Late Nite Social a huge success!

We had our first Late Nite Social this past Saturday and it was AWESOME! We ate GREAT food, watched a great video, heard great testimonies and statistics, gave out great awards to some great people, and had a GREAT time!!! Even though it took over 6 hours of set-up, lots of people stuck around after the party to help out and we got everything torn down and put away in just over one hour! Praise ye the Lord!!! We have such amazing leaders and volunteers who are willing to do whatever it takes- I love HPC people!! I love this church...........

Yay for Chick Day!

This weekend was so busy, but so fun! Chick Day was incredible. I know so many girls poured all their blood, sweat and tears into it and it definitely paid off. The food was great, the fashion show was the funniest thing I have ever seen, and the message April Simons brought was truly life-changing... the shopping was great, too. I got to hang out with my mom and we had a blast! I love my mom. She's really the greatest. She's definitely my very best friend besides Chris... I really can't say enough nice things about her. And yesterday I got to hang out with my daddy... He's the greatest, too. I've always been such a daddy's girl. It's truly a blessing to have such a strong relationship with my Father in Heaven AND get to have such amazing parents here on earth. It's something I do not take for granted. Plus I have the greatest husband, brother, and in-laws. I mean, what else does a girl need?

The devil tried really hard to steal my joy yesterday- like REALLY hard. And I did break down and cry a couple times, but after I was done, I was able to thank God for His blessings and put all my faith and trust in Him again. I know I have made progress in that area, and yet I still feel that I have so far to go. But to be honest, it's way better to just trust him and remember all the times He has come through instead of worrying and crying.

So Devil, just keep on trying. It only strengthens me. During this holiday season I am going to keep my eyes on the One who gave it all for me.

Staff Christmas Party

We had our annual staff Christmas party today at the Country Club of Louisiana. It was a great time of food, hanging out, laughing, and reflecting. It's so much fun seeing everyone all in one place!

The Year in Review video was once again HI-larious! Lance and his team did such a great job. I was crying I was laughing so hard. Six fellow staff members got up and spoke about their most memorable moments from the year. They had us both laughing and crying. It really has been a great year. I feel so incredibly blessed and honored to get to do life with these people. I have made the best friends I could ever ask for, met the man of my dreams, and I get to do what I love every single day. Life is grand, ain't it?

What this season is all about

I just wanted to let you all know of an opportunity to help the less fortunate this year. I know many of you give through projects at your churches or through other organizations… but there is a family that is very close to our heart that needs help. Through inner city ministry years ago, Sarah Haviland and I met this lady (Ms. Maude) who has over 20 grandchildren. They live in a very poor area of Baton Rouge and the children sleep 2-4 per bed. Their living conditions look like something out of a third world country.

We thought about just going through the HPC Christmas gift delivery, but because of the large number of kids and the low number of donations, we have decided to adopt them ourselves and make their Christmas as special as possible. We are going to do all the leg-work (gift buying, gift wrapping, gift delivering, etc.)… All we need are some donors that would be willing to give financially so that we can make this happen for these great kids. If you feel in your heart that this is something you would like to be a part of, please leave a comment, send an email or call me as soon as possible so we can work something out.

Here are some pictures from last year...

A phone call...

So, I have decided to terminate my advertising everyday what I am grateful for due to the fact that people who check our blog daily has dropped to half of what it used to be. Obviously, my blog watchers don't enjoy it, so I'll change it up a bit. However, I still intend on thinking constantly about what I am thankful for.

While I was watching the front desk for Stacey today at lunch, the sweetest lady called. Her name is Ms. Pauline and she can barely see. She was looking for John 9 in her bible and couldn't find it and was getting kind of upset. I figured out that she was looking in 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, so I talked her through it and got her back to the Gospel of John. Turns out, John 9 is the story about Jesus healing the blind man. She was so desperate to find that story about healing to help her keep the faith. She begged me to pray for her eyes to be healed, and she told me about her financial problems because she can't get a job with her vision, and she can't get a car until she gets a job. It just made me think about everything I have... which I know I have been blogging on for a couple weeks... Anyway, she totally made my day. She thanked me a hundred times. I just wanted to reach through the phone and give her a big hug. If you think about it today, please pray for her. She still believes in the power of God, and so do I.

Day 15 of gratitude

I love the holidays! I love the cool air and the Christmas parties and everything that comes with it! This week we have our staff party as well as the Chick Day. It's going to be super fun.

Also, as you have noticed by now, I switched up the blog template. I got bored of the other one and this one seemed more my style. Thank goodness for Dan Ohlerking who came to my blogging rescue. This template was missing some things I need and his geniusness added them for me.

Something else really cool happened today... I heard from a friend I haven't talked to in years, and we got to chat for a long time. She is having a hard time because her family just found out her dad has panchriatic cancer. He is going to M.D. Anderson this weekend for some tests... if it hasn't spread, they can go in for surgery and hopefully get it out. So, we're praying for that or just miraculous healing. If it spreads, this cancer is very deadly, so please keep Katie and her family in your prayers.

And here's a few more things I am grateful for...

A happy, healthy family.

Lots of free meals this week.

A job where people come before paperwork.

Holiday parties!

My really hot and amazing husband.

Cute shoes ( I mean maybe it's superficial, but at least I am grateful :)

All the great things organizations like Children's Cup do for the poor and the hurting.

Look at my other baby....

This is Wally... my cat. My original baby... who is treated like my child. He even has a stocking on our mantle and gets lots of Christmas presents. Luckily, he and Chris have grown to really love each other, too. (Good thing since he is the third body in our bed and takes up a LOT of space.)I felt the need to share something else I am SO grateful for!!!

Slumber Party!!

Today, I am grateful for all the Elevate girls who came over Friday night! We had so much fun!!! I loved having fun girl time to watch girlie movies, talk girlie talk, and eat lots of junk!Here are some fun pics...

