Friday, June 15, 2007

Back in NOLA!

WOW! Our journey over the last 2 years has been a wild one, one that has brought us full circle. Eliana just turned two, and I calculated the other day that she has lived in at least 6 houses, in three States, two countries, on 2 continents! Being back in New Orleans in bittersweet. As you drive through the city many houses look as though Katrina happened yesterday, while other houses right next to them may be completely restored. It is a baffling sight. A site of destruction yet of hope. God is a God of restoration, a Sovreign God that has a mighty plan for this city and the people of New Orleans. Our journey has been amazing, a roller coaster of emotions, and a true call to obedience. God is teaching me about seasons, how He brings us through seasons of life and it is our job to worship Him in every season and to bring glory to Him to the best of our ability despite any circumstance. Over the last few months, I have felt frustrated and alone, and completely useless most of the time. I treasure my time being a stay at home mom, but anyone who knows me knows that I thrive on chaos! Too much stillness and I go crazy! well, God moved me to a city where I knew no one and I certainly never felt more alone, even isolated. When we felt God's call to move back to New Orleans, to the seminary campus, I was thrilled! I couldn't wait for that sense of community, to be surrounded by others walking down the same road. As we moved back this week, I couldn't wait to meet people, to get involved. God quickly caught my attention. I have had many opportunities to seek God in the stillness, and have instead complained about it. As I make this transition to a more "active" life, how can I move on when I have yet to learn what God has tried to teach me? In true "Nicole" style, I have to learn this lesson the hard way! Instead of seeking God out in the stillness when there was no other option, I have to "Choose" the stillness and to choose worship Him in this "Season." Life has been crazy, and I feel as though the seasons never stay for very long, but I know I want to worship Him in every season, and to seek out how I can best glorify Him in wherever He brings us. We are so grateful to the many of you who pray for us regularly. We hope and pray that this blog keeps you updated with the happennings of our lives adn most importantly, how you can most effectively be in prayer for our family! We covet your prayers and we treasure your friendships! May our Great God richly bless you wth more of Himself!

1 comment:

The Cooke Family said...

Cole, I think that "Nicole" style is very similar to "Stina" style. God will get your attention any way He can and although He loves us just the way we are, He loves us too much to keep us that way. I love how your heart desires to seek His face & I am confident that you will learn much - mostly through the painful times. Your job as a mom is the best, most rewarding job God can give anyone. Don't get discouraged because you don't see the fruit of your labor today. In parenting, it is never instant gratification. They grow up so fast, and the only regrets you will ever have, is not having ENOUGH time with them. God has much to teach you through that little Eli Grace. She is a precious reflection of her mama and God has great BIG plans for both of you - I know it! Kiss their sweet faces for me. I miss them and you SOOOO much!!!