tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17432866311208111562024-03-19T04:48:23.016-04:00AwakenedA blog about the adventures we can have in our every day lives if we are willing to follow God's lead. Whether you are walking, running, or stumbling, after Christ, I invite you to join me as I do the same. Following Christ is the best adventure you will ever step out on, but if you never put one foot in front of the other following in His steps you may miss the greatest adventures and blessings of your life while here on earth. Are you ready? Let's go!Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-34640789512805256762016-01-18T14:39:00.000-05:002016-01-19T08:31:13.957-05:00Why Martin Luther King's words are still so utterly relevant.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Or... When My Want of Comfort "Trumps" God's Call for Love and Freedom....</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Matthew
22:36-40</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">“Teacher,
which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Jesus
replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your
soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And
the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and
the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I just cannot fathom t</span></span><a href="http://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/why-i-will-protest-a-school-i-love" style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;" target="_blank">his university's choice in a speaker on this day!?</a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> This infuriates me, but then
this has been happening for years and years and years and years... (Click </span><a href="http://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/why-i-will-protest-a-school-i-love" style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;" target="_blank">HERE</a><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> to see why this Pastor is choosing to protest his alma mater's choice in a speaker to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is what
breaks my heart over and over again. That our want of a comfortable and discord
free life Trumps the call of Christ to stand for freedom, justice for the
oppressed, and above all LOVE for ALL people. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our
privilege to choose comfort and peace through willful ignorance is a travesty. The
way we continue to tell ourselves that racism is over and gone…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> That is a lie "we" continue to play
on repeat because "we" can, but not because it's true. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Friends
please today of all days take some time to actually re-examine the facts of
racism in today's world. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Even better?
Speak with someone who is a different shade or ethnicity than you and humbly ask them to
share their personal life experiences with racism and then listen... Please, I
beg of you to really listen with your whole heart… With God's heart that cries
out for love and justice. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(Seriously my friends, please go do this because you will not understand what I am writing about or why Martin Luther King's words are still poignantly relevant right now, today, until you do. Or at the very least watch the first 6 minutes of this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neEVoFODQOE" target="_blank">video</a>. Please consider watching the whole thing. Click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=neEVoFODQOE" target="_blank">HERE</a> ) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You may find
it surprising and even shocking to hear the things your friend, neighbor, or
co-worker has experienced, but please do not just stop there with your
reactions. I beg of you do not choose take the luxury again of stopping
there. Let these feelings of shock and indignation take
root. Let them grow in you a compassion for others who are still daily
experiencing racism. Let these experiences that your friend shares, develop in you a passion that
exceeds your empathy, moves you beyond complacency and emboldens you to say, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">"I will
not ignore this anymore. I will not choose my plush comfort and want of a
discord free life over another's right to equality and a life without fear. I will no longer afford
myself the luxury of choosing to shut my eyes, stick my fingers in my ears, and
hum a tune of willful ignorance to this evil.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My friends,
will you stand with the greatest of God’s commands and say,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> “Yes, I will love my neighbor as myself. “<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Therefore,
since I do not want to be judged by the color of my skin, but as<a href="http://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2013/january/on-mlk-day-letters-from-birmingham-jail.html" target="_blank"> Martin Luther King Jr.</a> requested, “By the quality of my character.” I will stand against those
who continue to let the color of another’s skin to dominate their reactions and
actions.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Every time I
hear <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_ZgSK9yIbk" target="_blank">Martin Luther King Jr</a>. speak it brings me to tears because his words are
still so relevant today and that is a very grievous reality for me. It should
be a very grave reflection of our land of the free and home of the brave...
Well, as long as it doesn't make me uncomfortable that is. One would think by
now this dream might be a reality, but it's still a work in progress and it
will continue to be because…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">“The
only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">-Edmund Burke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">My friends, if I love God with my whole heart as the
beginning of that command asks then I should cry out with Him against this injustice. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Church… I fear we are too close to this passage in <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+58%3A1-12&version=NIV" target="_blank">Isaiah 58</a>, where
we cry out for God to move and ask Him why He isn’t showing up, but ignore our
very own culpability to these travesties.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Please God, let us awake. Let us answer your call.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Will you pray for racism to end? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Will you take a step forward in understanding what so many are facing in our very own nation right now, today? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Will you stand? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Will you step forward? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Will you be the change you wish to see in the world? </span><br />
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-62121316567406920072014-09-23T01:15:00.000-04:002014-09-29T22:14:42.346-04:00Tipping Sacred Cows and Learning from Birdfeeders...<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hi Friends! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This post has been a long time in coming. It was written months
ago. Seriously, I know you did not even have a clue that there was a part two
to the <a href="http://www.networkedblogs.com/MqTz6" target="_blank">first Bird feeder saga</a>. “Sigh”</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />I will just say that in order to understand this post I ask
that you go back and read <a href="http://www.networkedblogs.com/MqTz6" target="_blank">the first one</a>. (Hint, <a href="http://www.networkedblogs.com/MqTz6" target="_blank">click here.</a>) Please take the time to read the comments that
follow the post. I honestly believe the people
who shared there brought in more wisdom and food for thought than <a href="http://www.networkedblogs.com/MqTz6" target="_blank">my little post. </a> You could even stick around and read more of the <a href="http://bibledude.net/blog/" target="_blank">Bibledude's</a> awesome site. You will not regret it. ;)<br /><br />My question is, will you join in on the conversation?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Because my friends this is where we have been for a few years
now. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Asking questions and seeking answers in something as radical and simple as…</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /> His Word. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">(Gasp, I know right?!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We are following God on a new adventure down an old path.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Asking questions and <a href="http://www.awaken2life.blogspot.com/p/desperately-seeking-his-church_24.html" target="_blank">tipping sacred cows</a> is not for the
faint of heart. Honestly, it can be freakishly uncomfortable.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But this is worth it, this lovely journey to better understand
God and His church.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For each person this expedition could lead to different
places, different ministries, and different conclusions, but it is better when
we journey this adventure together. We can pool our collected wisdom and different
experiences and compare it to His word.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.awaken2life.blogspot.com/p/desperately-seeking-his-church_24.html" target="_blank">Will you join me</a>? Would you like to share?<br /><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">And now…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The $5 dollar bird feeder that is
a metaphor for our life in the church. <br /><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Winter Reflections on the Bird Feeder and the Church part 2.</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="line-height: 36.7999992370606px;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12qaR6b78kQbXI9I3Jlm1MPztfyXkWjjah0xqUqK6lmAcDbT1zGWB7Lip2Cf_0vCDXaj8x48r4KnifBuEh78gmMzgWasgX6tToHMtDNQREyGSEZAdiMxgH0Wifn0Nm-m_zOtu3LsTurY/s1600/P1080029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12qaR6b78kQbXI9I3Jlm1MPztfyXkWjjah0xqUqK6lmAcDbT1zGWB7Lip2Cf_0vCDXaj8x48r4KnifBuEh78gmMzgWasgX6tToHMtDNQREyGSEZAdiMxgH0Wifn0Nm-m_zOtu3LsTurY/s1600/P1080029.JPG" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It hit me today as I looked out the window, I could see and hear the Birds again. They were
on our new $5 bird feeder that our kids wanted to get. Our old one was pretty,
but had some serious issues that kept reoccurring. (<a href="http://www.networkedblogs.com/MqTz6" target="_blank">Read here, Winter Reflections</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So this winter with a dysfunctional bird feeder and a budget
tightened by our resignations, medical bills, and appliances failing after the
lovely power outages, I have found myself walking outside every couple of days
to feed our birds. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzXM31sVpmqdBhEgUdKZuGoSEXrblxiWla2075NME31ZTFKqO6OskZqMrG7q8nwQn2UlC3ykkd8vej0nMjNziLn5US77PLCSilYKosFzz9rdp8y-_LYYBa7V1VHJ3qW711uAZoCUOnXmI/s1600/P1070758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzXM31sVpmqdBhEgUdKZuGoSEXrblxiWla2075NME31ZTFKqO6OskZqMrG7q8nwQn2UlC3ykkd8vej0nMjNziLn5US77PLCSilYKosFzz9rdp8y-_LYYBa7V1VHJ3qW711uAZoCUOnXmI/s1600/P1070758.JPG" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nothing spectacular, mind you, just sprinkling the seed on
the ground and branches where it’s hidden by tree cover and safe for our little feathered friends to eat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The other day though, we saw a clearance “cheapo” bird feeder and
the kids were excited. (Yep, we get excited about these kinds of things.) So we binged and bought it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The lovely $5 bird feeder has been out for a few days now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Birds are happily alighting on it and they do not seem to
care that it is not as pretty or grand <a href="http://www.networkedblogs.com/MqTz6" target="_blank">as the last one</a>. Maybe the birds know something we don’t?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">They are after all leaving it with bellies full of good nourishing seed again.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is lovely.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />So once again I hear my heavenly Father nudging me to listen,
to pause…</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLUPmWF0bElJ6vO0G7tqw4AtFqOuAWpalel2ysywKUB87VpyfrAF7UiwucWsMkFRCYJLnjXocjVASPm5CKCKaSSoZwp6q2kf00xlJrSXc66AEXOzi5ohrcppxQ58YnQeVcLryEA0PGEs/s1600/P1070770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLUPmWF0bElJ6vO0G7tqw4AtFqOuAWpalel2ysywKUB87VpyfrAF7UiwucWsMkFRCYJLnjXocjVASPm5CKCKaSSoZwp6q2kf00xlJrSXc66AEXOzi5ohrcppxQ58YnQeVcLryEA0PGEs/s1600/P1070770.JPG" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">To lean in and learn from Him...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes we try to repeatedly fix things that just continue
to break.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">You see we can keep on trying to fix something that is
remaining broken or we can find a simple solution.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Like a $5 dollar bird feeder or just grabbing some seed and
heading out daily to feed those hungry cold little ones.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Sort of like the church.
