Storm Stories

Watching the Texas weather news this past weekend was enough to put a bit of fear and trepidation in me. Between the predicted wind gusts, rain predictions, tornado potential and flooding concerns- Harvey became a force to be reckoned with. The pictures of what we see are devastating! I'm sorry for anyone named Harvey. You do not deserve this.

With each passing hour, we inch closer and closer to a new understanding of what a bad boy Harvey is. With all the hype and warnings, Harvey has come with wrath and vengeance.

Jesus is in the business of calming storms. He can handle them quite well. There is a cool story in the Bible where Jesus got into a boat and the disciples jumped in too. All at once a big bad "Harvey" type storm came up on the lake and the waves went ever-which-a-way over the boat. But, Jesus was snoring. Not really, but he was sound asleep! The disciples woke him up and screamed for them to save him cause they were going to drown. Jesus replied "Y'all of little faith! Why are you so chicken?" He then got up and yelled at the wind and waves. All at once, everything was calm. The disciples were like "Dude, how did you do this? What kind of dude are you, anyway? Even the winds and waves obey what you say!" Matthew 8:23-27 (NBA paraphrase)

We will all experience treacherous storms in life. Some are real live storms like Harvey. Some are other kinds of storms. Cancer. Marital strife and divorce. Loss and grief.  Financial strain. Loneliness. Heartache. No one is protected from the storms of life. However, there is great relief in knowing that no matter how great the storm is, Jesus is very present and real.

Did you notice the disciples in the story? They were trying to take control and figure things out on their own!  But, Jesus was fast asleep. The disciples must have felt that Jesus totally abandoned them! But, he didn't one bit! I have a feeling He was so in synch with God that He was at peace in the storm and could sleep soundly. And we wonder why we stress? How often do we play "God" just like the disciples?

Whatever trial you face today, please know that it does not go un-noticed by our Lord. He knows and sees all and is in full control. God will see us through our storm.

Updated August 28: As we view the devastation this day, our hearts are breaking. Honestly, what can we do? One thing we can do is pray. God is still in the business of calming storms. Please join me in praying:

Father in Heaven, We come to you today on behalf of all who are in and around Houston and surrounding cities devastated by Harvey. It is beyond our comprehension the devastation. Our hearts are breaking as we watch the news and glance at these pictures of rising water. We long to help but feel so helpless. Lord, show us how we can make a difference from afar. Each of us can do something. Please show us. Please teach us the power of prayer and being on our knees on behalf of our fellow Texans and rescue workers.

For those who are dealing with rising waters, we ask that you could comfort them right now and meet their every need. We pray that you would raise up an army of people, volunteers, and organizations around our country to rescue and provide for those that need help. We pray for you to provide places of refuge and refreshment for those that need a place to lay their head. God, give wisdom for our city officials, civil servants, governmental and community leaders throughout the state of Texas and the United States. Give them daily strength and meet their every need as they deal with the task ahead. We pray for a calming of the storm in every way. Please, we ask that you would stop the rains. We ask that you would prevent any more loss of life in the wake of this tragic event. We ask that your love would shine brilliantly as humans serve their fellow man. We ask that your peace would pervade all who have been traumatized by this event. We pray that our Houston friends would not fear, but know that when they pass through the deep waters, you will be with them. May they experience your constant presence and peace today. In Jesus' name. Amen.

"Do not be afraid- I will save you. I have called you by name- you are mine. When you pass through deep waters, I will be with you; your troubles will not overwhelm you. When you pass through fire, you will not be burned; the hard trials that come will not hurt you. For I am the Lord your God, the holy God of Israel, who saves you." Isaiah 43:1-3

"Cast all your anxiety on him because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5: 7

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.

Pressure Cooker Times

I honestly don’t know how to talk about what I should be talking about this week. I’ve started this blog way too many times only to delete my words. The events of last week both in our country and Spain have been horrifying to see. Each day, I find myself a bit reticent to read the news of the previous night. What’s next?

