Sheryl @ KAXL

What Do You Need From Me?

2010-09-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

September 8, 2010

“Mom, what do you need from me before I join the Navy in 2011?” Little did my son realize what he was getting into when I said, “Why don’t you go with me to Africa?”
Our trip theme was “For the Glory of God.” God was glorified through the opportunities he gave us and also the time we had to share our memories of Paul. Bishop Deo and Sarah Mwamba were our hosts in the Congo. In Kimpese, the women were to be served lunch as part of the conference and the lunch was late, Deo went to a far away village to buy enough bread and nuts to feed over 300 women. I was told to keep speaking, even after I had concluded the second message twice. My audience was attentive -- there was a woman who walked the rows of the church carrying a very big stick. If anyone nodded off during the message, she would knock them on the head. Do you think we should implement this in the USA?
In Kitale, Kenya Ben met Moses, the director of Water Missions International. Moses invited Ben to go on a road trip to inspect the solar powered water purification units located in southern Kenya. Ben was on the road for over a week with two nationals and Ben Mims, from South Carolina. The men worked on units in remote areas where clean water is scarce. Moses was able to work within a tight budget to offer many water purification units to needy people. Ben saw wild zebras, antelope, camels and monkeys, even the Masai (in red robes in picture), a tribe of nomad herders. The Water Missions group shared the love of God in a very tangible way – by offering pure, clean drinking water to those in need.
The campus of Africa Theological Seminary (ATS) houses the Water Missions office, when Ben was in Kitale, many mornings, Ben and I headed to “work” together. At ATS, I taught Church Administration to ten pastors in the ATS BA CLASS of 2009. The pastors are church planters, visionaries, who preach, organize, motivate their churches while working other jobs. We studied the biblical leadership of Moses in Exodus 18, of Jesus 2 and the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 4. I taught from John Maxwell’s Million Leader Mandate workbooks #1 and #2.
On the first day of class, Pastor Simon asked, “Why do we have to learn about biblical leadership, isn’t this a church administration course?” I was a little taken aback, I thought, “I’m the teacher, I decide what’s in the curriculum.” I said, “In order to become a good church administrator, as pastors, we need to be godly, Biblical leaders. The MLM books are very valuable to provide a Biblical foundation for you.” At the end of the class, 7 of the 10 pastors asked for the MLM material so they could teach it to their own congregations. “For the Glory of God.”
I’m out of room for this month, but next month, I will finish telling you about our trip.

Please pray:
ICM Congo Directors Deo and Sarah Mwamba hosting International Council Oct. ‘10
Water Missions International seeks new areas for sites - www.watermissions.org
Africa Theological Seminary – Kitale, Kenya is completing accreditation, pray for the final details to be completed - www.atseminary.ac.ke

Thank you so much for your prayers and financial support! We love and pray for each of you!

Sheryl & Ben Giesbrecht

Giesbrecht Africa Trip 2010 with ICM - ICMUSA.org

2010-07-02T10:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,

Thank you for your prayers for our family during this past nine months since Paul's sudden death. We are grieving our great loss, yet slowly beginning to heal.

In September 2006, my son Ben, started classes at the University of California at Davis. His freshman class was the biggest to emerge upon UCD. It's no wonder that the 2010 graduating class of Biological Sciences was the largest in the history of UCD. Congratulations, Ben, for the hard work in completing your Bachelor of Science in Exercise biology and graduating with the 2010 class of Biological Sciences from UC Davis. We are so proud of you!

In October 2009, a couple of weeks after his dad died, Ben asked, "Mom, what would you need from me before I enlist in the Navy in 2011?" I said, "Why don't you come with me on a trip to Africa?" Thus, the Giesbrecht Africa Trip 2010 with International Christian Ministries. Below is a detailed itenerary. We need your prayers. If you decide to join our prayer team, feel free to print this blog or stop by the KAXL Life Fm office to pick one up. As a prayer team member, we'd like to give you a gift from our KAXL staff - a book - Psalm 91 - God's Umbrella of Protection. Thanks for your prayers. We are praying for you.