(These are Kat's cool cat PJ's... oh yes, they're hot...GRRR!)


Oh, and props to my man for giving up his house so we could all have a night of "holiday frosting and girl bonding." :)

Cool quote for the weekend

Since the liklihood of my posting over the weekend is slim, I wanted to leave you with a cool quote. It's a Joel Osteen quote, but Brooke reminded me of it yesterday...

"Stop talking to God about how big your mountains are... and start talking to your mountains about how big your God is."

I LOVE IT!

It's gonna be a great month!

The month of December is my favorite month of the year... people are nicer, the weather is great, people actually talk about Jesus, we get to give and receive presents, and we get to have parties!! Tonight I am having a little Christmas slumber party for the girls in Elevate full-time.

I really felt that God wanted me to connect with these girls on another level, and I thought this would be a great opportunity to do it. They are all amazing women of Christ and challenge me all the time to grow and learn and be more on fire for Jesus. I can't wait for tonight!!

Tomorrow, Chris and I get to go have our pictures taken and our Christmas cards made! I am so excited that this is our first Christmas as a married couple! People have asked why we don't just get a wedding picture put on a card, but there are a couple reasons I decided against it. #1, this is a Christmas card, not a wedding card. #2, we wanted a card to commemorate our first holiday together to cherish for years to come. Anyway, I am really excited :)

Also, we played this video at church a couple months back and Pastor Dino has it on his blog- http://216.70.117.172/me_english.htm. Check it out- it might rock your world.

And here are some more things I am grateful for- day 11 of my new great habit!!!

I am thankful for the extra money God gave us so that I could put together this little party for some amazing girls and get some beautiful Christmas cards made.

I am thankful for cable TV so I can watch The Practice every morning and Without a Trace every night.

I am thankful for Children's Cup and the events they put on and the love they give those special kids in Africa who all have my heart.

I am thankful for friends who offer to cook for us.

I am thankful for a job I love to come to every day.

I am thankful for a husband who trusts God first, and me second with our finances.

I am thankful for all the recent campaigns to fight the tragedies in Africa.

Until next time....

Ten days of Thanks!

So, it's Day 10 of my new thankfulness habit formation (kinda of sounds like something geological, eh?) It's amazing how great things are when you see them from this perspective. Perspective can really change everything. As cheesy as it may be for me and as boring as it may be for you, listing things I am grateful for has really been amazing for my heart... and my brain. I suggest everyone do it a few times a week- and no repeating answers!

I am thankful for a mom who loves to come to my little apartment to hang out with me and my husband and tells me how great my cooking is (when it's terrible in comparison to hers, and after I had to call her 37 times to ask how to fix what I messed up while making it!)

I am thankful for a true ministry job, where ministry really, actually, truly comes first.

I am thankful that I get to listen to all the Elevaters preach- it's not only encouraging to see God speaking through them, but I learn a LOT from them.

I am thankful that we have bunches of Christmas parties to go to :)

I am thankful for the Home Depot gift cards Chris got at his honeydo shower because we got a great Christmas tree, wreath, and poinsetta- all for free!!

I am thankful that God hooks me up with free lunches and cool ways.

I am thankful for SALVATION! Guess that one should have been the very first!!!

Day 8 and happy turkeys!!!

So, we went to Texas for four wonderful days over the break... It was SUCH a good time. Of course I got really sick on Friday and have stayed sick ever since, but it was still very enjoyable. I think I gained 5 pounds, but oh well :) We got to meet Chris' brother's new girlfriend... she's a cutie. Her personality kinds reminds me of myself (kinda scary for him...hehehehehe).

I know I skipped Days 3-7 of my thankfulness pledge on here, but I was with family so there was no time for blogging! I kept my promise of being grateful, I was just unable to share it with the world. Here are some more reasons I am thankful...

I am thankful for a mother-in-law who cooks amazing food and teaches me how.

I am thankful for a washer and dryer to wash our huge mounds of dirty clothes we seem to accumulate.

I am thankful for my new brother and sister who I simply ADORE! (and who also enjoy our marathon games of UNO!)

I am thankful for another set of parents to love me and take care of me even when I have a bad attitude (Me have a bad attitude? I know that's hard for you to believe!!)

I am thankful for my parents who endlessly give me everything I could ever need- emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

I am thankful for a brother who is definitely the coolest 18 year old on the planet!

I am thankful for a husband who thinks I'm hottest in PJ's with no make-up on.

I am thankful for a real Christmas tree in my living room, a garland wreath on my door, and a beautiful poinsetta that all bring color and vibrancy to the season.

I am thankful for the EXTRA money we have in our bank account right now... God IS FAITHFUL!!!

Giving thanks, Day 2

I am thankful for a marriage orchestrated, ordained, and blessed by God.



I am thankful for the very best friends a girl could have.


I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of a church who takes care of the poor and hurting.

I am thankful for the fact that I always have money in the bank and my bills always seem to get paid.


I am thankful for a vehicle to drive to Texas to see family.


I am thankful that I work for a man who has the highest grace, mercy, patience, and love for me.

I am thankful that I have food to eat on Thanksgiving and loved ones to share it with.

That's good for now............... :)

Ok Ok, God... I learned my lesson!!!

So, ya know how sometimes God has to pretty much smack you upside the head with a baseball bat before you get the point He's trying to make? Well, consider me smacked. I have been so heavily concentrated on our lack of funds that I almost forgot about my big, huge God who had given me everything I have. Late Nite last week helped me to remember that God is testing us... and this weekend's services made me remember all the blessings we have- test or no test.