Our country feels like a pressure cooker. A pressure cooker is an airtight cookware used for quick cooking or preserving of foods by means of high-temperature steam under pressure.  Once water boils, it will stay at the same temperature. As water evaporates and become steam, it also is the same temperature. The only way to make steam hotter is to put the system under pressure. That’s what a pressure cooker does. If the pressure cooker fails to release, the built up pressure could explode causing serious damage.

We are living in pressure cooker times. It’s hard not to be fearful of what could happen next. How shall we live our lives during these pressurized days?

I’m not going to protest, because that’s not me. I’m not going to make waves about what should and shouldn’t happen, because that’s not me either. But, what I can do is draw people to my God. My God gives perspective. My God loves all people perfectly. My God has wisdom on how each of us can make a difference:

How do we deal with those we don’t like? “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Mathew 5:44

How do we care for those that are hurting? “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”Colossians 3:12

How do we practice peace with those in my world? “Let us therefore make ever effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”  Romans 14:19

How do we communicate with others about issues? “A man of knowledge uses word with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered.” Proverbs 17:27

How do we respond to people who feel differently about things? “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1

How do we treat people?  “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

How do we look toward the future? “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”Deuteronomy 31:6

Stop the pressure cooker. God’s word instructs us to live differently. Do you know what blows me away even more? God loves when we look to Him for help!

Practice: As you start this day, pick one or two verses that YOU would like to make a reality in your life today. Ask God for help in this journey to look more and more like Him.
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.

Out of Control on the Animas

At first glance, the Animas River in Durango looked a bit intimidating. The water was super-high and running at a rate of 800 cubic feet per second, which is pretty fast. Looking like fun, we went ahead and made reservations for two inflatable kayaks, also called duckies. We're on vacation, why not?

This trip was like no other kayak trip I've taken. Waves that belonged in the ocean. White waters crashing against rocks. Rocks to dodge. Eddies to get out of. I was pleased to master most of it until Smelter. Smelter is a section of the trip known for dumping pesky little duckies like ours. Smelter gives new meaning to feeling out of control. It's the grand finale for all little duckies.

My husband killed it at Smelter. I did not. As I entered the Smelter area, I paddled left following our neophyte guide. I should have gone middle. When I tried to correct my error, I was parallel to a six-foot drop with a swirling eddy below. I paddled my heart out, but couldn't get to the middle. In an instance, I flew off the kayak and off I went on my own personal water ride. Taking a huge gush of water in, along I went, bumping rocks and swirling around like a washing machine. Finally, I grabbed a rock, only to be hurled back out into the mighty river. It wasn't long before I was able to swim to the side and grab ahold of a kind man's kayak. He was just waiting in a cove to help kayak-less people like me.

I have a healthy new respect for raging rivers. Once I dumped, I had no control. Flying through that water was something I'll never forget. It felt really scary to be out of control.

It occurred to me later that evening, how control is so much a part of my human nature. Fear and control go hand in hand. I can so easily fall prey to trying to control the things I fear or worry about. I have a feeling you do as well. We can attempt to try to control our spouses, our children and grandchildren, our schedule, our image, our friendships, our environments, etc.  How much stress do you bring on yourself trying to be in control?

Sometimes, our controlling nature fails us. When we try to control our life, worry and anxiety become close companions. Instead of seeking God's help, we rely on our own wisdom and own power to get through stuff. We become our own god, demanding control.

The day on the  Animas River reminded me of my need for God. He was in full control of the situation. I was not.

As you start this day: Spend a few quiet minutes with God. Ask him to examine your heart and reveal to you ways you've sought control in matters. Write down everything that God shows you.  Did you know that God loves you so much that he doesn't want you to worry about anything? 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own expectations. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your path straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.

Manu's Decision

It’s hard to believe that Manu Ginobili is 40 today. I know. Many of you don’t really care. That’s OK. But, Manu will always be one of the most beloved Spurs and honestly, turning 40 is a big deal. Wait until you turn 40. You’ll see.