Sort of like our faith…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />We can hold so tightly to our beautiful buildings, to our precious
methods and sacred traditions and in doing so we sometimes forget what God and
His word actually have to say about them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />So maybe we don’t need a big flashy building?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Maybe we can just use our homes, our hands, and our feet to
go out and feed the cold and hungry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Maybe, just maybe there is more than one way to do this church thing.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Even more importantly we can actually decide to be the church.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><b><i><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">What are your thoughts friends? </span></u></i></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Both churches within buildings and those that reside outside the traditional brick and mortar can serve a purpose.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Do you believe it's possible to "do" church more effectively inside or outside of a building? Why or why not?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(P.S. What is your definition of "doing" church?)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">What are your experiences good or bad with this?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">What might happen if the body of Christ was more active outside of it's buildings than it was inside? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Whether it's a church that meets in a cathedral, movie theater, homeless shelter, or someone's home what do you personally view as the most effective venue?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">What pluses and downfalls do you see for either side of this spectrum? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We cannot truly learn when we are only surrounded by people who think the same as we do. I encourage you to all share your differing ideas, what you have found in God's Word, your personal experiences, and heart in a respectful manner so that all of us can learn from each other.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
If you are unsure of what the purpose is for this series than please <a href="http://www.awaken2life.blogspot.com/p/desperately-seeking-his-church_24.html" target="_blank">click here</a> and read the <a href="http://www.awaken2life.blogspot.com/p/desperately-seeking-his-church_24.html" target="_blank">"Let's Talk Church"</a> intro.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-88847792831917196462014-07-29T20:33:00.001-04:002014-07-29T20:44:19.104-04:00When Human Trafficking shows up on your door step...<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Hi my friends,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Please share this post with as many people as you can. Please read this and read some of the links. The more knowledge we have the better we can help kids like these. And please never ever let your kid join one of these crews. Just remember, </i></span><span style="font-size: large;"><i>If this was your kid... Wouldn't you want someone to look out for their welfare? </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"> There was a knock on the door and I saw the silhouettes of two kids standing
out there. I opened the door to their friendly greeting and shook hands with them. The girl immediately
went into her up-beat speech on the contest she was in trying to sell magazines for earning points towards a European trip. I chatted with the two kids about the contest because frankly it sounded a bit off. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She handed me her pamphlet and as I scanned through the
actual magazine selections I found I could not find a website or number to call for the business. I
decided to ask more about what they were doing and to ask where they were from.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">She quickly explained that they were on a traveling sales
crew. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Wait… What? Traveling Sales crew? These
kids were young. I mean the girl looked anywhere between 14-16 and the boy
looked somewhere between 11-13 years old. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Who lets their kids travel from state
to state selling magazines with a company? My parent radar was going off...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">“So where have you two been so far?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">There was a moment’s pause as they glanced nervously at each
other. The boy finally chimed in revealing how they had been to Indiana and
were heading to Ohio soon after their stint in Michigan was over. The girl then chimed in and gave an
upbeat spin on how this was an adventure and great opportunity for them to see different
areas. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I asked them if they were doing this for just the summer and they
quickly dodged the question, instead, telling me more about their dreams of
winning the competition with bright smiles on their faces. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">She even asked me if she
was doing a good job with her speech because she wanted to work on her public
speaking and better herself. I smiled and gave her some encouragement, but s</span><span style="font-size: large;">omething wasn’t right…</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">My internal "scam" radar had been sounding off for a while now. What was worse though was my concern for these young teens. Too many things were not adding up.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">I did not purchase a magazine with them, but as they left I immediately hopped online to try and find the company while calling two more neighbors to see
if they would slow the kids down and ask more questions to find out as much as
we could about their situation. I could not find the company, but <a href="http://www.fraud.org/news/59-bogus-magazine">what I did find</a> caused me to call the Human Trafficking hotline immediately. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">They immediately
instructed me to call the police requesting a welfare check for the kids.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">From there it was a
tag team effort with another neighbor to talk with the kids and slow them down,
but soon after my call their pick-up vehicle arrived. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">My neighbor asked the driver for
identification or papers for the company they represented, but she grew angry
and refused while quickly herding the kids into the SUV and rushing out our the subdivision.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">My neighbor quickly shot a picture of the vehicle and license
plate. A minute later the police arrived and we quickly relayed the information
to them. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">One officer left in pursuit and after finishing with the first officer I left to check-in with the other neighbors to whom
the kids had been seen speaking to.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Ugh.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am so heartbroken my friends
