Oh, oh, Sweet Mexico -- outreach to children!

There’s no greater joy than to see a child made happy because of Christ’s love. (Isn’t that what the joy spoken of in 2 John 4 refers to? The truth of walking in God’s love!) Prayer makes this possible. Thanks for praying for Orphans First during 2008.

2008 was a wonderful year for Orphans First. As well as the children in our children’s homes, orphanages and ministries, many more children were helped and given an opportunity to see Christ’s love in action. Check out the website for updates in the future.

Thank you for praying for our recent trips to Mexico. Mothers begging with their children, children begging alone, raggedy little ones – these were just some of the sites we saw. (See pics above. I tried sharing the Gospel drawing from my French & Italian. But maybe I need to learn Spanish.) We’re thankful we were able to put smiles on a few wee faces by giving toys, food (& a little money for the parents). But it seems so little. Please continue praying that Orphans First can make a lasting impact in Mexico, by God’s grace.

For those wanting more news on the Orphans First Christmas Project, keep checking the website for updates and photos. We were able to provide Christmas gifts for children in Russia (Siberia), India (2 cities), Romania, Haiti, Mexico, and several countries in Africa.

Thank you so much for your prayer support for Orphans First in 2008. I hope you continue praying with us for the children in 2009. They are so worth it. And so are you. (Prayer changes you like nothing else – it’s worth persevering).

Janey L DeMeo M.A.
www.JaneyDeMeo.com / www.orphansfirst.org
Copyright © December 2008

The Curse

Here’s a story you don’t want to miss this coming new year. Check out The Curse by Michael Barrett. This book will keep you riveted. Here’s the scoop . . .

Does sin twist its way through generations? Can Satan's hand penetrate a family tree, bringing destruction to each one it touches?

If you think such evil is impossible, you haven't met the Jakes.

1850s Oregon Territory finds young and innocent Katie eager to find her handsome prince and start a family on the frontier. But when her true love finally comes along in the steadfast form of John Jakes, she has to fight the dark forces hoping to steal him away. Will she prevail? And at what cost will this victory be gained?

Many daughters, granddaughters, and great-granddaughters later, Rebecca Jakes/Lindsay takes her place in the Jakes line. Happily married to Brad for six years, she wants a baby and she wants one now. Yet her Los Angeles doctors cannot identify why she is not able to conceive. When her aunt dies and Rebecca journeys to Oregon and the old family homestead for answers, she uncovers a family secret that has been plaguing her ancestors for over a century.

Could Katie's victory so long ago be Rebecca's failure today? Find out what happens when they encounter The Curse.

Order your copy of The Curse here.

Please note that profit for the sales of this book go toward the Ranch – a ministry Michael and his wife provide for pastors needing rest and strengthening.

Janey DeMeo
www.JaneyDeMeo.com
www.orphansfirst.org

Orphans First -- Christmas Project. Kids needing gifts.

I've not been posting much lately. Why? Well, maybe it's got something to do with the ORPHANS FIRST CHRISTMAS PROJECT. Thousands of children will receive no Christmas gifts this year. Not one. Not those offered by Samaritan's Purse nor any other organization. But Orphans First has the opportunity to reach thousands of them. That's what we intend to do this year, as we have in the past decade or more, by God's grace.

Tomorrow, I plan to give gifts to poor children in Mexico. Prayers appreciated. Mexico is dangerous at this time.

Let's do all we can -- everything possible -- to help more children this Christmas. Let's get gifts for foster children, poor children and orphans wherever God allows us to see the need and become the provision. Let's just do it. Through Jesus. By His grace. We can all so something to change the life of a needy child.

Learn more about the Orphans First Christmas Project by visiting the Orphans First site: www.orphansfirst.org

If you want to participate in any way, contact me.

Janey
www.orphansfirst.org / www.JaneyDeMeo.com

Facing the Giants

Facing the Giants – The Power o Belief, the Strength to Win.


I’m usually one of the last to see the latest films – even when friends recommend them. For one, I rarely go to the cinema. Too expensive! Too loud! And often too cold! (Yeah, I’m a wimp.) So, I see movies at home when the DVDs come out. But here’s one I’d go to see at the cinema any time. This has to be one of my favoritist films ever: Facing the Giants.

Wow, what a treat! And what a dynamic story!

Based on a true story, Facing the Giants exudes authenticity. I’ve lived many miracles in my life, especially during our 22 years on the mission-field in France. The kinds of things that take place in Facing the Giants ring true to me. They are so like our God, the great provider and the rewarder of all who diligently seek Him (Heb.11:6).

Facing the Giants unfolds the story of Grant Taylor, and his wife caught up in many hardships. They face conspiracy, poverty and discouragement on every level. Just when things are bad, they get worse. Grant Taylor, the coach for the local high school football team, the Shiloh Eagles, finds his faith tested to a tee. And amidst the difficulties he faces, Taylor chooses not to give up. Instead, he becomes a spiritual mentor to a bunch of boys struggling to find their way in life.

Facing the Giants is a story of faith, trials, building character, integrity, godliness, family, honor – and lots of other wonderful qualities that make for a really fabulous movie. Don’t miss this one. You won’t regret it. www.FacingTheGiants.com.

Never give up. Never back down. Never lose faith.

Janey DeMeo M.A.
Copyright © December 2008
www.JaneyDeMeo.com / www.orphansfirst.org

Shade -- CSFF blog tour review

Creepy. Suspenseful. And page-turningly weird. Yep, you’ll find it all in this month’s featured book on the CSFF Blog Tour—Shade by John Olson.

In Shade, Olson weaves a supernatural, suspense story with an unlikely romantic twist.

Intelligent, beautiful Hailey Maniates finds herself assaulted by a homeless man whose thoughts and emotions seem to eerily penetrate hers. When another homeless character comes to her rescue—an ultra-tall, scruffy, bearded hunchback called Melchi—Hailey uncannily finds her mind and emotions meshed with his. These bizarre and almost telepathic sensations land Hailey in hospital where she is diagnosed as a paranoid schizophrenic.

An ancient battle between the forces of darkness—personified by the mysterious Mulo—and the light, provide the backdrop for the story and keep you turning pages.

Olson manages to plop the Gospel message in Shade—albeit a little indiscreetly. Still, the book highlights the Christian faith well. It even hints at the deeper struggles Christians often face as reflected in Melchi’s desire to serve the Holy One—an aspiration, which is complexly intertwined with a sense of self-imposed legalism.

Find Shade at Amazon.

Visit John Olson’s Web site .

Check out some of my fellow bloggers’ reviews.
:
Brandon Barr
Jennifer Bogart
Justin Boyer
Keanan Brand
Kathy Brasby
Valerie Comer
CSFF Blog Tour
Stacey Dale
Janey DeMeo
Jeff Draper
April Erwin
Karina Fabian
Todd Michael Greene
Katie Hart
Joleen Howell
Jason Isbell
Jason Joyner
Kait
Magma
Margaret
Rachel Marks
Melissa Meeks
Rebecca LuElla Miller
Eve Nielsen
Nissa
John W. Otte
Steve Rice
Mirtika or Mir's Here
Chawna Schroeder
James Somers
Robert Treskillard
Steve Trower
Speculative Faith
Jason Waguespac
Laura Williams
Timothy Wise

Janey L. DeMeo
Copyright©November 2008

Don't miss this. See it before you vote.

I strongly urge you to see this video before you vote.

We’re on the edge of a potential explosion. What does God say about some of the items on the political agenda?
Please, please, please, see this short video for a biblical perspective.

Janey DeMeo
www.JaneyDeMeo.com
www.orphansfirst.org

Halloween & Electrifying Elections

Today is “Halloween”—a holiday that never ceases to amaze me. Funny how we’re allowed to openly celebrate witchcraft, demons, evil . . . But there’s a ton of hoo-ha about openly celebrating Christmas. (The politically correct term for Christmas now is “Holidays”). Funny eh? Not really. It’s tragic. So what can we do?

Well, to start with, we should pray. But American citizens also need to vote on November 4th. And Christians need to vote biblically—from the standpoint of a clear, biblical worldview. We have the opportunity to vote for the candidate who most represents our values. Biblical values. As Chuck Smith said on radio yesterday, in this election, the choice easy.

So today, millions celebrate the day of the dead. Looking at where the elections might be headed, makes sense. Many are being lured into choosing death (read my last post).

Elections are always electrifying. Some are even scary. This one tops them all.

America is supposedly a democracy – but that may quickly change. If the wrong man gets in, our hard earned taxes will be used to kill babies. Before you know it, abortion will become a convenient form of contraceptive. After all, it’s free. Think about it.

