New Horizons (Part 3)

I wrote this the evening we returned from San Antonio, but with my internet down I've been unable to post it... until now.

Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home...

Finally in their own beds, my precious ones sleep; but before joining them I wanted to take a few moments and reflect on the past week...

When we left for San Antonio, I was unsure of God's purpose in sending us. Although mortal man can never fully comprehend the ways of God, I do believe, in retrospect, that this week was a test. And I believe I passed.

From the time I was small, my life has been one of big dreams-- but little action. I love to plan, to devise, to scheme; but I don't work diligently at the details. This is something I have repeatedly excused as not pertaining to my personality, (I'm not a detailed person) but God calls us to be faithful in the little things and not to despise the day of small beginnings.

When I was terrified on Monday morning and overwhelmed to the point of tears, I believe it was because I finally met people who were accomplishing the things of which I have merely dreamed. But instead of being daunted by that fact, my beloved husband encouraged me to use the opportunity to learn all I can from those who do know what they're doing.

Further complicating the week was the fact that my family came with me on my trip. I wanted them there. But as a potential film maker, I also needed to network with other film makers. For the entire week, my attention was torn. If you ask my Mom, she'll tell you that I have always wanted to be where the action was. When something was happening, that's where I could be found. But this trip was different. As much as I enjoyed the Academy and the Film Festival, in truth I wanted to be with my family, because I truly wanted to share the experiences of the week with them. The night before the Film Festival started, we had planned to go out to eat, but all three of the girls were sick. I was not disappointed like I would have been in the past. Instead, it was joy to spend the evening loving and nurturing them.

The rest of the week was insane, as Thom and I tried to juggle the care of 3 sick girls and the movies that we each wanted to see. But I truly delighted in the time spent with my family and I realize anew that my place is with them. That doesn't mean that we won't make a film. I hope we do. But I think I finally got my priorities right. My identity is not found in my drama class, or my productions, or any film that we may possibly make some day; rather my identity is in Christ, so I am thrilled to be right where He wants me-- at HOME. 

I am so thankful my family could share this with me!

Meanwhile, we will continue to pray for His guidance and seek His wisdom regarding the possibility of making films. There is still so much I want to share with you...

Flame On

Tonight I was going to share with you the story of how my sweet husband helped me overcome my fears so I could really enjoy the Film Maker's Academy, but there's another story that I can't get out of my mind.

At the film festival this afternoon, the girls and I went to see a super-cute documentary about Monarch butterflies. Since Felicity wants to be a "butterfly trainer" when she grows up, I thought it might be helpful. It was great! The only problem was that Brigitta had forgotten to bring her pink blanket, it was nap time, and Daddy was upstairs watching a guy film. After crying repeated for her lovey, she finally fretted herself to sleep... about 30 seconds before the credits rolled! (This is not an exaggeration!)

Usually, after one movie ends, the theater attendant gives the movie makers an opportunity to speak and take questions from the audience, and I was excited about meeting the family that made the film. But time was short so the next one started playing almost immediately. I didn't know what to do. Thom was expecting us to meet him at the hotel, but the girls were getting wrapped up in the new story. I had a sleeping 3-year-old and a cumbersome carry-on bag. There was no way we were getting out of the theater gracefully! Especially from the front row.  Well, I figured I'd just let the girls watch a few minutes of the movie and then leave when they got bored. What I didn't expect is that I would literally be riveted to my seat...

The story playing was a 40 minute documentary of the Jasper family's experience with a tragedy that none of us wants to even imagine, the death of a precious child. Drawing on the Scriptures, it examines God's sovereignty and our responsibility, while pointing to the grace and mercy of a loving Father. I wept uncontrollably. When Cooper's tombstone was shown, I noticed instantly that he shared a birthday with our Brigitta-- today he would have been 8 years old. As if I wasn't already crying enough, I could not restrain the sobs, knowing that this precious family was grieving and missing a piece of themselves today.

Walking out of the theater, the last thing I expected was to come face to face with the Jasper family and to have them hand me a free copy of their DVD. I was speechless with grief. Yet there they were, testifying to God's love and mercy. As though I had known her all my life, I embraced Melanie Jasper and wept. Then I promised her that we would pray for their family every year on this date. When we celebrate the birth of our little one, we will remember the one that they lost and pray that his story "Flame On" will be an inspiration and encouragement to many.