Giesbrecht AfricaTrip 2010 with International Christian Ministries

Theme: For The Glory of God
"Look at the nations and watch-and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told.“ Habakkuk 1:5
Trip Goals: To encourage, equip and exhort Christians, leaders and ICM staff in the Congo, Kenya and Egypt.
Ben & Sheryl Giesbrecht – Mother’s Day 2010 at Parkside Church, Bakersfield, CA
Trip Schedule and Responsibilities:
7/9/2010 - Depart Bakersfield, CA via United Airlines flight 6152 at 9:30 am.
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1
7/10/10 - Arrive in Kinshasa, Congo via Kenya Airways flight 0550 8:55 am. Greeted by hosts, ICM Congo Directors, Deo and Sarah Mwamba.
“I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress,my God in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:2
7/12/10 - Sheryl speaks for a Women’s Conference in Kinshasa. Ben will meet with the men of the local tribes and visit refugee camps.
“Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.” Psalm 91:3
7/13/10 - Travel by vehicle to Mbanza Ngungu – 125 miles from Kinshasa.
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge.” Psalm 91:4 a
Sheryl speaks at From Ashes to Beauty Women’s Conference in Goma, Congo in May 2009.
7/14/10 - Sheryl speaks for a Women’s Conference in Mbanza Ngungu. Ben will meet with local pastors and travel to visit pygmies.
“His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” Psalm 91:4b
7/15/10 - Travel to Kinshasa, Congo.
“You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day.” Psalm 91:5
7/16/10 – Debrief with ICM Congo Directors, Deo and Sarah Mwamba.
“nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.” Ps. 91:6
7/17/10 – Airline travel to Kitale, Kenya. Greeted by hosts, Emmanuel and Dorcas Chemengich, President of Africa Theological Seminary.
“A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.” Psalm 91:7
7/18/10 – Preaching in church in Kitale, Kenya
“You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.” Psalm 91:8
Sheryl in Lagos, Nigeria in April 2008 after sharing a message with ICM Seminary Women.
7/20-22/10 – Sheryl teaches Church Administration at Africa Theological Seminary. Ben will visit ministry sites in Kitale and assist with building projects.
“If you make the Most High your dwelling-even the Lord, who is my refuge—then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent.” Psalm 91:9, 10
7/23-24/10 - Sheryl speaks for a Women’s Conference in Kitale, Kenya.
“For he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:12
7/27-29/10 – Sheryl teaches Church Administration at ATS, Kitale, Kenya. Ben will visit water purification sites, orphanages and feeding programs.
“They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” Ps. 91:12
Sheryl speaks at From Ashes to Beauty Women’s Conference in Kitale, Kenya in May 2009
7/30 – 31/10 - Sheryl speaks for a Women’s Conference in Mt. Elgon, Kenya.
“You will tread upon the lion and the cobra; trample the great lion and the serpent.”Psalm 91:13
8/1/10 – Airline travel to Nairobi, Kenya.
“Because he loves me,’ says the Lord, ‘I will rescue him;” Psalm 91:14a
8/2/10 - Travel by vehicle to visit Compassion sponsored child, Caroline Ndinda Muysoki, Mungala Project. Compassion Child sponsorship drive with 88.3 Life FM.
“I will protect him because he acknowledges my name.” Psalm 91:14b
April 2009 - Sheryl and Paul Giesbrecht visit Compassion child, Caroline (in red shirt) and her family in Mungala, Kenya.
8/3/10 - Debrief in Nairobi, Kenya.
“He will call upon me and I will answer him.” Psalm 91:15a
8/4/10 – Airline travel to Cairo, Egypt – greeted by hosts ICM Egypt Directors Wahid and Laila Wahba.
“I will be with him in trouble.” Psalm 91:15b
8/5 – 8/7/10 – Network and encourage ICM staff and leaders, visit Coptic priests, orthodox parishes, ICM partners, Wahid and Laila Waba.
“I will deliver him and honor him.” Psalm 91:15b
8/7-9/10 - Return to Bakersfield via United Airlines flight 6326 7:28 pm
“With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation.” Psalm 91:16

Thank you so much for 'taking this trip to Africa' with us, through your prayers. We are praying for you. Sheryl & Ben Giesbrecht

Time Marches On...

2010-03-15T10:40:00.000-07:00

March 17, 2010

Dear Friend,

It’s been only just five months since Paul died. The motorcycle accident, how it happened and why is still a mystery. We will probably never know what caused it but the end result is still the same. My beloved husband of 28 years got a better offer – he went home, to be with the Lord he loved. Getting over the untimely, unfair and unexpected loss of Paul has been the most difficult thing I’ve ever done.

I am grieving and it will take years to recover, especially from the trauma of seeing Paul’s injuries right after the accident. I still cry from time to time, tears are a gift, not a sign of weakness. Tears express the depth of the loss I feel and are a sign that I am recovering. I might sometimes seem angry for no reason; I am not sure why other than that my emotions are intense because of my grief. Please be forgiving and patient with me.

If I forget things or repeat myself, please accept this as normal. Your presence and understanding means so much. You don’t have to say anything. Even sending me a card means a lot. Please don’t wait for me to call you, since most of the time I am too tired to do so. When I withdraw, please don’t let me do that for too long. I need you to reach out to me. If you have suffered a similar loss, please share it with me. It will help rather than cause me to feel worse. I want to talk about Paul, I think about him all the time; I would love to hear your memories of him.

This loss is so painful right now; it feels like the worst thing that could ever happen to me. But I will survive and will eventually recover. Please pray that God will use this time of grieving to grow me and equip me to minister to others with greater compassion than ever before.

Thank you for your love, care and concern. Thank you for your prayers, knowing you are praying comforts me and your prayers are a gift for which I will always be thankful.

In Jesus’ Unfailing Love,

Sheryl

“The righteous perish, and no one ponders it in his heart; devout men are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death.” Isaiah 57:1, 2

An Update from the Giesbrecht Family

2009-11-20T09:08:00.000-08:00

Dear KAXL Listeners,Family,Friends,
You are the best support system in the world! Thank you for your outpouring of love and support during the untimely home-going of my husband of 28 years, Pastor Paul Giesbrecht. I’ve so appreciated the concern you’ve shown by sending cards, meals, financial donations but most importantly, your prayers.
It's been good to be back at work at KAXL. I hope to share with you some of funny stories and heartfelt memories of my husband. You can still share your own thoughts by going to the online guestbook at www.kaxl.com or http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/bakersfield/obituary.aspx?n=paul-eugene-giesbrecht&pid=134730157.
I anticipate telling you how encouraged our family has felt from your expressions of compassion. Our God is great, and each day, we are learning new things about His sufficiency. The truth is, God “heals the brokenhearted, binding up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3) We are in the process of being healed and it may take years! Thanks for walking with us.
Love and prayers, Sheryl Giesbrecht

Special Note – From the KAXL Staff:
Please remember, we, as a staff at KAXL are still grieving our loss. Although Paul was Sheryl’s husband, he was also very much involved with our projects at KAXL. Please show us your understanding by doing these things for us:

Things We Need:
Please don’t stop praying.
Please keep sending us your favorite Bible verses about peace, comfort, hope, healing or other words of encouragement.
More prayer – the holidays are coming, we will miss Paul during the holidays.