and this is why…</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Most traveling magazine
sales crews are a scam. This was obvious to me and my neighbors. Their talk was
good, they were clean cut, and sweet faced kids, but the lack of a website and contact
number for the company tipped most of us off. The outlandish prices deterred
the rest.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">My deep issue with this scam is that it involved two under age kids. After researching the articles and information on Traveling
Sales Crews and learning about the way they operate it was beyond disturbing. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hopeful kids signing up for a job promising great pay, adventure, and fun, that may leave them as little more than indentured servants.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdgeLN2bTZjgt41RplsrPvJdykF7Do3uzH52O6jEANFzV75pTvTGzCq4-tQUSxIvVqFxbr4VkLM2b3jlYVNM0Aw4O0xfgatefeqhAkC5KiJRoB9G-WFoaQ3OwjUHd_57R94n0aw_6364/s1600/newspaper+ad.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdgeLN2bTZjgt41RplsrPvJdykF7Do3uzH52O6jEANFzV75pTvTGzCq4-tQUSxIvVqFxbr4VkLM2b3jlYVNM0Aw4O0xfgatefeqhAkC5KiJRoB9G-WFoaQ3OwjUHd_57R94n0aw_6364/s1600/newspaper+ad.gif" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ads similar to this one lure students to call...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Some of these crew managers hook them on drugs and alcohol. They refuse to pay them. They may even beat and abuse them when their sales fall short. There are multiple reports of rape and molestation and quite a few of these kids, as well as, adults are listed as missing people. Some have even been killed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>To put it simply my friends, </i></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>it was </i></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Human Trafficking </i></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>showing up on my door step. </i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">These stories have been covered by news groups such as <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/21/us/21magcrew.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0" target="_blank">NY Times</a>, ABC,<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPqw1C4Xdt4&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_blank"> FoxNews</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DWocLNbbnc"><span id="goog_1091574801"></span>NBC<span id="goog_1091574802"></span></a>, and more...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">So no, I have not lost my mind.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/21/us/21magcrew.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0">Please read the stories</a>. <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/video/us/1194817097685/life-on-a-magazine-crew.html">Please watch the videos</a>.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Most of all, please, the next time one of these kids from a traveling sales group shows up at your door do not purchase from them unless you know the student. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you do not know them and they appear under eighteen then call the police and ask for a welfare check for them. (Or follow the BBB's guides and suggestions below.) If they look older ask for their solicitors license and if they refuse to show it call the police.</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Here are some quick suggestions from the Better Business Bureau</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDhjqmWUvEI" target="_blank">Click Here</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">Please don't hesitate to call the <b>National Human Trafficking</b> line they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">1-888-373-7888</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">This guy captures one of their typical <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C5d0zX_rZU" target="_blank">sales pitches</a> on video. This kid's pitch was very close to the young girl who came to our door. (To watch a pitch <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C5d0zX_rZU" target="_blank">click here</a>.)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This site <a href="http://www.magcrew.com/true-stories/former-agent-stories/231-anon.html">shares stories</a> from teens and young adults that have escaped the traveling magazine crew lifestyle. (<a href="http://www.magcrew.com/true-stories/former-agent-stories/231-anon.html">Click Here</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the deal. If this was your kid... Wouldn't you want someone to look out for their welfare? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This quick thinking <a href="http://www.wfla.com/story/24808728/local-lawyer-rescues-teen-caught-up-in-traveling-magazine-sales-crew">lawyer</a> in <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_1017169508"></span>Wisconsin<span id="goog_1017169509"></span></a> did just that.(<a href="http://www.wfla.com/story/24808728/local-lawyer-rescues-teen-caught-up-in-traveling-magazine-sales-crew">Click Here</a>) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Again, I ask for you to share this post with your friends, family, facebook, twitter, and get the word out. Sadly, some of the smaller police forces do not know about this form of child exploitation and trafficking. This can slow down the process when they do not take it seriously.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Please help get the word out to your community and maybe just maybe, we can save a few people from being scammed, but more importantly save some kids as well.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As a friend of mine pointed out. " If these were my kids, I would hope to God, someone out there would go the extra mile to make sure they were okay."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-49603850959391475232014-06-30T13:41:00.000-04:002014-07-01T22:48:09.933-04:00Spread the Love Blog tour... Am I back?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">Okay my friends it has been a long time… </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">I mean too long,
but there was a purpose and a reason for that season. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">When a blogger friend of
mine,</span><a href="http://staceydaze.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;" target="_blank"><b> Stacey</b></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><b>,</b> (Who is </span>aca<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;">-</span>mazing<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 14pt;"> and a bigger encouragement in my life than she
even knows…) asked for some volunteers to join the tour I felt God give me a
nudge and tell me to jump in. SO…</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Here I am.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">All of my craziness is still intact and I have things
to share, but oh where oh where to start?!?!?! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Hence this blog tour gives me a simple way to share
what I have been up to these last few months…errr… “Cough, cough” (YEAR). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">One more side-note for you… This will not be a