We’re hearing things like “Spread the wealth around.” Duh! That’s what we do in England, and France. It doesn’t work. It promotes laziness. After all, why work if the money from those who do work has to cover you? That’s what socialism—ooops, I mean “spread the wealth around”—means. Those who work hard pay for those who choose not to work. ‘And I’m not referring to people who cannot work, or who are poor because of extenuating circumstances.)

I believe in giving to the poor. I guess that’s obvious, since I’m the founder of Orphans First: www.orphansfirst.org). But there are two kinds of poverty. There’s poverty that’s the result of laziness (Prov.24:33,34). Scripture tells us, “If a man doesn’t work, he shouldn’t eat.” Europe is filled with folk who are not motivated to work because, why should they? If they work, they’re highly taxed, and don’t gain any more benefits than if they don’t work. So they’d rather live off “the system” – off other people’s tax contributions. Now, that’s just not a smart way to organize society.

But of course there are those whose poverty is not a result of their choices. Life has dealt them a harsh deck of cards and they need our help. It is our duty to help them. The Bible encourages us to give to the poor and in so doing we’re ministering to Jesus. There’s no better investment of our time and our money than helping those who truly cannot help themselves (Prov.19:17; Prov. 28:27; Prov.28:27; Prov.31:9)). It’s like popping our assets right there in Heaven and letting them grow interest. Way better than down here where investing’s become a fluky business.

Consider and compare these verses on poverty: Prov.19:17; Prov. 28:27; Prov.28:27; Prov.31:9; Prov.21:5, 25 & 26; Prov.23:19-21, Prov.28:19, 22.

As for marriage, the concept is found in the Bible—between man and woman. Changing the definition amounts to the same thing as taking Christ out of the Christmas. You can’t. Well, you can, but you deform the very essence of the word’s meaning by doing so. Tampering with terminology to make something mean what it truly doesn’t mean invites confusion and obliterates criteria that protects our society. Ain’t good. Ain’t good at all. And what’s the point? Gay couples already hold legal rights anyway.

For the record, I’m not against gays. I love gays. God loves them. Jesus died for them just as much as He died for me. I have compassion on gays—especially those who’ve never known a real father. What I’m against is twisting semantics to accommodate an unhealthy lifestyle at the expense of confusing our children. (I’d be equally against the idea of someone taking the word rape and changing the definition to accommodate the rapist, or making murder mean something else to accommodate the murderer.)

One last thought: All this hype about “let’s bring change, change, change . . . “ Of course we want things to change. Some things at least. But not everything. And we certainly don’t want to lose more rights. We don’t want biblical values to be even more squelched to accommodate liberalism. We don’t want the kind of change that’s synonymous to eliminating safe, moral and spiritual barriers: “Do not remove the ancient landmark which your fathers have set” (Prov. 22:28).

Consider this: “. . .Do not associate with those given to change, for their calamity will rise suddenly, and who knows the ruin those two can bring?” (Prov.24:21).

In a few days, when Halloween costumes are discarded, I hope we will not still be celebrating the dead. My prayer—my earnest prayer—is that Americans will see through the masquerades, media, ads and slick speeches, and that they’d make their vote count for the Kingdom and choose life (Deut.20:19).

Janey L. DeMeo M.A.
Copyright © October 2008
www.JaneyDeMeo.com & www.orphansfirst.org

Choose life -- vote biblically

Friends say they’re having a hard time choosing which candidate to vote for. Really? I ask them: Are you listening to what the candidates believe and propose? Or is media commentary confusing you? Are you searching the Bible to compare God’s standards with those of the candidates?

God’s Word tells us how to live, and even how to vote: “I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19).

God has placed a choice before us. Voting is not a light thing. Heaven and earth witness our choice – and our descendants will pay for it. We get to choose how they’ll live – or even if they live at all.

“. . . choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.” How can our descendants live if we abort them? The stakes are clear. God is not pro-abortion. God is not for infanticide. He forbids murder. And what about marriage – the nest into which live is supposed to be born? The biblical definition of marriage is one woman and one man. Sure, God cares deeply about homosexuals. He died for them and wants to help them with their struggles, just as He wants to help each of us with ours – whatever they may be. Many gays lack father-figures, and their lives are not easy. They suffer terribly. God’s compassion for them is great. But, He does not endorse homosexual marriage. We cannot redefine marriage to accommodate our lifestyle. (Hey, if you really want to be legally bound to protect assets and demonstrate commitment—just as biz partners are—you don’t need to call it marriage. It’s not and saying it is confuses our children.)

This election brings many other issues to the table. May we be vigilant and discern during this dark times. Let’s not flock to biased media commentaries as a source of information.. Let’s do our own thinking. And let’s do it BIBLICALLY, letting God’s Word be the litmus test. Let’s choose life – so that the life we leave for our descendants will be worth living.

Janey DeMeo M.A.
Copyright © October 2008

Fireproof

Everyone should see Fireproof. No exception. It could change your life – and certainly equips you to strengthen your marriage, or someone else’s marriage.

Starring Kirk Cameron and made by the creators of Facing the Giants, Fireproof is another motivating movie that makes you want to make changes and fix the broken things in your life. It tells the story of Caleb and Catherine Holt, a struggling couple who find themselves caught in a downward sliding spiral of events that cause them to drift apart. It is the story of you and me, of our neighbors or friends . . . It is today’s story of western marriage. And today’s struggle.

It is also the story of honor and victory. Victory over the pressures that surmount against marriage.

Frankly, I also found the movie entertaining. The filming was delightful with beautiful colors. The characters were fun and humor was a plenty.

Don’t miss Fireproof. See it while it’s still in theaters. Watch the trailer here.
http://www.fireproofthemovie.com/

And if you want a great resource website to help strengthen marriages, go here.
http://www.fireproofmymarriage.com/

Janey L. DeMeo M.A. © October 2008

Why Christians Don't Pray

Ever thought about why Christians don't pray? I have. Plain Truth recently published my article, Why Christians Don’t Pray! You can read it here.

Thanks for stopping by. Keep praying.

Janey L. DeMeo M.A.

Presidential candidates on movies

Fascinating. On CBS News tonight Katie Couric asked the 2 main presidential candidates what’s their favorite movie – and their favorite scene in that movie. I found their answers interesting.

McCain cited Viva Zapata, and described it as a movie of heroism, honor, sacrifice, selflessness. His fave scene? One in which the hero’s newly-wed bride reads him the Bible. Wow!

Obama, on the other hand, likes The Godfather – because it’s about “old world gentility and ritual, with this savagery underneath. It's all about family.” OK, it's about family (and definitely savagery). But not exactly a family I’d want to emulate.

Should a candidate’s choice in movies influence our vote? Perhaps not. But it should not be ignored either. One of the reasons we write our fave movies on our websites (blogs, myspace, facebook etc.) is because movie choices reveal a lot about who we are.

Funny how we all see differently (I wrote a book about that called Women & Men in Dark Glasses!) We could all see the same movie and see it differently. What we take away from the books we read and the films we see tells a lot about what is dear to us.

So, I won’t cast my vote here – even though the choice is pretty clear according to my values. But hopefully, we are all watching vigilantly, weighing up what we see – and praying for God to guide us according to His will.

You can read the full transcript of Katie Couric’s interview with the two presidential candidates here.

Janey DeMeo © Copyright September 2008

Debunking the best dressed, worst dressed bunk

So, best dressed, worst best huh! Maybe it’s a matter of opinion. Partisan opinion.

As an artist, I love fashion. I wear it. I design it. (Sssshhh! Not everyone knows that). Fashion is art. So, of course I’m interested in what people wear. But this year’s People’s worst dressed, best dressed list disgusts me. And I don’t use the word lightly.

Why should I be surprised? Mrs. Obama made the best dressed. And of course, Mrs. McCain & Mrs. Palin made the worst dressed. Yet, Cindy McCain is one of the most elegant, beautifully dressed women out there. She’s a model of glamour. And as for Sarah, well, given that she’s drop-dead-gorgeous, I don’t blame her for dressing a tad frumpy at times. Attention to her beauty could detract from her message.

But the bottom line is that Cindy & Sarah didn’t stand a chance. Let’s face it: The media has it in for the Repubs. They have an unhealthly obsession for Obama and seem bent on promoting their bias at every opportunity. Even when it comes to promoting fashionistas.

Maybe the liberal media can brainwash some. But not me.

This is not a political blog. But since politics is today’s hot topic, it’s time to address media-mania and say, “enough is enough!” when it comes to endless, mindless bias, propaganda, slant, brainwashery etc.—and to present another perspective.

A kind reader of an earlier post corrected me when I quoted a friend’s opinion on the race to presidency. While I greatly appreciated her comment, I feel compelled to present the other side, the opinions of those who rarely are given a chance to express them -- and yet they protect our country.