Things We Don’t Need:
Questions about the accident, how Paul died, other details about the trauma we are working through.
Advice – unless we ask for it.
Pat ‘Christian’ answers.
If you don’t know what to say, just remember, sometimes words aren’t necessary.
Pray for us, we really appreciate your prayers.
Thank you, KAXL Staff

Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

A Tree of Life

2009-05-24T21:33:00.000-07:00

In 2004, I wanted to sponsor a child through Compassion International. So many children need sponsors, I wondered, how would I choose a Compassion child? I thought it might be fun to find one who shared my April 1 birthday and I also wanted a little girl. I hoped to someday make a trip to Africa, so I asked for one from any country in Africa. The Compassion staff matched me up with then five year old Caroline Ndinda Musyoki, born April 1,1999; living in Mungala, Kenya. For five years, my dream and prayer has been that someday I would get to meet my Compassion child in person!

This spring, my dream came true. After a day of air travel, we were on the ground in Nairobi, Kenya and the next day, we on our way to our child’s village. I could hardly believe my prayers were answered. Though it seemed like several hours as we bounced along the road, our four wheel drive vehicle crawled in and out of potholes the size of craters. My stomach was in knots with nervous anticipation and the smell of diesel fuel, I wondered if Caroline was as nervous as I. We pulled up to the site of the Mungala project, the African Inland Church (AIC) Mungala, our host Jim led us inside to find the Compassion staff was assembled inside the office with Caroline.

“Karibu” (welcome in Swahili), said Caroline, as she timidly took my outstretched hand, she greeted me with a shy smile and bashful eyes. I wanted to jump up and down and hug her, but I knew I needed to restrain myself. In Kenya physical touch in public is not always appropriate. Our group settled into the cramped office to get acquainted. Introductions were passed around starting with Caroline, then Paul and myself. Jim Makunda, our Compassion host from the Kenyan office interpreted as we met AIC Mungala project chairman, Hughs Ndonye, Joseph Mutua, elder of the AIC Mungala church, Ruth Mbinya, the AIC Mungala project social worker and Betty Killu, AIC Mungala project health worker and nurse. We enjoyed ‘taking tea’ together and ended our time in the office with a time of prayer for the project, the sponsors and the children. I didn’t think it could get much better than this!

On April 19, I ran across this verse in my devotions, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life." Prov. 13:12 Little did I know how God would make my dream of meeting my Compassion child come true.

Paul and I were escorted outside, to the lawn of the project; and walked into an experience we’d never forget. We were directed to kneel with Caroline, beside freshly prepared holes, while the staff handed us two yearling avocado trees. In Kenya, the avocado tree is a prosperous tropical fruit and an important staple of the diet. The staff’s planning for our visit was evident and very meaningful. “These symbols of life”, they said, “are a reminder for us to pray for you.” We had come from our home bearing gifts of stickers, pens, a Bible and even groceries for Caroline and her family, yet we were unprepared for the gifts we would receive from our African friends. As we finished the planting process, we patted wet soil over the bare roots, covering each hole, then watering the newly planted tree. We knew in much the same way, there was a spiritual parallel: we had just planted, fed and watered our relationship with our child and the Compassion staff.

“The Great Exchange,” is an inside joke for us. When Paul and I go on mission trips, we think (along with most Americans) we are going there, to encourage them. The Great Exchange happens when we go. The mere act of going says “I love you.” When we enter their world, we choose to overlook differences, lay aside our agendas, likes and expectations. That’s when we come away with more insight, blessings and compassion for people than we ever thought possible. The nationals pray, “Dear Lord, thank you for our food. Please provide for those who are hungry tonight.” We know those praying understand what it means to go hungry, not to know where their next meal will come from. These are among the more than 1 billion in the world who live on less than $1 a day are considered the poorest of the poor and lack the resources for basic survival. Yet they get it – the show us the value of life, the worth of family time and are grateful for bare-bones basic necessities. Humbling, isn’t it?

The Great Exchange happened when Caroline and the people of the small village of Mungala, Kenya offered us their love by spending time with us. The unhurried moments together over a cup of tea, talking about Caroline’s school, favorite color, names of her family members. They loved us through when we joined our hearts in passionate prayer for our families, our ministries, Kenya, Compassion and the United States. They loved us when we enthusiastically planted avocado trees together. This was symbolic, a tangible statement of permanence of our commitment to Caroline through Compassion. It also affirmed our commitment to the AIC Mungala Compassion project, and more importantly, to God’s work in the world.

“The trees are a reminder for us to pray for you,” said the project director, “we will never forget you. When you come back to visit us, you will see the trees have grown and have given us fruit, and so has God’s work.”

A planting of the Lord, for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:3b

Thanks for your prayers - Bwana Asifiwe! Praise the Lord!

Sheryl

Going to Africa...Again!

