Hope

Six Months

2010-08-27T15:34:00.001-07:00

Well it's my six month anniversary! I am so happy and giddy...ok well maybe that is an exaggeration...it's only that it has been six months since I have tried this blogging situation. Happy and giddy do not exactly describe my current emotions. I am so glad that I do not have to be defined by my emotions.
There is a very dramatic and somewhat odd phrase that has been running through my mind these past several months. Are you ready for it? Belly full of Tears What!? I know it is odd however, sometimes I am overwhelmed by the sad and icky stuff that plagues our world. It seems like these past six months have been made of the stuff that inspires the elderly in nursing homes to rock back and forth and say things like; "I'll never understand this, I'll never understand this."
In those moments that I want to be like Scarlet O'Hara and, put the back of my hand to my forehead I am glad for my Jesus. He understands it all! There is no need for discouragement. It is nice to be blissfully ignorant! The struggle for me does come in my inability (working on it though) to roll it all onto Jesus' very capable shoulders. I am so glad that He will supply all of my needs according to His riches! I want to cast all of my cares on Him moment by moment.
Thank you for your friendship and kind care and concern.
Much Love

To Count

2010-03-06T07:33:00.000-08:00

Thought for this Day

I want to count and be counted. I mean really don't you? I want my life to be an attractive picture of my Jesus. This is were my success is bound up. If my life does not count for Jesus it does not matter where I am or what I'm up to (with in reason of course). I must count for Christ. If I am living every day for Him then I will not only count but, I will be counted in that astounding number of people gathered around His throne. Don't you want to be counted too?

Life in KS

I finished my courses from Hobe Sound. I now have an accredited degree.
We had a barn yard themed mystery dinner for the High School and Jr. High students...so very fun I recommend a mystery dinner to one and all!
We had a really nice Women of Worth meeting this month. We talked about how friendship is like a quilt. So many different pieces make up a beautiful useful thing. We also talked about how Jesus is our the best friend of all.
Among many other things I also was able to rake together 32.5 bags of leaves. Hoo-ray for the training at Mode Camp.

I love you friends! Have a wonderful day. Come see me any time. I have a guest bedroom you know ;).

Why Hello!

2010-01-25T16:11:00.001-08:00

Hello who are you and just where did you come from? Just kidding you were there all of the time weren't you...I was the one missing. Well hello! I really hope you are doing fine. I am fine thanks for asking.

If I saw you while I was in Illinois please make this note to yourself...the pleasure was truly and deeply all mine. I am so thankful for friends who are will to see my faults and not kick me out in a melting snow drift. It was like a breath of fresh spring air to be around such lovely well rounded thoughtful folk...yes even you...especially you!

Life is just happening here. I mean really I can not think of anything to tremendously out of the ordinary to tell you. I do know that I am so grateful for all of the people I work with. They are all trying to get used to me and they are being very gracious in the process. I must continue to realize that I have not even been here very long. I just love the home that I am living in. I just wish I could get you to come and visit me. I do have a guest room you know. Further more I really just enjoy teaching art class. Every once in a while I catch a glimps of hope in the lives of my students. This makes me want to just weep. Their potential is out of this world...I hope I can help guide them to a life long love of Jesus.

You remember that snow drift you didn't kick me out into? Well I've been thinking about how much God cares for me. He really does. If He cares for me so much how can I do any less for those around me? No one is worthy of being tossed in a drift. I do not want to be a tosser. Thanks to all of you who don't toss me even when it's probably what I deserve. Thanks be to my Father who does not toss me either yet rather gently scoops me up into His very capable arms. What reality! What bliss!

A Kick For Me

2009-11-16T16:52:00.000-08:00

Life has such a beautiful way of humbling us. Here are just a few humbling experiences of late:

Huffing and puffing up 296 steps to the top of the KS capitol dome...

Dropping food on my shirt nearly a daily experience...

Making a mistake while scoring a student's school work...

Typos...

Misspoken words...

So many other little things...

Then I observe those around me and realize we are all just humans; we make mistakes and missteps. Life happens...we can get all hung up and wallow or...there's always that other option...just pick up make correction were needed and laugh a little more.

This poem has helped me to put some things in perspective. I can not always change what others say or do but, I am defiantly in charge of my own actions, words, and food ;). I wish to mend my own plot with the help of my creator who really truly cares for me.

"Go back to thy garden-plot, sweetheart!

Go back till the evening falls,

And bind thy lilies and train thy vines,

Till for thee the Master calls

Go make thy garden fair as thou canst,

Thou workest never alone;

Perhaps he whose plot is next to thine

Will see it and mend his own."

From: Mrs Charles E. Cowman in Streams in the Desert

His

2009-10-17T05:43:00.000-07:00

I said, "Let me walk in the fields.
He said, "No; walk in the town."
I said, "There are no flowers there.
He said, "No flowers but a crown."

I said, "But the skies are black,
There is nothing but noise and din."
And He wept as He sent me back;
"There is more," He said. "There is sin."

I said, "But the air is thick,
And fogs are veiling the sun."
He answered, "Yet souls are sick,
And souls in the dark undone."