Consider this home made YouTube of a young soldier, Joe, addressing today’s most mediatized presidential candidate.

Palin pales her opponent – a voice in the wilderness.

Just when I was tempted to think there’s no hope left for America, a voice in the wilderness comes forth to speak some words of wisdom: Sarah Palin.

No, I’m not good with politics. But I’m not stupid either (dah!) While I don’t believe all the propaganda that flies around – whether regarding Democrats or Republicans or even Hollywoodians for that matter – I know when something clashes with Bible values, or supports them. Sarah Palin’s speech at the Republican Convention rang true to me. I hope it did to you too.

So far, I’ve been more impressed by Cindy McCain than her husband. But since Palin’s been brought into the picture, I’m much more confident that McCain could step up the plate if he is voted in. (No, I’m not a feminist at all, but with two wonderful women to back him up, John McCain’s surely gained points.)

I wonder if Mrs. Palin is an answer to prayers. Is she a sort of Deborah, a voice in the wilderness during dark times? So many Christians are disgusted by the over-indulgent spotlight on the Democrats – and are concerned about what this party’s leader promises Maybe their concern made them pray more? I don’t know. But I’m encouraged. But let’s not let up praying. May God’s will be done. And His alone. And may He find us obedient to do our part in ushering it in.

Janey L. DeMeo © Copyright September 2008
www.JaneyDeMeo.com
www.OrphansFirst.org

Broken Angel

This month’s Christian Science Fiction & Fantasy (CSFF) blogtour features Broken Angel by Sigmund Brouwer—an action-packed, character-driven fantasy novel full of suspense. Please enjoy the following interview with Mr. Brouwer. It will no doubt whet your appetite to read the book.

JD - Mr. Brouwer, Broken Angel intrigued me right to the end and kept me reading. Yet, it was very different from one of my favorite books written by you, The Weeping Chamber. How different were these books to write? Do you feel more akin to one genre than another?

SB - Thank you for commenting kindly on The Weeping Chamber. It’s a special book to me because the research helped me learn so much about the historical background to the gospels. Technically, because of the setting and because of how booksellers categorize, yes, it is a different genre.
Sometimes when I am at schools, though, I ask the kids if they’d like to read a book about a man who was accused of working with the devil, who was hailed as a man who could lead a country to freedom from an evil empire, who was betrayed by one of his best friends, then tortured to death in public, then reappears after he was buried so deep in a tomb that it was impossible to get out. It’s fun to get their reaction, because they immediately think it’s a supernatural kind of thriller. Because in a sense, the events before and after the crucifixion are taut with suspense and the eerie feeling that comes when the fabric of the supernatural wraps a place and time on earth.
In that way, Broken Angel was not that much different to write.
I always try for suspense, no matter what genre. At this point, after 18 novels, I can see that I’ll continue with what my editor, Shannon, calls visionary suspense -- what if stories set in the near future that explore concepts that are hopefully unexpected, yet plausible.

JD - I enjoyed the different characters in Broken Angel, especially Caitlyn. But Mason Lee's cruelty gave me the creeps. I'm curious as to what inspired his character. Did you research cold-hearted criminals, watch horror movies or just conjure Lee's character up in your imagination?

SB - Unfortunately, I think villains are the easiest to create, and I say ‘unfortunately’ because I think it’s a simple matter of taking a vice that most of us have to resist -- selfishness -- and allowing a character to pursue his or her own goals without any regard or compassion for anyone who gets in the way of that self centered pursuit.

JD - I noticed Bill Myers endorsed your book (which is right up his alley). Bill is a personal friend and also on the advisory board of my non-profit organization, Orphans First (orphansfirst.org). Bill also spoke at the Commencement Ceremony of the Bible College my husband founded in France (we were church-planting missionaries there for 22 years). Do you know Bill? Has his work inspired you in any way?

SB - I have a great deal of respect and affection for Bill. We’ve worked together at workshops with kids (literacy) and he’s a profound thinker and compassionate man who is also capable of enjoying life like an eight-year-old boy. His work is inspiring because he sets the bar so high that it gives other writers a standard to follow.

JD - I love Cindy's accompanying song @ brokenangelsong.com. (Cindy may be blessed to know that I used to buy her soundtrax and sing her songs in our church in France.) Do you and Cindy often work together on projects?

SB - Cindy and I have only worked together on one other project -- The Weeping Chamber, and her album, The Loving Kind.

This time, many years later, the collaboration was not intentional. I had just finished my first draft of Broken Angel, and she played me a song she had been working on: Beautiful Bird.

It was as if Cindy had been inside my novelist mind for 10 months, because the song had the emotional resonance I wanted readers to take away from Broken Angel as Caitlyn finally takes flight for freedom.

I begged her to allow it to become part of the novel, but in a non-traditional sense. So readers can finish the book now, and go to www.brokenangelsong.com and hear the song and see the video that reflects the theme of the book: each of us are born to fly. (Our daughters are the angels in the video, and I hope this is something that readers might like, as despite the setting of Broken Angel, it really is a story about a daddy and his girl.)

JD - Thank you for taking time to bless my blogreaders with your answers. May God continue to bless you and Cindy--and your families--as you serve Him with your talents.

Check out reviews by some of my fellow bloggers.

*Participants’ Links:

Brandon Barr
Justin Boyer
Keanan Brand
Jackie Castle
Valerie Comer
Karri Compton
CSFF Blog Tour
Stacey Dale
D. G. D. Davidson
Janey DeMeo
Jeff Draper
April Erwin
Karina Fabian
Mark Goodyear
Andrea Graham
Katie Hart
Timothy Hicks
Christopher Hopper
Joleen Howell
Jason Joyner
Carol Keen
Magma
Margaret
Shannon McNear
Melissa Meeks
Rebecca LuElla Miller
Nissa
John W. Otte
Steve Rice
Ashley Rutherford
Hanna Sandvig
Chawna Schroeder
Mirtika or Mir's Here
Sean Slagle
James Somers
Donna Swanson
Steve Trower
Speculative Faith
Laura Williams

*Featured book, Broken Angel http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1400070325 .
Featured author, Sigmund Brouwer: Web site – http://www.coolreading.com/ .

You might want to also check out Bill Myers whose link is on the side of this blog with other links.

Janey L. DeMeo M.A.
www.orphansfirst.org / www.JaneyDeMeo.com

Moving Madness

Ok, did I die? Is that why you haven’t heard from me? Obviously not since I’m writing this post. (Trust me, if I was in Heaven, I’d have a lot better things to do than blog). Nope! I moved. And moving is madness. Sheer madness.

Between packing up boxes, unpacking boxes, scraping walls, painting walls, and walking into tools which gouge chunks out of my leg, I’m exhausted. (Oh, and I still have to take care of my work for Orphans First – and everything else . . . ). But it’s all good in the end. Or, as one T-shirt reads, SAUL GOOD.

I have an interesting story about the T-shirt with the “Saul good” logo. I’ll have to tell it to you here on this blog someday. Or write an article on it. Trust me, it’s worth the telling. God has such wonderful ways of touching people’s lives. And He sometimes uses garb to do so. But, I still have boxes to unpack, so I must leave that for another day.

Thanks for stopping by. Please do so again soon. I’ll be posting a new book review this month, and much more. I may not have had time to post (for one thing, I didn’t have Internet connection for a few days), but I haven’t stopped pondering. Pondering is what I do best, so I’ll have lots of ponders to share in the future.

Janey

Janey L. DeMeo, MA © August 2008
.
Founder-director of Orphans First - orphansfirst.org
speaker, freelance writer, author - JaneyDeMeo.com
author of Heaven Help Me Raise These Children!
Biblical Direction for Practical Parenting Issues.

Shake-ups that Wake-up

Yesterday the house shook. So did I. It took a while before I realized I had, once again, felt an earthquake. It’s only a matter of time before So Cal gets the big one – or so they say. Meanwhile, we’re all receiving our share of shake-ups. And I believe those shake-ups are sent to wake up.

Seems every day I meet someone else who’s struggling with depression from some unjust, unexpected divorce, or a deadly disease, or the loss of their house. Life is shaking them up.

This past week, the son of pastor-evangelist Greg Laurie – Christopher – died. He left behind his younger brother, Dad, Mom, wife, baby daughter and another daughter on the way. Who can explain such loss? As Greg Laurie in last Sunday’s sermon, quoting from Job 1:21, “Naked I came into the world and naked I’ll leave it. Blessed be the name of the Lord.”

He also said a lot of other inspiring things in that short, tear-jerking sermon. One thing’s for sure: when your faith is real, Christ is manifested and others can see Him through our response to the tragedies that rock our lives.

