Purposeful Learning - Purposefully living for Jesus, one day at a time.

Faithful in All Seasons

September 1, 2020 // Esther Filbrun Leave a Comment

It was a warm, windy day here when I got back to North Canterbury on Sunday afternoon. Today, rain is coming through in gusts, with a definite chill in the air heralding a southerly wind pushing up from south of New Zealand. Some parts of the island have had snowfall, and though we aren’t supposed to get any due to our low altitude, you can definitely tell from the air that it’s somewhere around! I’m looking forward to tomorrow, when the clouds roll away and I can get a glimpse at the hills and mountains surrounding us—I expect they will be quite beautiful!

It’s amazing how life follows the same patterns weather does—sometimes, things are bleak and shot-through with sorrow, and other times, sunlight comes in on the gentle wings of a breeze, coaxing the daffodils and hyacinths into the full, rich blossom of springtime.

When I went home a week ago, the tree outside my bedroom was a mass of dark greeny-grey branches and twigs. Now, little clusters of light green have sprung from what looked lifeless, and the tree’s branches are suddenly a haze of growth and beauty.

These past weeks haven’t been easy, for a variety of reasons, but you know—the Lord is so faithful. Even when I feel like I’m distanced from Him, that I can’t get much out of His Word, He still reaches through and touches me.

I’ve been blessed to be part of a HelloMornings study group for the past two weeks, and one question about a week ago was, what songs do we cling to in hard times? I shared a couple from my “Valley of Hope” playlist—one compiled years ago—and was reminded of just how faithful the Lord has been over the years.

When we walked through losing my brother, He held us up.

When Mom miscarried little ones we were looking forward to meeting, He held our hands—and even provided a rainbow in the sky on our way into the hospital the last time!

When my youngest sister was born, our joy in His goodness overflowed.

When I struggled to give up my idea in preference for what He was asking from me, He gave me the grace to say “yes”.

When a hoped-for journey came to an abrupt end, He gave peace.

Whatever you’re facing, friend, I hope you will keep your hope and trust in the Lord today. No matter what your current weather season is, He will always bring life and hope again!

And, for your enjoyment and perhaps encouragement, here is my “Valley of Hope” playlist.

What songs touch you when you’re walking through hard things? Comment below; I’m always on the lookout for other encouraging ones!

Home Again—Temporarily!

July 8, 2020 // Esther Filbrun Leave a Comment

I’ve often pondered what the word “home” means—because I’ve felt at home in many different places over the years!

Born and raised in Michigan, teenage years in New Zealand, longish trips back to the States, a trip to Tasmania, one to Hastings, another to a tiny out-of-the-way place in south Canterbury, weekends at Kaikoura for eight years….

Each time I look at pictures of those places, or go back to them, I feel a certain rest when I get there.

These are my mountains. This is my road. These are my people.

Some places have a stronger tug than others, of course. And yet, life continues moving—a steady thread pulling me forward, until I fear that if I take time to look back, I’ll miss out on the now.

A week and a half ago, I came home again, back to my family, back to the green pastures and quiet purplish mountains visible across the winding rivers. And while I know and feel that I’m at home, there’s a restlessness there, too. This transition between being with one family that has become “my” family, and my flesh-and-blood-family is hard sometimes.

Because I love them both.

And I’m thankful for this—this grief of what is now past, and this looking ahead to what will be. I don’t know what the next weeks will look like—while things like a permanent job are definitely up in the air, another opportunity has come up in its place.

God has a way of bringing unexpected, sometimes uncomfortable, things into our lives. Lord willing, I’ll be heading away again in about a week’s time to help another family with a daughter who has been unwell for many years. I’m expecting this to be stretching in ways I’ve never dealt with before, but I know I will also learn a lot, and find out again just how good the Lord is and how much we can rest in Him.

But for this week, I’m home. And whatever situation I end up in next, that will become “home” too, so I’m thankful.

God is good.

Book Review and Giveaway: Cross Shadow!

June 11, 2020 // Esther Filbrun Leave a Comment

Hello again, friends! Today, I’m bringing another book review your way, this time the second book in a series! I read (and enjoyed) the first, A Cross to Kill, although it ended up being outside my comfort zone in some ways. When I saw that the sequel, Cross Shadow, was available, I told my brother about it—who had also read and enjoyed the first book. He asked to be able to read it, and I agreed, providing he would read and do the review for me. So today, you get to hear his thoughts on the book!

I haven’t had time to read Cross Shadow since I’ve been away from home, but I expect it is as good as the last one—and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens in here, too!