Pastor Stovall Weems preached on Sunday, and this weekend just so happened to be the weekend I stage directed, so I got to sit in on all three services. Wanna know what he taught on? THANKFULNESS. (Something I have recently been stinkin' at pretty bad.) It was a very appropriate message for the upcoming holiday- but more than that it was a very relevant message to me. Ps. Stovall reminded me that thankfulness is a choice- MY choice- and it's up to me to remember all the blessings and favor we recieve everyday. He also said that thankfulness builds faith. The more I remind myself of everything God has given me, the easier it will be for me to believe that He will provide in the future as well. His last point was that thankfulness brings wholeness- the fuller I am of gratitude, the fuller I can be of Him. Ps. Stovall really brought the Word and it was such an honor to serve him... and Him.

Then yesterday I got an email from someone who has made an impact on my life, Ms. Andrena. Here's a bit of the great advice she gave me... "LACK" should be banished from all thought no matter what is happening around you. It may be hard to do at first, but it only takes 28 days to form a new habit. By living in the moment, in JOY and appreciation of our blessings, where God always wants you to be, you will feel and be in HIS presence and have nothing to fear. WE, or rather our EGOS, are the ones that make ourselves miserable. "... I don't get to talk to her much, but she reads my blogs and has some serious insight and wisdom for me. Today starts day 1 of the formation of my new habit- THANKFULNESS.

And if those things weren't enough, God sent me to HP Women last night. I don't usually go, but Kim had a little house emergency and needed me to stage direct for her. Early on in the service, one of the girls around me reminded me that I wasn't there on accident. A couple minutes later Ms. Claudia got on stage to do an icebreaker and began talking about--- you guessed it--- THANKFULNESS. I was like, "OK, GOD- I GOT IT!!!" It's really amazing how much reminding I need sometimes.

So, in honor of my new habit, I want to do the cheesy, yet effective Thanksgiving tradition and list some things I am thankful for....
My amazing, beautiful, serving, loving, unselfish, hard-working husband who was SO worth the wait.
My incredible, selfless, giving family who never ceases to amaze me.
My church home where Jesus is shown everyday to thousands of people.
Being on the HPC staff team where I get the opportunity to do what I love every single day of my life.
My friends- my sisters and brothers in Christ- who are always there for me.
My in-laws- God SO hooked me up.
The people who bring wisdom to my life everyday- and help me get smacked!!

Since this entry is so long, I will continue this list in the days to follow!!!

God is NOT a liar

I sit here and realize that last night was too powerful for my simple words, but for the sake of blogging, here's my best effort.

We did things a little different. Mike was feeling more of a One Way worship, altar, prayer flow.
We kicked things off high energy, pumped up, rockin' and rollin'. After a couple songs, we sat down while Mike welcomed visitors and took the offering. Then it was time for a Holy Ghost throw-down! We sang some incredible songs and the worship team really ushered in the Spirit. I didn't make it too long standing up- I sat down and cried and prayed to God, repenting for not fully trusting Him with our finances.

After amazing worship, Mike got on stage and talked about tests. Job 23:10 says, "But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold." It's great to know that what we're going through is just a test- it's not forever. And when we get through it- because we will get throught it- He will make us pure as gold. I don't think I ever stopped crying. I needed it. I felt like I was crying out every disappointment, every frustration, every trick of the devil. We went to the altar and cried some more. The songs the worship team sang were perfect. Mike came and prayed over us.

When I thought the ministry was over for the night, I got to talk with my friend Angelle for a long time after service. She is such an amazing woman of God and spoke some powerful things over my life. She was my encourager.

Today is a good day. I trust God... He is who He says He is. He will do what He says He will do. He is NOT a liar. His promises are true. We are being purified so that we can be like gold. Today is a good day.

Christmas Decorating and LAST Late Nite!!

This weekend was definitely one of the more exciting ones we have had lately. We got to go out to eat (thank you, Jesus, for giftcards). We got to go to the LSU game (even though we were on the second to highest row in the stadium and the windchill was about 30 degrees). And we got to begin Christmas decorating (we love the Dollar Tree and Hobby Lobby)! Christmas is definitely the best time of the year- It's crisp outside, there's cuddling inside, everyone is cheery and merry, and there is actually some public concentration on Jesus. I was a little discouraged when I was looking for "Jesus" decorations and could barely find any. Why is everything about Santa Claus and snowmen? Last time I checked, Santa and snowmen never died for any of our sins.

Anyway, tonight is the final Late Nite of '06, and it is the LAST Wednesday night Late Nite ever!! Praise Him!! We're going to have fun, food, and just an overall awesome closing night. We get started at 8:30pm, so don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime Late Nite experience. It's really going to be incredible.

We're still believing for financial miracles and we appreciate all of you out there who have been praying and believing with us. See you tonight!!!

Trusting God

You ever have trouble trusting God? Well I do! I try my best but sometimes I just rely too much on natural ways of things happening rather than Jesus ways. His ways are always more suprising and adventurous than mine. I was trying to think of a good "trust God" scripture, and then I looked over at the corner of my desk and saw the giant plaque that has Proverbs 3:5-6 plastered on it in really pretty writing. It reads "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."

Ok, allow me to talk to myself for a moment... "Meghan, lean NOT on YOUR own understanding!!! Who CARES if you don't know where the money's coming from! God is your provider, NOT man!"... Whew, ok, I feel better. Thanks for letting me get that out.

On another note, last night we were able to go to Chris' grandparents' house for some yummy dinner. Shea and the girls were over there and Christine (Chris' mom) came over after work. We had a fun time of family lovin'! I am really starting to enjoy all the in-laws... Life is good.

So proud of my Pastor

Check out Pastor Dino on the cover of Church Executive magazine. There's a great article about our Pastor and our church. It makes me very, very proud to attend HPC, work at HPC, and serve at HPC.

Read the whole article at www.churchexecutive.com.