polished and pretty post. We had our anniversary, a wedding, grad party,
birthday party, and allot of home projects that have been going on this last
week and sooooo… <br />
Grace my friends. Give me some grace. ;)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">1. What are you currently working on?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Can I just give you some
pics my friends? A picture is worth a thousand words right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGtEBElliQKR4wT_TvRSlaoptIm9pPJfCshRdFTSm6r6M5ICpdhFjgoDo3HUs1Gswi5eeSagdHD3Yjtko2uqUVXyLclAarew8w_RVcDdYfYk4yP9Bw4iO-_psy47u8RJeu-eUcUwJG-8/s1600/apple+and+trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGtEBElliQKR4wT_TvRSlaoptIm9pPJfCshRdFTSm6r6M5ICpdhFjgoDo3HUs1Gswi5eeSagdHD3Yjtko2uqUVXyLclAarew8w_RVcDdYfYk4yP9Bw4iO-_psy47u8RJeu-eUcUwJG-8/s1600/apple+and+trees.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Getting demo's done for Art classes that my good friend, Brianne, and I get to teach together.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5dkSItWgYDsAYrZnSD94hBl-c_88ZxPxPnBND3Z9GC1wIcTjWY53xXmkU8YuJZ9nASzAk__9z_nmtEY0QriZmwlRrCFGjEKe2Q4xByhNeY5_mmKTXAjQ1ngfPnHcBrDxwxSN10c4e-wY/s1600/face+painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5dkSItWgYDsAYrZnSD94hBl-c_88ZxPxPnBND3Z9GC1wIcTjWY53xXmkU8YuJZ9nASzAk__9z_nmtEY0QriZmwlRrCFGjEKe2Q4xByhNeY5_mmKTXAjQ1ngfPnHcBrDxwxSN10c4e-wY/s1600/face+painting.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Another Demo. This one is of my daughter;s silhouette. She is full of life and color so that is how I painted her. ;)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQRTh9xu9aMMha2NN3gK4ThDDWYb6whmR79zHaNat33in1k7x-v7eT_kIVbIjvd2IkEhyphenhyphenu3sTq7zObHXrK6Ex_zR9L5fU_2Oy9MDK2HNuuIk13FxWrnMyI9uublOEPBMEu_ZnYO0a7QA/s1600/table+paintings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQRTh9xu9aMMha2NN3gK4ThDDWYb6whmR79zHaNat33in1k7x-v7eT_kIVbIjvd2IkEhyphenhyphenu3sTq7zObHXrK6Ex_zR9L5fU_2Oy9MDK2HNuuIk13FxWrnMyI9uublOEPBMEu_ZnYO0a7QA/s1600/table+paintings.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Average week at our home. We all have fun painting. Can you tell?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcUm_PH6OcDpRzWV9rSjdZzIknzDyFPOpPLqYfmdtzD3DYJkH-XApKgQZzhs2qhfvibKBivQqdjdDKzxssyS36rAJGbr8zLIf_JOrzV_b0Bm9w1yG-dQTSGpXXpG7jx7Iu40fbA3Mv9I/s1600/youth+retreat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfcUm_PH6OcDpRzWV9rSjdZzIknzDyFPOpPLqYfmdtzD3DYJkH-XApKgQZzhs2qhfvibKBivQqdjdDKzxssyS36rAJGbr8zLIf_JOrzV_b0Bm9w1yG-dQTSGpXXpG7jx7Iu40fbA3Mv9I/s1600/youth+retreat.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Was privileged to be asked to return and do another experiential service for a Youth Retreat. This one was on The Persecuted Church. It is one of my favorite things to help others understand what people are going through across the world.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjZ7uEkHpZDGAKhy_2SD0vPT7njg4q8LivXpH_TSjv3jmTj1jnwJJLLsmor1P2kuyhhIlO2YmT0I87cG53go9KyUNJbNMPkkCaeQ6Pb5KpDAcMIwE0n6h1r1_N_q8zPt5DymXcF-M3jw/s1600/P1050933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjZ7uEkHpZDGAKhy_2SD0vPT7njg4q8LivXpH_TSjv3jmTj1jnwJJLLsmor1P2kuyhhIlO2YmT0I87cG53go9KyUNJbNMPkkCaeQ6Pb5KpDAcMIwE0n6h1r1_N_q8zPt5DymXcF-M3jw/s1600/P1050933.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">We went on our last youth mission trip before resigning. (Yes, I am a dork.) :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOZ5xnR_4LQSsNufMyxbj1DveM3nQrK-vAB_ozACM8FUqP9M78-_4zWuKW9WoYguy671Nhwr-sIrUGQ8qj-qIXylu3eQcJnHQNaQKfACm7wAUr4nWmXVS89fn-tPQKOMFQ1Cb2VnUFWw/s1600/P1050616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOZ5xnR_4LQSsNufMyxbj1DveM3nQrK-vAB_ozACM8FUqP9M78-_4zWuKW9WoYguy671Nhwr-sIrUGQ8qj-qIXylu3eQcJnHQNaQKfACm7wAUr4nWmXVS89fn-tPQKOMFQ1Cb2VnUFWw/s1600/P1050616.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">They repaired the inside of a family's home which had some severe damage inside. The husband had aids and was unable to work. They also completely re-roofed another family's home and did an immaculate job. Love these teens!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBE_Il8YAmvSTif90gXtV4zyAlZWAsOc5EnsSg7-K7C0dnhQHdX53JjU12Zhyphenhyphen0sA08SmmJZK9dbiVguBcbzVK4fGSF01IAoLve7ydOWlToBo71VxmgLpz5VDhh5RLVmMNxbRigDPkbtJk/s1600/P1070776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBE_Il8YAmvSTif90gXtV4zyAlZWAsOc5EnsSg7-K7C0dnhQHdX53JjU12Zhyphenhyphen0sA08SmmJZK9dbiVguBcbzVK4fGSF01IAoLve7ydOWlToBo71VxmgLpz5VDhh5RLVmMNxbRigDPkbtJk/s1600/P1070776.JPG" height="640" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Survived Michigan's worst winter ever. With record snow falls and and record low temps it was an experience for sure! ;)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wIfHjp9F48rsP9Z6ZY8JyhyjuOX-XqGv5xf2qN4vuC1YYcjlhivUbZPW1fsouJ5kfUNXrBKUj25IaWZi0O9PK9Z6yo0o1uyBXZjBHgWv8Zxw7w0CdKZFRgK6sm8NKno7PQr1D1zk6YM/s1600/P1070743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wIfHjp9F48rsP9Z6ZY8JyhyjuOX-XqGv5xf2qN4vuC1YYcjlhivUbZPW1fsouJ5kfUNXrBKUj25IaWZi0O9PK9Z6yo0o1uyBXZjBHgWv8Zxw7w0CdKZFRgK6sm8NKno7PQr1D1zk6YM/s1600/P1070743.JPG" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">We lost power for 5 days straight over Christmas and of course, while family was staying with us. Entertaining 7 kids while trying to keep the fires going to keep the house warm made for some good memories.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9nMzMeRma3McFUwaT4XiNX1wTc3DA0yW-1ai4q5bFS4GAXXGGj0FmJcBkZ9YTvk-ZreG1yFook0Wjid6BisDdavkb_GtKmHUQMV_lHXgRcwP5IBvSVQJ7cSrZl5HKft9AAXLSfXWlGlc/s1600/P1070699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9nMzMeRma3McFUwaT4XiNX1wTc3DA0yW-1ai4q5bFS4GAXXGGj0FmJcBkZ9YTvk-ZreG1yFook0Wjid6BisDdavkb_GtKmHUQMV_lHXgRcwP5IBvSVQJ7cSrZl5HKft9AAXLSfXWlGlc/s1600/P1070699.JPG" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yes, grown men do play Bakugan. ;)</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVAgv3cZQifu3o5MtHNcXjlkESMeWoYC_2H7_-tPo08CachpHzvmS2raHjCD9JLiFv0IPhvU1B7L_tQzqAXU48qeWWqzDOe1vjC199pPn6CUZ7FKCg9DvA-zMIHahqk9SB_rTU6Ht42Ks/s1600/3+kids+slant-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVAgv3cZQifu3o5MtHNcXjlkESMeWoYC_2H7_-tPo08CachpHzvmS2raHjCD9JLiFv0IPhvU1B7L_tQzqAXU48qeWWqzDOe1vjC199pPn6CUZ7FKCg9DvA-zMIHahqk9SB_rTU6Ht42Ks/s1600/3+kids+slant-001.jpg" height="510" width="640" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1XMdv5UtGARLF6KAbeBIU9U5u33qIDfJOqfhkgcnzuUizlW-KZ8o-sq1thpas5ZB_p2Mc1zQdyBOr8EtkslOn_80wzcYinsMzft61WY-HC_Wne6PYXOM1cWVNidP0-w6jIkItLZIl9g/s1600/j+d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1XMdv5UtGARLF6KAbeBIU9U5u33qIDfJOqfhkgcnzuUizlW-KZ8o-sq1thpas5ZB_p2Mc1zQdyBOr8EtkslOn_80wzcYinsMzft61WY-HC_Wne6PYXOM1cWVNidP0-w6jIkItLZIl9g/s1600/j+d.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Good times. We were so excited to be able to visit a bunch of my family. It had been years y'all. Way too long! (Can you guess which one is from Texas?)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Movie time with the Cousins!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cousins having some fun!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirE7ZZBqgpDNATX23TLmVSzGdq6Fk98GDTwo5HYhjAw5-gK45RqAqyRXRg4op8tL4DJ1W56gELDw89KPCgnaLJjIuYziaokQ3E6McYH5jq4LgE3y94IjjLQYK-2JaJARnLFqDs_B02ZxM/s1600/P1060544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirE7ZZBqgpDNATX23TLmVSzGdq6Fk98GDTwo5HYhjAw5-gK45RqAqyRXRg4op8tL4DJ1W56gELDw89KPCgnaLJjIuYziaokQ3E6McYH5jq4LgE3y94IjjLQYK-2JaJARnLFqDs_B02ZxM/s1600/P1060544.