Disclaimer: We were given a free review copy of this book to read, in exchange for our honest thoughts. Some links in this blog post are affiliate links, which support this blog at no added cost to you.

About the Book:

All journalist Christine Lewis wants is the truth. All pastor John Cross wants is to avoid it.

Former CIA agent turned evangelical pastor John Cross is busy caring for the small community of believers he ministers to in Virginia. Journalist Christine Lewis is busy with the demand for her talents from top news agencies in New York City. Neither has any time left for their relationship, which began eight months before when they paired up to prevent the detonation of a chemical bomb in the nation’s capital.

But when Christine hears that her stepbrother has been arrested for murder in Texas, they team up again to discover the truth about the crime. Untangling a web of conspiracy, the couple finds themselves in the center of another dangerous situation-and in trouble far deeper than they expected.

With an assassin on the loose, a trusted colleague acting as a double agent, and unreliable artificial intelligence connected to mercenaries who have Cross on their hit list, these two may not get out of the Lone Star State alive.

Elijah’s Review:

You would think that after the exposure of the men who were seeking his life at the end of A Cross to Kill that the world would be safe for John Cross to live quietly. But then he finds another threat to his life when his girlfriend’s stepbrother is accused of murdering a coworker. The evidence is incriminating: There is video footage of the crime, threatening text messages on the phone of the murdered man, and a bloody knife with the accused’s fingerprints. Who actually did the deed, and why are some total strangers intent on killing both John and Christine Lewis?

After I read A Cross to Kill I wished I could read Cross Shadow, so when I got the chance I made it through in record time (even for me!). I really appreciated the fact that even though swearing and such profanities were mentioned throughout the book, the words themselves were left totally out. One thing I didn’t enjoy so much, partially due to my views from the Bible on not resisting evil (Matt. 5:39 and others), was the violence portrayed in this book. Don’t get me wrong—I appreciate the emphasis on wishing to keep from taking human life, but I feel that even the violence that is shown here is more than a Christian, in good conscience, should do.

Another thing I liked was the emphasis on following God’s will for your life. Both John and Christine began wondering in the story whether they were doing what God wished them to do, and in the end, they did make the changes they felt God would have them make in their lives.

I can’t say that the rise and fall of the action in the story was a surprise to me. It was pretty similar to the first book. I did find that the little twists the story took were totally unexpected. Some of them were pretty funny, like Christine’s father who used a wide range of nicknames for friends simply because he had a hard time remembering names!

I am intrigued to see what Right Cross has to bring. Huff has many original ideas and you never quite know what he will have you in for before the last page comes!

Buy your own copy here, or . . .

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Have you read any mysteries or thrillers lately? What were they?

The Last Four Weeks…

June 10, 2020 // Esther Filbrun Leave a Comment

…I’ve been away from home! And today, I finally have a little time to sit down and say “hello” for a bit!

I’ve had a very full month this past month—I planned to go help a mother after her surgery, but plans got changed (common story at this point, anyone?) and I didn’t go after all. I was very thankful to be able to stay with my family during our lockdown—we made some great memories during that time!

But then, as soon as lockdown was over, plans quickly came together and they were full steam ahead! So I’ve had the privilege of getting to know a family with seven children over this past month, and by now, we’re all good friends.

I’ve been enjoying the opportunity to do a lot more cooking—something I’ve noticed before in situations like this! I’ve found that I don’t cope well when I don’t have a menu to follow (but then, I’m not so surprised at that!), but I’ve also found that I love making things up. Last night, we had a meal inspired by Chow Mein, Cabbage Roll in a Bowl, Egg Roll in a Bowl, and Chicken Noodle Soup for tea. That was yummy, and I had fun figuring out which elements of the four dishes I would use, and which I wouldn’t!

We’ve enjoyed playing a good number of games different weekends. Two of the weekends since I’ve been here, I’ve spent elsewhere—visiting friends either north or south of where I am currently staying. That’s been really good, especially since we haven’t even had the chance to visit for the last few months! I’ve loved being able to reconnect with people like that.

My days are very full, but probably one of my most favorite times is my early morning drive over (I’m staying about 7 min. away at the grandparent’s place). Early into my time here, the sun was rising around 7:30 am—just about the time I was heading over for the day. The family lives in the hill country part of Canterbury, close to but not quite right underneath the mountains. It’s a lovely area—I’ve always loved the hills and mountains, and watching the golden beams of sunshine play along the tops of the mountains is just the most gorgeous sight ever! Often, too, when there’s been a good frost overnight, everything is glistening in the morning light. It’s beautiful.