Politics

**Disclaimer: The following opinions are mine and mine alone. They do not reflect feelings or opnions of anyone else around me. If you don't agree with me, get mad at me and no one else. But I'd rather you didn't get mad at all :) **

Some people say it's not good for Christians to talk about politics because it may alienate people. Some say that we have to talk about it so that righteousness can win out. I am somewhere in the middle. I took the "W" sticker off my car a while back because I didn't want to be labeled by people before I ever got to reach them. After yesterday's midterm elections, I wish more Christians hod gotten out there and voted. I am proud of Pastor Dino for praying for these elections from the pulpit. He didn't verbalize his vote, but he emphasized the importance of voting for righteousness.

I am neither 100% Republican or Democrat. My moral issues tend to usually fall on the conservative side. While it worries me that the next Speaker of the House is going to be a liberal woman, she has made some promises that I do like. Pelosi has outlined a “First Hundred Hours” agenda that promises to enact the recommendations of the bipartisan 9/11 commission, raise the minimum wage to $7.25 an hour, cut the interest rate on student loans in half, and streamline Medicare’s prescription drug program. I am ALL for a much higher minimum wage and much lower student loan rates. I am not for abortion and same sex marriage, which is something Democrats typically fight for lately.

For right now, I am just going to trust God that He will turn everything to good, just as His word promises. Even if it looks rough on the surface to some people, God is a big, huge God and He can make anything work for our good and His glory. Even on the local level, I really believe that too many people didn't do their homework and just voted "yes" on every amendment that sounded ok. However, looking deeper at several of those amendments, their passing creates more problem than good. But once again, this world is in God's hands, not ours. Therefore I will stand strong in my belief that He will take care of us.

For now, I can just say I hope next time everyone does a little more research... but no matter what, I pray that we can still have ultimate faith in God.

Mighty to Save

I just got the CD in the mail a couple days ago and it hasn't left my car or iPod. It's so good! At the Cross is one of the best songs I have heard in a while. I have been having big-time inner battles the last few days and that song has been really therapeutic. For some reason, the devil has really been attacking my humility and attitude, which are two things I really have got to keep in control in order to be effective in ministry... and in life. Isn't it just like the devil to do this when I am the happiest I have ever been? It's my own fault for not having my guard up. Life is a constant battle with the enemy and I haven't been fighting hard enough.

For those of you that have had to deal with my ungrateful attitude or lack of humility, I am very sorry. I need to be reminded daily that it's about the goal, not the role. It's about the unsaved, not me. It's about what I can do for them, not what they can do for me.

He has overcome the grave. His glory fills the highest place and nothing can seperate me from that. He made the way for us. For me. Nothing I deal with now is new to Him, and that is so comforting.

If any of you have scriptures for me that would encourage me in this, I am all ears. (Or eyes, I guess, in the blog world).

Thanks for always being there to listen :)

Wow... Just wow

What a crazy weekend!! God did amazing things, as always. We celebrated birthdays, miracles, sacrifices, old friends, weddings, and family. We are SO blessed. It would take forever to tell you about everything, so here's a recap:
Congrats, Jamie and Benjamin!
Happy Birthday, Hope David and London Bohl!
It was great to see old friends...
Thank you, Father, for your huge miracles that come with our tiny sacrifices.
Thank you for the most amazing family and church body.

Today we ran 12 errands on my last Monday off for a while. After prayer, seeking counsel, and looking at an impossible budget, we have decided that I will begin substitute teaching on Mondays until we are more financially stable. I am a little nervous- subs are usually terrorized and gived many discipline problems. However, I used to be a teacher and I really miss the kids... so this is a great ooportunity to reconnect, make new connections and maybe even make a difference in their lives. So many of them come from such broken, abusive, empty homes and their teachers are the only smiling, positive people in their lives. I pray that God will use me to be a light on the campuses- to the students and the faculty. I have such a heart for hurting kids and I know that God will give me the strength and patience I need for this new adventure.

Keep us in your prayers. We love you all!!!

Another great scripture

So, there's another great scripture that I can't get away from that I wanted to share with you.

Deuternomy 28:1-8
If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God: You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. The fruit of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock—the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks. Your basket and your kneading trough will be blessed. You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out. The LORD will grant that the enemies who rise up against you will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction but flee from you in seven. The LORD will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The LORD your God will bless you in the land he is giving you.

I just think it's pretty cool that if we do what God says, he blesses us in every way of life, AND protects us from our enemies. I mean... He is God, so He probably knows what He's talking about. I don't know why I argue with Him so much.

I am really excited about this weekend. We have so much to do! Tomorrow we'll start things off at morning prayer to wrap up a great week of really pressing in to seek God's will. Tomorrow night we have Jamie's rehearsal dinner and I have a bachelorette thing. Saturday we have Chris' little cousin's birthday party, London Bohl's birthday party, then I get to go do make-up for Jamie's wedding, then watch her get married and we can dance the night away! Then Sunday is Miracle Offering so we are going to all three services and Fall Fest that night.

Check out healingplacechurch.org for more info on our Celebration Weekend!!!

Morning prayer at HPC

For those of you who haven't been able to make it out, you still have two days to participate in HPC morning prayer! God has been doing some great things in my heart as I just continue to seek His face and His will. With Miracle Offering this weekend, Chris and I have been praying a lot about what God is calling us to give, both with this offering and Chapter 2. I have been reading some great passages on finances, but theres one that has really been hitting me hard.

Malachi 2:8-12 says "Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—the whole nation of you—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit," says the LORD Almighty. "Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land," says the LORD Almighty.

This is SO strong! To think that I could rob God scares the daylights out of me! I would hate to steal from Him when He has given me more than I could have ever asked for or imagined! In the scripture He also says to test Him. I may be wrong (all you bible scholars can let me know), but if I remember correctly, this is the only time in the Word that God tells us to test Him- which leads me to believe He must be pretty serious! If I just act obediently and give Him what He asks (and what's already His anyway), He will pour so much blessing on me that I won't have enough room for it?! I don't know about you, but that offer sounds pretty good to me!