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Heading up north and seeing my brother from another mother.</span> <span style="font-size: large;">(In other words we grew up together and I count him as my brother.) P.S. Don't tell him this pic is in here...He doesn't like it. ;)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-EKHp0umlpNvpFy8K153ptmU6CF0rb15SWuQRWSkzGD3j3kqNn4BB-3-lP6ZYLp5m1eT9ndFAHcI1i7uHmOIBSAhjpm0AkwF_1xq1ERowCjxMZHKkqBHnIg2J10srndFMae2Yf5a0Os/s1600/j+and+I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-EKHp0umlpNvpFy8K153ptmU6CF0rb15SWuQRWSkzGD3j3kqNn4BB-3-lP6ZYLp5m1eT9ndFAHcI1i7uHmOIBSAhjpm0AkwF_1xq1ERowCjxMZHKkqBHnIg2J10srndFMae2Yf5a0Os/s1600/j+and+I.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Being Silly with my Hubby at a good friend's Grad party for her daughter.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVKHHISpPy81ey7jXVoXAAbddChLQAMUZhaWR3FP8SlD_eYx_bFX_aSH05sk8c4wouHeE9E-pYHoIkbp_UVLhkW6k-FnBCRyZD4xU6bD67vMFHzddJBubbiuQW9Ct9ZPhtAM1wZkWHSQ/s1600/Jand+I+kissy+faces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFVKHHISpPy81ey7jXVoXAAbddChLQAMUZhaWR3FP8SlD_eYx_bFX_aSH05sk8c4wouHeE9E-pYHoIkbp_UVLhkW6k-FnBCRyZD4xU6bD67vMFHzddJBubbiuQW9Ct9ZPhtAM1wZkWHSQ/s1600/Jand+I+kissy+faces.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Love. This. Man.<br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoPs8HBSZ9wPfAUVucWTXotLPs2yMZhbBe08mUAChzVlUrp4zdtXQRC9FAa0UmeYWHgQYE3A4inkmKstFRgHSp5H66_nRU9ghm6_pkXXAzB4ejNeuOgKj2SsQiwa3OocWz-hFzx6jZOA/s1600/10491371_10152974931078289_1253676880807197145_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoPs8HBSZ9wPfAUVucWTXotLPs2yMZhbBe08mUAChzVlUrp4zdtXQRC9FAa0UmeYWHgQYE3A4inkmKstFRgHSp5H66_nRU9ghm6_pkXXAzB4ejNeuOgKj2SsQiwa3OocWz-hFzx6jZOA/s1600/10491371_10152974931078289_1253676880807197145_o.jpg" height="462" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
Trying to get a pic with my kids. It only took 6 tries... Goofballs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZl01fpYBmeuy6Yga_RPzmcJi8cE_NTDQaUDduvGKNEhgo1r-ef0tG_pesyBTMvlP1gW-w_nvj9tzVmxaphUuWJhfcV68NObXL7RJwRrxCBi7LoNdjtN_h4IrTosr8inGwANlhQ4PutQ0/s1600/family+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZl01fpYBmeuy6Yga_RPzmcJi8cE_NTDQaUDduvGKNEhgo1r-ef0tG_pesyBTMvlP1gW-w_nvj9tzVmxaphUuWJhfcV68NObXL7RJwRrxCBi7LoNdjtN_h4IrTosr8inGwANlhQ4PutQ0/s1600/family+pic.jpg" height="432" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is why. ;)</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiITwPmqk6SH2jfajE6lfZ_I_XViXeugeiHGkIj5Kgz-nwtcvXD7oLYO1l0YQLc-hX7nZxh7tvJ8QS32IDKtKxOWJvN-jYc5EqTB_H8ViqPM4JoUMtoauAcbF-NKfn466Yy4BVSV_4zZS4/s1600/10154329_10202705570017108_7331658086596332293_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiITwPmqk6SH2jfajE6lfZ_I_XViXeugeiHGkIj5Kgz-nwtcvXD7oLYO1l0YQLc-hX7nZxh7tvJ8QS32IDKtKxOWJvN-jYc5EqTB_H8ViqPM4JoUMtoauAcbF-NKfn466Yy4BVSV_4zZS4/s1600/10154329_10202705570017108_7331658086596332293_n.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Homeschooling Fun! The challenge? To build a Trojan Horse that you can all fit in from Card board and tape. Oh yeah!<br /> They rocked it!</span></td></tr>
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</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIggKNZ9BZ-M5SaxI1Z-TYdbvGxq5EDgJXvjd3WR8eAD2-7n2kVJgtPwpm0CBSqTdWuVHokI4KyuiL_-nUHLonVdDqO0m2FoiQ9NoRraPscgJk3lP0BDa5kh4uEufvIsy0KMmEeGo-II/s1600/hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIggKNZ9BZ-M5SaxI1Z-TYdbvGxq5EDgJXvjd3WR8eAD2-7n2kVJgtPwpm0CBSqTdWuVHokI4KyuiL_-nUHLonVdDqO0m2FoiQ9NoRraPscgJk3lP0BDa5kh4uEufvIsy0KMmEeGo-II/s1600/hands.jpg" height="640" width="552" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Learning about the racism and inequality <br />that still continues to this day.</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglRTkweUROhndHHrHOX20t3IRip_-seNX6NnGy-aukUdp7Hwdi28y6QSBqs03pIiDXrRUaqRtOWcEWjGZAF6BVwvtUDjkcpVFAQqdWgND4ZvSEV7Pb0UCy4qZM4e7RS76Wnizf8RPZShI/s1600/P1060122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglRTkweUROhndHHrHOX20t3IRip_-seNX6NnGy-aukUdp7Hwdi28y6QSBqs03pIiDXrRUaqRtOWcEWjGZAF6BVwvtUDjkcpVFAQqdWgND4ZvSEV7Pb0UCy4qZM4e7RS76Wnizf8RPZShI/s1600/P1060122.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Loving Nature as usual.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgLp7lF_vo95WfhS_hbEE1aHdZH_re21GooS0htDW3rYK3IPG8bcoKGROkTpLFLpFd4FSI6jvE_H0mkfo2-iaDYdowak2HBfp4WtGQvbQg29OWb0yul95qQok_tZTqp_5gA_hOHRbNvQ/s1600/P1060180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgLp7lF_vo95WfhS_hbEE1aHdZH_re21GooS0htDW3rYK3IPG8bcoKGROkTpLFLpFd4FSI6jvE_H0mkfo2-iaDYdowak2HBfp4WtGQvbQg29OWb0yul95qQok_tZTqp_5gA_hOHRbNvQ/s1600/P1060180.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hiking the largest Dune. Love those Great Lakes. </span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1VZKsL6xI3H0LQ6P5n2Hx8-i4tOKp4G3N-b2v00zDJ0BmUWYaBwPfi-SylCvZ3QIZ-beyY8LQagV11zuetEkCaChgpB6NV7X9Pkb1GAn5DjkZZSO2Q5eGK_E3cXOcQgST7FS8X1vXbE/s1600/P1060515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1VZKsL6xI3H0LQ6P5n2Hx8-i4tOKp4G3N-b2v00zDJ0BmUWYaBwPfi-SylCvZ3QIZ-beyY8LQagV11zuetEkCaChgpB6NV7X9Pkb1GAn5DjkZZSO2Q5eGK_E3cXOcQgST7FS8X1vXbE/s1600/P1060515.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Good times at Lake Michigan!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> So much more happened, but I do not want to bore you my friends. Just know it's been a fantastic time full of adventures with family, making new friends, and learning new things. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><u>Now, back to the blog tour questions.</u></i></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">2. How does your work differ from others of its
genre?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Ummm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">What is my work?</span></b><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> Well I guess that would be a
better question. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Hmmm... A little synopsis perhaps?</span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I am a homeschooling
mama, ministry peep, artist, art teacher, justice and poverty advocate, who is
prone to spontaneous dancing and/or singing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The biggest news over
the last year is that after over a decade in youth ministry and 15 years of
various ministry positions we resigned.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> It was a hard decision to make because
we love our teens and we loved working in youth ministry, but it was a
necessary choice for us. Since then it’s been a beautiful time of learning new things, healing from the stress of the last few years, and also a rough time of wrestling with God as we ask Him, "What’s next?". </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Aaaaannnnnd His, “What’s next?” is a different type of adventure. We have
always been a bit out of the ordinary (Shocker, I know.) and now we feel like God is asking us to
just jump off the reservation with this next adventure, but we are absolutely
excited about it and have a peace. (Are we nervous? Heck yes, but with God?
