A recent Sunday...

Recently, I spent a lazy Sunday doing nothing but sitting and reading.

I thought you might appreciate the view.

Ahhh, Africa! Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful - wish you were here.

Sheri

Deep thoughts: Marital rape - is it possible?

I recently read an article about a Muslim cleric who declared rape in marriage is not possible as sex is part of the marriage relationship. You can read the article here.

As a Christian, female I must admit there was a time I agreed with this cleric. I struggled with the idea of marital rape. Wouldn't standing before God and witnesses and saying "I do" be considered consent? How could anyone prove otherwise? It's hard enough to prove rape when there is not an existing sexual relationship with the perpetrator.

The dictionary defines rape as an act of sexual intercouse that is forced upon a person. That suggests that every time a couple has sex, consent must be given.

At that time, I was surprised to learn that marital rape is a criminal act in all 50 states in the U.S. (and apparently is also illegal in Britain according to the article). A moral code can differ from our legal code of conduct.

I have come around to believe marital rape does exist and is a painful experience. Rape is a violation. The pain of the violation is not determined by whether the person was a stranger; or living in the same home and sharing a bed. Forced sex is rape. Period.

What do you think? Can rape occur in marriage or is the exchange of vows perpetual consent?

Sheri

Samuel's Ear

A couple of years ago I started reading in the old testament of the Bible. I had come to a point where all the stories in the new testament were so familiar they had become common to me. I would start reading and think of all the sermons I had heard on those scriptures, or what I had studied before on the topic. I needed something fresh, a new perspective. So, I started reading the old testament. This decision has even brought new light to familiar passages. One character really stuck out to me - the prophet Samuel.

In his story, Samuel has a very honest relationship with God. He has conversations with the Holy One. He hears God's instructions clearly. He obeys. While reading Samuel's story, I journaled about how I admired his faith and authentic relationship with the Almighty. These are things I desire.

Fast forward a couple of years and I am reading a book and going through a study with a group of women about hearing the voice of God and having the guts to respond. The author is Bill Hybels. Again, Samuel's story emerges as an example of faith and obedience. Hybels shares a poem he learned in second grade that summarizes the impact Samuel's story has had on me. Maybe you will enjoy reading it too.

Oh! Give me Samuel's ear, an open ear, O Lord!
Alive and quick to hear each whisper of thy word.
Like him to answer to thy call and to obey thee first of all!

This is my prayer these days. What is yours?

Sheri

I'm back

Last night I returned to Maputo after traveling for over two weeks. Did you miss me?

I will begin regular posts again, soon.

How have you been? Any news in your lives while I was away?

Sheri

regional meetings in Kenya

I am currently in Kenya for regional meetings. This is supposed to be scheduled time for fun and relaxation and I want to take advantage of it. I will post again when I return.