2009-04-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends, I am so excited you've logged on to my blog, here's a very detailed prayer guide for you, so you know where I am and what I am doing each day of my trip. Thank you so much for your prayers and love. I am representing YOU and KAXL around the globe. Listen for my interview with my Compassion child, Caroline. Watch the KAXL home page for picture updates as I can get them posted. Love and prayers, Sheryl

Sheryl & Paul Giesbrecht’s Prayer Guide - Africa 2009

Now may the God of hope make you full of joy and peace through faith,so that all hope may be yours in the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

4/20 3:00 am – Airport Bus to LAX
Pray for safe flights, connections, luggage efficiency, ministry to other travelers we meet along the way.
8:30 am – Depart LAX Northwest Airlines – Seattle, WA
12:55 pm – Depart Seattle, WA – Amsterdam
4/21 7:40 am – Depart Amsterdam – Northwest Airlines – Nairobi
7:05 pm – Arrive Nairobi, Kenya

4/22 8:00 am – Depart Compassion office in Nairobi to visit our Compassion child, Caroline Musuoki at her home and school.
Pray we would encourage and bless Caroline and her family. We have been her monthly supporters for five years with Compassion International. We will visit her home, school and project site.
6:00 pm – Return from Compassion project
4/23 6:00 pm – Depart on evening flight to Kitale

4/24 6:00 pm – African Theological Seminary (ATS these are ICM seminaries) Graduation Dinner honoring graduates
Pray blessing and honor over the graduates, many of whom are bi-vocational pastors, who will be better pastors and leaders because of their seminary training.

4/25 10:00 am – ATS Graduation Ceremony & Celebration in Kitale, Kenya
Praise the Lord!
4/26 10:00 am – Preaching in Church services
Pray we will give out God’s Word with the power of the Holy Spirit and be sensitive to the needs around us.
4/27-30 9:00 am – ICM Leadership Meetings
Pray for wisdom and strength, as we prepare and respond to the opportunities we are given to minister in the name of Jesus.
4/31 6:00 am – Travel to Uganda by car

5/1 6:00 pm – African Theological Seminary Graduation Dinner honoring graduates
Pray blessing and honor over the graduates, many of whom are bi-vocational pastors, who will be better pastors and leaders because of their seminary training.
5/2 10:00 am – ATS Graduation Ceremony & Celebration in Tororo, Uganda
Praise the Lord!
5/3 10:00 am – Preaching in Church services
5/4-5 9:00 am – ATS Leadership Summit (Paul)
Pray for wisdom and strength, as we prepare and respond to the opportunities we are given to minister in the name of Jesus.
5/6-9 9:00 am - ICM Leadership Meetings (Paul)
5/8-9 9:00 am – From Ashes to Beauty Women’s Conference (Sheryl)
Pray Isaiah 61:1-3.
5/10 10:00 am – Preaching in Church services
5/11 6:00 pm – Evening flight from Kitale to Goma, the Dominican Republic of Congo

Pray Romans 15:13.
5/12 9:00 am – Pastor’s Seminars in Goma (Paul)
Women’s Seminars in Goma (Sheryl)
Pray Isaiah 61:1-7
5/13 9:00 am - Pastor’s Seminars in Goma (Paul)
Women’s Seminars in Goma (Sheryl)

Pray the men and women who hear our messages would believe what God says about them. Pray that they would stand firm on their Identity in Christ. Pray they would use the In Christ I Am bookmark to walk in freedom in Christ.

5/14 9:00 am – Ministering in the Refugee Camp (prayer session with refugees)
5/15 6:00 pm – Sheryl takes evening flight from Goma to Nairobi

5/17 10:10 pm – Sheryl departs Nairobi to Amsterdam
5/18 1:25 pm – Sheryl departs Amsterdam to LAX
3:25 pm – Sheryl arrives at LAX, takes Airport Bus to Bakersfield

5/15 9:00 am – Paul, Grace Cabalka, Holly Culhane depart on evening flight to Kinshasa
5/16 9:00 am – Paul visits American school of “Tasok” in Kinshasa
5/17 10:00 am – Preaching in Sunday services
5/18 9:00 am – ICM Leadership meetings and lunch with ICM DRC staff
5/20-21 9:00 am – Launch of MLM Vol 2 in DRC: Vision Casting and Square 1 with the Atemas

5/22 6:00 pm – Paul departs Kinshasa to Nairobi
5/24 10:10 pm – Paul departs Nairobi to Amsterdam
5/25 1:25 pm – Paul departs Amsterdam
3:20 pm – Paul arrives LAX, takes Airport Bus to Bakersfield

Pray for those who have heard and believed God. Pray they will trust God is at work in their lives will continue to walk in freedom in Christ and know God has a plan and a purpose for everything He allows to happen in our lives.
Pray Ephesians 2:10 and Jeremiah 29:11.Thank you for your prayers in Jesus' Name! TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

To donate your tax deductable love gift to Sheryl & Paul Giesbrecht's Africa Trip 2009, mail to: International Christian Ministries, P.O.Box 9071, Bakersfield, CA 93389-9071, Attn: Goma Trip - Giesbrechts