Things are risky and exciting and require faith. So here we go!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br />
<b><span style="background: white;">3. Why do you write/create what you do? <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To put it simply, God gives me
a drive to create. Whether it’s art or words, speaking or creating experiential
services on global issues, or teaching art classes...</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> I just do what He nudges me towards. I love getting
to foster that creativity in others. My kids, my friends, youth, anyone?! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Art
is such a therapeutic and freeing process. I gave a creativity workshop at a
youth retreat and discovered a quote that basically said. (And I am totally
paraphrasing this…) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">If as, Christians we
are worshiping and following the Master Creator of the universe then shouldn’t we be the
most creative beings on the planet?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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impression allot of us are conveying to the world. </span></div>
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though. Along the fringe lines there is a beautiful group of creative cats that
both love Jesus and are following in their Creator’s footsteps. </span></div>
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and braver in their expressions of creativity. Willing to think out of the box,
which last time I checked God doesn’t like to be put in a box. (I could write
on that one for a bit, but this is supposed to be short. Lol)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: white;">4. How does your writing/creating process
work?</span></b><b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I watch life
constantly and ask questions just as much. There is so much to learn, see and
experience. Life, is a never ending lesson we can learn from. God is
constantly drawing analogies before my eyes each day and I find it beautiful
and exhilarating. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">To be more specific. There is always music playing and then the juices of creativity start flowing and away we go. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 21.466665267944336px;">I just want to thank<b> <a href="http://staceydaze.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Stacey</a></b> for asking me to join this lovely tour. You should check out her blog my friends. She writes, she creates, she advocates for women. She is a rockstar in my book. (Seriously! Click<a href="http://staceydaze.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> <b>HERE</b></a><b> </b>and visit her.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 21.466665267944336px;">So how are you?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 21.466665267944336px;"> I hope and pray you are doing well! I will be returning to this little corner of the blog world more often. My, "<a href="http://www.awaken2life.blogspot.com/p/desperately-seeking-his-church_24.html" target="_blank">Let's Talk Church</a>" section will be finally getting some more posts soon as we share what we have learned and explored the last few years. I hope you will join in the conversation. It is always better to hear from all points of view so we can learn from each other's experiences and knowledge.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 21.466665267944336px;">God bless you lots!</span></span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-23071324409672357902014-03-12T14:00:00.000-04:002014-03-12T14:08:58.188-04:00When You don't know where to start... Start with one.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnlzTYrwxvUOafFMfkheB3Sck4E1rhZ43nSsbHxzIB0XiTMBlcyE1g3uma_bZafxwhj53L8VMVu9Kj6MDCIrBzuN-b12hJXwOOJyIp0aG8o7BZ58cTBd10G6_u97c1nLRbb_lnn4xjKs/s1600/one+life+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnlzTYrwxvUOafFMfkheB3Sck4E1rhZ43nSsbHxzIB0XiTMBlcyE1g3uma_bZafxwhj53L8VMVu9Kj6MDCIrBzuN-b12hJXwOOJyIp0aG8o7BZ58cTBd10G6_u97c1nLRbb_lnn4xjKs/s1600/one+life+1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">She was drunk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;"> I could see our breath like a mist in the cold winter’s night as we sat outside the church building. People passionately lifting up praises to the Lord echoed out of the churches open windows. My rear end was starting to move from sore to numb as the chill sank into my bones from sitting on the ground outside. She was anxiously glancing back and forth. She told me again she should not be here she was “drrrrunk”. She rolled her “R’s” as they do in the Afrikaans language. My heart went out to her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">We sat together there in the cold damp night, waiting for her to sober up or just gain the confidence to go inside the building. I was silently praying for her and she was feeling nervous about the church people’s reactions to her being drunk. I reassured her of our love for her. She repeated again that she should not be here, yet made no move to leave. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">She had followed me all the way up the winding dark streets from where she and her friends had been partying. All the while we kept chatting lightly as we walked. She repeatedly told me that she should go back to the party, and yet we continued walking and chatting together as we headed up the hilly road towards the church. God was propelling her. I smiled as I watched her keep pace next to me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">God had placed her on my heart from the first day she arrived at the park where our mission’s team was working. I spotted her standing towards the back of the ever growing numbers of teenagers and children who were coming out to the site. With her arms crossed, her face cynical and smug, she would stand and observe us. If you got to close, she side stepped you. If you reached out to give her a friendly pat on the arm, she made fists and darted. She smirked when we spoke and made fun of my American accent, but God nudged me and said,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">”This one, love and pray especially for this one.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">It’s always amazing how God can place a love inside of us for someone we do not yet know personally. Or when He places a love in our hearts for someone who does what they can to be rude or dodge us like the plague.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;"> We shared some of the horror stories from our lives on that chilly evening. She allowed me to share with her how God brought love and healing into mine. We prayed together and still keep in touch. She still has an abundance of hardships to deal with in life, but I am confident of this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">God loves her. That she is beautiful and valued in God’s eyes whether or not she feels valued in her family. I pray for her protection and for God to guide her each week. I pray for healing for her heart and the strength to stand for what is true. I also pray that one day I can see her and give her a big hug again, I even long to hear her giggling as I try once again to pronounce her name correctly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">There are many of us who are in need of God’s love, forgiveness, grace and freedom, whether here in the States or halfway across the world. They are hiding behind tough exteriors, towering walls built from years of broken trust and open wounds, yet dying inside for someone who will care and be patient enough to love them out of from behind their walls. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">I have heard from quite a few people how they feel overwhelmed by the needs in our world. A friend of mine shared she did not know where to start and if she could truly make a difference. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">This brings me to this week’s challenge. Consider this phrase,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.239999771118164px;"><span style="font-size: large;">“Do for one what you wish you could do for all.” </span><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">Friends, if you relate to this then, could you please pray and ask for the Lord to help you to see the “one” in your life? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">Couldn’t we all start there </span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">with just one person?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">Ask the lord to help you to see the ways you can encourage and bless them and then do it. Don't think too long about it. Do not put it off till next week. Just do it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">Maybe it is someone in your neighborhood, a co-worker, or a person you have met where you volunteer. Perhaps God is leading you to support a child through <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" style="border: 0px; color: #b00707; text-decoration: none;">Compassion International</a> or <a href="http://www.worldvision.org/m/sponsor-a-child/?open&campaign=1193512&cmp=KNC-1193512" style="border: 0px; color: #b00707; text-decoration: none;">World Vision</a>. I encourage you to take the first step today and ask the Lord, “Who is your one?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.239999771118164px;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Then remember the words </span><a href="http://bobgoff.com/" style="border: 0px; color: #b00707; font-size: 16pt; text-decoration: none;">Bob Goff</a><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> so aptly coined, </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20.239999771118164px;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">“Love Does”. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">1 Corinthians 13:1-3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;"><b>If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;">Matthew 22:37-40<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 24.533334732055664px;"><b>Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-10259013045431868762013-12-09T14:03:00.000-05:002013-12-09T14:03:28.253-05:00From the Archives. When you have to let go... and let grace take hold this season.<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFeclGeypi7FzdsFNgGWXmIl4crw73MjMkNFhQSa-LOiRoxT1V_eU2QxKwlPyW_YraBGYVLPQhlN5UWVPWC45tcohJIvxtkjem_1pH-FNWZJFkcdwvvZ6nBBUl4hOToou_Y8L7txTKUw/s1600/one+life+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFeclGeypi7FzdsFNgGWXmIl4crw73MjMkNFhQSa-LOiRoxT1V_eU2QxKwlPyW_YraBGYVLPQhlN5UWVPWC45tcohJIvxtkjem_1pH-FNWZJFkcdwvvZ6nBBUl4hOToou_Y8L7txTKUw/s1600/one+life+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 28px;"><span style="font-size: large;">"In every situation God is doing a thousand things that we cannot see and do not know."</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 28px;"><span style="font-size: large;">-John Piper</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Lately life’s blows have left me speechless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">If you know me then this is a feat in and of itself. (Wink, wink.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">At times it's been over-whelming and yet we have been quietly
trudging forward. The verse that says, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will
worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> has never been more
poignant. (Matthew 6:34)</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">And while I could go on and on about our own families
“stresses” my heart is more heavy laden for those dear hearts of my friends and
family around me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One dear young friend who
is grieving the loss of not only her mother, but the grandmother who raised her. Both passed only a week apart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A mother who
is grieving the gut-wrenching loss of her baby.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A brave
heart who is fighting the attacks of the enemy as she heals from the damage
left by childhood abuse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A few of my friends who are about to celebrate their Christmas season for the first time without their loved ones. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A friend who
was told his place of work would be closing at the end of the month when he has
4 little mouths to feed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One who is
about to undergo another barrage of medical tests as the Doctors search for a
diagnosis yet again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another in
debilitating pain, still trying to work and support the family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">And more than one of my friends are dealing
with the pain of affairs and divorce.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Yet still, there’s more my friends, so much more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">I am sure you have been there because life is not always
rosy, and every rose has its thorns as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> I am reminded of
something the Lord revealed to me on a cloudy, rainy day as I sat in the
airplane awaiting the take-off. The rain dripped down the windows of the plane and
carried the heavy cares of the day downward to the ground.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The heavy clouds hung low, dark and gloomy, but as the plane
made its decisive turn on the runway and began its ascent. As it continually pointed its nose upward towards the heavens something
amazing happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Onward and upward we plunged into the dark clouds. They grew so thick around the plane that I found myself unable to
see through the masses of gray apparitions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Suddenly a flash of