So, this week, I pray that God speaks to you and me about what He expects of us financially. Let none of us rob Him of what is His. All of our tithes and offerings are different and cannot be compared... What matters is our obedience to what He puts on our hearts. Whether you are an HPCer or not, God wants us to give to Him and His people. Let's test Him in this and see the power and blessing that comes from obedience!

P.S. Married life is still as peachy as ever. We are truly so happy and so in love... We fall more and more in love everyday. God has given us such favor in dealing with conflict and we have not had a single fight or hint of a fight or argument. We pray that we are able to continue to die to ourselves and keep God first... We're definitely on the right track, and it's all because of Jesus... Gotta love that guy!

Thank you, Jesus

I have been doing a lot of thinking lately on marriage (obviously!). Anyway, I just feel so sorry for people who don't love it. Recently a lot of young people around me have gotten married, and I was so discouraged when I asked how it was and I got, "It's not what I thought it would be" or "It's not that different". Some even went so far as to say they felt trapped. I worried that Chris and I's only difference would be that we went to sleep and woke up together.

But it's just so untrue! The moment we committed our lives to each other, something happened within us and there's such a strong, pure, holy commitment that nothing and no one could ever tear apart. Many people will think I am an overzealous newlywed who is still in the "honeymoon stage." But after talking to some older and wiser married couples, I have found out that the honeymoon stage never has to end. I can be this blissfully happy and in love my whole life!! What God has done inside of us is so huge that it's just out of my realm of understanding.

Hearing that marriage "...isn't that great" is such a slap in the face to God. He created us for union with each other and this is one of His most amazing gifts. By degrading it to something that just gives you a title and some privileges, people are totally stripping it of what the Father meant for it to be.

I just want all of you to know that I LOVE marriage. I know that I am very blessed to be in such an amazing coupledom and not everyone has that blessing... I thank God for it everyday. And yes, this is one of many areas I am learning to have grace with... I just don't want negative people to disrespect God or discourage people looking forward to a life with the one God created them for...

Wedding Pictures!

Here's a sneak peek of the best day in my life... Go to my last post to see how to view all the glorious pictures!!!!!!!!!

Married life is amazing

Ok, first let me apologize for the lack of posting these last few weeks. Needless to say, things have been a little hectic and I have not had much (any) free time.
Thanks to everyone who helped make the wedding such a success. I was truly able to sit back and just enjoy marrying the man of my dreams. The wedding was beautiful. The reception was a blast. We really have the very best family and friends that anyone could ever ask for.
(To check out wedding pics, go to collages.net. From there type in username: meghan and chris matt, Password: 12350. Then it will ask you for your info.) The pictures came out SO well- I have no idea how I will choose which ones to get copies of to frame.
For the honeymoon we went to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for 6 glorious days. We had such a wonderful time, but we did miss everyone and we're glad to be home. It was such a blessing to have a vacation- I can't even remember the last time we got real time away.
This is just the beginning of an amazing life to come. We are blissfully happy and so grateful to God for His faithfulness.
Here are some pictures from the rehearsal:


On a somber note, please keep this in your prayers- Last week two great men died... Mollie White's father and a 26 yr. old guy named Stephen Rogers. Mr. Charlie and Stephen had both been battling sicknesses and went to be with the Lord. Let's pray peace and comfort on their families and friends in this hard time.

LATE NITE @ the VARSITY TOMORROW!!!!

Mark your calendars, write it on your hand, set your cell phone alarm.....On September 27th (that's TOMORROW!!!)Late Nite (college and young professionals ministry at Healing Place Church) is having church at the Varsity Theatre near LSU at 8pm!! Yes, you heard me right...we are having church in a bar.This night is targeted especially those who won't normally step into the walls of a church, so bring everyone you know!! You must be 18 to enter (sorry, that's the Varsity's Rule) Obviously, there will be NO alcohol available.

We really hope to see you there!!!

P.S. Only ten days til blissful wedded matrimony!

It's raining showers!!!!

We traveled to the massive city (ha ha ha) of Kingwood, TX for Chris' family's shower this weekend. We had SO much fun- I think everyone needs that much clean fun pretty regularly. Speaking of "clean", among all the glorious prizes we got, our favorite was our amazing vacuum cleaner!!!
Chris also thoroughly enjoyed an oven mitt.

Sunday we got to go to the Astros game and sit in a SUITE. Talk about the high life! I am spoiled rotten now. That was my first MLB game and I got to sit in an air conditioned suite with amazing seats and all the food and ice cream you can eat! And I feel like Dr. Seuss because I just rhymed.

Anyway, we always have the best time when we go visit Chris' parents. And his brother and sister are really amazing kids. I wish they didn't live so far. I mean 4.5 hours isn't a lifetime away, but I would so love to just be able to pop in over there anytime. The good news is that we get to see them every month from July-December of this year. Some visits are shorter than others, but they are all a blessing. I can't wait til Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Years when we get to spend a little more time there.

I have been a really unfaithful blogger lately and haven't even blogged about my girl shower a couple weeks ago. It was just girls in the wedding and family, but Gena Bohl and Sarah did an amazing job putting it together. We had SO much fun and everything looked and tasted great.
Gena made me the coolest shadow box. I like it more than all the stuff that we registered for! I got to spend time hangin' with the girls and just loving my life. It was a really great night!

I am constantly amazed how much people have gone above and beyond for us. My showers and parties have been more than I could have ever dreamed of. But the best reality of all is that I get to marry my dream man in just 16 days. It's truly a wonderful life!

Renewing of faith, hope, and joy!

