MANILA!!!

I'm here!!!

Update: June 7th

Dear Friends,

The time has come!!! Tomorrow morning at 8:30am (central), I leave for the Philippines! I'm eager and anxious to see what I'm stepping into, but whatever it is I know God will teach me a great many things and hopefully use me for good. I have many prayer requests to leave you with so I'll list those at the end of this email.

I wanted to let you know a little more of what I'll be doing. In addition to making friends and doing community service type work in the slums, it looks like my ministry partner (Emily Bill) and I will be doing English readings for small groups as well as some 1 on 1 or small group studies of Proverbs. I was trying to study up today on the context and background of Proverbs to get a better feel for teaching it. It looks like I will be learning a lot as I try to teach!

Prayer Requests:

* For safety and stamina as I travel from San Antonio, to Detroit, to Nagoya (Japan), and finally to Manila. It will be over 20 hours of traveling. Pray for a good attitude :)

* For my family. Specifically (1) my sister (Amy) and brother-in-law (Haven) with their not-yet-born baby (Phyra) and (2) my father (Bill) battling with cancer. Pray that God would watch over them and keep them.

* For adaptation. Because I don't know all the details yet, there are many unknowns of being and working in the Philippines. Pray that I'll be flexible and quick to listen and learn.

* For consistency. Pray that I will be faithful in my personal study of God's word and in prayer, that my spiritual life will deepen with this experience and that I will encourage others in that as well.

* For John and Carol Koenke as well as the other SEND staff in Manila and Detroit--that they would be blessed for their welcoming spirits and that God would continue to bless and provide for their ministry.

* For health. That sickness would not hinder our work or friendships, but that we would be full of strength for what God has prepared for us to do.

* For teamwork. Pray that Emily Bill, myself, and whoever we are working with would be amiable and considerate--giving preference to one another and extending patience.

* For fruit. Pray that the seeds of the gospel we plant in our words and actions would take root and produce the fruit of new Christians in our Muslim and non-Muslim circles.

Thank you for your prayers, your love, and your kind notes to me. They mean SO much. Many of you have written words of encouragement and challenge to me as I prepare for this. I am honored to be backed by your faith and honored to carry your name in my representation of the gospel to another part of the world. God be glorified in each of your lives and in mine as we seek to serve Him.

Many blessings.

The Blessing of Rest

It's been such an enjoyable time to just live with my own family again. I forget how to interact with them when I'm in a college environment all the time! It's been especially wonderful to spend time with my sister and brother-in-law. Amy's posted pictures of our venture to the new section of the riverwalk. Visit her blog here:

For more fun, we went to the botanical gardens for the annual "Shakespeare in the Park" production. It's a free event open to the public and it's been a great tradition for us the last 4 years. This year's production was "As You Like It" and I must say, it was my favorite thus far.









With my time in Texas coming to a close and Amy's baby getting ready to pop, our family really hasn't planned anything these days. We're in a weird stage of waiting. So...when we're sitting in the middle of the day, twiddling our thumbs, we've come up with some fun things to do. The parents re-stained their deck. They keep threatening that they're calling me in 6 years to come back and do it again for them. As much as I'd love to, I think I have a dentist appointment that day (*winkwink*)Another fun thing we did today--Amy, Haven and I went to the Japanese tea gardens and the zoo!!!





















Well that's all for now. Please continue to pray for my dear sister, Amy, as she has her baby (HOPEFULLY this weekend). Also, pray for our friend Cathi. She had a nasty fall and is undergoing surgery tonight.

Be very blessed.

San Antonio Express News REMADE

Hello,

This is Emily Bruckart reporting from San Antonio Texas, where life is in no slow mode for the Cohoon-Bruckart clan. Here are the latest headlines:

*Oldest Cohoon son (Chad) finds out second child is also a SON. Cohoon name continues to the next generation.

*Bruckart dad successfully endures first round of chemo. A new haircut shows him ready for battle against cancer.

*Baby due June 1st, still in the hopper. Amy waits anxiously for this stubborn youngster to make her debut.

*Youngest Cohoon sister to wed this Saturday.

*Youngest Bruckart (ME!) to leave for Philippines one week from today!

*New wing of the San Antonio Riverwalk opens. Strange art displayed along the walk, but a lovely stroll past flowers and waterfalls.