"There are no words to describe how we hurt. But God's sovereignty and His character do not change. He is still a good God. We knew that intellectually, and now we know it experimentally." ~J.J. Jasper

Cooper and his Daddy

New Horizons (Part 2)

When we left Pensacola on Friday afternoon, I was confident that the God Who had provided for our journey would accompany us every step of the way. But the fear of the unknown was heavy. While I may come off as a confident person to those who know me, in truth I am full of insecurity, so venturing into a brand new world like this was simply terrifying.

After chasing the mailman furtively around the neighborhood for a package, which ended up containing the wrong cord to our GPS; and then going back to the house for something I forgot, we were finally on our way! Accompanying us to San Antonio was our friend, Matthew Sample, an incredible Graphics Designer and computer genius. (Very brave soul!)

That first night we drove to Louisiana and it rained the whole way. Drenched from a week's soaking, Mom LeBlanc's yard was like a rice paddy as we sloshed to the door carrying the girls. All night long it rained! Then, the entire trip to Houston on Saturday was nothing but rain, rain, rain! (Some day I would like to hear a logical explanation as to why people drive even more crazy when its raining, but suffice it to say that, after a few very narrow incidents, we are miraculously alive and well!)

Sunday morning had its own challenge as we headed north of Houston for church. Of course, the GPS refused to work. Stopping at McD's for a WiFi hotspot, we discovered that the internet was down. Now what? Should we have church in the car on our way to San Antonio, or continue north praying the GPS would find the signal before we passed our exit? After contacting a few friends and messing around more with the GPS, we finally arrived at Grace Family Baptist Church where Voddie Baucham preaches. His message on Daniel 1 was incredible, and very timely, as he reminded us that Daniel and his friends were not primarily educated by the Babylonians. They were trained at home. And that training provided them for the unimaginable horrors they endured at the hands of the Babylonians. "Don't go to Babylon for training" Voddie warned, "Only by godly training can we withstand the ways of Babylon." Following a fellowship meal at GFBC, we were on the road to San Antonio.

It was 6 PM when we arrived at the Marriott Hotel, and by then the butterflies in my stomach were doing all kinds of circus performances. (Yes, I do get nervous.) As we made our way to the front desk, I passed a familiar face and turned to look. (Is it just me or do you find it strange when you've only seen someone on screen and then finally meet them in person?) Thankfully, the 3D version of Isaac Botkin is just as pleasant and confident as his screen presence, and his sincere welcome helped quiet the anxiety of my heart (a little). Within an hour I would meet his mother, Victoria, and find her company such an encouragement and blessing.

But that didn't keep the butterflies away. Early the next morning I was totally and completely daunted by the size of the crowd that was gathered outside the Hidalgo Ballroom, waiting for admission. I'm still not sure how many students were present at the Film Makers Academy this year, but it was at least twice as many as I expected. Standing around with their Mac computers and sleek iPads, I literally felt as insignificant as a smudge on a page. How I wished I had not come!

(to be continued.....)

(I was sitting in the far right when this was taken, so I doubt you can see me.)

This is Mine!

"There is not one square inch of the entire creation about which Jesus Christ does not cry out, 'This is mine! This belongs to me!'" - Abraham B. Kuyper

Among the many themes taught in this year's academy, this one seems to be prevalent. Whether we are cooking a meal, working a mundane job, writing a book, or making a film, we are called to be stewards of God's time and to render all things to His will.

There is so much that I want to share with you all about the things I am learning and experiencing, but my time with my family is already so short that I can't stand the thought of being away from them any longer than necessary. I do hope to keep everyone updated, but for now I want to thank you all for your love and prayers. May the Lord bless and keep you!

New Horizons (Part 1)

Tonight I'm sitting in the lobby of the Marriott hotel in San Antonio, TX and am frankly bewildered by the events that brought me here. Yes, I believe in miracles. Yes, God owns the cattle on a thousand hills. But how did I get here? Ever since I first heard about the SAICFF (San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival) I have desired to attend. But I was too practical to let my hopes get elevated.

Thinking back on the events that brought me to this hour, I must conclude that I am here solely by the sovereign plan of God...

In September, as I finished writing our stage play for Greasy the Robber, I began to have an overwhelming desire to produce it as a film. True, I love stage plays. I'm comfortable with them. But they lack a certain realistic quality that films possess. Prayerfully considering this, I was shocked when my husband agreed that we should turn it into a movie. Scarcely daring to dream or pray, I knew how much I would be blessed by the Filmmakers' Academy and Film Festival in San Antonio. Fearing that my request was selfish, I did utter one prayer asking God to reveal His will to me-- but more importantly, to my husband.