blinding light broke forth searing my eyes. I blinked several times and had to
look away, but yet there it was…The blue sky, the sun, they were still there even during the storm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The deep azure expanse of bright glowing sky was all the more alluring
after the hopeless pallor of the storm clouds. The rain drops that were being
pushed back across the window pane from the ascending winds, sparkled in the suns bright and blinding
light. A light that caused the once gray clouds from below to almost glow, stretching into fluffy white rolling
plains here above the storms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">And then I heard the Lord whisper to my heart,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> “You see my
daughter? I am still shining even during the storms of life. I am still working good things for my children. I
am always here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">And so </span><span style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 28px;">my friends, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">in our dark nights when our questions and "whys," pour out in a torrent into our tear stained pillows, this I cling to...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">This I absolutely know.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Our God never grows tired or weary and He never ever stops working for
our good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Isaiah 40:28-31</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-18449"></a><span style="line-height: 150%;">Do you not know?</span></span></i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
Have you not heard?<br />
The <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> is
the everlasting God,<br />
the Creator of the ends
of the earth.<br />
He will not grow tired or weary,<br />
and his understanding no one
can fathom.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-18450"></a>He gives strength to
the weary<br />
and increases the power of
the weak.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-18451"></a>Even youths grow tired and
weary,<br />
and young men stumble
and fall;<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-18452"></a>but those who hope in
the <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><br />
will renew their strength.<br />
They will soar on wings like eagles;<br />
they will run and not grow
weary,<br />
they will walk and not be
faint.</span></i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Romans 8:28</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 150%;"><i>And
we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,
who have been called according to his purpose.</i></span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 150%;"><b>So like a sweet friend encouraged me the other day, I will let “grace
take hold” for I have nothing left to offer and in the end I know the result
will be His masterful craftsmanship. A life's work that will point gloriously to the Lord because it is showered in His beautiful finger prints.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-22966617163016916132013-11-14T11:28:00.000-05:002013-11-14T11:28:02.992-05:00The "F" Word... from the Archives.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Yesterday, a wonderful friend of mine and I were sharing about our concerns and frustrations in life with each other over the phone. What we were sharing seems to be the general theme I have heard shared from many lately. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">It has to do with the “F” word, but not the one you might be thinking of.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 64px;"><b>Failure. </b></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 64px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Whether our failure is only perceived, or an actual gory mess that we have blundered our way into, we are all trying desperately to dodge this seemingly tenacious beast. There are times in our lives when it seems that no matter how hard we try, whether in our marriages, our families, our jobs, or even friendships we just fail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">There can be a crippling sense of shame that follows this slithering beast named failure. Paralyzing us as it wraps it tentacles around our hearts and minds, digging deep into the areas where our doubt and self worth intermingle. Like a haze of fog it clouds our views of the reality of who we are and who our God is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">The further we descend and entertain this beast the more he takes liberties with other areas of our lives and hearts. He infects us with his lies about our true nature... About whether God could really still love us. He bleeds images of our Heavenly Father shaking his head in disgust and disdain at yet another failed attempt in our life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Confidence can begin to crumble away like the land when it is in a drought. Instead of running to someone for help as we begin this fall, often times the shame folds over our mouths like duct tape. We turn from the ones who love us and wander quietly away. Secretly hoping someone will notice the shadows of hopelessness overtaking the light in our eyes, but too scared to speak up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Whatever the cause for your sense of failure; whether it’s a temptation you continually fall into; a ministry or business that has never really gotten off the ground; or you are caught in the contagious trappings of comparing yourself, your looks, your success to others… Please know this.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Stop. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Stop looking down at your problems, your imperfections, and shortfalls. Stop looking down and look up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Like a little child being bathed by their mother. She coaches her child to keep looking up as she washes the shampoo from his hair.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">“Look up at me. Keep your eyes on me.”</span></b><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">She whispers gently to her beloved child trying to keep his head tilted upward so that the stinging soap can be safely washed away from his precious eyes. When her child is overtaken by doubt or fear and looks down, that’s when the soap pours down over his little face, stinging and burning his eyes. What was it our mother’s told us?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>“Look up.”</b></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">It works the same with our Heavenly father. He does not look at us and shake his head in disdain when we try and fail. He looks at us and coaches us in gentle whispers,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">“<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2040:26&version=NIV">Look up.</a> Keep your eyes on me. The enemy will try and <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2010:10&version=NIV">steal your joy</a>, but I sent my son for you to follow so that <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2015:11-12&version=NIV">my joy could be complete in you</a>. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Keep your eyes on me. <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%2012:9-10&version=NIV">It is in your weaknesses</a> and perceived short comings where <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+19:26&version=NIV">I can shine through you and do the impossible.</a> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">I love you and <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah%2029:11&version=NIV">want only the best for you</a>. <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8:16-18&version=NIV">You are my child.</a> “ </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">If our eyes are on Him we will see how He truly is. A father overjoyed in our open hands that may be unskilled, but when placed in His capable hands can do the amazing. When we fall, He is there whispering, “Look up my child." He offers his shoulder to lean on and His truth as our solid rock to stand on. When we repent he washes the shame away in the warm healing waters of forgiveness. He offers His shield during the attacks of the enemy and He whispers constantly, “Keep your eyes on me. This battle is mine.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">There are two stories I encourage you to look into this week, both are in <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2014:15-32&version=NIV">Matthew 14: 15-32</a>. Each time there was a key integral moment between human failure and the Lord doing something impossible through someone. In both situations the choices were caught between looking at the persons circumstances, and human inabilities or looking up at our Lord to what He can do with our weak hands, and diminished supplies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Take courage my friend. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">God loves you more than you could ever imagine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">I am praying Paul's prayer for you today.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Ephesians 3:14-21<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge —that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #333333; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 38px;">Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Are you struggling too friend? </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">How can I pray for you?</span></span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-54917573711774140712013-11-04T13:25:00.002-05:002013-11-08T17:06:21.679-05:00So I am going to Hell... Why can't we just be friends? <div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Hello my friends!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's been a while I know... </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Life has been full of hard transitions and blessed ones as well. Even though I have not been writing here in this space I have indeed been writing. I am working on a project I have put off for too long now.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My eyes are doing very well now. (Actually better than I even expected! Thank you Lord!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I wrote this piece months ago, but figured I should finally post it. It follows along with the theme, "<a href="http://awaken2life.blogspot.com/p/desperately-seeking-his-church_24.html" target="_blank">Lets Talk Church</a>," which I started in hopes of furthering discussion within the Christian church about the church. Without further ado here it is. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This week I read a poignant piece
posted by </span><a href="http://thomrainer.com/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">Thom Rainer</a><span style="font-size: large;">. It is formulated by comments made over time
from one of his readers. She cuts right to the core of some of the
issues plaguing Christians today. Please take a few moments and read, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://thomrainer.com/2013/06/15/what-do-non-christians-really-think-of-us/" target="_blank">“What do Non-Christians Really Think of Us?” </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While it's true we are called to be a
witness for Christ and to be ready to give an answer for what we
believe and why, there are times when I believe we miss the mark by
making this our only goal. Like hunter's on the trail we seem to place bold red targets on people's hearts and then go in for the shot firing away with our Christianese-verbiage and 3 point plan tactics.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jesus tactics though were so much simpler. His call for us was as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jesus call for us, in my own simple paraphrase was, “Love
God with your everything and love and treat people as you would want to be loved and treated.” <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2022:36-40&version=NIV" target="_blank">Matthew 22:36-40</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While working with our teen groups over
the years we have placed a heavier importance on this than any
formula for witnessing. Listen more than you speak. Asking the right
questions and then being an intentional listener can speak more
volumes than having all the right answers. (Yes, we still teach them the deep Biblical answers.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We challenge them to care more about
the person. What are this persons concerns? What are their joys? What
do you share in common? What can you learn from each other? In other words, take the target off of their head and commit for the long haul to actually be their friend.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I remember when I first learned this in
high school. Before choosing to follow Christ I found myself the
“project” of some well-intentioned Christians a few times. I was also
on the receiving end of some of their hurtful comments etc. You know the extremely blunt, but truthful one's that they spit out of their mouths like poison,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">"You're not a Christian so you are going straight to Hell!"<br /><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yes! Now that really made me want to know more about their Christ!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And they seemed so very approachable and full of love as they said it and all... (Sarcasm anyone?)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I thank God that I also met some wonderful people who simply loved me where I was at despite my impending doom in Hell. They listened as much or more than they
spoke and let me have the space to figure things out without fear inducing pressure
tactics.
