there you reach! I am buying a necklace and your beloved family is in my prayers! Love you,sister! -Ashley Banks, USA

Carissa said...

Hi Katie!

One of my sisters found your blog and got your book from the library... I've had a thought going around in my mind for a while now that I wanted to share with you. :)

In the world's (and even some Christian's, sadly) eyes, what you've done is insane--or utterly amazing, astonishing.

But, really--the more I've thought about it, the more I think you are one of the most sane, normal Christians I've heard of. Your response to the gospel, to God's word, is exactly what everyone's response should be--thankful, loving obedience.

So--thank you for your example, and thank you for being a [what should be] normal Christian girl. :D

Christ in you is amazing.

Keep hoping, keep loving, and keep obeying.

May God be with you yet more and more.

In Christ's love,
Carissa

P.S. You are just a bit older than me... I turned 22 this year. :)

Kendra said...

How ever much you have given up of yourself to tell your story to many you will never know - you have in turn become Jesus' living light here on earth - you are an example of how to live faithfully and deeply in all that life brings your way. This example for others to draw strength from and an example for which to gleen from is a true blessing and gift. And for that we are truly thankful!

Marie's World... said...

Hello Katie! My mother received your book for her birthday in June, and I just picked it up this afternoon and finished it in three hours. :)

I am beyond words in the joy that I feel when I hear how God is working through you. I am the same age as you actually, so to read your book is to hear some echoes of my own struggles, yet you my friend, are more fulfilled and blessed than i'd ever be able to know! I've also spoken with Bob Goff, who's book has also recently inspired me.. and I feel that i would like to visit Uganda sometime in the near future! Until then, many many prayers to you and your children.

Thank you for writing this blog, I hope you realize just how much you are being used to minister to all of us in the States as well!! Blessings!

~Jennifer

Marie's World... said...

Hello Katie! My mother received your book for her birthday in June, and I just picked it up this afternoon and finished it in three hours. :)

I am beyond words in the joy that I feel when I hear how God is working through you. I am the same age as you actually, so to read your book is to hear some echoes of my own struggles, yet you my friend, are more fulfilled and blessed than i'd ever be able to know! I've also spoken with Bob Goff, who's book has also recently inspired me.. and I feel that i would like to visit Uganda sometime in the near future! Until then, many many prayers to you and your children.

Thank you for writing this blog, I hope you realize just how much you are being used to minister to all of us in the States as well!! Blessings!

~Jennifer

Mike said...

It sounds like you are on a spiritual journey. Don't stay up late at night to much. Your health should always be number 1. Your book is going to be awesome. Just what my heart says.

Gerilynne said...

Oh my! What a beautiful blog and how gracious you are to share your struggles, thoughts and joys with us. Something about your writing style reminds me of Bishop Sheen's book, Treasure In Clay. He too, loved spending an hour with Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. May God continue to bless your ministry.

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Enid Jones said...

Thank you for sharing. Thank you for being honest. I cant imagine what is like for you there. But, being a Mom...in general...is a pretty amazing job. It's long hours, never ending list, never ending messes,no sick days (for mom), never enough rest,the list can go on really. But, it is rewarding. More than any raise, or title. When your children look up at you and say "Mommy, your the best Mommy in the whole world!" it makes, the noise not so loud, the messes not so big, and life not so boring. I hope you have many "Mommy, your the best" moments today and in the days to come! I pray your children will rise up and call you blessed. That God would give us all the Grace needed to keep going, fighting this good fight. That we would win the race set before us!

Anonymous said...

Just finished reading your book. Thanks so much for giving me this God-gift. I had been feeling weary/discouraged about my work with the children in my resource room who come with so many issues emotionally, physically, psychologically, academically...a potpourri of RAD, behavior disorders, autism, low IQs, broken homes.

Your writing helped me get back on track with loving these kids unconditionally and then letting God work out the details through me to helping them with their various issues.

Praying you will feel God-loved today and that his precious arms of grace will surround you.

Friend in Christ

Anonymous said...

Katie, I'm using a large chunk of this update to read on Mother's Day at our church tomorrow to really encourage moms in the Lord! The Lord is using you in far-reaching places! Love NEVER fails!
Your sis in Christ,
Jen

Anonymous said...

Thank you Katie,
"To god be the glory for the things he has done." God led me to your book at a library book sale this weekend. I was curious just by seeing the cover. Once I opened it up I just couldn't put it down. I have shared your story with several people at work and in my family. I marvel at your gift of prophesy, servant and anointing. Thank you for the edification on the western world philosophy of materialism, acculturation and the newest definition of affluenza. I learned the meaning of affluenza this morning while listening to a news story about a 15 y/o from a wealthy family that murdered a family while driving drunk and is privilaged to go to a 2 yr rehabilitation as time served. Unbelievable. Anyway, thank you for teachining me and the world more about Jesus!!
Deirdra

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