So, I haven't been the most faithful blogger, but I feel like so much has been going on that I don't know where to start.
Last weekend we had some incredible services at HPC. Pastor spoke about the time between God's promises and when we see the results in our lives. The life of Joseph is such an inspiration. My hope was renewed.
Then Sunday night the church came together for Vision Night. Pastor Dino spoke on where we've been, where we're going and the plans God has in store for us. Many of us were prayed over and it was an intense, incredible night. The worship went on and on and so did our praises for the King. My faith was renewed.
Yesterday, Chris and I kind of had a break-through day. With only a little over 3 weeks until W-Day, the Devil has been attacking us like CRAZY. We pretty much reached a point where we had to make a decision to grab hold of God and let go of the lies. Can I tell you, it was liberating! My joy was renewed.
I am blessed so abundantly. As Mike would say, I'm too blessed to be depressed. I love my man, my family, my job, my friends, and most of all my Jesus. It's a great day to be alive!

One month til it's official!!!

Ok guys, it's really coming... in just one month-30 days- I will be Mrs. Christopher Matt. What an honor! I am so pumped. We have known for 10 months now that we were getting married and we are just ready for it to happen.
Anyway, going in a whole different direction, I just want to let everyone know to get your tail out to Late Nite tonight. This entire series is stirring up great things in people, but this message tonight is going to be just SLAMMIN'! Mike is going to keep it real, where we are, things we all need to hear. From the brief look at the notes I got, I know this is going to rock some worlds and change some lives and I am pumped! It starts at 8:30pm at the Highland Campus. I get up at 5am and I know it's tough to be out late, but consider this an investment. You WILL see returns.
Hope to see you all tonight!!!!!!!!! Help me make Jesus famous :)

Happy Birthday, Chris Kinney!!

This weekend was all about my amazing little brother, Chris. Well, maybe I shouldn't call him "little". He stands a whole head taller than me, but he will always be little to me!! Saturday was his eighteenth birthday, and boy did I feel OLD! I am so proud of the man he has become. He is loving, kind, considerate, unselfish, sensitive, loyal, smart, humble... the list goes on. I feel so blessed to have a brother who isn't scared to give me a hug and a kiss in public and tell me he loves me. I see so many teenagers who blow off their family,curse, drink, smoke, rebel- but Chris really has a good head on his shoulders. I think it must come from living with me and my mom for so long. He saw the Hell I put her through when I was in high school, but he also saw my transformation and our love spilled out on him. Plus he has an amazing father to watch and learn from. My dad has always been very present and active in his life, which is something a lot of kids these days don't have. My brother is so very special to me. I have always been proud of him, but never as proud as I am now. I was so glad I was able to spend Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings celebrating him and his life. He deserves a party everyday. Ok, I just love that kid!

Moving on... my other Chris (fiance) and I had an amazing weekend together, too. We were pretty much together all day everyday except when we were sleeping (obviously!!). He always comes and serves at church on the weekends when I work services. This weekend I stage directed alone for weekend services for the first time. Kim was a huge help and I was able to get the job done! It was just what I needed- I was definitely not confident in my "Five Star Girl" abilities, but after 4 smooth services, I feel much stronger now in that area. Chris was with me serving, worshiping, and praying his heart out. He truly displayed the love of Christ this weekend- he gave up our Saturday night with friends to go be with my brother on his birthday, he came and served at four services without ever being asked to do so, he cooked me a slammin' breakfast yesterday, and treated me with kindness, compassion, patience and true love all weekend. We grew so much over the last few days both as a couple and as individuals in our walks with Christ. I am so glad God has put united us to do life together. There's no one else I would rather have by my side.

One more thing, I gotta give a shout out to my loyal blog readers... especially my boy Eric. He served it up this weekend at all the services and was a great "podium pusher." He and his beautiful daughter always brighten my Sunday mornings with their bright smiles and huge hearts. Keep up the servant's spirit :)

And by the way, only one month and one day til I become Mrs. Matt!!!

What a Wonderful Wednesday!!

Late Nite last night was incredible. It was totally the renewal and reminding that my spirit needed. It has been a tough transition to go from concentrating on middle schoolers to college students and young professionals. Last night, God really showed me that I am exactly where He wants me right now, and that is such a great feeling.

After the pre-service meeting, all the leaders headed to the sanctuary to get set up for the Life Group fair and meet some new folks. The goal of the night was to talk to as many people as we could and pump up life groups big time. I haven't always been so good at the walking up to strangers and talking thing, but I am definitely improving. God totally hooked me up last night, though. I saw a girl sitting alone before service and knew I needed to make her feel welcome- someone did it for me just a few years ago. I met Amy, and after chatting a few minutes, I brought her around and introduced her to some people. I gotta give this girl a shout-out. Yesterday was her 24th birthday and she started LSU to get her PhD on Monday! She's a straight GENIUS! Very humble, but a genius nonetheless. Plus she moved down here from Kansas, leaving behind her love and her family, because she knows this is where God wants her. And what's so cool is that she found HPC on the web!!!

Then, I saw my cousin! This made me REALLY happy!!!

Service got kicked off with some slammin' worship. I haven't worshiped that passionately in months. I don't know if it was just that good or if it was just me, but God was doing something in me big time and I just couldn't tell Him enough how amazing He is. I was jumpin' around, reaching for Heaven... I just couldn't stop moving. I was oblivious to everyone and everything around me. I really felt connected to the heart of my Father and it was beautiful.