This has been lightning flash news. Until next time, this is Emily Bruckart. Back to you.

:)

Summer Prayers...

Dear Friends,

Can you believe it? I leave for the Philippines in 13 days!!! I can’t describe my attitude towards this—its both nervousness and excitement combined. A healthy feeling to have, I think. I have so much good news to report!

First, thanks so the help of my great support team, I am fully supported (financially and in prayer partners) for this internship. WOW. In comparison to last summer, it was incredible to see how quickly people responded to my letter and how readily they gave. Maybe they’re just tired of getting my letters GET THIS INTERNSHIP DONE ALREADY! In all seriousness…each person that replied to my letter has had a very significant role in my life and faith. I was writing little notes to each of them and as I did, I remembered memories of them at different points in my life. It was such an encouraging time to reflect and see how God has built a circle of friends around me for times such as these. I am grateful for each person.

Second, many of you are aware that my father was recently diagnosed with cancer. What a time of prayer this has been for me and I have seen so many others surround myself, my siblings, and my dad in their own prayers. His most recent tests showed that the cancer is certainly not as bad as it could be and his doctors are hopeful that chemotherapy should take care of all of it. He begins his treatments today (the 27th) and will be in chemo for the next 18 weeks or so. Do pray for his strength and stamina. More good news is that I got to make a trip to see him the last three days. It was a short trip, but a delightful time to be with him and the family there. It was good for both of us to see each other before I left for the summer and he began this battle.

Finally, my sister (Amy) continues to do well with her pregnancy. The baby, our little Phyra Grace, seems to be happily situated for the time being, though her aunty (ME!) is hoping she’ll make her début before I leave. Amy is due June 1st and is radiant as ever. Continue to pray for her strength and rest as she prepares to deliver.

That’s all for now! Thank you again, dear friends, for your love and prayers.

Blessings,
Emily

FINISHED!

As of 9:15 this morning, my semester is complete! Praise the Lord...I never thought it'd all get done! Somehow, God gives just enough strength for the tasks He sets before us. Now onto the next thing.

I've been reading in Psalms for my devotions recently. Last night as I was sleepily reading through the chapters, I came across one that was very applicable to me as I go to the Philippines.

Psalm 16: The Hope of the Faithful, and the Messiah's Victory
A Michtam of David.

Preserve me, O God, for in You I put my trust.

O my soul, you have said to the LORD 'You are my Lord,
My goodness is nothing apart from You.'
As for the saints who are on the earth,
'They are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.'

Their sorrows shall be multiplied who hasten after another god;
Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer,
Nor take up their names on my lips.

O LORD, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup;
You maintain my lot.
The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places;
Yes, I have a good inheritance.

I will bless the LORD who has given me counsel;
My heart also instructs me in the night seasons.
I have set the LORD always before me;
Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.

Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices;
My flesh also will rest in hope.
For You will not leave my soul in Sheol,
Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption.
You will show the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Legacy...

These moms have made a tremendous impact on my life and the lives of our family members. These women are amazing. Here's to my one-of-a-kind Mom and my four sisters.

Chicago in Bloom

On my walk home from church today...

Quirks

It's so funny to me how I'll hear teenagers, psychologists, counselors, etc etc all talk about "finding yourself"...discovering who you are. Though there may be a certain amount of truth to that, I think perhaps we (only speaking for Christians at this point) spend too much time trying to get to know ourselves, that we don't spend enough time just getting to know our Lord. Perhaps there is a way we can do both...appreciate the way God has made us.

"So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." -Genesis 1:27

"Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." -1 Corinthians 6:19-20

How amazing to be made in the image and for the joy of a Holy God.

With that, I decided to share some of the things that make me...
Uniquely me.

* My favorite M&Ms are the brown and green ones.

* One characteristic my father gave me was a love for bookstores--new or used (preferably used...character added to every page)

* My mother encouraged my love of music...piano is my 2nd voice.

* I'm 20 and I still don't like mushrooms.

* I like crab, but not shrimp.

* I enjoy the sophisticated and elegant but also the casual and laid-back.

* My favorite memories are with the Obera cousins at Noni and Papa's house or at Christmas cabins.

* I'm a fake artist...sketching on napkins or in journals, but never taking the time to learn how to do it well :)

* I get excited about making an excel spreadsheet.