Ten days later, I was contacted anonymously by someone who wanted to pay my registration to the Academy and Festival. I was shocked! It isn't that I didn't believe God could answer my prayer, but I didn't expect that He would.

Through an unusual series of events, not only am I sitting here in the lobby of this hotel, but my family is upstairs sleeping in a beautiful hotel room paid for by another precious family.

I know that I shouldn't be surprised when God performs according to His nature; blessing His children exceeding, abundantly, above all they could ask or think, but I am humbled and overwhelmed by His direction and grace. As I anticipate tomorrow's class, it is with an excited terror. I don't know what God has in store for our family, but we look forward to broadening our horizons this week, as we explore the art of Christian film making and seek His guidance for our place in it.

May He receive all the praise, and honor, and glory... 

for He alone is worthy!

New Update on Witvoet Family

The Witvoets have moved to the Ramada Inn a little closer to their house. They plan to be there for a whole week while looking for a good place to rent. As we spoke this morning, Angi wanted me to thank everyone for the prayers, cards, gifts, and phone calls. They welcome them all! Having so many friends and strangers manifesting God's love during this time has been such a blessing. Please feel free to call or write anytime!

Gerrit and Angi Witvoet

PO Box 57

Auburntown, TN 37016

 (615) 444-7400 (Room #122)

Blessings that Outweigh Tragedy

 This morning, as I spoke to Angi Witvoet on the phone, I was struck again by the attitude of the family through this very difficult time. After losing their home and everything in it to a fire on Monday morning, Angi sincerely assured me that "the blessings far outweigh the tragedy."

It's true that they watched their home go up in smoke. Many precious items were incinerated. But they escaped with their lives and they are SO thankful.

Since the fire, they have been blessed in many ways by family, friends, and strangers. Many of my readers have sent cards and gifts, some still on the way. And the prayers of the saints have lifted and encouraged this family in their time of need.

Currently, my mom and little sisters are in Murfreesboro with the Witvoets and were able to bless them today with some much needed items. The church that I contacted on Wednesday has also given assistance, even paying for them to have an extra night in the hotel while they're looking for a place to rent. And one of the firemen who came to the site noticed that he and Gerrit wore the same size shoe and so he blessed him with a pair boots. (When you're size 14, boots aren't that easy to come by.) Other locals have helped also, and the calls they have received from friends and strangers have blessed them immensely.

From Pensacola, I am trying to do what I can to help, but it's hard being this far away. However, just the increased traffic on my blog has been such an encouragement to me; for I realize that if everyone who comes to this site will just pray for the Witvoets, they will be blessed beyond measure!

On Thursday I was able to send 4 packages to the Witvoets. In just a short amount of time, we were able to put together two boxes of clothes; one box of books, including brand new Bibles which Mount Zion donated for all the children; and a manilla envelope stuffed with cards, letters, and pictures. Lord willing, we will be sending another box this Thursday, so if you're local and would like to donate some items, please let me know!

When asked by relatives what he would have rescued, had he been given the chance to save one thing, young Benjamin replied, "I would have saved Papa's briefcase and his keys." After it was explained that he was to pick something special that he wanted to save, Benjamin persisted, "I would still save Papa's briefcase and keys, because they were important to Papa and so they are important to me."
 
Even in the midst of tragedy, there are wonderful blessings, special moments, and extraordinary grace...

 Isaac, Gerrit, Grady, and Benjamin before the fire

Related Articles:
Fiery Trials
Witvoet Update 2/8/12
Witvoet Update 2/6/12
Prayer for the Witvoets

Fiery Trials

"Affliction hardens those it does not soften." ~ Charles Spurgeon

How true this is! Sometimes affliction makes us humble, pliable, trusting; other times it angers, confuses, and hardens us. Why? Is it the nature of the affliction? Or the state of our hearts? Can trusting God make that much of a difference?

Yes, I believe it does. Knowing that God is sovereign over all takes fear and doubt out of the equation. The pain is no less real, the trial no less strong. But trusting the hand of a Loving Father gives strength, courage, and confidence-- even through unbelievable human tragedy.

When we realize that not one molecule has, is, or ever will be outside of God's control, then we can trust and not be afraid...