Hopelessly Devoted

2009-03-10T09:01:00.000-07:00

I am a woman of many moods and they all require chocolate. If chocolate were prescribed for feelings, maybe dark chocolate would be given for occasional bouts of depression. With financial trouble, maybe chewy caramel and nuts with milk chocolate, or for stress - semi-sweet chocolate with rice krispies. So many emotions, so many chocolates, so little time. Hopelessly devoted to chocolate? Hardly. Though today's variety of chocolate enticements might offer a temporary emotional escape, the chocolate hangover and extra pounds are definitely not worth the indulgence.
Good ole Webster's defines 'devoted' as a verb - a person who is set apart for a purpose. Hmmm, when you put it that way, I guess I am not as devoted to chocolate as I thought. Although the chocolate fix might be fun and satisfying for a moment, it's definitely not a healthy way to cope.
We are all devoted to something or someone; our job, husband, children, church or God. But just how devoted are we? A recent article in my newspaper showed what true devotion looks like. Darlene was a 48 year old woman who was terminally ill. Her dying wish to be married to her sweetheart, Scott was granted, just twelve days before she died. Darlene had stopped her anti-cancer treatments right before their wedding ceremony. Toward the end, as Darlene's cancer took over her body; she could not speak or even communicate with her new husband by blinking her eyes. Yet devoted Scott never left her side, he read her Bible verses, held her and comforted her. Darlene died peacefully, in the arms of her new husband, a short twelve days after they were married. Now that's passionate devotion.
God is hopelessly devoted to you.He is absolutely crazy in love with you. Jesus' dying wish was for you to know God's love. In John 17:23, "May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." When we choose to believe God loves us, it makes a difference in every decision we make and every turn we take.
God keeps you safe in his arms of love. His love will never let you go. He has an important plan for you. God affirms this love in Jeremiah 31:3, "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving kindness." God has loved you before time began; he has loved you for all eternity. What does devotion look like? It's God giving His Son Jesus to die in your place. I John 4:10, "This is love; not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." God is hopelessly devoted to you. Now it's your turn.
Hopelessly devoted to God? It's entirely possible; it is a choice we make every day, to believe God loves us and to walk out our devotion one step at a time. We can show the love of God with abandon in the way we treat our families, friends and church members. For starters, tell those around you "I LOVE YOU!" every time you get the chance. God gives His strength to us to show others what true devotion looks like, even to those we might view as unworthy, undeserving or unlovely. Oswald Chambers, in My Utmost for His Highest says, "You can never be the same after the unveiling of a truth. That moment marks you as one who either continues on with even more devotion as a disciple of Jesus Christ, or as one who turns to back as a deserter."

9 Ways to Get Fit on the Cheap

2009-01-29T19:33:00.000-08:00

Running the race doesn't have to break the bank.

As promised, I am posting the article from the Contra Costa Times on Sunday 1/23/09:

Nine Ways to Get Fit on the Cheap
by Jessica Yadegaran - Contra Costa Times - 1/23/09

Can't afford a gym membership? Makes sense, given the financial climate and the need to tighten our belts. But if you want to tighten that belt holding up your jeans, money is no excuse. There are plenty of ways to work out and get itno shape at little or no cost.

Below, find nine fabulous ways to get fit on the cheap:

1. TV as trainer. If you subscribe to digital or cable or get On Demand channels, you may have access to FitTV, which features found-the-clock exercise programming. Tighten your tummy with the belly-dancing show "Shimmy." Get toned with world-renowned trainer Gilad Janklowicz on "It's Body Sculpt with Gilad Janklowicz."

2. Squats are free. Incorporate them into real-life moving patterns. Try what he calls the "live lift" the next time you're picking up your kids' toys or grabbing that pen off the office floor. Simply bend from the hips -- not from the knees while keeping your spine straight and stable.

3. Find a buddy. Research has proved that people are more likely to exercise when they have someone to do it with. So, grab a friend or family member before or after dinner. Then walk. Jog. Bike. swim. Find a form of exercise and a time that works and stick with it. In the beginning, commit to 30 minutes of exercise two or three days a week.

4. One-legged moves. You don't need a gym or even hand weights to see results from resistance training. Using your body weight is usually more than enough. Challenge yourself by working one at a time. Sit in a chair and stand back up on one leg. Three sets of 10 repetitions three times a week are recommended.

5. YouFit. Did you know you could be getting in shape while watching YouTube? No, not with those quirky Croatian music videos. A search of "fitness" yields 28,000 results, including salsa dancing workouts, abdominal workouts by Ford models and a series of mine-minute workout videos catered to woemn and weights.

6. Take the stairs. Let's face it, they're all around you -- at the mall, the library, and all parking structures. So skip the elevator and channel your inner Rocky.

7. Get toned with iTunes. If you have an iPod, you can download hundreds of fitness related podcasts.

8. Stretch. Yes, improving flexibility aids in weight loss. Tight muscles decreas blood flow, which can slow down fat elimination.

9. Look around. Your environment - your house, your community - is full of exercise tools and resources. The track at the nearby high school. Walking and hiking trails.

What a great article, found right in my local newspaper. I've seen some recent statistics that are really shocking: 65% of adults are overweight. Obesity is a preventable illness. Exercise can help tackle obesity.

It can be a difficult thing to add exercise to our already full schedules, but it is well worth the effort. We can balance our lives by exercising regularly. Taking care of our bodies with exercise doesn't have to be a chore. Figure out what type of activity you are going to do, when you are going to do it, who you are going to do it with and begin. The are so many benefits. Dr. Norm Wright says, "Good physical conditioning strengthens the body's immune system and increases endorfins which are the brain's natural tranquilizers." We can't afford NOT to exercise. The benefits are out of this world.