The days are getting shorter, though—we’re only about 10 or 11 days out from the shortest day from the year—so lately it has been darker and darker when I take off in the morning. Likely, it will probably get to the point where I will be leaving in the dark as well as getting back in the dark, but that’s alright! I can enjoy the sunrise, anyway. It’s a lovely time of day.

In all, I’ve had a good time here. I’ll likely be here for several weeks yet, and I’m looking forward to learning more cooking skills and spending more time with the parents and children. I’ve already read one book (Owls in the Family by Farley Mowatt) aloud to them, and I’ve just started reading Star of Light by Patricia St. John out loud as well—that’s been very fun!

What things have you been enjoying doing lately?

Jayne’s Endeavour Blog Tour: Special Recipe Post and Giveaway!

June 4, 2020 // Esther Filbrun 8 Comments

Hello, friends!

Well, I have something rather special to share with you today—and something rather unusual for me! It’s a blog tour, but the first one (I think) that I’ve participated in for an author outside the United States. I’m particularly excited about this, though, because the book, Jayne’s Endeavour (don’t you love the British spelling?!) is set in 18th century Australia, and it has a very strong Christian theme to it. How often do you come across a book like that?

I’ve lived in New Zealand for ten years now, and even in that time, have come across very few set in this part of the world, even in historical fiction, and even less that are Christian stories. So I’m excited about this story, and am glad I can share it with you.

But a little disclaimer before we start . . . I haven’t actually read this book yet! Reading has not been a priority of mine these past few weeks, so that hasn’t happened. I’ll try to share a little of what I’ve been up to lately sometime soon, but for now, I’d love to introduce this story to you, because I’m sure it will be great (the first chapter is interesting, anyway!):

I was given a free ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest review, although I haven’t actually read the book yet! (Review coming soon, hopefully.) Also, links in this post may be affiliate links, which earn me a small commission at no additional expense to you. Thanks!

About the Book

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction
Page Count: 276
Age Range: 12-18
Series: Book 1 of The JOY Series

Mysterious strangers, a Scripture verse, and a threat.

“Reids never give up.” The words once held so much truth. But at eighteen, Jayne Reid is beginning to wonder if she can live up to that standard.

When puzzling strangers appear and odd things start to happen, Jayne and her two younger sisters must find a solution—or lose everything.

What mystery lurks in the shadows of the Australian bush? Who is the man in town who thinks he can buy and bully anyone he wishes? And is it all somehow connected to their new farmhand?

Journey with Jayne as she struggles to change fear into boldness and boldness into a trusting relationship with her Heavenly Father. What adventure lies ahead?

Buy the book: Direct from Author | Amazon | AbeBooks | Book Depository | Add to Goodreads shelf

My Review

. . . will be coming soon, hopefully! I’ve finished reading the first chapter, and am quite excited about reading more! Recommended so far. I’ll post my review here when I’ve finished reading the book.

And now, from author Lauren Compton . . .

Tasty Research!

Australia was settled by a diverse range of social classes—convicts, assisted immigrants, and free settlers. As well as a diverse range of cultures—English, Irish, Scottish, Chinese, and the list goes on! So a lot of what makes up our culture has its roots in other countries. 😀

All the immigrants came holding dear their own traditions, dress, language, and even recipes. And so it is in Jayne’s Endeavour! Though it’s an Australian novel, Jayne’s family immigrated from Ireland when she was just seven years old.

During the writing of this novel, I had fun experimenting with some Irish fare! This was definitely a fun (and tasty) part of my research! 😀 And the recipe I’m about to share was particularly scrumptious! In fact, I’m going to have to make it again sometime soon!

Yvonne undid Jayne’s braid, and began to run the brush through her sister’s matted hair. Jayne felt her muscles relax. Despite her best efforts, her eyes started to shut. Her head slumped forward, and the brush caught in her hair tugging it at the roots. Her senses reawakened, Jayne sniffed deeply. “Something smells good.” She motioned to the pot hanging near the edge of the fire. “Is it Colcannon?”
–Chapter 3, Jayne’s Endeavour

Colcannon

Colcannon (Cabbage and Potatoes) is an Irish dish that is simplistic, yet homely. It’s a fine example of making do with what you have in a tasty and filling way!

Ingredients:

1 kg (2 lb) potatoes
boiling salted water
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup warm milk

500g (1 lb) cabbage, finely shredded
1 tablespoon butter
6 shallots or spring onions, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
pepper
1 tablespoon of chopped parsley (optional)

Method: Peel and chop potatoes. Cook in boiling salted water until tender. Drain, return to pot, and shake over heat to dry. Mash potatoes with a potato masher. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and stir in half of the warm milk. If necessary, add more milk until you have reached a good consistency (not too stiff or dry and not too runny!).