Then, Mike gave a real life message on the dangers of temptation to get our Gravity series started. Let me tell you, there was no fluffy cookie-cutter action here- it was down to the nitty gritty and I loved every single minute of it. I know I always say Mike does a great job- because he does- but this was one of my favorites ever. I know this series is going to change lives and I am so humbled and so honored to get to be a part of this team. When Mike was preaching, you would have thought he was preaching about my life... my falling into temptation so many times, trying to find happiness and fulfillment in the things of this world, letting the devil "crop" my big picture so I only saw the "right now"... This message reminded me why God has called me to this age group- because this is where I fell. This is where I threw years of my life away. This is where the enemy tricks me and brings my mind back to in order to torment me and remind me of the things I have done and the way I treated people. But in college is also where I was restored. It's where I was redeemed. It's where I found freedom and true love, mercy, and relentless grace. This age is where I learned how to really love again, where my heart was repaired and my mind cleansed. The message Mike preached is the reason why I have a passion to see college students and young professionals come to Christ. This passion won't die anytime soon. I'm on a mission. I have found my destiny in the One who created me, and it's the most amazing feeling.

The mood after Late Nite was different. As everyone browsed Life Groups and got connected, relationships were formed. No one cared how late it was. Everyone was just glad to get to talk and laugh. I got to talk to Amy more and find out more about her life and her walk. I got to talk to people who had left the church for a while but have begun to come back. The feeling in the sanctuary was one I hadn't felt in a long time- things are changing. This is a season of harvest and I have never been happier to be a laborer for the cause of Christ.

Having Chris with me in this endeavor has made all the difference. He knows the things I have done and what I have been through. He knows my hurts and my joys. He makes my life a better place to be and everyday I see him make a difference in this world. It may be cliche, but life is good and God and good, and I trust Him to carry me through.

Remembering the Victims

I want to take a moment to remember what happened a year ago yesterday. I know that it would be impossible to forget, but I think too many people have swept it under the rug. Though most of Louisiana's problems came from bad politicians and a bad levee, the stories are real, thousands of people died, and those who were affected still deserve our prayers. I went to the New Orleans Airport a year ago to help organize and work with the relief there, and those days of my life are permanently etched in my memory. Just thinking about the people I met and the stories I heard still makes me cry everytime. It's easy for us to say they could have gotten out, but many couldn't. Many didn't have TVs and didn't hear til it was too late to get out. Many tried to get transportation but couldn't. It's easy for us to judge, but it's not so easy to have compassion. Jesus had compassion on everyone, and isn't our goal to be just like Him? Anyway, please take a minute and pray for those still hurting and helpless a year later. And let's continue to praise God for the members of His body who have come to their rescue.

So sorry I'm a slacker!

Ok, I know I have been a blog slacker lately. Things have been picking up both at work and socially and I have been blowin' and goin' like a crazy person!! The wedding is in only 37 days and we are so excited!!

I want to thank everyone who was able to come out to our shower this weekend. We had such an amazing time celebrating with our closest friends and family. Richie, Holly, and Kristin really went above and beyond the call of duty. Everything was beautiful and the atmosphere was rich with love. We feel so blessed to be so well taken care of by such amazing people. We got to hang out with those we love and got lots of great presents... everybody loves getting free stuff!!!

The apartment is really coming along. Thanks to my incredible mother who helped us get our bedroom furniture, it was delivered Monday night and it's WONDERFUL! The master bedroom is beginning to look like something out of a catalog. My daddy gave me access to his rewards card and we were able to buy some slammin' accessories. I am such a blessed girl!! Of course, Chris isn't moving in until after the wedding, but it's really starting to feel like "our first place" and we love it!

And kudos to my baby's softball team who is still undefeated!!! Go blue!

A LEETLE bit of clarification and some excitement!!!

Ok, so in the last blog I wasn't exactly clear about HOW Kristin told me I was being selfish. It was surrounded by stories of my past rejections and her understanding of me finally wanting something to be all about me. She didn't come out and just say I was being selfish, but she spoke to me in an understanding and loving way and showed me how I haven't been acting like myself. I just wanted to make sure that was clear, because she was totally gentle and loving and I would hate for her to be portrayed any other way.

.... So yesterday my mom and I packed up all my wedding attire essentials and headed to Nottoway Plantation for my bridal pictures!!! Ms. Tammy and Mr. Mike Landry came and met us and we had such an amazing photo shoot! I felt like a princess... like something out of a movie. It was amazing! Both my mom and I are eager to see how awesome the pictures came out. Mr. Mike totally shot my style- journalistic, model-feel, trendy. If these turn out as good as the engagements- which I know they will- I will be one happy girl!!!

This weekend Chris and I also had out first shower. His family worked really hard to put it on and we had a really great time. He got some awesome stuff- including THREE bar-b-que pits- and it was a great time of food, family, and fellowship. Thanks especialy to Christine and Shea for all their hard work :)

This was a packed weekend- we also saw Fiddler on the Roof. It was a very good show. For some local people, they did a really great job. Plus we got to hang out with my mom a lot this weekend, which is always fantastic for me! She is so patient with me and so giving. Yay for Claire....

Oh, everybody say a prayer for Mike. He's out of town this week speaking several times in Dallas. Let's pray for protection and annointing!!!
Off to work... have a super day!!!

Beautiful Morning- no, not the CD

So, this morning after a great time of prayer, worship, and communion, I went to Kristin's house for a little pow-wow... and OH was it necessary! I have been really stressed out lately- and just not myself- and I had to get to the bottom of it. We talked for over an hour and I realized that I haven't completely dealt with some issues from my past and the enemy had been using them to torture me in an attempt to steal my joy, destroy my most vital relationships, and ultimately ruin my life. Well, sorry SUCKER! Kristin loves me and is honest with me and showed me how selfish I have been about the wedding. I have been thinking of others, but in reality, the final decisions were all about what's best for ME. God hasn't been able to pour his blessing into the ceremony because I haven't let Him take control of it. I have been expecting more out of Chris than any human can give and stopped fully relying on God... that all changed this morning and it was a
BEAUTIFUL MORNING!!!!!