"Therefore we do not lose heart, though outwardly we are wasting away,yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. Fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2 Cor. 4:6-18

Stay Strong,

Sheryl

Running the Race...Join me for an Internet Interview 1/26 @ 6 pm

2009-01-26T11:09:00.000-08:00

All of us are all in the race...the question is - how are we competing? Some are still waiting to start, some are limping along and some have been close to calling it quits. If you want to run the race well, it takes discipline. Good ole Webster's dictionary defines discipline as 'training that produces orderliness.' But it is more than that, discipline is a choice, a decision to obey the rules of self-control. The Bible has a lot to say about discipline and in today's study, we reviewed one of my favorite verses,

"Do you not know that in a race all runners run, but only one gets the prize? Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get acrown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." 1 Corinthians 9:24-25

Don't miss my internet radio interview tonite! I am privileged to have the opportunity to talk with Donna Partow and partner with you in the 90 Day Jumpstart to a New You, it's not too late to join the online support community for the women's Bible Study - Becoming the Woman God Wants Me to Be. This is a life-changing Bible study you don't want to miss. I am honored to be part of Donna's team as the Fitness Guru--and a cancer survivor. We will be taking your questions and praying for requests on the air.

I know internet radio is new to most of you, but you CAN do it. Check out my FACEBOOK page to follow this link to the Radio Show page.

http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/talkCast.jsp?masterId=35679&cmd=tc

You can click the button to listen right on your computer (and participate in the chat) or call (724) 444-7444
Call ID: 35679

Cheering you on in the race,

Sheryl

A Living Sacrifice?

2009-01-09T19:50:00.000-08:00

What does it mean to be a Living Sacrifice?

Have you ever wondered, if I’m offering my body as a living sacrifice, like it says in Romans 12:1, then why does it keep crawling off the altar? Are you tired of the diet roller coaster? Tired of losing weight only to gain it back? Are you sick of starting an exercise program only to quit? Are you frustrated because you promised yourself, "This time I will succeed?" My desire for you is that you will care for your body, mind and soul as an act of worship, not guilt. We can do this through joining together in the 90 Day Jumpstart to a New You (www.DonnaPartow.com). I will be praying for each of your success as you lean on God for strength.

When you think of caring for your body, most of us automatically think of diets.1Corinthians 6:19 and 20 is often used as a verse to motivate people to say on diets. It is: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.”

But taking care of our bodies is much more than just a diet, it’s a lifestyle. I think of it as an act of worship to God. It’s like this -- when we become Christians, the Holy Spirit fills us and lives in us. We no longer own our bodies. “Bought at a price” refers to slaves purchased at an auction. Christ’s death freed us from sin, but also obligates us to his service. Many people say they have the right to do whatever they want with their own bodies. They think this is freedom but they are really enslaved to their own desires.

Who do you belong to?
If you live in a building owned by someone else, you try not to violate the building’s rules. Because your body belongs to God, you must not violate his standards for living.

As people of the Word of God, we are free to eat and drink whatever we want, but in everything we do we must glorify God. "If the Son has set you free, you shall be free indeed." John 8:36.

What does it mean to you to be a living sacrifice? Send me a note or post on my blog. I pray for each of you to be the people of God He wants you to be, to walk in the spirit, filled with His Word and sharing the Love of Jesus until He comes.

A word of encouragement from Leonard Sweet, from his book Soul Salsa, “Just as the health industry is moving from treating disease to creating health, so the church must redesign itself as a place that creates wellness rather than attends the sick. And wellness incorporates body, mind and spirit.”

Here's to Feeling Fine in 2009!

Sheryl

New Year's Revolution

2008-12-24T13:25:00.000-08:00

New beginnings. We've all had them. A time to begin again could be a New Year's Day goal, a move to a new town or the start of a new semester at school. Most of the time new starts catch us by surprise, sometimes when something new comes our way, we might not feel prepared. We might think it's not the right time for a change or maybe we are just plain terrified. Whatever the case, new beginnings can be new opportunities.
What's new? Is something looming in the distance, possibly a situation you might be dreading? Are you waiting for test results, an adult child soon to leave home or will you start a new job? Whatever it is, it can be an opportunity for you to trust God. I remember the spring of 2004, I was waiting for results after an MRI test had been done on my head. I had found a lump underneath my eye, in four weeks, I saw many doctors but none could diagnose what was wrong. When the MRI was finally complete, the days seemed like years while we waited for the results.
Instead of viewing your situation with worry, try applying wonder. You might wonder how God will get you beyond your fear! And that's okay. Remember, when fear grows teeth, it's called faith. Choose God's grace instead of the giddies, choose character building exercises instead of the rut of the comfort zone. While I waited for the results of my MRI, I studied Psalm 27:1, "The Lord is my light and my salvation -- whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life-- of whom shall I be afraid?" Instead of fear, I chose to have faith in God, the only One who knows the future.
The children of Israel were prisoners, captives of an evil king. Even when they were held against their will in the pagan city of Babylon, they were told to look for the new thing - their release from slavery. They were told to expect freedom. Things hadn't gone exactly according to their plan, the years of their imprisonment lasted longer than they expected, they thought God had forgotten them. God gave them hope through Isaiah the prophet. He told them change, new things were coming. They were told to watch, wait for it and not to miss it. "Behold, the former things have come to pass, now I declare new things:before they spring forth I will declare them to you." Isaiah 42:9
What new beginning is on your horizon? What bold thing is God asking you to do? You might feel like there are circumstances holding you captive and like the children of Israel, things haven't gone according to your plan. Choose to notice the new thing God is doing in the midst of your old circumstances. Check out Isaiah 43:18,19, Isaiah 43:10, Psalm 98:1, Isaiah 65:17. I hope this new year brings exciting things your way as you examine the areas in your life where God is working and choose to join him. Let the changes and challenges of the New Year revolutionize the way you view God. Embrace the new things coming your way!
Love and prayers,
Sheryl

