Remember, Remember

It's the fifth of November. A day to remember.

One year ago at this time I was in England. At Capernwray last year the fifth of November was a day devoted to prayer. I didn't turn on my computer. I didn't listen to my iPod. I didn't even knit. I had nothing to do but "Be still and know that [He is] God" (Psalm 46:10).

To remember not Guy Fawkes Day but a Day of Prayer, below is an excerpt from my journal.

Thursday afternoon
5 November 2009

I've hardly said anything today. Most of my words have been directed toward God in song and prayer. It's strange to be around so many people, but really not be talking with them. Instead, I'm conversing with the One who is with me at all times.

Today I was stunned once again that God Himself, the Holy Spirit would take up residence inside of me. How awe-inspiring and strange and wondrous. Apart from His grace I am unworthy. He, however, chose to make me His temple and dwelling place. May I be continually amazed by this fact and may it change the way I live my life.

Aware

I want to increase my awareness of God. To live as though He is present at all times. To think about Him regardless of what I am doing. To do everything with the perspective of doing it for Him. To truly have Jesus as my centre.

I want to fill my mind, my heart, my life with Christ.

Essentially, I want to "take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Student Visa

As you probably know, I'm attending Bible School in England this year. Because I am going to be studying in the UK for an extended period of time, I need a Student Visa.

After sending in my Visa application around three weeks ago, I received an email from the British Consulate last Thursday stating that it had been received. They said the application had been entered into their system, but that it might be ten business days before it was assessed--due to the high volume of applications, it might be longer. Ten business days from last Thursday is the day my flight leaves for England.

Needless to say, I've been praying about it for the past several days and seeking to trust Him in the midst of my worries.

On Sunday, the elders at church and several friends joined me in prayer about my Visa. One prayed that it would come "tomorrow" (Monday), but I don't actually need it until the 24th and didn't expect it. Upon arriving home from work yesterday, however, I discovered another email from the British Consulate. They said that my Visa had been issued and would be sent to me directly. This evening, I opened a package with my approved Student Visa.

"Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!" - Psalm 34:3