I said, "I shall miss the light,
And friends will miss me, they say."
He answered, "Choose tonight
If I am to miss you, or they."

I pleaded for time to be given.
He said, "Is it hard to decide?
It will not seem hard in Heaven
To have followed the steps of your Guide."

I cast one look at the fields,
Then set my face to the town.
He said, "My child, do you yield?
Will you leave the flowers for a crown?"

Then into His hand went mine;
And into my heart came He;
And I walked in a light divine,
The path I had feared to see.
-George MacDonald

Hello...etc.

2009-09-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Hello! There have been no reports of tornado activity so...I think I am still here. Perhaps the swirling winds of a tornado could give you a bit of a picture of what life has turned out to be here. I felt busy in Florida however, this is a whole new pace. Here is a small break down of a few things that I have been up to...

1. Mode camp! I just love that place and it would be lovely to live there always, (maybe heaven will be a bit like Mode Camp?) except for the out house thing...

2. Things really began to get a bit crazy when I returned to Kansas. I think that there was a solid two week period when I was at the church every day for some reason.

3. School happened, by this I mean started...wow! I do not know if I am doing that much however, the hats seem to be many (think highlighters and keys ;) some of you will get that). I am teaching 4 art classes (mosaic unit here we come!), I help with the Jr. High and High School PE class, I am trying very weakly to get an after school Bible club off the ground, I help in the 1-5 grade room most of the time however, right now I am teaching Kindergarten in the mornings (ba- ba- ba- ba- ba- I'm lovin' it!).

4. We had a revival meeting in a barn (shocking but true)!

5. I moved twice camper trailer style to a two bed room home (hard wood floors...pictures soon I hope).

These days have been hectic days but Jesus has been working on me and helping me to grow. I want to be close to Him. I miss all of you friendly people very much. I trust that you are doing well. Thank you for every kind letter and thought in this direction. I should go and finish putting away the last few things in the home...

love ya!

Farmers, Art, and Cows

2009-07-12T19:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend was just lovely. I am sort of missing the settled feeling while I am waiting to move into a more permanent place, however, I am discovering that nice things can happen even in Kansas (Thank you Mr. Apostle Paul)! It is such a privilege to live close to two of my cousins. They are very sweet girls who have a heart for God and a lot of love flows. I am also privileged to live near two people that were in college while I was. They have been so wonderful to invite me over and make me feel extra special welcome here. Here is a run down of what I did this weekend:

Friday evening I was invited to play games with the college friends (and their sweet 2 month old baby who will know me as aunt Rachel ...loven' it!)

Saturday morning those two friends and the sweet baby and I made the 40 min. trip to Ks City. There we met my cousins and spent some time at a huge farmers market. Very happy! I am now the proud owner of 2 zucchini (...bread anyone?).

After we finished at the market we went to yummy Taco Bell (cheap, yet tasty)! Then, we proceeded onward to an art museum. Nice, interesting, air conditioned!

Then the two friends and I made our way back to Ottawa (we stopped for ice cream, and we went to a huge Joann fabric store).

There is a family in the church who operate a huge dairy farm. It was time for milking when we arrived in town so, we went out to see the operation. It was so very interesting. I hope to be able to help there some time soon. They milk 240 cows twice a day. It is amazing to smell that many cows in one place! :)

Would you believe it I actually was able to get some of my class work done and some cleaning too? It was an invigorating weekend. I am thankful to Jesus for being with me all of the time, everywhere!

I still miss everyone at home in an intense way. I am looking forward to seeing you very soon.

2009-07-09T14:28:00.000-07:00

The poster up above is for the Good News Club

This is the poster for our upcoming VBS ...

All Around the Town

2009-07-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

Whew! Sorry...

Hello all of my friends where ever you are. Some people have a great ability to be sentimental, me...not so much. I do want to say that after this recent move I am feeling a twinge of sentiment. I miss my friends and family very much. However, I am quite happy and content to know that many of us have the hope of forever together!

I think that I mention this in most of my post that I am amazed at how our circumstance can change but, God never does. He is so faithful.

I wanted to post a little list of things I have been doing or will be doing in the near future...

1. I answered two phone calls in three days of sitting by the office phone
2. I went visiting with two other ladies and a baby.
3. I have completed an inventory of the art supplies.
4. By the way I found out that I will be teaching 3 or 4 sessions of art each week (Dorinda Power to the rescue...)
5. I will also be helping in the 1-5 grade classroom. (happy!)
6. I also have the responsibility of starting an after school kids club! ("Challenge!" said the girl in Ks, in a sing song voice)

I have become a bit of a cave women since I moved a week ago. I am living in a room in the basement of the church. I am very comfortable however, I am waiting for the day when I will have a more permanent place to live (perhaps the beginning of August).

At the risk of being total cheesy I will close by saying the lesson of the week is ...Trust is a Must!