Last night I spoke to Desire Witvoet on the phone. She is a lovely young lady with a birthday coming up next week (I think she'll be 23) After going through so much in just a few days, she was still able to smile, laugh, and consider others above herself. As I spoke to her, I thought of my favorite quote by John Newton:

"Notwithstanding any present dark appearances, it shall certainly be well with the righteous... God can and will make crooked things straight; and He often produces the greatest good from those events which we are apt to look upon as evil." (John Newton, More than a Calvinist)

Even after losing everything in a fire on Monday morning, the Witvoet family is so thankful that all are alive and well. The Red Cross gave them 3 nights in a hotel there in Murfreesboro, but they have to find other arrangements today. Also be praying for them as they meet with the owner of the house today. (They were under a rent-to-own contract)

The Lord was gracious and allowed me to find a good church in that area from the NCFIC website. Gladly taking my call, the Pastor of Eagleville Baptist went out and met the family, praying with them and giving them some much needed assistance. What a wonderful thing is the family of God!

I cannot express how grateful I am to all of you who prayed, shared this on facebook, sent cards and gifts, collected clothes, etc... There are still many needs; but the outpouring of love from the saints in just a few short days is such a blessing! Thank you!

Rose and Desire Witvoet, just before the fire

 I now have a phone number for the Witvoets, but would rather not share it here. Please send me an email or facebook message if you would like to call. They have truly enjoyed all of the encouragement they have received already.

"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." (John 13:35)

Related Article:
Witvoet Update 2/8/12
Update on Witvoets 2/6/12
Prayers for Witvoet family

WITVOET UPDATE: 2/8/12

WITVOET UPDATE: 2/8/12

I will be sending a box to the Witvoet family on 2/9 and 2/16 if you would like to include something. Here are just a few ideas:

Clothes
Jackets
Sweaters
Shoes
Socks
Games (their favorites are Dutch Blitz, Uno, and Monopoly)
Books (wholesome family stories age 10-adult)

Here are their clothing sizes, for those that asked:
Boy pants- 12, 16, 30/34, 34/36
Boy shirts- 12, 16, Men's Small, Medium, and Large
Boy Shoes- 6, 10, 13, 14, 11
Girls Dress- 4, 6, 10/12
Girls Shoes- All three of them wear size 8-1/2 or 9


The Witvoets are home-educators, but I don't know what they need in regards to schooling. I'm sure crayons, markers, pencils, etc... would be really helpful. Hopefully, I can get a list of curriculum needs later, when things have settled a bit. I do know that they love Spunky Math, as well as Rod and Staff. Grade levels probably 5th-10th. Since the kids love to learn through reading, Children's Encyclopedia's or other reference type books would be ideal.

Witvoet Family (a few days before the fire)

If you would like to send a card and /or gift, please send it to the address below:

Gerrit and Angi Witvoet

PO Box 57

Auburntown, TN 37016

THANK YOU!!!

Related links:

Update on the Witvoets 2/6/12

Prayers for Witvoet family

Update on the Witvoets

UPDATE: Red Cross is putting the family up at a hotel in Murfreesboro, TN for a few days, while they try to get things sorted. The family is still in shock, but they are praising God for His mercy in sparing their lives.

Here are the before and after photos that Gerrit's sister just sent me:

BEFORE

 

AFTER

If you would like to send a card and /or gift, please send it to the address below:

Gerrit and Angi Witvoet

PO Box 57

Auburntown, TN 37016

THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE AND PRAYERS!!!

Here are their clothing sizes, for those that asked:
Boy pants- 12, 16, 30/34, 34/36
Boy shirts- 12, 16, Men's Small, Medium, and Large
Boy Shoes- 6, 10, 13, 14, 11
Girls Dress- 4, 6, 10/12
Girls Shoes- All three of them wear size 8-1/2 or 9

Prayers for the Witvoet family

This morning we were grieved to hear that our very dear friends, the Witvoet family in Murfreesboro TN, lost their house to a fire last night. As devastated as they must be right now, they are praising God for His mercy in sparing their lives and their 6 children. Angie had the presence of mind to grab her purse on the way out the door, and the children rescued their dogs and parrots, but they lost everything else-- including the keys to their truck.

Although no official report has been released, the Witvoets believe the fire to have started in their newly-purchased wood stove.

Some of my friends have requested that I set up a Pay Pal account to donate money to these precious friends, as they try to re-build their lives after this great loss. If you would like to contribute, you may do so here, on my blog. Or if you would rather send them a card/gift, I will update this post tomorrow with mailing info.

But most of all, we would appreciate your prayers.Our God is a very present help in trouble.

The Witvoets with our Joanna (6 years ago)