Reaching Out to the Community

2008-11-18T12:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas at KAXL begins with connecting to our community through our many outreach efforts. At Thanksgiving, we collected the fixings for Boxes of Love in collaboration with Here's Life Inner City (www.hlicbakersfield.org), through this effort we were able to participate in feeding over 2,000 families. And then we supported Samaritan's Purse - Operation Christmas Child (www.samaritanspurse.org) - filling shoeboxes with small gifts that will be shipped all around the world, along with the transforming message of the love of Jesus Christ. Locally, we helped launch the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Drive (www.SalvationArmy.org) in front of the Marketplace last Saturday. The motto of the Salvation Army "Doing the Most Good!" and that's keeping our money right here in Kern County to help needy families. I encourage you to take part in at least one community outreach this holiday season...it helps us to continue to see others with the eyes of Jesus! Many blessings in Jesus' name, Sheryl

Out and About with Proverbs 31 Women!

2008-07-01T08:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Listeners,

One of my favorite things is spending time with women. Another one of my favorite things is having a meal at a nice restaurant. I also love to teach the truth of God's word.In March, I got a speaking invitation from Debbe Haley, the co-director of a local business women's networking group called Proverbs 31. I LOVE MY JOB!

What a blessing to share my story with other women. What a privilege to tell them how much God loves them. I shared the ashes of my past and explained how God has changed my ashes into a crown of beauty. I explained about how safe we are in Christ and that God has an important plan for each of our lives. I thank Him for raising me up to a place where he can be glorified. Here at KAXL, I am invited to speak, share, MC, visit on behalf of KAXL, but also to share what God has done in my life. And that's A LOT!

A quick visit to their website will tell you about the group:

Pro 31 stands for Proverbs 31, the chapter in God's word which describes a godly wife and a virtuous woman. We are a group of working women, some self-employed, some employed by others and some partly-retired, who seek to glorify God in our work and daily lives. We have monthly lunches where we share a little about ourselves and businesses, network and receive an inspiring and encouraging word from wise, Godly women in the group. We're very pleased you've found our site and pray you'll find this group warm and welcoming. The group is for all of us and to God be the glory!

The Proverbs 31 Network meets on the second Thursday of each month, at the Petroleum Club. To find out more information and what's coming up next, check out their website -- www.pro31network.com. Who knows, maybe next month, we sit across the table from each other, with all of my favorite things - women, lunch and sound Bible teaching. See you at Proverbs 31 Network!

May God richly bless your life,
Sheryl

The VBS Tour Continues!

2008-06-13T15:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Listeners,

Are you having a good summer? I am...I've been 'out and about' to two different VBSes. Both with different themes. That's what makes VBS so fun, themes, Bible verses, crafts, stories and oh yes, the kids!

As I've watched great leaders in action, leading music, directing classes, teaching crafts. God is using these leaders to raise up a generation of children to know his Word. It's an awesome privilege to see churches offering vacation Bible school for their own flock and neighborhood children. I thank God for the opportunity to see the kingdom built up in such a fun way. Who knows? One of the children who hears the Word of God in VBS may be our next Abraham Lincoln.

If you'd like me to visit your church's VBS this summer, I have a few openings left. Send me an Email - sheryl@kaxl.com and let know know when your VBS dates are. I'll check my schedule and see what I can do.

Listen for VBS reports on KAXL during morning and afternoon drive!

Check the Photo scrapbook for pictures! If I can't make it to your VBS, please email a photo of your VBS to me.

God bless you and have a GREAT summer,

Sheryl

Sheryl Returns from Lagos with a Longing to Return

2008-04-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Blessed Listeners,

Thank you so much for your prayers for my teaching trip to Lagos. What a wonderful opportunity it was! Rev. Dr. Paul and I were given the VIP treatment by Pastor Taiwo of the Fountain of Life Church -- www.tfolc.org. We thank him and his passionate congregation for the opportunity to be involved in Word Explosion 2008 -- as a leadership training conference, we were both part of the keynote speaking team. Pastor Taiwo's hospitality was first class, we are so blessed, God filled our cups to overflowing with blessings, praise and God encounters.

Rev. Dr. Paul, Dr. Phil Walker, President of ICM and I were speakers to the whole congregation. Paul and Phil spoke at 6 pm during the week of meetings, my time slot was one of the church's regular weekly meetings called "Thursday Showers," my message was "Loving Your Whole Life Story." Do you really know God loves you? When we understand how much God loves us, the fact that in Christ we are safe and He has an important role for each of us to play in the kingdom. Essentially, it's letting go of our past mistakes, allowing God to cover us with the righteousness of Jesus Christ, so we can walk in freedom and hope. When I woke on Thursday morning, I looked out my hotel room window, it was raining. Truly showers of blessing on the day of Thursday Showers.

Pray for the country of Nigeria and the continent of Africa, Africa is 12 million square miles of land with over 900,000,000 people. It has an abundance of natural resources including over 50% of it's people professing belivers. Africa's people are an untapped natural resource!

Pray for the people of Nigeria, that they will rise to the needs in Europe -- less than 4% of the Europeans are Christian. Nigerians can go where Americans can not. Dr. Phil Walker's motivation to the conference, "Potential reamns only potential until there are leaders who can seize the opportunity of that potential."

