Thanking God for His Providential Care

The rigors of the first winter for the Mayflower Pilgrims are well-known to most students of American history (1620-1621). Nearly half of the original 104 settlers died during that intense season of sickness, suffering, and sadness. Yet, God providentially intervened in several remarkable ways throughout the following spring and summer by providing help in the midst of their infirmities.

In particular, the Lord provided an English-speaking, God-fearing, lonely-hearted Indian by the name of Tisquantum. It was said of Squanto that he knew the King's English and the streets of London far better than his Pilgrim friends. He also knew all of the Indian ways that would be such a great help to the Pilgrims in their desperate hour. At just the right time God brought this unexpected deliverer upon the scene. Immediately, Squanto started educating the Pilgrims on how to catch fish out in the Bay, and how to capture freshwater eels in the stream with their bare hands. He also taught them how to fertilize and plant corn, and how to safely store the harvested corn Indian-style.

Arguably, his most important role was in serving as an interpreter for the English in negotiating a pact of non-aggression and mutual defense with Chief Massasoit of the Wampanoags. Without the timely provision of Squanto's assistance it is doubtful that such a permanent peace could have been negotiated. This peace treaty remained in effect for over fifty years. He was warily called by the Indians "the tongue of the Englishmen". But, Governor William Bradford affectionately referred to him as, "a special instrument sent of God for their good, beyond their expectation." In God's unforeseen providence Squanto not only discovered a new home for himself built near his old village, but he was lovingly adopted by the Pilgrims and became a respected member of their community.

It was out of this surprising set of circumstances that the Pilgrim's gathered in the fall of 1621 to hold a feast of thanksgiving to God. Their feast was most likely based upon the Old Testament practice of the Israelites who were instructed by God to hold a feast of thanksgiving at the end of the harvest season. In ancient days this festival was known as the Feast of Booths because its celebrants were to live outdoors in primitive huts for seven days.

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Congratulations!!

The Winners of the 2007 Film Festival.

Several of our friends have made it as semi-finalists in the 2009 San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival! Hooray!!

Congratulations to . . .

• The Littmanns: The Knight with Chivalry
  
• The Burns: Pendragon, Sword of His Father and Council's Commission
• The Moores: The Widow's Might
  
• The Carpenters: An American Adventure, A Full House of Blessing and The Terry Schiavo Story
• The Sampleys: Dad, the Hero in the Wild Wild West
  
• The Leclercs: The Other Son
  
• The Walshes: Pencil Town

Other excellent films in the contending, include:

Expelled - No Intelligence Allowed

Fireproof

Thanksgiving Recital

Steinway and Sons Recital Hall.

When I was a little girl, I always wondered, "Why do I have to study math?" No offense to all you math lovers out there in the blogosphere, but, I am not a math person. I can do it when I have to, but let's just say it is not my first love. : ) 

Whenever I queried my inevitable math related questions, my parents would kindly remind me that I was learning it to use it. It was not a fruitless exercise. In fact, ultimately, we learn math to be good stewards over the resources God entrusts to us. 

Similar questions have similar answers. We study reading so we can read God's word. We study writing so we can communicate God's truth. We study speaking so we can share of God's redemption. And we study music so we can worship. 

People might ask, "Is a child learning to worship while he is playing his scales and arpeggios?!" Well, no. But it is the foundation of worship. He is learning the skills, the bits and pieces, so he will be able to sing praise to God. He'll be able to worship God during family worship, in the privacy of his own prayer closet, and in corporate worship each week. 

Studying music builds a foundation of praise for covenant children. I was thrilled to help organize our bi-annual Covenant Family Church Musical Recital with this goal in mind. As usual, it was a smashing success. More than that, I was delighted to see the students maturing in their skills to praise God. May he gives us hearts that long to worship Him.

The Bulletin-Passer-Out-er.

Action shot.

Lights, Camera, Action.

These girls are unbelievably cute singing "Nothing But the Blood"!

Minuet in G. 

A Serven Sisters Duet: All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name.

"Are you ready?"

Time to sing! How precious to hear this boy sing "Holy, Holy, Holy".

A Charlie Zahm look-a-like.

The Camera man switches venues quite adeptly. 

Joyful playing. 

Violin, Cello, Alto and Soprano Recorder. 

Introducing her piece.

Very impressive duet by some young accomplished students.

Master H. takes his turn with mastery.

Lyddy played Seitz, then I played Debussy.

Student and teacher duet. 

Camptown Races--two hands at the same time!

The First Noel--absolutely gorgeous with harp, violin and flute. 

Young Master S. tickles the ivories.

Ringlets and all. : )

I loved the mellow, reedy sound of these recorders. 

Chopin's Nocturne in Eb sounded breathtaking on this piano. Wow.

Sweetness itself.

Very flashy and fun!