2009-05-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

New Beginnings

Have you ever had a crisis with your cell phone? It has probably been more than two months ago, in the dead of winter, that I made a fatal error. I left my cell phone in my car over night. Guess what? The crazy battery froze. Who even knew that this was possible? Anyway as a result of my carelessness I lost all of my contact information (boo+hoo=boohoo). If I had your number please do not think that I hate you. It was just an unfortunate event. This is a weak way for me to tell you I am sorry that I have not been able to share in your life recently. I know this is a crummy way for some of you to find out about my up coming plans but, I wanted to let you know. I also know that random people can stumble onto blogs but, it is ok with me if you keep readingJ. Many of you know that my location changed in October. I moved from Florida to Illinois to spend some time refocusing and reconnecting. God has been so good to me. I feel that He has allowed me to heal in many ways. For many months now a “door” has been ajar in my life. Then through a series of phone calls and a visit to a church in another state, I decided to move again. I am really excited about this new opportunity. It is my life goal to follow Jesus as closely as I can. I believe that He is going before me and with me.
I will be working closely with the pastor and his wife to reach the children of the community. I will also have the opportunity to work in the school that the church operates. I will be moving at the end of June.
Here is my e-mail address: rachelcryder@yahoo.com. I would love to here from you and answer any questions that you may have about this up coming change in my life.

~Quote~

“Faith that is sure of itself is not faith; faith that is sure of God is the only faith there is.” –Oswald Chambers

2009-03-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends! There may be some more random pictures for you to look at later but, I also wanted to share with you some things that I have learned recently.

Good Lessons and Reminders for Rachel in the Past Year ...or so!

Jesus is always there for you.
Follow Jesus!
Jesus knows even when you do not understand!
Don't rush into anything. Get all of the facts you'll be thankful for it later.
Listen to your older sister. Chances are she's been there before.
Listen to your parents. Where your sister hasn't been they have.
Listen to your little brother. While younger he has good things to share!
Be patient. "He's still workin' on me!"
Give as much as you can. Resources, Time, Energy, Love, Laughter
It is going to be ok!
Why not me?
Do not be afraid to get rid of it! ...I mean possessions...
Love, Love, Love
Assume the best but, be prepared for the worst. This saves a lot of tears.
Stay connected! ...again...."He's still workin' on me!"
Oh be careful little ________ what you see, hear, go, think, trust, and sometimes even... smell.
Do not live for yourself! ...ever...got it...I really mean it!
Try to be in time. An ounce of prevention saves a pound of trouble!
Guard your heart.
Above all of these things allow the mind of Christ to controll your every thought, word, and deed! You will not be sorry.

Dear friend, I hope this list will help you on your journey today.

*Smiles*

Memory Lane Part 3

2009-03-25T09:33:00.002-07:00

...and yet another activity that summer...

*FAITH FINDERS*

Kids Bible Club! Cute Kids!
Lucas Teaching

Jo and Some of the Kids Two different locations...crazy activity...worth it all!!!

Memory Lane Part 3

2009-03-25T09:33:00.001-07:00

Memory Lane Part 2

2009-03-25T09:29:00.001-07:00

The same summer that we took the kids to the zoo my amazing family helped me with not 1...not 2... but 3 fundraising dinners for Hope Christian School! With their help we were able to raise around $1,000!

Memory Lane Part 1

2009-03-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

It is so fun to have pictures printed! These two were from a trip to the Zoo that Jo, Luke, and I took with our five younger cousins! It was a really rainy day but, we had a blast! I think that we took this trip two summers ago. I am so amazed at how much all of us have grown and changed in the past two years. I am so thankful for my family. I love all of them but, the five youngest Ryder grand-kids hold a special place in my heart! It is so fun to be around these dear children. I hope and pray that I can help them want to serve Jesus! I have not posted very many pictures so, I am sorry they are a mess. However, I hope that you enjoy them!

Timing

2009-01-19T12:38:00.000-08:00

Dear Friend,

Sorry about the long absence. It is amazing how life is so busy. So...hello again!

I have been thinking a lot lately about how life seems to be going so far. I think all of my pondering began around Thanksgiving time. We were sitting around looking at pictures from my internships and my brother said something like this..."Wouldn't it be sad if that was the most exciting thing you ever did?". My brain has really been working those words over! I know that life is not all about excitement but, I truly hope that I did not reach the height of excitement at the age of twenty!

Then, I think about the last two years of my life. I went straight from college to Florida. I loved what I was doing and I really learned a lot. However, as time moves along difficult lessons came, and it seemed like I had many difficult lessons to learn. While I loved what I was doing it was not a bed of roses...but who expects that...I mean really. Then at the end of August '08 I learned that what I had loved and invested in was coming to an end (at least for the foreseeable future). So, with a heavy heart I made a choice. I tried to help my beloved students transition into their new schools as smoothly as possible and then, I moved.

I can not understand the time table up to this point (just a little honesty)! I know that God sees the big picture. I am currently living with my dear sister and a friend of ours. We have many joyful times together. I am still growing and learning...I mess up ... and these two dear friends have shown me every kindness (thanks girls).

I am enjoying being with friends and family. I know that God is in control of every situation. He is supplying my needs and I love Him more now than ever before. While I may suffer a few growing pains I know that it is worth it for, I do not seek comfort here, but I seek and strive for my heavenly home.

As far as excitement is concerned I will choose to be content in this moment. Who knows the next great life experience may be just around the corner!