Place chopped cabbage in a separate saucepan and cover with boiling water. Cook until tender. Drain thoroughly in a colander. Melt butter in the saucepan, add cabbage, and mix well over heat.

Stir the cabbage into the potato mixture, add shallots (or spring onions), salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley, if desired.

Recipe Notes: This makes a good side-dish, as well as a hearty and filling meal in its own right!

Do you like trying new recipes from different countries!? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to know some of your favorite dishes! 😀 (From Esther: I’ve always loved trying out different cuisine! We have a favorite family dish that originated as a Hungarian recipe!)

About the Author

Lauren Compton lives in Australia on a sheep farm—surrounded by mountains and plenty of Aussie wildlife! From a young age she has loved books and writing-related things (yep, that includes spending ages in the writing supplies department!). Now she has embarked on a mission to write books that both entertain AND encourage. Her desire is to weave stories that point readers to her Heavenly Father while at the same time being a whole lot of fun!

Connect with her here: Blog | Goodreads |Amazon | Newsletter

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Esther @ Purposeful Learning |Book Spotlight, Recipe, Review

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Gideon’s Cloak

May 5, 2020 // Esther Filbrun Leave a Comment

Well, hello again, friends! I thought I’d drop in here today to share a little Scripture nugget I was blessed by near the end of last week.

It’s been a busy day here at the Filbrun household. This morning, Mom decided to call off “normal” schooling, and do something different—watch the Home Grown Foods Summit that’s going on right now! (#HomeschoolingPerks, anyone?) The children did have the option to do their normal school work, but, wonder of wonders, everyone decided they’d rather learn from the presentations. We really enjoyed the three we watched today (I have four pages of notes as a result!), and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can learn tomorrow.

Also, we got out into the garden today. This was my project this afternoon, before on the left, and after on the right. I’ve got about four more rows of tomatoes to pull out yet, but I’m glad for the progress so far! It is nice to have a tidier garden to look at now that we’re at the end of the season!

And now onto the devotional. I’ve been reading Rosie Boom’s devotional My Heart Overflows lately (unfortunately, I’m not sure the book is in print anymore), and it’s been a real blessing to me! Perhaps that’s what has inspired this to some extent.

* * *

“But the Spirit of the Lord clothed Gideon, and he sounded the trumpet, and the Abiezrites were called out to follow him.” — Judges 6:34 (ESV)

I loved this verse this morning when I was listening to a Bible podcast feed (one of those through-the-Bible-in-a-year plans, but in audio version and it’s published every day). I generally listen to this while I’m getting dressed and doing my hair in the mornings; it’s just another way to fill my day and heart with God’s Word.

When I looked this verse up in several different versions, they all said something along the lines of “the Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon…” with a footnote of “clothed” for the “came upon” part. The ESV, quoted above, translates this literally, and if I understand the root word correctly, it connotates a “clothing” meaning. I don’t think it matters either way, but I did think it was an interesting concept.

Right after this verse, Gideon does his two “fleece tests”—so obviously, though he was “clothed with the Spirit”, he didn’t always “walk in the Spirit”—Galatians 5:16: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” (KJV)

What would it be like to know that this clothing you are wearing is actually the very Spirit of God? That’s how it was for Gideon, at least for a time to some extent, and, I believe, is ours today. Consider these verses:

“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” — 1 Corinthians 3:16 (KJV)

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (KJV)

As children of God (Romans 8:16), we are clothed with the Spirit. And this is where my imagination runs a little wild. I imagine that to be more than just clothing, though—it’s armor, wrapped around us, protecting each part of us. But it’s odd armor—not only is it our protection, but it is also our enabler—our means to go out into the world and bring change to others in a meaningful way. It is our offensive weapon that brings hope and healing to those that have none, in the sense that it is multiplying armor—we can use it, through the Spirit, to give armor to others.

I also imagine this “clothing” to be a soft blanket, wrapped around our shoulders on a chilly morning. Though the storms of life may rage around us, though things make absolutely no sense (why would God whittle an army of 32,000 down to 300 when they were facing an innumerable army?), we are given the Comforter (John 14:16) who will be with us in all things.

Lord, clothe me more in Your Spirit, and let me never forget that You are living in and covering me. You are so good!

What have you been working on lately? What has the Lord been speaking to you through your time with Him?