When out on the floor, he adds a dimension to the Spurs that is, basically, indescribable. Who remembers Manu swinging down a bat in the AT&T Center? Who can’t forget the greatest play of the 2017 playoffs when Manu came from behind James Harden and blocked his shot at the buzzer in Game 5 against the Rockets? Manu just being Manu.

I’ve been waiting all summer to find out whether Manu would come back to the Spurs. It was so exciting to hear he made his decision! He’ll be a great asset on the team. His leadership, spunk, and craziness on the floor will be sweet to watch. One. More. Year.

Manu’s decision to play didn’t come easy…..“It was much slower to make the decision than the other times because I had more doubts. I wanted to let the decision mature to see how I felt. I made my decision because it’s a great honor to be in such a franchise, at 40-years old, feeling important, with people who tell me that they love me and that I am still important to the team.”

How do you make tough decisions? What college should I attend? Whom should I marry? Should I move or not?  Invest or not invest? Get a tattoo or not? Aging parent decisions? Change careers or not? Date a person or not? How do you make the RIGHT decision?

I don’t think there’s a cookie cutter approach to decision making. We all are unique human beings with God given talents. It’s never really worked for me to follow the step by step “How to Know God’s Will for your Life’ approach. Instead, I invite God into my decision process. If I’m trying to make a decision, I ask God to help me. I go to God’s Word and camp out at verses like “If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you.” (James 1:5) or “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best.” (Philippians 1:9-10)

I do believe God wants input in our decisions, but I think he loves it when we develop the wisdom and discernment to make our own decision in light of His Word. When I feel confidant in the decision, I am ready to move forward. Receiving God’s peace is a sure fire sign that all is good. With God’s peace, I don’t have to second guess myself, because God’s in it. May God bless you and give you great wisdom in all your decisions today.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.

La La Land

I’m going to La La Land next week, the land of icons and images. But, I only see one……..an older, balding man. Here’s how it came down.

It was a beautiful fall day in Orange County. A day I will never forget. We agreed to meet in front of a small hotel on the corner of Harbor Boulevard and the 91 Freeway. I was nervous, my heart beating like crazy. I had no clue what to say or do when I met him.

I got out of my car and immediately saw an older gentleman. A short man, with less than a full head of hair, walked toward me with a gigantic grin, twinkling blue eyes glistening in the sun. It was a moment I’ll treasure forever. We enjoyed hanging out that day, catching up on a lifetime.

Charles, my birthfather, had come from Queensland, Australia, where he raised his family. We could only laugh as we discovered similar traits, quirks and tastes that we mutually shared. Although Charles passed away a few years ago, I was so thankful for 20 years of knowing him.  I’ll never forget his visits to the states or mine to Australia.

It was that day back in Orange County when I first knew what it felt like to look like someone else. But, you know what?  Whether I met Charles or not, I always looked like him. I couldn’t help but look like him because I was created with his DNA. And I guess it’s like that with God and us.

We have always been created in God’s image, whether we want to accept it or not. Just as I could try to not look like Charles, I could also choose not to reach out to him. Yet, Charles wanted a relationship with me and I with him. We can do the same with God. Will we choose to have a relationship with Him? In the end, knowing God brings all of us so much joy.

Remember that great smile Charles had when he saw me? God has that same smile waiting for us. It’s good to be with earthly family. It’s good to be with God and God’s family. I urge you this week to enjoy and celebrate both.

“So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:26-27

“ May the Lord smile on you.” Numbers 6:25

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.

Horse Happy

Ben, my husband, is not particularly fond of horses. Equines had not really been on his radar until I came into the picture. For example, on our honeymoon, we went horse backing in Colorado, something he wanted to do for me, of course. Things went a bit south on the trail ride when he was suddenly thrown from his horse who spooked. Not good.

I wouldn’t say my husband had negative feelings towards horses after that. He just never got on one again. I’m happy to say things can change! We are currently taking Family horse handling  and riding lessons in preparation for owning a horse. I can’t help but grin as I watched Ben recently take a try at picking the horse’s hoof. I love seeing his heart soften toward horses!

