This is something that has been on my mind for a long while.  I used to  wonder how many of these people on the street corner were lazy, but' God says this isn't something that I should judge.  I need to meet people's  needs.  I was given a lot in life and it is selfish to not care for others as  Jesus calls me to do.  The problem is in what to give.  I just can't give  money every time.  I hate enabling addictions when someone is starving.   Dan and I bought protein bars to pass out while we're driving, but somehow  that just doesn't seem enough.  Lord, teach me to be Your hands and feet  to serve others and not just be comfortable in my own ways.   Faith is Something We Do by Rick Warren

“Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, ‘Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?” James 2:15-16 (NIV) Faith is more than something you just feel. Many people confuse emotions and feelings with faith. They come to church and they’re moved emotionally, they're inspired, and they're stimulated. But that doesn’t mean they’re walking in faith. The Bible says faith is something we do, not just what we feel. In other words, faith is not mere sentimentality. Let’s say I go out on the street and I see someone who is homeless and destitute. I see that person is hungry, cold, in need of clothing and shelter. Would I be showing great faith if I walked up and said, “Cheer up! Don't worry, be happy! Feel good! Put on a happy face?” It doesn’t take much faith to do that. Faith carries compassion. 'Faith says, “I’ll do anything I can to stop your hurt.” Throughout theNew Testament, the witnesses say Jesus was moved with compassion for people. Jesus showed us that faith is practical. When we see a need, we do something about it. We don't just toss out a quick - “Well, I'll pray for you.” The Bible says we show our faith by what we do.

Interviews

Things are going so well for me in the job search, though nothing is permanent yet.  I had a phone interview for possible teaching opportunities at Indiana University's College of Nursing.  I told the associate dean that I am more interested in teaching their labs (basic nursing skills, assessment, and critical care multi-systems) and precepting students in the clinical setting over giving a lecture at this point.  I said I'd like more experience before getting into the formal classroom setting.

I was thrilled then to talk to the other hospital in town and set up an interview for their critical care and emergency department.  Though I was offered a job in the small hospital, it frightens me to come from a place that has multiple resources available to a small place where I am sort of on my own.  It would be a welcomed challenge and I am excited if that is where God places me, but I'm keeping my options open for now.

Dan defends on Wed, so we are just thrilled that this transition is happening so smoothly.  We are not looking forward to the literal move, but we are so excited for this next chapter in our life.  We have been in Cincinnati 8 years and since it is a college town, we have seen a lot of friends move on and move away.  We have hit that season and it will be hard to say goodbye to those who will remain here.  Dan and I started our married life together here and Cincinnati will always have a special place in my heart for that and our academic careers as well.  As we turn the page and start the new chapter, we will look back at our time in Cincinnati with fond memories.