Spirit-filled, out of control, amazing God weekend!!!

Ok, so I may have never had a more spiritual weekend in my life as I had this weekend. Friday and Saturday we were at the Student Ministries Leaders Retreat in New Orleans. We had an amazing night of worship, prayer, and ministry Friday night. Saturday morning we heard incredible teachings from Pastors Johnny Green and Mike Haman.

Then, I was able to work all the weekend services, which were each unique and powerful in their own way. At all the services we prayed over children, students, administrators, teachers, and school faculty. We prayed for over 1000 kids this weekend, and I felt so blessed to be able to be a part of such a huge event in the lives of these boys and girls. It's great to be a part of a church that calls the kids on stage during service and after a blessing, gets the youth up there to jump around and lead some more worship.I love this place.

Saturday night Pastor Dino gave a great Word, and even used me and Chris as an inspiration. He spoke about why we do what we do- that we do it "For Them." HPCers before us did it for people like us, who met at church, fell in love, and now serve alongside each other. Our heart and passion For Them came from the people before us. It was a great Word.

Sunday morning we had 3 completely different services. At all the services, the altars were full after worship- people got healed, freed from bondages, lies from the Devil... many just experienced the awesome presence of the Lord. I have never felt so close to God. He revealed to me many things that I have been harboring that I thought I had let go of- things that I am not proud of feeling. I want to walk in the promises of God, and I now fully realize how much I truly have to die to myself every minute of every day in order to fully experience what He has for me.
It was a very humbling weekend, and definitely one I will not soon forget...

An update

This week, Chris and I stepped down from leadership at Pathfinders. It was a very difficult decision to make, but we have felt total peace about it from the beginning. We will miss both the kids and the leaders, but we know that God has called us to put our marriage as top priority right now. We want to serve more fervently with Late Nite, and with our schedules, we had to let go of something. It was weird coming home last night and eating dinner with Chris on a Wednesday night. I don't even remember what that was like. I already miss my kids- they have all touched my heart and my ministry... and Becca will always be my little sister!
Tyler and Crystal were so kind and released us with full confidence that our ministry and marriage will flourish. Those guys truly live their motto- Stand up. Stand out. Change the World. It was an honor to work with them and serve alongside all the leaders. They have all been such a blessing to us.

P.S. I love Chris Matt!!!!!!!!!!

Thank God for those who are willing to lay down the egos and logos and just get after it serving the Kingdom.

This was one of MANY lines that struck me when reading
Dan Ohlerking's blog about his experience at Bethany this weekend. Pastor Dino stressed to us last week at staff meeting how important his friendship and partnership with Pastor Larry Stockstill has been. After the hurricane, they laid aside their philisophical, style, and pastoral differences and got locked into the vision that God has for this community and this nation. Unity between churches is the ONLY way we will ever truly be "one nation, under God." I am so proud to call this church my home, but I am equally proud that I work for a pastor who is willing to lay down his ego and our logo to get after it serving the Kingdom.
Dino Rizzo is making it harder for people to die without knowing Jesus, and through his relationships with Ps. Larry, Joyce Meyer, Christine Caine, Dave Ohlerking, Robert Barriger, Brian Houston, and and so many other pastors around the world- HPC will help populate Heaven and plunder Hell. That is why God has kept us on earth and has not brought us up to Heaven when we get saved- we are still here to spread the love of Christ and the life-changing Word of God. That's why working at Healing Place isn't a "job"- it's a lifestyle, and I wouldn't want it any other way!!!!

5 new dresses!

Ok, so I am perhaps just a little bit spoiled, but I have seen much more extreme cases. My lovely mother bought me 5 new dresses this weekend to wear to wedding events, showers, etc. Two were massively on sale, and the other 3 were very reasonably priced- so don't go thinkin' I spent 250 per dress or anything. However, I did discover every overpriced clothing store in Baton Rouge this weekend- Currie, BeBe, Aimee's, and Eros to name a few. Eros had a shirt that was almost 1200 dollars- for a SHIRT! I mean I know Baton Rouge is "up & coming" and that's great, but who really buys that stuff!?
However, I did discover this great boutique "Wish" in Towne Center. I saw the Rizzo ladies in there, too, which was an added bonus. The music was a little loud and sometimes inappropriate, but the customer service was decent and the prices are great. There's also this place "Hemline" out here by the church. They were SO nice in there you just want to buy the entire store! It's a little pricier, but they have some reasonable stuff and great staff.
Anyway, I gotta give a little shout-out to Mike Haman for preaching about Relevance in the weekend services. It was very similar to the sermon preached last Wednesday at Late Nite, but he gave it more of a general audience feel, and everyone I've talked to really enjoyed it. This is a very important message and I am glad he helped get it out.
Until tomorrow... unless something cool happens today....

The Best Week Ever!

Ok, so this week is definitely on the top of the list for the best week ever!
1. The ring. You MUST see it in person to truly understand, but here are a few pics to help:



2. Hillsong United concert at Bethany World Prayer Center. Props to Pastor Larry and Pastor Dino for putting philisophical differences to the side and keeping God's agenda first... This was an incredible night of worship and prayer... one of the best I have ever been blessed to be a part of. Rock on, Hillsong!


3. Wedding invitations... Sarah Haviland helped create my perfect wedding invitations, and I received them this week. Last night I sat down with my mom to address them, and we had such a great time. My brother came home and we all hung out, talked, ate cherries and spit out the pits, and laughed til we cried. I really do have the most amazing family. Spending time with them makes me feel closer to Jesus, and that's the best feeling.

4. Just being with Chris made me cry happy tears twice this week. God has really made me realize all over again how truly blessed I am to have him in my life. I cannot believe how much I love this man. It still feels like a dream. (Oh, and they smoked both teams they went up against last night in softball.)