* I crave two things (not simultaneously): milk chocolate and orange juice.

* When I meet people, I like to find out how they drink their coffee.

* I'm nearly convinced God intended all people to eat while sitting on the floor.

* The best summer Saturday would be: a picnic on the beach or buying fresh foods at the farmer's market and napping in the sunshine.

* Kite flying and archery are amazing.

* My heroes are my grandmothers, Ruth Bruckart, Beverley Obera and Marjorie Cohoon.

* I was born into a family whose history is covered in God's grace.



What makes you uniquely you?

Blessings, dear friends.

Internship Update #3

Make that $1,242.00 :)

Internship Update #2

Just a quick note to let you know...

I am at $1,142 of raising $4,160!

Keep praying! God is providing!!!

Blessings to you all,
Emily

Stone of Remembrance

Psalm 27

The LORD is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the strength of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid?
When the wicked came against me
To eat up my flesh,
My enemies and foes,
They stumbled and fell.
Though an army may encamp against me,
My heart shall not fear;
Though war may rise against me,
In this I will be confident.

One thing I have desired of the LORD
That will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the LORD
All the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the LORD,
And to inquire in His temple.
For in the time of trouble
He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle
He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon a rock.

And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me;
Therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle;
I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the LORD.

Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice!
Have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
When You said, "Seek My face,"
My heart said to You, "Your face, LORD, I will seek."
Do not hide Your face from me;
Do not turn Your servant away in anger;
You have been my help;
Do not leave me nor forsake me,
O God of my salvation.
When my father and my mother forsake me,
Then the LORD will take care of me.

Teach me Your way, O LORD,
And lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies.
Do not deliver me to the will of my adversaries;
For false witnesses have risen against me,
And such as breathe out violence.
I would have lost heart, unless I had believed
That I would see the goodness of the LORD
In the land of the living.

Wait on the LORD,
Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the LORD!

Just for fun...

Summer 2009

Blessings to you all.

Since I've put this link on my missions support letters, I think it's about time I gave a MISSIONS UPDATE (or perhaps just any sort of update). :)

Last summer, I attempted to piece together a trip to fulfill the requirements for my school internship. I tried to go with Every Child Ministries to Ghana to do slave liberation, however, God made it (and continues to make it) abundantly clear to me that it was not His will for that trip to take place.

I'm now a senior at Moody (graduating December 2009) and this is my last summer to do an internship. In truth, I was dreading the process of looking, applying, training, support-raising, and doing an internship again. I felt so embarrassed and upset with the Lord for not doings things MY WAY that I did not begin with an attitude of openness and gratefulness. Both qualities are tremendously important for missions and the Christian life in general.

Let me tell you how God gave constant mercy and grace to me, a sinner with a horridly selfish attitude...

**Without me realizing it, God had used last year's process to train me and show me the responsibilities that needed to be met. I have been more knowledgeable and prepared to step into this experienced because of having tried and failed once already.

**When I had hardly began to look for a new possibility, the doors of ONE agency flew open. The Lord knows how much I love options, but hate decisions. He gave me few options, but only one that obviously fit.

**God is expanding my interests. Though I've always been passionate about ending injustice in terms of slavery and abuse, the last few years of study have intrigued me regarding Muslim culture, religion, and their need for Christ. This opportunity was completely geered toward this aspect in such a way that I can learn by observing and participating in a safe and supervised context.

**One of my greatest fears was that the agency I went with would expect me to do all the inter-cultural work (i.e. visas, plane tickets, contextualizing, understanding the culture and the ministry, etc). SEND International REQUIRES each missionary (short or long term) to go through very detailed training and debriefing for their trips. They desire to provide their members with proper care as their people are experiencing completely different situations that weigh heavily on faith and heart. My time at SEND's training in March was one of the best experiences of my life--studying the Scriptures with other missionaries, receiving help in the media aspects and planning, learning how to support raise and keep donors well-aware of what was going on, and building tremendous friendships.

**I have a very difficult time raising support. I dislike asking others for money. It requires vulnerability and admittance that there is no possible way I can go without the involvement of the church. During training, God impressed on me that I couldn't ask for help because of pride (wanting to do this on my own), and fear (that no one would actually support). After much prayer and convincing by close advisers, I chose to ask for help in my two needs: prayer and finances.