Military precision. 

Tchaikovsky and an original arrangement. Beautiful.

Covenant Children's Chorus performs, "Rejoice in the Lord Always" with 2 parts. 

Aww. : ) How sweet. A total surprise.

The director and her bouquet. 

The roses smelled heavenly.

The whole group. 

Friends.

And more friends.

Thanksgiving Traditions

Sarah's additions of leaves, twigs, and seed pods made this look quite festive.

Traditions are part of what makes a family a family. Having things you 'always do' gives a sense of covenantal context, in the greater view of the family of God, your forefathers, your immediate family, and the generations to come. 

We have several Thanksgiving traditions which we've done for many years: reading pilgrim stories aloud several weeks leading up to Thanksgiving day, making particular dishes, and placing 5 kernels of corn on each of the children's plates. Other traditions are newer to the Serven Clan: creating a Thanksgiving play or movie for the family, going on a walk right after dinner, and singing hymns and psalms in the evening. 

Our normal hutch-top decorations supplemented with fall things.

This year, Sarah and I were realizing that we usually don't put up Thanksgiving decorations around our home, except for a few items a couple days previous to Thanksgiving. This year, especially as we were home to witness the glorious color change, we decided to extend our Thanksgiving decorations and place them around our home earlier in the season. 

Sarah went out into the woods and scrounged up some fallish things: leaves, acorns, twigs, berries, and seed-pods. We already had some winter squashes and pumpkins that Mom had picked up, so we incorporated them all into our normal decorations. We thought the effect charming. : )

Finding some orange candles made this more "Thanksgivingish".

If you don't live near a convenient woods, you can also find inexpensive fall decorations. Go to a nearby park or a friends yard, and look for leaves, twigs, or acorns. You can purchase several candles from Wally-world for a dollar or two. Scrounge your pantry for pretty squashes to wash and place out for decoration. A farmer's market will have gourds, dried colored corn, and pumpkins that will last for many years. 

You can find a yard of fabric at the aforementioned store for $1-$2, and either hem or fray the edges to make a festive center for your table. Use old canning jars for vases or as a container for a small candle to shine through. A little raffia goes a long way in making things look fallish. 

Lighting the way home.

One special night we placed candles in glass jars lining the walk way. We tied a bit of twine around the top of each jar, just for fun. A string of white lights around the door frame makes the entrance more celebratory. I made the wreath for only a few dollars from Michael's: grapevine wreath, raffia, and berry 'picks'. I didn't glue it on purpose, so we can change it with each season.

We are on the lookout for new Thanksgiving Traditions. What are some of your family's? Certain dishes you cook, things you do, books you read, places you go, and more. Please share in the comments!

A Trip to the Barn

Green Meadow Barn Company. 

We met an interesting lady a while back at an historical crafts day in a nearby town. We were intriqued with her work, so we set up a visit to her shop, only about an hours drive away. Mrs. Linton, the craftswoman behind Green Meadow Barn Company, turned out to be a sweet Christian lady. We had a delightful time visiting her and hearing all about the furniture she makes. She dismantles old barns and turns the wood into beautiful rustic furniture. What a creative use for old wood!

Some of Mrs. Linton's work.

This old barn was moved to Mrs. Linton's property and made into a home.

Bed and Breakfast

Rebecca, Amber, and Beth. 

Its a special delight when we have overnight guests traveling in the area. Recently we enjoyed visits from several sweet friends who were driving through our neck of the woods. Conversations, games, cooking, playing with babies, stories of God's providence's in our lives—excellent and encouraging fellowship had by all. We are always blessed by our kind friends who will favor us with a visit!

Stephen, Gracie, and sweet Clara.

Bloggy Awards

A little bird told us that The Serven Clan had it's first official blogospheric nomination! We were quite surprised, honored, and tickled pink. : ) The Home School Post nominated us for the "Best Live What You Believe Blog". If you would care to vote early and often, visit here. Voting ends November 21st. 

2009 Men's Advance

Open for Registration.

Reserve your spot now for the 2009 Men's Advance!

At long last, the website is up and ready to take your registrations! The 2009 Men's Advance promises to be full of encouragement, as we reflect on the past, take courage in the present, and look with fortitude to the days ahead.

What We'll Talk About.

The 2009 Men's Advance features Pastors Kevin Swanson and Marcus

Serven. These homeschooling fathers and pastors will teach five sessions, stimulating discussions between father and son, and man–to–man.

• Draw applications from the lives of those who have gone before us.
• Examine biblical truths with the aim of impacting the culture for Christ.
• Plant the glories of the faith deep within the hearts of your children.

These sessions will inspire you as you press on in the fight.

What We'll Do.

Don't think you'll be sitting the whole weekend! Join Matt Macfarlane for a rollicking good time as he leads the men in several team building games. You'll have a barrel of fun as you create memories with your sons.