The weekend of August 15th, the Annual Harvest Crusade—founded by Greg Laurie—will take place again in the Angel Stadium near LA. These crusades draw thousands of people, and thousands get saved. (And you get to hear the coolest music.) I already know that Laurie’s messages will be the most powerful ever, and that there’ll be an incredible harvest of souls. God will use that pain for His gain. For His glory.

During foster care awareness month (May), the Steven Curtis Chapman family lost one of their adopted children. The story is convoluted (and I’ve blogged on it before so I won’t repeat it here). Why? I don’t know. Seems God allows a lot of shaking up to happen and the shaking up will bring waking up. God will use this tragedy to His glory – and perhaps in some curious way to bring more attention to the needs of the orphans waiting to be adopted.

My prayer today is that we could draw closer to the one who does the shaking so that our lives will be grounded in what cannot be shaken—so that what cannot be shaken may remain (Heb.12:27)—Christ.

Janey L. DeMeo, MA © July 2008

Orphans First -- not last!

A little boy’s heart is broken this week. Shattered in little pieces.

Allen expected to meet his adopting parents for the first time last week. He had already seen their photo and dreamed of the life he would share with them. But that all changed suddenly when . . . the parents changed their minds.

For reasons only they really know, they got cold feet. But now Allen is left with a cold future and possibly a cold heart.

The majority of people on the streets and in prisons were society’s rejects. They either didn’t have a family—like Allen—or their family was totally dysfunctional. That’s why I believe God would have us pray for the foster children and the world’s orphans. That’s why I do what I do with Orphans First—www.orphansfirst.org. That’s why I believe we should storm Heaven’s doors and ask the Lord what our part is in helping these children.

Let’s pray more than every before for a solution for Allen, and the many orphans who share his pain.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve got my work cut out. And a large part of that work is on my knees. If you’d like to join me praying for the needy children, you can subscribe to the Orphans First Prayer Chain (find it on the Orphans First website).

Copyright©July 2008
www.JaneyDeMeo.com

Love Lessons from Christian the Lion

Tonight I heard of a teen boy torturing a baby—and laughing at it. Sure, the boy will be punished, but will the baby boy ever recover from his wounds ? We need to pray that he will.

In one sense, children can mend fast—if they’re loved. And a child who is loved will never forget those who love him, even if he doesn’t know how to respond and spends forever testing that love. It takes loving,loving and loving . . . and lots of prayer.

Here’s a clip on YouTube you don’t want to miss. Guaranteed to warm your heart: Christian the Lion. This is a true story. As a cub, Christian was nurtured and raised by two boys. When he reached a certain size, they were obliged to take him to Africa (on some kind of sarafi park I guess). A year later, they decided to visit him. They were told he wouldn’t recognize them. But . . . well, watch for yourself. And get your tissues ready.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zVNTdWbVBgc

and

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xmc8gDzk2sg&NR=1

Sentinel: City of Destiny by Landel Bilbrey

As far as biblical analogy and teaching content are concerned,
Sentinel: City of Destiny by Landel Bilbrey is one of the finest children’s books I’ve read. (And, trust me, I’m really picky!).

Sentinel is written for both parents and sons (although I do believe girls would enjoy it just as much). Using creative biblical parallel, Bilbrey has woven a fantasy that any child would enjoy—one that keeps you wondering what will happen next and yet teaches you biblical truths along the way.

The book provides a beautiful story about two brothers, Jerol and Jadan, and the two opposing paths they choose. One listens to the King, and the other is drawn away to follow his own desires. But both are given equal opportunity to follow the path to Sentinel.

Sentinel helps parents shape character in their youngsters, and helps kids develop character as they apply what they read. As well as offering a good, fun story, Sentinel also supplies a study section at the back where readers can work out the practical sense of the story and apply it to their lives.

Sez Bilbrey: “Sentinel is a Christian fantasy novel ... a modern day allegory (Think The Chronicles of Narnia crossed with Pilgrim's Progress). Its story is aimed primarily at boys ages 8 to 12, but speaks to people of all ages. (There are suspense, battles with creatures, temptations, etc.) You might say it is an adventure story with a moral. It is currently available online at Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble.com, Borders.com, Walmart.com, etc. I wrote it to capture the attention of preteen boys and crafted the allegory to be a teaching tool for parents (there is a study guide in the back of the book).”

So, what more can I say? I’ve read a lot of children’s books. A lot. This is one I’d highly recommend. It has backbone, gutz, zeal, excitement, story, character and a wonderful allegory to help kids draw closer to Jesus. Thanks Landel Bilbrey.

Check out more info on Sentinel: City of Destiny, and other writing by Landel Bilbrey here.

Janey L. DeMeo M.A.
Copyright©June 2008

Orphans First in Benin Africa, Summer News

Benin—the land where many of the African slaves were stolen and brought to America.

No wonder God is allowing Orphans First to make a serious dent for the Kingdom in that same country where we’re seeing children (& adults) become delivered from their carnal chains by the love of Jesus.

As I’ve shared before here—and on the Orphans First Prayer Chain—this year we hope to establish a new children’s home in Benin. (Prayers appreciated for this.) We already work with some seventy children there, teaching them about Jesus and providing some of their physical needs. But some of them need a home. And we’re trusting God to provide soon.

Koudjo, our key contact in Benin, is a Togolese man who was mentored in large by my husband through our Theological Institute in France. This summer, Koudjo celebrates the inauguration of the new Bible College. My husband and I are expected to attend. But the trip may possibly be postponed until later this year since we may be moving. We’ll see . . .


To read more on Benin—or any of our Orphans First ministries—check out the revamped Orphans First website: www.orphansfirst.org. (And check regularly since we’ll be adding more soon.) To find the page on Benin, click on: Our Work, then Africa, then Benin.

Thank you for your prayers.

Janey L. DeMeo, MA © June 2008

Of Dogs and of Men!

It’s pretty sad when those who’ve accepted to defend our country—to protect the innocent and stand in strong integrity against evil—become evil themselves. Shame, shame, disgust to the marines who threw an innocent puppy over a cliff. (I won’t even include the link to the story because their gore deserves no more attention other than to remind us that there are dark spots in some human heart. No dog would act like these marines.)

I recently saw a photo of another dog—one who was apparently pregnant and found herself caught in a fire. She was saved by a fireman. Thank God for that fireman and other men of integrity who serve us, mere humans, blessing us with their brave integrity. As for the beautiful dog, she had a special thanks for this fireman. You can read and see it here.

On news tonight, we met Chester. Chester is a tiny dog who goes into hospitals and nursing homes pouring out his love and affection—and bringing healing because of it.

Meanwhile, my husband and I are meeting more and more disillusioned Christians. Disillusioned by the church. By Christians. By those who claim to know Jesus but whose actions show anything but. It’s a sad thing. Especially sad considering that, in France there aren’t even half a percent Christians, and most of the churches (the few there are), are dead. Here in America, there are churches on every corner. But so few are apparently really drawing people into a deep walk with Jesus. So few really coming alongside the people and licking their wounds—like a loving dog.

No wonder my husband, a pastor who truly loves people, finds his days filled as he pours out to hurting people hungry to know about Jesus. People have been through so much. They so need to be loved and heard.

I told a friend today, “Churches would have a lot less problems if they were filled with dogs.” Oh, those precious, humble, loving, giving dogs… They have a lot to teach us.

Janey L. DeMeo, MA © June 2008

www.orphansfirst.org / www.JaneyDeMeo.com

Prayer Vigil for Children at Risk -- So Cal

Yes, yes, yes-—we can make a difference. And here’s one way to begin. Prayer.

I recently spoke about the Battle of Kruger, and how we can make a difference for the hurting children—-if we band together in oneness of purpose. To that end, we're organizing a Prayer Vigil for Children at Risk at North Coast Calvary Chapel for this Friday. All prayer warriors, and would-be-prayer-warriors, welcome.

For recent prayer requests for children in need, go to the Orphans First website, and click on Prayer. On top of our other children’s ministries and homes, we have recently taken on an orphanage in Romania that was started by Richard & Sabina Wurmbrandt—and that is in dire need. The children and workers no longer have consistent support. We have begun helping them, and hope to help them regularly.

Still, there are thousands of millions of children in need all over the world. Please join us this week in praying for them-—whether you pray from home, in your car, in small groups, in your church, wherever. Find out more here. Let’s band together and make a difference.

Janey L. DeMeo, MA © June 2008
www.orphansfirst.org / www.JaneyDeMeo.com

Author of Heaven Help Me Raise These Children!—biblical direction for practical parenting issues.

Tragedy strikes the Steven Curtis Chapman family

Today, as we pray for foster children and orphans, I’m also praying for a teen boy whose world just fell apart—a precious young man who unexpectedly became a key player in a family tragedy that is shaking the world.