I want to close this lengthy jumbled post with the words to a song. I have always loved this song. I think that somewhere in the family archives we have a very humours recording of me singing this song (tee-hee) but, the words are so good and so meaningfully to me today. I hope that they will encourage you.

In His time, in His time

He makes all things beautiful in His time.

Lord my life to you I bring,

May each song I have to sing,

Be to you a lovely thing, in your time.

My Perfect Umbrella

2008-11-14T13:20:00.000-08:00

A lot of things have been happening lately!
The one that I am most excited about is getting to spend time with my family and friends.
I love that I am near enough not just to hear their voices but, also touch and see them!
I have also just moved into a nice apartment with my sister.
It is so great to have such a good friend.
She is a solid consistent example in my life (Thanks Jo)!
Jo and I have been working with the children at our church.
We are working on a play for Christmas.
I just love it!

Today is a raining day. The rain reminds me of the sad parts of the past few months of my life. But, I know that without rain there will be little growth. I don't want to live in the desert so, let it pour! Even if I can not see through the rain He can... what a perfect umbrella...my shelter in the time of storm! I know that there is a brighter day coming and with His help I can do all things ...such peace ...such trust...such joy!

Wild and Woolly

2008-10-21T18:27:00.000-07:00

Hello...hello...hello... It has been many moons since I last posted. I am wildly apologetic! I trust that the past few months have been wonderful for you! Things have been a little wild and woolly in my life! I would tell you all about it but, you may fall asleep in the process.

I just want to say that I am learning to trust Jesus. In the middle of the everything He is so faithful. There are many times when I feel that I can not go on but, I am confident that He is there even when I can't see the plan.

Today I received the first of two correspondence courses that I need to complete by mid December. I am very excited about the Wisdom Literature course. I was looking over the assignments and I think that it will be a fun challenge!

Thankful Tuesday .... by the way a one time event ;)

Family

Friends

Mode Camp

Home Made Pizza

Mice that make me laugh

Good Books

Home

Children

Laughter

Tissues

Music

Many more things, but most of all Jesus!

I trust that you are able to rest today in the knowledge that you, oh yes you, are loved by the creator of the whole world, and He's got you in His hands!

Welcome Home!

2008-07-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Welcome home... these two words together are music in my ears. Where is home? We have all seen the signs that say "home is where the heart is." Over the past two months I have had the privilege to see my family. I treasure the moments that I get to spend with my family.
Many of you know that I have felt a little disoriented since my move to Florida two years ago. I know that I am doing what God wants me to. I also know that I am in close fellowship with Him. What I also know is that being away from "home" has been very difficult. However, I realize now that "home" for me will always be where my friends and family are. If that means we take extreme trips to see one another then so be it! I am thankful for my sister, brother, mom and dad that were willing to come to this place that is so different from our "home" up north to visit "home" down south. It felt like "home".
I can not imagine what Heaven will be like. But, I think that we will feel like we are finally home! We will forever be surrounded by true love. What a lovely thought!

Hello!

2008-06-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry for my lack of words! I am trying to get some of my thoughts collected. So many things have been happening! Within a matter of four weeks things can change so much. Here is a list of some of the things that have been happening lately:

1. My wonderful brother and sister came to visit. (see joryder.blogspot.com for pictures)

2. My car underwent some sort of trauma! Cha-ching for the new muffler!

3. My brother and sister helped me with a fundraiser for the school.

4. I helped to organize the first High School Graduation for the school.

5. It was decided that instead of traveling to raise money for the school that I would stay in Hobe Sound and work. (I will get to come home for a while before school starts again.)

6. I started a job to help supply income for the school.

7. I have written a newsletter to be published later this summer.

... the list could go on but enough is enough I say!

Graduation was a lovely event. There were around 200 people there. The walls were beautifully decorated with the students art work. The two boys that graduated did a wonderful job on their speeches. Miriam Melendez, the kindergarten teacher, had her students prepared to do an excellent job and they did! I was so proud of both of the teachers who had students graduating! Thank you ladies for your hard work. We honored the students for their reading this year. Collectively they earned 600 books! After the ceremony we ate a Delicious meal that had been cooked by the parents and some other people from the school. It was a wonderful day!

I am so glad that Jesus is sustaining me. I know that I am inadequate and make the wrong choice often. But, thanks to Him I am surrounded by supportive friends and family! He is faithful to help me to stay on the right track.

"Thou oh Lord art a shield for me!"

Here is a delightful sandwich:

Supplies:

Turkey

Cheese

Pumpernickel bread (who knew)

Lite Mayo

Put them together as you see fit!

I like the layered look personally!

All of these things together equal yummy!

I hope that you have a great day!

Rachel Ryder

Pleasant Interruptions

2008-05-13T05:14:00.000-07:00

This week-end was marked by a few pleasant interruptions.

On Saturday my friend Joy wanted me to go with her to look at an apartment. The apartment was in a bad location so, she did not even look at it. It was so wonderful to have an excuse to spend some time together that we didn't mind.

Saturday night I went to Spanish church. After church they were selling home-made chicken tacos. Yummy!