THUS FAR, GOD HAS PROVIDED THROUGH DEAR PEOPLE 5 OF 15 REGULAR PRAYER PARTNERS AND OVER $1,000 OUT OF $4,600!!! WOW. (Keep in mind, letters only went out 2 weeks ago!)

I can't deny His goodness.

For those that have not heard, here are the details of what God has provided for my internship this summer:

Where: Maharlika Village, Metro Manila, Philippines
When: June 8-July 20, 2009
With Whom: SEND International (www.send.org)

More to come later. Thank you for your prayers and your influence on my life.

Peace, blessings, and God's truth be always with you.
Emily

Texas...I never thought I'd like you...

When I was in high school, I would talk with a few of my friends about how much they loved Texas and would never leave and how much I disliked it and would be leaving ASAP. Funny how you change your mind so quickly. Reasons for this change of heart...
* Texas has no negative degree weather...
* People in Texas ARE (in general) more friendly...
* Food portions are bigger...
* They know the importance of Dr. Pepper...
* They have REAL Tex-mex...
* The Alamo Cafe...
* You can drive faster...
* If there's traffic on the highway, there are usually backroads...
* You can wear flip-flops everyday except it's one ice-day...

I concede...Texas IS a good state. :)

A couple of fun pictures...Jesse came to Texas for a week over our spring break where he experience some of the above joys (notice the alamo cafe tortillas).





Enjoy your Saturday!!!

Addicted to sunshine.

It's 60 degrees in Chicago today. The sun is out. It's beautiful. So beautiful and warm...I probably could cry out of joy if I let myself. *sigh*

I'm awful at this blogging thing. I go through short spurts of inspiration and long droughts of writer's block. :P

I came to a realization about myself today--one my step-dad will tell me he's noticed for years (and he's right). When I know what to expect and how things are supposed to go, I'm great. But when things are unknown or shaken up, I get flustered and frustrated. The world caves in.

There is something to be said for that cliche phrase, "Roll with the punches..." I need to learn that.

Founder's Week was amazing. Go to to download the sermons. Crawford Loritts did a series on Rest, Courage, and Restoration...by far my favorite.

I love sun chips. They remind me of days living in California...shopping at Zannato's (sp?) family grocery store where mom would never let us get chips or sweet things because we always got cavities. :)

Alright...there are my random tidbits.

Reading is good for you.

Book Recommendation: The Cross & The Crescent by Phil Parshall

:)

There's a HUGE butterfly above our front door...

I'm glad life keeps moving along. It's not always what I think I want, but it always ends up being good. A lot changes with perspective and a good attitude. I'm hopeful for the semester. It's the beginning of the end for school. I'm excited for the end. But the process will be challenging and stretching.

I hate leaving my family and my church in Texas. I think I'm addicted to them. Despite our flaws, drama, and even mundane-ness at times, I love living life with these people. I will miss them all. I'm convinced that "real life" outside of college should revolve around our families. God put us in them for a reason...immediate ministry from the day we're born.

Pray for me as I return to Moody tonight. I'm looking at a heavy course load and a lot of hours, but the preparation and study of God's word is so valuable. These are my classes...

Classic and Contemporary Ethics
World Religious Systems
Strategic Planning and Research
Systematic Theology I
Early Childrens' Music Ministry
Tropical Diseases
Directed Study--Muslim studies

My PCM (Practical Christian Ministry) is at the SouthAsian Friendship Center. Not sure what I'll be doing yet, but I get to interact weekly with Muslim and Hindu people. I'm hopeful for some "hands on" ministry training for when I'm doing my internship in the Philippines this summer. (more to come on that)

That's all for now, folks. Time to be with the parents in the last couple hours I've got at home.

Blessings!

Jesse: "a gift; wealthy"

Humor

You are quick on your feet, constantly thinking of the random movie quote or funny line. Your humor makes others feel comfortable and welcome around you.

Work Ethic

You do not complain because you have to work. You do your tasks with diligence and efficiency. You expect excellence, first from yourself, and then from those you lead.

Good looks

Your features are dark and defined. Every attribute speaks to God’s marvelous work. You are a FIIIIINE creation. :)

Athletic

You are talented and knowledgeable in nearly every sport…baseball, basketball, football, hockey, bad-mitten, ping-pong, fuse-ball, and more. Though your ability speaks highly of you, your good sportsmanship does more. On and off the court or field, you are self-controlled and encouraging to your teammates. Disappointments affect you, but do not over-rule you.