The young man, son of adoption advocate, and award-winning Christian singer/songwriter, Steven Curtis Chapman, ran into his youngest sister, five-year-old Maria, when driving his car in the family’s driveway. Maria later died.

Little Maria Sue was adopted from China, as were two of her sisters, also adopted by the Chapmans. The Chapmans' heart for adoption is depicted by the work of their nonprofit organization, Shaohannah's Hope, which serves to help Christian families to adopt by offering financial aid.

Read the entire story in the Nashville Tennessean.

Or read it on FOXNews.com."

See this moving video of Steven with two of his adopted daughter-—including little Maria-here.


url - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-eXJM4vVmQ

Ironic that this tragedy took place the same exact week that has been dedicated to praying to foster children? (See www.FamilyLife.com.) No, not ironic. Perhaps God will use this tragedy to make our prayers more powerful, to wake up the sleeping giant—the church—to grab hold of her responsibilities and reach out to orphans. Perhaps God will use this to raise up families to adopt and foster.

Yes, this tragedy will shake the world. But let’s pray that it will also wake it up. Let’s pray the world will be stirred so that the tears of a young man crying over the loss of his sister—tears mingled with sorrow, confusion, perhaps senseless all-too-human guilt—are not in vain. And let’s pray for this boy also.

May God use this calamity to open our eyes to those in need, to the beauty of adoption, and may He probe our hearts constantly so that we all do our part in helping the fatherless.

Janey L. DeMeo, MA © May 2008

United We Stand

In my last blog post, I shared about the Battle of Kruger. That impactful video has not left my mind. I feel strongly that God has something to tell us. It’s all about being willing to fight for what is right, for what is biblical—by dropping our differences and being united.

I recently wrote an article on Tom Tancredo and how he fights for what he believes in—sometimes going against the status quo. (I’ll let you know when and where the article is published.) Tancredo, a friend, is brilliant. An inspiration.

Reading in the book of Judges recently about how the people of Laish were defeated confirmed my thinking. These people who lived peacefully, without contention, also lived isolated, without having direct connections with people around them (Judges 18:7 & 28). Thus, when they were attacked, they were easy prey because they couldn’t call on help. Isolation was their problem. It is often ours.

Foolish are we when we think we can live this life alone, isolated from others. And while I understand that people are often disappointed with church, I encourage anyone who knows Jesus to connect with His people in some way—on a regular basis. It’s the only way we’ll make it against the oncoming onslaught. And with elections as coming—and the feeble choices before us—the onslaught is surely coming.

Chapter 18 in my book, Heaven Help Me Raise These Children! focuses specifically on spiritual warfare: https://www.carepointministry.com/parenting.html. And it applies to every area of our life.

For those interested in Orphans First, please read the recent prayer requests as we consider partnering with an orphanage in Romania which was founded by Richard Wurmbrandt. Check out Prayer Chain: www.orphansfirst.org And, since this coming week, Prayer Vigils for Foster Children & Orphans will be held all over the country, let’s join together pray for orphans foster children this coming week: www.fostercareprayervigil.org. May all find godly forever families.

***I’m organizing a Prayer Vigil for Children at Risk on June 6th at North Coast Calvary Chapel for anyone in the area.

Janey L. DeMeo, MA © May 2008

www.orphansfirst.org / www.JaneyDeMeo.com

What can the Battle at Kruger teach us?

The task of rescuing helpless children from the clutches of predators often seems hopeless. The enemy’s tactics to inflict pain on the little ones through abandonment, neglect and fear seem so powerful. Like lion’s teeth.

Many foster children are caught in the grips of a cruel system, dragged from one home to another, and viciously tugged away from any sense of home or belonging. They might as well be clamped between the teeth of lions and crocodiles, awaiting their doom. But we can change this. And there’s a video out there that shows us how.

Yep, I saw it on YouTube—an authentic safari video of the Battle at Kruger, where lions and croc fight over a baby buffalo using their bare teeth. Since the devil roams around like a lion ready to pounce and devour the innocent (1 Pet.5:8), the analogy is flagrant. The message couldn’t be clearer. The little ones are the devil’s primary target, and there’s only one way to release them from his clutches. Together. The battle is won as we join hands and fight together.

Before I say more on this, I highly recommend you watch this 8 minute YouTube for yourself: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU8DDYz68kM
Or here: http://www.BattleAtKruger.com

What is God telling us?
This spontaneous video of nature reflects God’s thoughts. A pride of lions chases a troop of buffaloes. The baby buffalo, the obvious target, flees to escape and falls into the nearby water. Gripping him their teeth, the lions attempt to drag him out. As they try to extract him from the water, an enormous crocodile lunges at him, clamping deadly fangs around the baby buffalo’s legs. Then the torturous battle begins as lions and crocodile pull and tug together—each side greedy to devour the tender prey.

The lions manage to yank the little buffalo away from the croc’s grip, and then encircle the now-listless creature ready to devour him.

When all looks lost, out of the blue, the lions find themselves surrounded by a troop of buffalo. Together the burly beasts surround their foe, waiting (you’d almost think this was a prayer vigil). Some move to the back of the circle, as if afraid. Still, they remain together. United.

Suddenly, swat! One huge buffalo moves forward and kicks a lion. Another throws a giant feline up in the air. Some lions run away, pursued by angry buffalo. Others saunter into the background cautiously, but their distance only enrages the buffalo who chase after them with attitude: You will not take one of our little ones. For as long as we’re alive, we’ll fight for him.

Who could withstand such determination? Little by little, the lions withdraw. They are vanquished and forced to abandon their prey. But surely, it’s too late. the baby must dead by now.

As the video rolls, you can hear the cameraman’s friends saying, “It’s too late. They’re way too late now.”

But they were wrong. It was not too late.

Against all odds, the little one wobbles to his feet and scrambles back to his family. Everyone is stunned. Thrilled—and stunned. The situation had seemed hopeless, but a victory was won. A victory echoing the heartbeat of God.

God is speaking loudly through this video. He is telling us it is never too late. We should never give up. Never, no never. Not when it comes to a suffering child. (Chapter 18 of my book, Heaven Help Me Raise These Children!—biblical direction for practical parenting issues, is reveals how to fight so that the little ones will be delivered from the enemy’s territory. See here: https://www.carepointministry.com/parenting.html)

The struggle at Kruger dramatically depicts the message prevalent at the Orphan Summit I attended in Ft. Lauderdale recently. What God is sharing with us, the body of Christ, is that if we work together to help the little ones who are caught by lions and crocodiles—in foster systems, abused families or other seemingly desperate situations—then we’ll win the battle. We must band together, unite and fight. We must rise up and surround our enemy in prayer. And then we must act. No matter what it costs us. If we want to win the battle for the children, here’re some keys to implement:
Work together,
Surround the enemy together (in prayer)
Never give up, remain determined to go forward,
Be bold and fearless, even when we’re scared,
Be willing to give up our lives so the children might have theirs,
Lay down our agendas, logos and labels for a Higher Cause—that of saving the little victims,
Pray, pray and pray some more.

Prayer is a key component to usher in victory. To pray specifically and regularly, you can join the Orphans First Prayer Chain and receive prayer requests in your mailbox by going to www.orphansfirst.org and clicking on “join.” You can also be part of an upcoming Prayer Vigil this. Find out more here: www.fostercareprayervigil.org. There you will find materials to help you, as well as a registration page and map displaying local vigils throughout the nation. You can also participate or organize a prayer vigil during the first weekend of June, the National Day of Prayer for Children at Risk! Find out more here: www.viva.org.

Let’s take the bull by the horns and release him from the lion’s grip. Oooops, I mean baby buffalo. We can do it—together!

Janey L. DeMeo, MA © May 2008

www.orphansfirst.org / www.JaneyDeMeo.com

Expelled with Ben Stein, truth, free thinking & the end of America

In France, they don’t train you how to think; they tell you what to think. If you think outside their box, you’re a weirdo. Somehow, I thought it’d be different here in America. But not so. America is waning and yielding to dictatorship thinking.

This weekend, I saw Expelled with Ben Stein. Without spoiling the joy of having your own brains delightfully challenged, let me simply encourage you to see this film. It’s well worth it. And it’s worth bringing as many people with you as you can.

You see, we often think we’re hearing the truth. We believe so quickly what reputed scientists, big-wig brains and our government tell us. But they’re not telling us everything. They’re actually often covering up the truth, bottling it and hiding the bottle. Worse still, there’s a label on the bottle which reads, “Open this & share it & you’re EXPELLED”.