Thanks for your prayers. For more information on taking a trip to Africa -- log onto: www.icmusa.org.

Blessings,
Sheryl

Teaching Trip in Africa - April 12 - 19!

2008-04-11T17:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

Thanks for your prayers for our trip to Africa. My husband, Pastor Paul has visited during many ministry trips. I've heard the stories for years! Now it's my turn to go along with my husband and teach alongside of him.

We are teaching in Lagos, Nigeria. We are part of a conference partnering with International Christian Ministries. For more information, check out their website: www.icmusa.org.

Please pray for strength, obedience to the Holy Spirit and sensitivity to needs. We want to be servants and warriors for each opportunity God gives.

I will bring back lots of pictures,
Sheryl

Our Princess Marries Her Prince Charming!

2008-03-04T12:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Listeners,
Thank you for your prayers for Pastor Paul and I as we went to Cody, WY for Sarah's wedding last week. We had a wonderful time...the wedding was just beautiful. Matt and Sarah are a handsome couple. Here's a wedding picture -- they were married on February 22, 2008 at the United Methodist Church in Cody, Wyoming. We all came to Bakersfield the next day to honor them at a reception on February 24 at Olive Drive Church. What a blessing it was to be able to celebrate their joy for two weeks! God is good!
Thanks for celebrating with us!
Hugs,
Mother of the Bride -- Sheryl

Chili Days Ahead!

2008-02-14T13:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone -
Thanks for sending emails for our Show Love to Your Pastor drawing! We had over 40 entries! What a blessing to know so many of you love your pastors! We love them, too! I've enjoyed hearing from you. I am so glad you are staying in touch with all of our KAXL happenings!

We are looking forward to the Salvation Army Chili Contest on March 1st!Now it's time to share our favorite chili recipes. Mine is one I received from Shelly Balzer when I was a newlywed. It's been altered a little through the years, I've made it mine. It's mild but it's perfect for chilly winter nights. Let me know how you like it!

Dump Chili
1 pound ground beef (browned)
1 purple onion, chopped fine (fry onion with ground beef)
2 Tablespoons chili powder (optional)
(You can use any combination of your favorite beans -- these are my favorites!)
1 large can of chili beans
1 large can of kidney beans
1 large can of pinto beans
1 large can of Hormel chili
1 large can of Bush's baked beans
1 large can of stewed tomatoes
1 small can of tomatoe paste or sauce (if using paste, more water will be needed)
1 package of dry chili mix seasoning
Use one of the empty bean cans, fill up with water at least once. You may need to use one and a half times cans of water. Dump all ingredients into a crock pot early in the morning. Simmer on low all day. Serve with saltine crackers, grated cheese, spaghetti noodles and (of course) cornbread!
Please send me YOUR favorite chili recipes!
Blessings and prayers,
Sheryl

I Love Music for Life

2008-02-12T10:18:00.000-08:00

Greetings to you -- I hope you are doing well. I want you to know - I Love Music for Life. I am excited about the new opportunities God is giving me at KAXL radio. Many of you have listened to my short features on KAXL and have heard my heart for God and His word. Because of our advanced technology at the station, I am going to be your evening host, each weeknight, from 12 midnight to 5:00 am. But wait, there's more. I will also be your Sunday afternoon host, from 12 pm to 6:00 pm. I can't wait to share with you why I love music for life. I am thankful, humbled, honored and amazed about this wonderful way to share God's life and light with those who are listening. I want to hear from you. Tell me why you love music for life. I will be mentioning what I love about God, His word and my favorite songs. I want to know about your favorite songs. Send me a post with the title of your favorite song, the artist and why you love it.
Gratefully yours, Sheryl
"The Lord's unfailing love surrounds those who trust in Him." Psalm 32:10

February Day of Prayer was Dynamic!

2008-02-09T14:50:00.000-08:00

Thanks, Pray-ers and Listeners for such a great Day of Prayer! It's always amazing to see God work as we take prayer requests, we pray for each and every one of them before the pastors pray for them on the air! We are especially thankful for the many praise reports...for your phone calls and emails about the how, why and when God answered your prayers! If you missed out on Day of Prayer this month, don't worry, it will be back, next month. It always falls on the first Tuesday of the month, unless it's major holiday, and what a great way to start the month! You can always email us your prayer requests anytime, so we can post them in our Pray Room. Fill out the form on the KAXL home page: KAXL.com and we will submit them to our Prayer Team. March Day of Prayer -- Tuesday, March, 4th. Don't miss it!

Day of Prayer is coming!

2008-02-04T17:09:00.000-08:00

Wow! My very first blog...and how exciting to tell you about one of my favorite days of the month at KAXL. Day of Prayer. It's always the first Tuesday of the month and this month it is tomorrow, February 5, 2008. Let me tell you who will be here as our praying pastors:

8:30 am Pastor Tim Hardy -- Laurelglen Bible Church

10:30 am Pastors Jason and Peggy Younger -- Today's Family Church

1:30 pm Rev Tom Alexander -- CrossWalk California

3:30 pm Rev Richard Ferry -- Bakersfield Rescue Mission

We have a wonderful group of volunteers here to answer the phones: Vickie Sanford, Lola Watkins, Irma Williams and Jan Ramey. What's amazing about Day of Prayer is how God works through the prayer requests that come and through those who take them. We see God working powerfully all day long. To be part of Day of Prayer, call us at 832-2800 or send me an email with your prayer request: sheryl@kaxl.com.

Blessings,
Sheryl