Leadership

You lead by example. You do not demand of others or parade your authority, but you lead by demonstrating excellence in what you do and how you live. You earn the respect of those that follow you.

Faith

You seek to know the LORD and His truth in every arena of life. You study hard to know what Scripture says and to apply it in your life. You surround yourself with people and situations that will strengthen and deepen your understanding of Christ and you are quick to obey what is true.

Honesty/vulnerability

You are single-faced—you live the same way in all facets of your life. You do not hide your true nature to make an impression, but you are honest and open. You are transparent and vulnerable when needed so that others may learn from your testimony and know you more personally.

Temperament

You are slow to anger. In the heat of the moment, you are self-controlled and even keel, doing your best to calm the situation and seek peace.

Wisdom

You are cautious and thoughtful in your approach to life. Your big decisions, you give time and thought to, making sure that you avoid rashness.

Demeanor
You are respectable and approachable. Others feel comfortable and secure when confiding in you.

Hands

They are rough and strong because they have seen much hard work. They are quick to serve and ready to extend to someone in need.

Consistency

You make it a point to engage beneficial habits for your life…the greatest of these being spending daily time before the LORD and in His word.

Reputation

Your name is respected by others as a trustworthy and upright man.

Conscience/Integrity/Character

You live righteously, acting quickly if you see a hint of sin.

Service

If you see need, you meet it. While helping with the physical lack, you speak to the spiritual as well, encouraging and uplifting others. You serve without being asked or without being thanked.

Courtesy/Thoughtfulness

You continually think of fun creative things to make others feel special.

Tastefulness

In how you dress and in what interests you (except your music taste in Celine Dion) ;)

Generous

Though you don’t throw away money, you are quick to give of your resources to someone in need. You bless others with what you have been given.

Contentment

You work for what you need and plan ahead, but you are never greedy for your own gain.

Strength

You keep yourself fit both physically and spiritually.

Forgiveness

You are quick to seek peace and reconciliation in your relationships. You do not let conflict sit and grow, but deal with it quickly. You forgive when you have been wronged and are quick to admit to your own guilt.

Kindness

You think of those that are unloved. You remember the homeless, giving your time and energy to demonstrate Christ’s likeness to them.

Slow to Speak

You are careful in your choice of words. You do not speak rashly, but as much as possible you give yourself time to consider your address to things.

Happy 23rd Birthday, Jesse!

How to formulate a blog topic.

I go through moments of inspiration. Maybe that's what I should title this blog instead. :) I think it necessary to write about topics that are semi-worthwhile. BUT...when the great discussions of all time do not pop into my head, what other ideas shall I consider? I could...

* Tell you what I had for breakfast.
* Write out my grocery list.
* Elaborate on my very unpractical new year's resolutions.
* Gawk at my nieces and nephews (more than I already do).
* Tell you about my bad habits, like not writing my thank-you notes within a week of Christmas.
* Quote famous people.
* Give you a list of favorites.
* Or write out a fantastic story.

See, I prefer the random and spontaneous over the expected.

************************************************
On another note, I think I have finally decided on a trade, of sorts. I have often toyed with the idea of pursuing nursing, never being extremely all for it, but it has begun to grow on me as of late. My friend, CJ, will claim I'm copying her, which is fine. My mother always said, "Copying is the highest form of flattery." Somehow I stilled never liked being copied...oh well. So yes, the plan as of now is to finish at Moody December 09, take some training the semester prior, then hopefully apply for nursing school through a hospital program. In certain cases, a hospital will pay for your training and you are then committed to work for them for a number of years after you finish, much like the military. We shall see :)

The excellent part about Nursing is it's a guaranteed job anywhere in the world. My interests in international work can be much easily to facilitate with certification in a field like that. So...please pray for direction while I look into schools and programs and don't hesitate to suggest anything you think of.

*************************************************

Lastly, a music recommendation for anyone that needs to update their cds or itunes....look for the Friday Night Lights soundtrack. It's mostly wordless and very relaxing. BEAUTIFUL music. (Compliments to my brother and sister-in-law who bought that for my Christmas gift).

Happy January 3rd!