If you want to do your own thinking—especially with regard to Darwinism—then you need to hear both sides of the story. If you want to know one of the strongest forces behind Hitler’s hideous evil, then please do me a favor and see the film. Here’s the trailer: http://www.expelledthemovie.com/playgroundvideo3.swf

And when you’ve seen it, check out some more cool stuff to help you think some more here: Answers in Genesis: http://www.answersingenesis.org/

Ken Ham’s blog: http://blogs.answersingenesis.org/aroundtheworld/

(Btw, Ken Ham was a frequent visiting speaker at our Theological Seminary in France).

And here’s another one to make you think, The End Of America by Naomi Wolf. 10 steps on how American’s democracy is on it’s way out. History proves it. See Stalin, Mussolini, Hitler…SCARY. Check out it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjALf12PAWc

Finally, before hopping on a plane (yes, again! Can you believe it?), I’d appreciate your prayers for the ORPHANS SUMMIT in Florida this weekend. I will be attending to represent Orphans First (www.orphansfirst.org). It is my deepest prayer that many more children will find forever homes. And since May 1st, is the National Day of Prayer, let’s especially be praying for this.

Janey L. DeMeo

Copyright©April 2008

Separating children from mothers -- the polygamist cult

I’ve worked with children for years. I’m probably more known as a child advocate than anything else. And one thing that stands out as lucidly clear to me is that Satan hates children and takes every opportunity to harm them. Oh, and he uses twisted adults and big-ego idiots to do so.

Sadly, serious damage is often done by those who should be protecting the children. I saw it in Europe. Now I see it in America.

Take, for example, the recent scandal of the polygamist cult, an extreme Mormon affiliate break-off. Does it make sense to remove every child from every mother because, apparently, a few children show signs of having been abused by men in the cult? Now, don’t get me wrong. Don’t twist my words to say I don’t believe in taking extreme measures when children are abused. I do. I most definitely do. Abused children should be removed from the abusers. And child abusers should be behind bars for a long, long time. Anyone who’s followed my work over the years knows that this is what I stand for. And anyone who knows me well also knows that I believe in removing children from families where they are in danger, neglected or abused. But that is not necessarily the case here. Let’s talk about what the media is now telling us.

According to today’s associate press articles*, and varying talk shows**, a phone call from a 16-year-old girl in the complex claiming to have been abused pushed the panic button. That girl has not been found. Still, some of the children apparently show traces of abuse so, without a doubt, something needs to be done to protect them. Let’s safely assume they were abused – a crime that reflects man’s deepest depravity – well, does that mean that the children should be further distressed by being separated from those they love: mothers, sibs, aunties, grandmother figures? Is it going to help them being put in another, extremely strange and possibly hostile environment (other children can be hostile – particularly toward children who are so very different from them)? Are all of those mothers systematically evil?

It seems to me it would be better to keep most of the children with their mothers in a controlled environment—particularly those who show no sign of abuse and where the mothers show no sign of having been accomplice to any abuse. Would that be so hard to organize? Meanwhile, there are thousands of children in homes where they should have been removed. That’s the painful irony.

I’ve seen children who showed signs of serious neglect, in terrible situations, and authorities stated that unless the children were actually on their deathbeds, they wouldn’t intervene. It seems to me that something’s amiss here. So what shall we do? I think we should voice our opinion when and where we can – but only after we’ve carefully and prayerfully considered the issues at hand. How do we do that? I believe that prayer is key. Let’s pray hard for these precious children. And let's pray also for the foster parents seeking to help them.

Janey L. DeMeo M.A. – www.orphansfirst.org / www.JaneyDeMeo.com

* http://news.aol.com/story/_a/sect-children-face-culture-shock/20080424090209990001
**Diane Sawyer today.

Young People -- You'll Like This

Surprise! (At least, it was a surprise to me.) This week, right before my French radio broadcast began, I asked my son, Francesco, to share. I began the broadcast—but he finished it. And he did a great job. He spoke on Samson, relating the story about the lion's carcass to the pitfall young people often fall into. He spoke about the importance of being leery after a victory, and remembering that Christ is the victor in us. I was blessed.

So, if you speak French, or know anyone who does—especially young folk—you might want to tune in to hear this.

More blogging soon.

Janey DeMeo

REVEIL -- televised radio broadcast in French.

On my French televised radio broadcast, we address culture, news and some hot items. Then, we dive into a brief Bible study. The study is theme oriented at this time and we're doing a series called, Building the Little House in Your Heart. It's been fun, and apparently helpful to some francophone friends who are hungry for sound, biblical teaching. Gloire à Dieu. To Him be all the glory. I'm grateful to have the opportunity to serve in this way.

So, although this blog is in English (although one French friend told me she uses a program to translate it and read it in French) for those interested in last week's broadcast, here it is:

Hope you tune in this week at 10 am PST (or 19 h in France) on the Internet at www.RestoreTV.com (click TV), entitled REVEIL with JANEY DEMEO. You'll also find my archived broadcasts there.

Que Dieu vous bénisse.
Janey L. DeMeo M.A. --- www.orphansfirst.org / www.JaneyDeMeo.com

My response to recent news regarding children’s bizarre behavior.

Some things make my blood boil—especially when they fly against reason. Here’s one of them.

I recently heard on the news that kids as young as four are being accused of sexual harassment because they tapped someone’s behind in school. What made me irate was not just the stupidity of attributing such playfulness to intentionally sexual behavior, but also the taunting hypocrisy of such a mindset. On one hand, we blame small children for acting like small children, distastefully twisting the intent of their childish gestures. On the other hand, we teach them that same sex couples is normalcy, and expose them to blatantly inappropriate images on TV, poster ads etc.

It seems that society’s gone bonkers. Mad! Where do people draw their conclusions from? How are parents finding answers in today’s upside-down world?

The place where I found the most answers was in the Bible. And I’ve enjoyed sharing my gleanings over the past 20 years whether by speaking or teaching. In fact, it was by request of parents who enjoyed my teaching that I wrote my book, Heaven Help Me Raise These Children.

It addresses such issues as how to deal with the warped values of the world, how to train our children to think with God and rise above the grime, and how we the parents can lovingly inspire them into wanting to make a difference so that these kind of absurdities don’t happen.

My book also addresses another common dilemma reflected in recent news titles—why few students are proficient writers today.

As a child advocate (Orphans First – www.orphansfirst.org-, and as co-founder of a Christian school in France, children’s educational issues are important to me. And as a European and a mom who raised her children in France, I believe I bring a more global perspective to the table.

Heaven Help Me Raise These Children! has an entire chapter devoted to literature, music and toys. It offers ways parents can draw their children to love good books, and consequently develop good writing. If you know parents, teachers or child workers seeking honest answers, I hope you encourage them to pick up a copy of my book. See it here: https://www.carepointministry.com/parenting.html.

Find out more about my writing and speaking here: www.JaneyDeMeo.com.

Janey DeMeo©April 2008

Setting Boundaries With Your Adult Children

Today, I’m delighted to introduce you to Allison Bottke’s latest book,
Setting Boundaries with Your Adult Children: Six Steps to Hope and Healing,

This book is especially helpful to those struggling with adult children whose poor choices are affecting them or other family members. How often parents find themselves enabling their grown children instead of challenging them. This attitude is particularly prevalent here in America where many people tend to believe everything is owed to them, and have not understood that they are among the most comfortable, privileged people in the world.

I asked Allison some questions that I highlight the enormity of this dilemma, and whet your appetites for this resource.

(NB—As always on this blog, I use initials to separate the interviewer from the interviewee. AB = Allison Bottke & JD = Janey DeMeo (yep, me).

JD: The book comes out of your own personal experience with your son. Please tell us about that.

AB: For years I really thought I was helping my son. I wanted him to have the things I never had growing up. I love my son, and I didn’t want him to hurt—but sometimes pain is a natural result of the choices we make. For a long time I didn’t understand the part I was playing in the ongoing drama that had become my son’s life—I didn’t understand that I didn’t have to live in constant chaos and crisis because of his choices. When I chose to stop the insanity and start living a life of hope and healing my life changed. It’s a feeling I want other struggling parents and grandparents to experience. I want other parents to know that change is possible when we choose to stop the destructive cycle of enabling. And we can stop it. I know, because I’ve done it.

JD: Why do you think so many parents struggle with enabling their adult children?

AB: We don’t understand the difference between helping and enabling, that one heals and the other hurts. We don’t realize that we handicap our adult children when we don’t allow them to experience the consequences of their actions.

JD: How can we determine whether we are helping versus enabling our children?

AB: Helping is doing something for someone that he is not capable of doing himself.
Enabling is doing for someone things that he could and should be doing himself. An enabler is a person who recognizes that a negative circumstance is occurring on a regular basis and yet continues to enable the person with the problem to persist with his detrimental behaviors. Simply, enabling creates an atmosphere in which our adult children can comfortably continue their unacceptable behavior.

JD: What are some of the most common ways that parents enable their children?