I had the opportunity to watch part of the movie Ben-Hur. I had listened to the Focus on the Family dramatized version and was completely captured by the emotion of the moment when they portray Jesus on the cross. I have yet to read the book. However, there was a line that made me clap my hands together for joy (not even joking about that). Ben-Hur and Balthazar are watching the crucifixion. Ben-Hur turned to Balthazar (who was supposed to be one of the wise men) and said something about how sad that it had to end with His death and then (great swell of emotional music) Balthazar says no it is just the beginning! I did not convey the moment very well but, it really touched my heart.

All seemed lost, dark, and hopeless and for a few brief hours it truly was. Then like sunlight penetrating through a dirty attic window, He was back and in His pocket jingled the keys to death, hell and the grave!

Thank God for the beginning!

Have a great day! I hope this has been a pleasant interruption.

~Rachel Ryder~

Random

2008-05-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

Here we are in the middle of standardized testing! Yipes! It seems to be going OK in the fact that the pages are being finished. However, this test is set up so differently than what the students work usually looks like. There are a lot of really wordy directions. They seem to be doing their best which is important. I never really loved taking test in school and so I feel pain for my students (extreme I know...but true).

I guess that this is the part of the blog that I make some sort of reference to life's test. I am sure though that you know what it is already. You guys are so smart! :)

On another note... I am really looking forward to my siblings coming to visit at the end of this month. It has been since February that I have had any sort of sighting of my family. It will be a breath of fresh air to see them (as long as they have brushed their teeth...tee-hee). I hope that you have seen at least one of your family members today. If you have treasure the moment.

Randomly, Rachel Ryder

Three Weeks of Winter and then Ta Da Spring Sprang!

2008-04-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

I have always enjoyed cold weather. Here I am in Florida the land of the sun. As many of you know I took a fund raising trip up north. During my three week trip I got to experience a little bit of winter. I even got to see snow!
Here are just a few highlights from my trip:

I flew into Harrisburg Airport in PA on March 15th and borrowed a van (of the mini sort) from Mission Helps (a wonderful organization).
Then I traveled to Penns Creek where I would make my home for the next three weeks.
I got to stay with my very dear friend Ana Warden.
I visited 9 new churches!
I almost hit a cow!
Some sort of important belt thingy broke on the van (of the mini sort). Thankfully I was in someones driveway at the time.
I got to see several new babies. They were soooooo cute! These babies belonged to some of my friends from college.
The total number is not in yet but I think close to $2,000 were raised.
I got to attend the P.V.B.I. Missions Convention (happy little gathering!).
I came home on April 7th.

Now my winter is over. It was a nice change of pace. I am glad to be back in Florida. When I got back there seemed to be a multitude of challenges awaiting me. I hope that I did not sound to distressed in my last post. Thank you all so much for your encouraging comments they mean so much.

THEN SPRING SPRANG:

Usually spring is a subtle awareness. My spring came all at once in the form of a brightly wrapped box! When I opened the box I saw a very thoughtful note and a land slide of goodies! I was over whelmed. I was especially touch by who the package was from. I am so thankful for the influence of the ladies from the church in Salem, IL. So many times I have been the recipient of their generosity. Thank you ladies for the blessing of Spring in a box! I hope that God blesses you today more than you expect!

Happy Spring,

Rachel Ryder

What do you do when...

2008-04-15T05:53:00.000-07:00

Hello Friend! I trust that all is going well for you! I am so glad that the weather has been cool here. When it is cool it really helps with the electric bill (three cheers said the young lady in Florida).

I have a lot of thoughts running around in my head I hope you do not mind if I write them out for you to see.
!. It is hard to think of myself as a teacher. What did I do to merit this job. I think of my sister who has worked so many hard hours to acquire the title of teacher. I am so proud of her. What an honor to know her and be inspired by her. I am very thankful and privileged that I by some means can call myself a teacher too.

2. Last night we had our third and final parent/teacher conference of the year. The events of last night are what made me think of the title for this post.
3. What do you do when...

There is a language barrier and the parent wants to try to talk to you without the use of a translator.
When you learn that the realities of a torn home lurk in the shadows for one of your students.
When you learn that a family can not afford to put both of their children into the school.
When a family who has never missed a payment, tells you that they can no longer afford to pay without some financial help.
When an apparently mistaken world view seems to be imposed upon some of the students.
You feel like you are to young to solve any of these problems.

4. There are so many things that seem hopeless. I know though that there is a remedy. The GBS (hoo-ray for little Lucas! :) choir sang this song and here are the lyrics:

For the world that's lost in darkness

For the saint who's gone astray

For the sinner, blind but searching

For the child in need of faith

For the homeless and forsaken

For the hungry and the cold

For the prisoner and the captive

For the young and for the old

(Chorus) There is a remedy For every sin-sick soul There is a cure for all All the pain and hurt and wrong There is a solution For all the problems deep inside There is a remedy And His name is Jesus Christ

For the bitter, for the lonely

For the weary and afraid

For the burdened and frustrated The discouraged and dismayed

For the mocked and persecuted

For the battered, for the wronged

For the scarred and for the wounded

For the weak and for the strong (Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge) For every tribe and every nation

For every color, every race

For every tongue and every language

For every time and every place

There's an answer to the questions

There is love for all the hate

There's a healer for the dying

He's the Light, the Truth, the Way (Repeat Chorus)

Annie and Kelly McRae

5. I just want to keep my hand in His. I choose today to trust and love Him although I do not see the next step.

Warm and Loving Thoughts,

Rachel Ryder

Pictures From Hope Christian School

2008-04-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

Hello! I thought you all might like to see the beautiful students from the school.