All of us have things happen in our life that tend to change the way we think about things.  How do bad experiences affect you moving forward? Whether it’s a strained relationship, a business deal gone south, a scare while flying, speaking in front of a group, or being bit by a dog- these things can produce some negative thinking going forward.  Have you ever vowed….I will never do that again?

When we let negative thinking creep into our minds, it can produce pessimistic thinking, either about our situation, our self-worth or our abilities. Without even realizing it, our minds can take on old memories and translate them into the current situations. Negative thinking patterns affect the way we think, live, work and play. Thankfully, our brain can be reshaped and reformed!

I encourage you to mind your mind. Notice what you put into your mind. What occupies your mind today? Remember the phrase, garbage in, garbage out? It’s the idea that incorrect or poor quality input will always produce faulty output. Whatever we think about, dwell upon and contemplate tends to be what our mindset is. We can’t control all our circumstances, but we can control how we think about them.

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.

What's Your Spiritual Temperature?

It’s that time of year where The Weather Channel App gets stuck in a rut. A big hot rut. Hot, hotter and hottest. There’s no point in checking the weather. Nothing changes. I know that one of these days, it will get cool again. Until then, I find myself frequenting rivers, lakes, pools and very soon, oceans. I also have a Colorado exit strategy firmly in place.

Even though our San Antonio temps don’t change much, our spiritual temperatures do. Each of us have a true spiritual state, whether we know it or not. If you were to describe your heart attitude toward God in one word, what would you say? Angry? Bitter? Distant? Luke-warm? Close? Special? Growing?

I know summer is a time to chill and take things easy. But, what if this summer was THE summer where you took your spiritual life to the next level? Check out some ways to do this:

Do a spiritual check-up. If you were to write one paragraph about God, what would you say? Maybe you would give your reasoning as to why God is like a distant second cousin. Maybe you would admit how you hate how Christian people don't act Christian. Maybe you would write about your one and only church experience being boring, irrelevant and a bunch of rules. Maybe you would share about the trauma, pain or suffering you’ve experienced in life. You can’t possibly imagine how God would allow such things. I’m so very sorry for your pain and I believe God is too. Yet, God is and will always be good, despite your circumstances or what goes on in world around us.

Open God’s Word for yourself. Many people are scared of the Bible. It’s also easy to pick and choose what we want to believe from the Bible. It’s like no other book on the face of this earth. Yet, we can avoid it like the plague. God’s Word is full of encouragement in this challenging world. God’s Word gives immeasurable hope and meaning to life. God’s Word shows us the reality of our own sinful nature. I dare you to stop avoiding God’s way of communicating to His children. Start with the book of John. Read the whole thing. It's amazing! Maybe try Philippians or Ephesians. Try Psalms, like Psalm 1, 23, 32, 103 and 139. This will get you started!

Seek out a spiritual mentor. It’s hard to keep a fire going when the embers are far apart. But, when you pull the coals close together, the flames return. Spending time with other people who challenge and encourage you in your faith is important. Have you ditched church? Avoided other Christians? Steered clear from small groups? Here’s my challenge: Seek out someone in the faith who is further along in his or her spiritual journey. Initiate a lunch or phone call. Ask them questions about their faith journey, including the challenges. Don’t let your own pride stop you. Also consider joining a small group. It's a great way to get to know others and find support and encouragement in the ups and downs of life.

Take a look in the mirror. What resentments have built up in your heart? Where has bitterness taken over? Whom have you refused to forgive? When does the critical spirit attack? We often don’t realize how our hearts grow cold by the choices we make in our relationships with others. Un-forgiveness is sure to keep the heart cold. Bitterness has the same results. Our relationship with God is reflected in our relationship with others. If we have truly experienced the grace of God, we cannot help but extend that same grace toward others.

Finally, as you take your spiritual temperature, ask those closest in your life to evaluate your spiritual life. Swallow your pride and ask: What are some things you see in my character that need to change? Often, we’re the last ones that notice.

“Were not our hearts burning within us while He was explaining the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24:32

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” Romans 12:11

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.