AB: Being the Bank of Mom and Dad, or the Bank of Grandma and Grandpa. Loaning money that is never repaid, buying things they can’t afford and don’t really need. Continually coming to their rescue so they don’t feel the pain—the consequences—of their actions and choices. Accepting excuses that we know are excuses—and in some instances are downright lies. Blaming ourselves for their problems. We have given too much and expected too little.
-

Talk to you soon... Janey DeMeo. www.JaneyDeMeo.com

Simeon the Prophet

Simeon the Prophet is a delightful fiction book reflecting keen biblical insight. The author, Thomas Moore, is a prolific evangelist, and Vietnam vet who clearly loves God’s Word as his writing style exhibits.

The narrative fiction is sweetly laced with biblical truths poetically written in a thought provoking manner. Delightful really. Here’s a sample:
“Steadfast faith in God will always create beauty out of anything it meets. Sue someone that hurts you? Demand judgment on them? Ridiculous! You should thank them for providing mortar for God to build more of His kingdom in your life.” (page 114).

And here’s a powerful line representing how God measures our suffering:
“Your heart’s desire I am granting thee. You are becoming scarred enough to resemble me.” (p. 118)

As a fellow writer, I identify with the sweat and passion Thomas poured into his book. I appreciate his love for the Lord, his fervor. He had a message to deliver and felt compelled to write it. The message is not warm and fuzzy to make you feel good. Rather, it’s challenging, and helps us separate the essential from the superficial.

Also as a fellow writer, I encouraged Thomas to tweak his book before the next printing, to ruthlessly remove all typos and spellos and to tighten his style to excellence. This will only open doors for a larger audience.(something you learn from writer’s conferences, writer’s books and writer’s loops).

Still, even though this first rendering of the book could use some professional tweaking, I enjoyed the precious, thought provoking wisdom in Simeon the Prophet. I think many others would too. The book can be found on amazon.com, or visit Thomas Moore’s website: http://www.myspace.com/simeontheprophet
(Oh, and if you happen to be intrigued by the Jesus movement, the beginning of Calvary Chapel and all that wonderful Christian oldies music stuff, you’ll enjoy this website.)
You can also find him at Shoutlife.com -- and you can find me there too.

Janey L. DeMeo M.A.
Copyright©March 2008

Build The Little House of the Heart – Radio Broadcast

Today’s French radio broadcast was special. I hope it touched hearts like it touched mine. And, after all those years in France, it’s always good to parler français again. (Yep, it’s still there. Not sure if the accent’s been compromised but at least the vocab and grammar are still intact.) More important, it’s always a blessing to teach God’s Word.

I’ve been teaching a series on Building Your Inner Home or Building The Little House in the Heart (Pr.14:1). The thing that’s so special to me is to be able to reach out to francophone friends who don’t have much access to teaching from biblical perspective. That’s priceless.

Anyway, since I’m not going to share the entire teaching with you here, I just want to share this much. We can’t play footsy toe with God. Sure, we can invent a plethora of excuses to stretch the rules, adapt them to accommodate today’s society. But you can’t hoodwink God. And He doesn’t change the rules to suit our whims. The only way to build you inner home and walk in peace is to obey. That’s the only way to walk with Jesus. More on that in the future…

For now, if you speak French, the program is live on RestoreTV.com every Wednesday (and then archived).

Que Dieu vous bénisse.

Janey DeMeo

The Kry -- at last, good music in French

For my French radio broadcast last Wednesday, I had the privilege of interviewing Jean-Luc Lajoie from The Kry. The band live in So Cal – not far from where I live and I’ve enjoyed getting to know them. I was thrilled when they brought out their album Peut Etre—all in French. Friends in France listen to The Kry all the time—especially the young folk. Most music they listen to is in English. For a long time, I’ve felt that the French have been jipped of good Christian music—in French. I wasn’t the only one feeling this way. The Kry are French Canadian, and so, at last, voilà! They’re producing albums in français. I’m happy – très heureuse, molto contenta.

You can listen to my interview with Jean-Luc here (remember, it’s all in French):
http://veodia.com/site/embed.php?live=0&id=1167006280&key=23939bb4ac2880e7139de1c780d77828

If you are a regular listener of my weekly radio broadcast on RestoreTV.com, please note that this week, owing to Spring Break, I will not be broadcasting live but we will replay this interview.

And be sure to check out The Kry: www.thekry.com
And http://www.myspace.com/thekry

In case I don’t hear from you before, Happy Easter. My our Lord Jesus Christ, the Risen Holy One, be exalted and glorified this season. He is risen. May He be risen in our hearts.

From last week -- REVEIL -- tout en français

If you want to listen and see my radio broadcast from last Wednesday -- all in French -- tout en français -- then here it is. I spoke on Building our Inner House With Wisdom. (Bâtir Sa Maison Par La Sâgesse.)

Please note that I'll be interviewing Jean-Luc Lajoie from The Kry this coming Wed. at 10am on RestoreTV.com. Meanwhile, here's last week's broadcast and teaching.

Nana's Bible Stories

Today, I’m delighted to interview Roberta Simpson, author of Nana's Bible Stories (Thomas Nelson, Inc.)—a beautifully illustrated children’s book recounting Bible-based stories tailored for children. The book comes with a narrated CD (As a Brit, I chose the Jane Seymour version). This is Roberta’s first book and she’s beginning her career at the ripe age of 70. Enjoy.

Note: RS = Roberta Simpson / JD = Janey DeMeo.

RB--It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to share some of my personal thoughts and experiences as a new author with you, Janey, and the Janey’s News ladies! I am so blessed to see the work you are doing to help and encourage each other!

There are so many gifts lying dormant in the lives of women—just waiting to be discovered or understood. I pray not only that my book, Nana’s Bible Stories will be encouraging to the children in your life—but, also that my personal story will be of encouragement to many of you as you pursue your calling.

JD--You have been telling stories to your five children and nine grandchildren for many years. Why do you believe the art of storytelling is so important…and why do children respond so well to stories?

RB--Storytelling is so important firstly because you are engaging a child or children for a special time. I love to use my grandchildren’s names in the stories as I have done in Nana’s Bible Stories.

I believe storytelling is an adventure, and what you are doing is bringing children into the story. It is also a great time for cuddling, and being close to the kids – it is a time for bonding, and engaging their trust. I find there is not a child I have met who does not just LOVE having a story read, or told to them!

I believe that children respond to stories (if they are good stories!) because it is a time where they can listen to a story about someone or something else other than what they see and feel everyday, and many times can place themselves into the story – e.g. “What would I have done?”

While playing with kids, I love starting a story – “Once upon a time, there was a…” then I would point to one of the kids, and they would have to make up something. I would continue this way until all the kids had a turn, and we had a story! It was crazy, fun, and lots of loud laughter.

JD--Your stories are told from the perspective of a child or an animal. Why is this beneficial to the child listening to the stories?

RS--I believe that when a child listens or reads the stories about other children, they can identify with the child in the story. I hope that they will say to themselves – “I could have been that boy/girl!” I also believe that they will see how much Jesus loves children, and they were always uplifted and loved by Him in the stories.

I just love animals, and so do children. It is fun writing about them, and I know that God was pleased and loves all He created and He sure created a beautiful animal kingdom!

JD--Why do you believe it is important to introduce our children to the Bible when they are young?

RS--I do believe, and it is also scripturally true, that if you train up a child in the scripture, and encourage that child to have a personal relationship with God, then when he/she grows up they will truly not depart from it. I have done this, and seen the results. I can truly say that all my children, and their children, know the Lord!

If we can promote the Bible as interesting, exciting, etc. then children will want to know the content. I want my stories to be exciting and truthful, so that my book can serve as an introduction to the Bible, and they will want to read more!

We need to reach kids when they are young, when their minds are open to accepting new concepts, characters etc. Look at how easily young kids can pick up new languages. When I was five years old I went to a Welsh school, where no English was spoken. I could choose to hide in a corner, as I did the first day, or jump in and learn the language. I chose to learn, and learn I did!

The minds of children are so open, and accepting. When kids learn the Bible at an early age, it teaches them great values, and greatly influences the development of their character!

I think it would make such a positive and wonderful difference in children’s lives if they were required to learn Bible stories!

JD--Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, wrote the foreword for Nana’s Bible Stories. Tell us how she became involved in your work.

RS--My husband and I have been friends with Prince Andrew for many years and were invited to Fergie and Andrew’s wedding.

We met Sarah the evening before the wedding and soon after they came to Barbados for a short holiday. Even though we do not see each other often, we have remained friends through the years.

I was speaking to her one day, after I had started writing my book. I asked her about the illustrator she used for one of her books, as I loved the illustrations. She was very kind, and really enjoyed my stories. She told me that when I was ready to publish she would write a foreword for my book. I am very grateful for this, and appreciate very much her offering to do this for me.