The first picture is of the older class with some cakes they decorated. The second picture is of all of the students. We are currently looking for a teacher for the older students and a kindergarten teacher. I know that God has just the right people. You might be one of them! :) If you love Jesus with your whole heart and are interested in working with another culture HCS just might be the place for you!

2008-04-09T07:08:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I'm back. I had a very nice journey up North. I will tell you all about it sometime soon. My sister asked me to answer these questions and it sounds kind of fun so here goes...

10 years ago I was ...
fourteen years old. I was in eighth grade. What a lovely time in my life. The spring of my 14th year the scholar bowl team which I was on went to state. ("wee-hoo" said the young lady in Florida)

Today's top five things on my to-do list...
1. Teach
2. Un-pack (officially)
3. Write a news letter
4. Go to Kids Club in Indiantown
5. Read a few chapters in a book from the Library

I really enjoy to snack on ...
yummy fluffy pudding stuff.
(package of sugarless jello dissolved in 1/4 cup of hot water, let that cool, then add to the jello mixture a six ounce yogurt of the same flavor as the jello, and a container of lite cool whip)

If I were a billionaire I'd ...
1. Support Hope International Missions
2. Support Child Evangelism in my local church
3. Go back to college
4. Travel
5. Buy a more gas efficient car

My three worst habits are...
1. lack of proper communication
2. lack of exercise (get movin')
3. lack of proper organization (here some stuff, there some stuff, everywhere some stuff stuff)

I have lived in these five places...
1. Neoga, IL (18 years)
2. Penns Creek, PA (4 years)
3. Philippines (12 weeks total)
4. Hobe Sound, FL (almost 2 years)
5. Other people's homes while I travel (approximately six months)

I have worked at these 5 places ...
1. Mowing a dear elderly ladies yard
2. Camp New Hope for 3 summers (a camp for handicap people)
3. Sitting with an elderly lady
4. Lots of odd jobs on the campus of Penn View
5. Teaching

I would like to know about these five people...
1. Shari
2. Bethany
3. Kara
4. Laura
5. Sara

Have a great day! :)

News

2008-03-07T06:38:00.001-08:00

Happy March! I am amazed that it is already March 7, 2008. It seems like there have been many things happening:

1. I filled out and turned in a scholarship renewal form for our school. One student has the scholarship for this school year. It is really nice because it pays the family's school bill for them making it possible for their child to attend. We are still waiting to hear if we are approved for next school year.

2. A large landscaping truck backed into my car. Thankfully no one was hurt. The truck made a hole a little larger than a silver dollar in the hood of my car. The man that backed into me agreed to fix the car and he did a lovely job fixing it.

3. I got a chance to go and visit my brother while the GBS choir was in Florida. That young man is so wonderful. It is exciting to see what God is doing in his life. I was also very encouraged by the songs that the choir sang!

4. My beautiful mother had a birthday on March 4th. I have always thought that my mother is one of the most beautiful people I know. I love my mother's smile. She is truly lovely. She managed to get the logical lady gene and I got the radical reaction gene. So, many times she has helped me work through situations. I am so thankful for the mother that God gave me! Happy Birthday Mommy!

5. Next Friday I am going on a three week fundraising trip to Pennsylvania. I have very mixed emotions about this trip. I will have to give a report on the trip whenever I get back.

I trust that you are safe, happy, and warm. God is good even in the middle of life. It is amazing how "even" things have been of late however , God is still God no matter what is happening here. I once heard a story of a pastor who walked into the church one day. There was a man in the church shouting toward the ceiling; "Are you up there?". The pastor introduced himself and said the question shouldn't be "Are you up there?" but, "Are you down here?". If God is not down here with us helping us and guiding us by the Holy Spirit then what is the point? I am so thankful for a God who was willing to send His Son down here and leave His Holy Spirit behind so that our lives can be happy and fulfilled.
Wow!

Smiles

Things to Think About

2008-02-12T09:44:00.000-08:00

What a true honor it is to serve Jesus.
Today in my classroom we got into some really heavy stuff. I realized after a detailed conversation about good vs. evil that I am so thankful for the understanding that my parents seemed to have about exposing us to evil. I discovered today that my students have watched some very disturbing things on TV and DVD. I am very concerned because some of the things sound like they have been produced from an "evangelical" point of view. I told my students that it is far better to focus on God and truth than on the devil and his evil plans.
I trust that God will help me to be wise. I so very much wish to shape the minds of "my dear ones". Yesterday we learned the word imitation. I told them that we are to imitate Christ. What a high standard to present to my students and to myself. What a privilage to share Jesus with these children.
If you want to see the students in action you can look at the Hobe Sound Bible Church site and see them playing hand bells during the 2:30 service on the 10th.
On Sunday night I finished four nights of my third occasion to work with the Spanish children during their camp meeting. It was a lot of fun. One night I had close to 80 children in a classroom. Wow! Wild and Wonderful!