Fellowship and discussion are ready to be enjoyed around the ample meal tables. Our kitchen support staff is gaining quite a reputation for themselves in creating culinary masterpieces. In addition, an extensive book table will fuel your meal time discussions while satisfying all attending bibliophiles.

To keep things lively during the Advance, The Heirs of Baird will provide toe–tapping melodies as well as a free concert Saturday evening. This multi–talented quintet performs the music that has defined America, weaving Celtic and American fiddle tunes, ballads, hymns, and unique stories into an unforgettable folk music experience.  Bring the entire family for the All Family Dinner and Americana Folk Concert.

Applicable Particulars. 

The registration fee of $60 a person covers the entire program including meals. Note, we have changed venues this year, so there are no accommodations available on the conference grounds. Please make your own arrangements through our website—at a local hotel or with a hospitality family. Be sure to register early. This event has sold out in past years. We look forward to seeing you in February!

www.GenevanFoundation.com

Fall Chores

Starting the burn pile.

Waiting and watching. 

For all our safety conscious friends: notice the hose. : )

Post Election Musings

The earth is the Lord's and the fullness therein.

1. Who's Really in Charge? God is sovereign over the affairs of kings and nations. He already knew who would win the election. His purposes will always prevail, even if we don't understand.

2. Purely Pragmatic Thoughts. If certain candidates had been elected, many Christians could have been tempted to continue in complacency. As it is, it could be a good opportunity for Christians, as they will, Lord willing, have a heightened sense of vigilance in the protection of their liberties. 

3. Welcome to Socialism. Though this is disputed, both the main candidates had socialistic elements, to one degree or another. : ) That certain people were elected is only a reflection of the hearts of the people of our nation. As a nation, we are looking for a political 'savior'. Someone who can fix our businesses or health care, our wars or economics. But, we aren't going to find someone in the political sphere as our savior. We can only find redemption through our True King.

4. Nations rise and Nations fall. This has been the way God has worked throughout history. We shouldn't be frightened of this fact. The point is, even if our country is headed for some challenging times, God's people win. Because, they know the ultimate Victor. And He will prevail. 

5. A Larger View of the World. The world is bigger than the good old USA. And history is greater than November 5, 2008. Jesus Christ has His people living in all different countries, and political situations all around the globe. And He has been working in all the so-called 'ups and downs' of history. It's all with a purpose of His glory. 

6. What We Can Do. Our job is to be faithful before the Lord: in our relationship with Him; to disciple our children in the fear and admonition of the Lord; to worship Him in spirit and truth; to make manifest the reign of Christ in our dealings with other people, both those who are believers and those who are not; to be subject to the governing authorities; to speak the truth in love, giving the reason of the hope that lies within us; to take back the responsibilities we have abdicated to the civil realm, as fathers and mothers, as elders and deacons, with a patient, faithful, bottom to the top, heart-change attitude (here is a wonderful example, but we need more such organizations). 

7. Praise God for His All Wise Care. Psalm 125: Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore. For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest on the land allotted to the righteous, lest the righteous stretch out their hands to do wrong. Do good, O Lord, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts! But those who turn aside to their crooked ways the Lord will lead away with evildoers! Peace be upon Israel [God's people]!

Links of interest: 

An election sermon by my father, Pastor Marcus Serven: download directly or visit the page.

An sermon on the role of deacons and reclaiming areas of abdication, by Pastor Gary Wagner: download directly or visit the page.

Optimistic outlook on the economic times from Pastor Scott Brown: visit the page.

Excellent thoughts from Jasmine on the election results: visit the page.

Election Thoughts

Psalm 146

Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord, O my soul!
I will praise the Lord as long as I live;
I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.

Put not your trust in princes, 

in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.
When his breath departs, he returns to the earth;
on that very day his plans perish.

Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the Lord his God,
who made heaven and earth,
the sea, and all that is in them,
who keeps faith forever;
who executes justice for the oppressed,
who gives food to the hungry.

The Lord sets the prisoners free;
the Lord opens the eyes of the blind.
The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down;
the Lord loves the righteous.
The Lord watches over the sojourners;
he upholds the widow and the fatherless,
but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.

The Lord will reign forever,
your God, O Zion, to all generations.
Praise the Lord!

At the Lake

Lake Michigan.

After enjoying a the Reformation Day Faire, we journeyed north, to visit with a church where Dad was doing some pulpit supply. Our kind hosts took us to explore Lake Michigan one afternoon. The air was certifiably nippy. And since our photographer happened to accompany us, we had a portrait session. : ) We had a wonderful time exploring the countryside.

All bundled up with Daddy.

The hotel of all hotels.

Running on the sand.

Our dear Mother.

Mom and Sons.

Walking.

Little people and big people.

Balancing on the rocks.

Exploring.