JD--You are “Lady” Roberta Simpson. How did you receive that title?

RB--Actually, I did not receive the title. My husband received a title and was knighted. As a result he is titled Sir Kyffin Simpson, and I am Lady Simpson.

Thank you for allowing me to share a part of my life and calling with you. If you would like to learn more about me or my book, please go to www.nanasbiblestories.com. You may download one of my favorite stories, The Butterfly and the Cross—the story of the crucifixion as told through the gentle and tender eyes of a butterfly. I have also included a special devotional for the story which you may share with your children this Easter season. Cuddle up with a child and enjoy!

JD—Thank you Roberta. May God continue blessing your work and the children who read it. And thank you to the faithful readers of this blog. (I’ll post a link to my televised radio broadcast in French soon.

Janey L. DeMeo M.A.
www.JaneyDeMeo.com / www.orphansfirst.org

Colorado Christian Writer's Conference

Being a good writer isn’t enough to get published. Writing is an art—but it’s also a business.

One of the most fruitful blessings in my writing ministry has been attending writer’s conferences. They not only improved my writing drastically, but also touched my heart irrevocably. I’ve attended Write-to-Publish in Illinois several times (always in early June: http://www.writetopublish.com/) and also the Colorado Christian Writer’s Conference which is coming up again in May: www.writehisanswer.com/Colorado

The conference provides:
*excellent, professional teaching through continued classes, workshops and keynote messages;
*rich fellowship and intellectual exchange with fellow writers or potential writers;
*opportunities to meet editors and pro writers;
*spiritual uplift;
*fun, food, friends…
*exquisite surroundings

The Colorado Christian Writers Conference (CCWC)—which takes place in beautiful Estes Park surrounded by the breathtaking view of majestic mountains—is coming up in May (14th-17th). The first deadline to register is the 15th of March, after that the price goes up slightly. (The deadline will be extended to the 31st for those who mention they saw about CCWC on this blog so that’s a bonus for you.). Hey, seriously, if you’re an aspiring Christian writer, pray about going. God just might open the doors for you. The conference could change your life—not mention your writing.

Mad Cows or Mad People?

There’s a lot of talk about the mega meat recall of beef—perhaps the greatest in America’s history—from the Chino-based Westland/Hallmark Meat Co. here in California. The scoop is that many slaughtered cows (which are therefore now in products or already eaten) were invalids and could possibly have Mad Cow disease—risky for humans. Apparently, the plant produces about a fifth of all the meat in the federal school lunch programs. Scary stuff.

If you haven’t followed this news item, look up details online. It’s a hot topic. But hotter still is my anger. It’s burning. Oh, not because of the meat—although that’s also burning. Literally. They’re incinerating tons of “at risk” meat. But still my point isn’t there. My own madness lies with the fact that this issue was discovered because those cows were being tortured.

An undercover video showed workers poking the poor debilitated creatures with electric prods. They also pushed, kicked and shoved sick and crippled cows, forcing them to stand, torturing them with electric prods, forklifts and water hoses. Such cruelty suggests that the greatest disease lies with man, not beast. Perhaps—and only perhaps—the cows are victims of Mad Cow Disease. But clearly the men are riddled with Mad Man Disease. It’s sickening.

There’s much too much cruelty in this world. Still, this news item brings much attention to the concern that we humans may get diseases from the “Perhaps” (capital P) contaminated meat. Very little attention is given to the fact that some people think that as long as no-one’s looking, they can bully and torture innocent creatures. Now I’m the one who’s MAD.

You see, what concerns me more than “Perhaps-contaminated-meat”—and I’m not minimizing how terrible it would be if the meat really is contaminated and actually made humans sick, which thankfully it hasn’t yet—is a greater sickness. Cruelty. Cruelty, in my opinion, should be highly penalized.

Let me restate something I’ve brought out in earlier posts. While cruelty to animals is abomination, it’s also statistically proven that people who hurt animals are likely to also hurt children. If we don’t make an issue with this, then what will happen to our children?

Think about it. Pray about it. Speak up about it.

Copyright©February 2008

Broadcast in 2 segments – en français

There’s something very special about moms of preschoolers – and even more so when they’re military wives. Today I had the privilege of speaking for some of them. What joy stirred in my heart to see these young moms eager to be the very best they can be. These are the kind of lives that inspire me to keep on doing what I do. As best I can.

One are where I’m doing as best I can – and not without challenges – is my new French televised radio broadcast, REVEIL Funny eh? Some people would find it challenging to give a Bible study in French. But not me. That comes naturally after 22 years in France, and 30 years studying the Bible. No, my big problem is something quite different. This non-geek has been challenged technologically.

Just as I master the software so I’m actually broadcasting, and adjust my screen so I’m looking at my virtual audience while I speak; poof! I touch something on my laptop and shut my own broadcast off. So then I call my technician, Joey, who walks me thru the details of how to restart my broadcast. That’s why this week’s study on Proverbs 14:1 is cut into 2 segments; Oh well…It’s better than not recording at all. Right?????!!!???

See ya on RestoreTV.com next Wednesday at 10am PT if you want to hear the study live (7pm in France), 1pm EST.

The Shadow & Night

The Shadow & Night is a futuristic space-world fantasy which begins in the year 13851—an era resembling a sort of peace reign when sin is curiously almost non-existent. That is, until something evil yet nebulous, creeps in and puts the dampers on the whole planet (or Made World) called Farholme.

Farholme is home to Merral, our key character who finds himself caught up in a great drama—trying to discover what this evil presence is that causes people to do such terrible things such as lying. (As I mentioned before, we find ourselves in an almost sinless world where Christ’s Spirit rules and people willingly yield to Him in worshipful surrender.)

The book projects us into the future with a curious perfume of the past—of old noble times when friendship courting replaced dating. For example, courting takes place in a controlled framework. Merral is “courting” Isabel, but needs his parents’ permission to commit to her. Meanwhile, their relationship is more like a close brother and sister (something which I personally advocate in preference to today’s relationship madness, but that’s another story). I’m tempted to divulge what happens with this pair, and where it leads but I don’t want to spoil your fun. Suffice it to say that the romantic element is pleasantly suspenseful.

The characters are colorfully portrayed, although their minimal struggle with sin renders them a tad bland at times. Still we recognize stereotype penchants which bring the personalities alive. Anya, for example, bubbles with life, wit and intelligence. Vero—whose name I find curious since Vero means “truth” in Italian—is a sentinel from Old Earth and seems to reflect that genteel, noble-type of temperament, which is not what I’d expect for someone whose job a sort of spy to find out what’s going wrong on Farholme.

The backdrop for the story is a universe of many Made Worlds formed by seeding ships and terraforming with Space Gates separating them from other planets, and all connected by the Assembly of Worlds, an organization which has ruled the galaxy in perfect peace since the early 22nd Century.

This book is the first in the trilogy The Lamb Among The Stars series. (Curiously this first book of some 600 pages is actually two books combined. Still there are two more volumes that follow this.)

Get your copy of The Shadow and Night here: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1414313276 .
Or, check out the author’s site here: http://www.chriswalley.net/

Check out some of my fellow bloggers to read their review of this book:
Brandon Barr
Jim Black
Justin Boyer
Grace Bridges
Jackie Castle
Carol Bruce Collett
Valerie Comer
CSFF Blog Tour
Gene Curtis
D. G. D. Davidson
Chris Deanne
Janey DeMeo
Jeff Draper
April Erwin
Marcus Goodyear
Rebecca Grabill
Jill Hart
Katie Hart
Michael Heald
Timothy Hicks
Christopher Hopper
Heather R. Hunt
Jason Joyner
Kait
Carol Keen
Mike Lynch
Margaret
Rachel Marks
Shannon McNear
Melissa Meeks
Rebecca LuElla Miller
Mirtika or Mir's Here
Pamela Morrisson
Eve Nielsen
John W. Otte
John Ottinger
Deena Peterson
Rachelle
Steve Rice
Ashley Rutherford
Chawna Schroeder
James Somers
Rachelle Sperling
Donna Swanson
Steve Trower
Speculative Faith
Robert Treskillard
Jason Waguespac
Laura Williams
Timothy Wise

Would I recommend The Shadow & Night? Certainly, to all who enjoy fantasy and space worlds with defined characters. Criticism? Well, although I’m not a plot-oriented reader and enjoy description, I found the overall momentum of the book a little slow. But perhaps you won’t. Other than that, I had a grammatical peeve. I kept coming across the word “round” in places where I think it should be “around”. But again, perhaps that’s me, the Brit in me!

Janey L. DeMeo M.A.
Copyright©February 2008