Thinking of you,

Rachel Ryder

Prayer for Today ...

2008-02-04T10:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Lord,
I have been told that I am supposed to be a "molder of dreams". Please help me today to inspire a dream in each of my students. I want to shape their dreams and not make them moldy. Thank you Lord for the capability to dream. Amen

Hidden Diamonds

2008-01-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't it be so fun to be working in your front yard one day and find a hidden diamond? Some of you would pick up the phone and tell all of your friends and a few close enemies about what you had found. Others would hide the diamond away and steal a glance at it from time to time. No matter what you would do I am sure that you would recognize its tremendous value and worth.
I am becoming more convinced that is the way that people are looked at. Some people are well known. Some other people are hidden away and only known by just a few people. Both groups of people are to be highly treasured. Just like a hidden diamond is still a diamond a person who is not well known is just as precious as one who is well known.
This week a very dear friend of mine and my family passed away. He was one of those "hidden diamonds". His faithfulness and giving spirit helped to inspire my life. I thank God for Robert Brewer. I am very sad for his family. I am not sad for him however, because he is in a place where there is no more sadness.
Thank you to all of you who are content to be hidden diamonds. Your life is sparkling and you are loved!

In Loving Memory of Robert Brewer January 18, 2008.

Thankfuly,

Rachel Ryder

The Unexpected ... a gift?

2008-01-14T06:11:00.000-08:00

Hello! It is official, the holiday buzz is over! It was so wonderful to see so many dear friends over the holiday season.

While at home some family members were very insistent that my social life is smelly (and sometimes the truth hurts). I have been pondering the hurting truth.

It seems like most people maintain a support base for a few years before moving very far away. While I was in high school I had my family near by. Then when I went to college I moved 12 hours away from home. However, in college there were several people who shared things in common with me (i.e. age, major, living space, bad food, and a host of other things). Then my senior year of college came. I decided to join Hope International Missions. As I look back on my decision to join HIM I am not sad or upset. I can see how God opened and closed doors to make it possible for me to work with my dear Spanish students.

After I was excepted by the mission board my life was turned up side down. All of a sudden I was thrown, tossed, pitched, etc. into to a world that I was not prepared for (partly my fault and partly others fault). All of a sudden I was away from everything that was familar to me. My human support base was gone (gasp)! Everything from the church to the weather was different. As life goes along it seems like there are some changes that should have happened by now that have not. I have also been asking myself about those changes that I wish would happen but don't seem to be happening.

So, here are some things I will be doing:
1) First and always draw closer to God, my ulimate support base.
2) Get very busy being a help to Hope Christian School.
3) Try to establish true and meaningful friendships in my new "home" town.

I think that the lesson I need to learn is that the unexpect things are the ones that help us to grow the most.

Here is a happy note:
I am so thankful for my Aunts and Uncles. I know that may sound really strange however, they are just the icing on the cake. First, God gave me a wonderful dad, mom, sister, and brother. Second, He allowed me to be a part of my parents siblings lives too. Hoo-ray!

I hope that you are doing well!

Happy day to all, Rachel

Dia de Gracias or Something Like That

2007-11-16T06:09:00.000-08:00

Greetings! I just want to say hoo-ray for the good weather! I have not had to run my air conditioner for almost three weeks. That will be so very easy on my pocket book when the next electric bill comes out!

I am amaz-ed at how fast time flies (fun or no fun). I have been taking a Spanish course at the local high school. It was a 10 week course and guess what ... next week is the last week. I have enjoyed the class very much. My instructor's name is Mina. I will be taking the second semester starting in January. I think that I spelled Thanksgiving day right anyhoot, it is something close to that.

I have a very cute bunch of students! The other day I asked them if they wanted to sing some songs. One of my boys raised his hand. He was about to come unglued with excitement so, I called on him. I was a little taken aback when he said can we sing "He is Exhausted". I had to smile. I then explained to the class the difference between the word exalted and exhausted. I am really glad that the God I serve does not get exhausted.

I am feeling very thankful these days. However, I recognize that feelings do not always last. I want to make sure that I am working on an attitude of thankfulness all of the time!

Lots of News

2007-10-01T10:21:00.000-07:00

Since my last blog I have had a lot of wow going on in my life!

1. My car broke down! There it was stuck without me by its side for seven and one half days! Ouch! Then an angel/angle named Rick came and swept my car off its feet. Hopefully if all goes well I should be able to take it home today. I say hoo-ray for that!

2. My students have gone nuts! For sure it is true because, they are truly being violent. O.k. maybe I am a little nuts too. However, I saw blood ... I did. Oh wow! You know that whole feeling more love for them when they are bad thing. Yes, I do love them more my theory has been tested.

3. My wonderful Mother is coming to visit me soon. I can not wait!

4. Two of my closest friends have had babies withing the past little while. Noah and Daniel are two of the cutest little guys ya ever did see.

I have had a sort of emotional time since I wrote you last. You know it is at the times of item one and two that I know I still have a lot of learning to do. Then, I look at three and four and I realize that I don't have to do it alone. I am surrounded (at least by phone) with friends and family who love me and care for me.
I also know that God is not finished with me yet. I am so thankful for my Heavenly Father!
To quote several American presidents ... God Bless You and God Bless America! :)
(double cheese with cheesy fries)

Bye-Bye

The Wild Wild West ... Palm

2007-09-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

Howdy! Here I am in my classroom! Welcome. Today I have the joy of spending six hours with seven of the coolest kids I know. I have never been a mother however, I think I am gaining a little insight into what motherhood might be like. One moment I want to hug them and the next moment I want to bop (yes bop) them on the head. It is in the moments of the bop feeling, more than in the moments of the hug feeling, that I fall more in love with my students. How can that be? I think I might know. I'll tell you my idea and then you can let me know what you think.
I think that it has something to do with responsibility. When my students make me feel like I want to bop them that makes me realize how much care and guidance they really need. Therefore, when they misbehave I fall more and more in love with them. I want the best for my students. I want them not only to be academically on top, but also on top spiritually.
I wish that you could meet them. I have seven students again this year. It is wonderful how much energy can be put into a three - four foot tall body!
On a different note: I started taking Spanish class last night! It was a lot of fun and I am looking forward to learning a lot. Mostly I would like to learn how to get to the place without getting lost! It took me (drum roll please) 45 moments to make a 20 minuet trip because I got so very lost! Some day I will get the direction part of my life in order. However, for now I must be content to allow others to help me in my pursuit of finding new places in the world.
I truly hope that your life is going well! If it is not you could always try one of the following options:
1. Stand on your head and moo like a cow.
2. Try a new food (or if your on a diet refrain from trying a new food).
3. Buy a new pair of shoes. Take them home. Run from the kitchen to the living room. See how high you can jump in your new shoes! (watch out for shoes with heals, this one works best for new running shoes.)

Adios!

...And We're Back!

2007-08-28T17:11:00.000-07:00

Wow! O.k. I am so very sorry! I do not know what happened. For the everlasting live long time my pass word had escaped through a hole in the back of my head. Then, I got it changed and behold the little rat would not work! Shocking.
Anyway, how are you all doing? I am so excited because I have the world wide web in my very own apartment! Speaking of apartments, I am in a new one this year. My brother (dauntless was he young and brave), and my sister (what a cutie) came all the way to Florida and helped me move all of my priceless valuables (junk). Thanks guys.
I love the new place. It is amazing to have to take more than two steps to get to the bathroom.
Get this we had our first parent teacher meeting last night. It was 11:45 p.m. before we got back to Hobe Sound. Wow! Then after my late night of ... something today I had to get fingerprinted. I know it sounds bad but, it is true. I had to get my fingers printed to be able to work at the school.
Well, I am very excited about the new teachers at the school. They seem nice and they aren't missing any of the important features (i.e. nose, ears, etc.). They are a mother-in-law / daughter-in-law combo (with fries on the side ... just kidding). Hoo-ray!
Well, if any of you see my family or any one who looks related to me please greet them wormy ...ur warmly!

Ta Ta for now!

Vacation Kitchen Style

2007-07-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

Hi. Hello. I hope that you are doing really super well today. It is so beautiful outside.
So, I made a new kind of cookies today. Isn't that an adventure. Some people go to wonderful places for vacation and I get to go to the kitchen and cook. Smile. It is difficult to know how a cookie is supposed to taste. It is really difficult when you have never tasted the silly thing before. I am not sure if they are good or not. However, I did have a loverly vacation today. Three cheers.
On another note... if you read this thing for very long you will find spelling mistakes (oh yea mistakes with an s).
On to shoping with sisters. If you do not have a sister and mom you should rent a combined set for the day and hit the shoping places. My mom, sister, and I went out and about last night and had a blast and 3/4.
Well next week should be busy and fun. On Tuesday I have a fundraiser, on Thursday I am to speak at a church, on Friday I have another fundraiser, and next weekend I am flying to Florida. Wow. Maybe someone who reads this is a million dollar sort of person and would love to donate a bundle.
Well it is 3:30 time to move on. Have a great day. God Bless.

Un-stuck

2007-07-10T06:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings. I am new to all of this. Isn't the web wonderful? I mean really where else can one look into other's lives without feeling like their gossiping? It is won-der-ful.
I must admit that I spent a little to much time in the sun yesterday. I was mowing the yard at our humble abode when all of a sudden it happened. . . I ran over the "magic" carpet. Instead of it lifting me to hights unknown it promptly got stuck between the deck and the blade. Now, It seemed like it would take a small army to set the "magic", ok more like a rug than a carpet, free. So, I waited for my dad to come home. He wacked it with his pocket knife and the rug was free. Only a slight heart attack was suffered on my part.
I hope that you are having an un-stuck sort of day. However, if you do find yourself stuck between a rock and a hard place, we have a Dad in heaven who is very quick to come and get us un-stuck. I think that is a very comforting thought.