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</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Their evident and heartfelt love for God kept me
curious, while their open love for me gave me a safe place to wrestle
with God on these issues instead of people. I assure you His Holy
Spirit is irreplaceable in someone discovering God's word and plan for salvation. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Since you already know what I eventually chose to do I will finish with a few questions. Please won't you join the discussion?<br /><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I realize everyone has a different
story and experience in regards to their choice to follow Christ or to not follow Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What is your experience? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What
do you think about Thom Rainer's post?</span><br />
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-33538720373293816732013-08-13T12:45:00.000-04:002013-08-13T12:47:01.711-04:00Irony and Updates...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXCj8SzvPzFWTdPCDuX1TGJmZbKTVugMpvz5EDL_VFKw6YC0zk5EGh98Ez5XeaoC5-CLeqZdDE1aarlQddiqYaMICpmXwBEpqnDkaggLYbUsByeiv3OYD4McPKrXYGdUfgf13nRBDQ2vY/s1600/nightlights+praise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXCj8SzvPzFWTdPCDuX1TGJmZbKTVugMpvz5EDL_VFKw6YC0zk5EGh98Ez5XeaoC5-CLeqZdDE1aarlQddiqYaMICpmXwBEpqnDkaggLYbUsByeiv3OYD4McPKrXYGdUfgf13nRBDQ2vY/s1600/nightlights+praise.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Oh the irony that my last post was about quitting. Especially when I had no intention of quitting... I had written that post a couple of months earlier and it just happened to be posted the day after my eye surgery. Seriously!? lol. Sometimes, life's timing can be hilarious.<br />
<br />
Eye surgery that has left me with some rather annoying issues with computer screens, therefore I haven't written in well, what feels like foreverrrr...<br />
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Sorry that is me being over dramatic. I haven't written in over a month. I do know at some point my eyes will finish their healing process and I will be up and running again, but for now I have to sit back and be patient.<br />
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I have moments where I wish I was one of those amazing writers that could just whip out something and not worry about having made any grammatical mistakes, but "le sigh" that is not me.<br />
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I make mistakes. They need to be corrected...Which means too much time on this glaring screen and it makes my eye go a bit wonky.(Wonky is my new favorite word... I don't even know if it is actually a word? And how does one spell it, but hey it applies nicely to so much of my life right now. So wonky it tis.)<br />
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On the other hand? I can see! I was legally blind before and I can see. I mean seeeeee! It's been a joy, quite the learning process, and an adventure to go through this surgery. When I can handle longer periods on the computer I will share more about the whole experience. There is a lot I have learned about trusting in the Lord and in leaning on others.<br />
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Just know this my friends, I have not quit on you or on writing. Occasionally I have even tried writing with a blanket over the screen of my laptop which confused my kids to no end. lol (Can you see there faces?! "Uh. Mom? What exactly are you doing?")<br />
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Lastly, since I haven't been able to write on my blog or be on the computer as much, I have had more time to pray for you, and this is probably more important work for me to do anyways. ;)<br />
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So my prayers are with you! And if you have any requests please let me know.<br />
God bless you all greatly. I look forward to the day when I can share with you that my eyes are completely restored and I can get back to writing and sharing with you again.<br />
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Sorry if this is rife with errors... I will not be checking it as my eyes are now passed wonky stage...ACk!<br />
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-50209530888111142882013-07-07T21:50:00.001-04:002013-07-08T18:39:41.582-04:00When the silence makes me want to quit...Silence...<br />
And then you hear the soft chirping of crickets...<br />
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Can you hear them?<br />
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They use that noise on cartoons and television shows alike to convey that no one is really listening...<br />
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Or that someone just delved into a conversation killer.<br />
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Have you been there?<br />
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That awkward moment when you wonder why you were talking in the first place?<br />
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There are days when writing feels like that. I wonder why in the world am I doing this?!<br />
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And then God whispers,<br />
<br />
"You are part of my story and I am asking you to share it."<br />
<br />
This week I'm sharing over with the <a href="http://bibledude.net/" target="_blank">Bibledude.net </a>crew again.<br />
<br />
Will you join me as I share a little of what God has taught me about why our story matters?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://bibledude.net/write-on-dear-writers/" target="_blank">Write on Dear Writers... Write On!</a> <--Click here to read on<br />
<br />
Whether you are a writer, mama, grandpa, pastor, coffee addict, former alcoholic, sinner extraordinaire, or quiet introvert...<br />
<br />
God has given you an amazing story of grace and grit to share.<br />
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The question is will you?<br />
<br />
What's stopping you from sharing your story and how can I pray for you today?<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
Joining <a href="http://www.create-with-joy.com/2013/07/inspire-me-monday-week-79.html" target="_blank">Inspire Me Monday</a>s<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.blogaholicdesigns.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Blogaholic Designs”=" src="http://images.blogaholicnetwork.com/buttons/comments/CommentsBrightenMyDayBlogButton.png" /></a>
</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-3120492158694581022013-07-02T13:13:00.001-04:002013-07-02T13:26:43.161-04:00Mid-Summer updates... On my life, the blog, a book, our freedom, and a prayer request.Hi Friends!<br />
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How are you all doing? I am doing pretty well. I am ever so grateful that summer is here! Honestly there were days this last winter when it "felt" like summer would never get here. Can I get an, "Amen!"?</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Mid-Summer Updates...</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8EI6CZRKUlFFOHqj3blfliwid2SXr-JVF4dyOzHuIGBoXnSMoCHtbwEGj7EPfLPEUxPPgQkps-7w3fBV8z-fQt3YqP-kWnWK6HQ9TYFHt1oifBpb0Ql4N7fHVBTYxCLHYegwfktHNPU/s720/the+girls+with+flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8EI6CZRKUlFFOHqj3blfliwid2SXr-JVF4dyOzHuIGBoXnSMoCHtbwEGj7EPfLPEUxPPgQkps-7w3fBV8z-fQt3YqP-kWnWK6HQ9TYFHt1oifBpb0Ql4N7fHVBTYxCLHYegwfktHNPU/s720/the+girls+with+flowers.JPG" height="358" width="640" /></a>We have had a summer full of the "unplanned" events. Like a car finally kicking the bucket. (We drive them till they die people... And believe me, "Stick a fork in that car 'cuz it's done". Farewell silver bullet the last 10 years or so you have served us well. RIP) </div>
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There have been storms, a tree half down, a flood in the basement, and a pretty tedious, but cool fence being made from pallets. I think my husbands thoughts on it are, "Will this project ever come to an end!?!"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GXhRB6Ev6_Gu3-iW-C-BBIy5EzrjfDqLT-SmVBBtUlWQe23tHfzTxhDoS2OoIlLr1DPIjmpoJjzq15RHWKz3ASPPTaWYuWCqXvQE66THRDVKh0GCU68PsK7bXykXWdlCIwpdJZJwc_s/s720/josh+working+on+the+fence.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3GXhRB6Ev6_Gu3-iW-C-BBIy5EzrjfDqLT-SmVBBtUlWQe23tHfzTxhDoS2OoIlLr1DPIjmpoJjzq15RHWKz3ASPPTaWYuWCqXvQE66THRDVKh0GCU68PsK7bXykXWdlCIwpdJZJwc_s/s720/josh+working+on+the+fence.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The good news is this fence soundly advertises, "Hey, all you bunnies, ground hogs, and deer out there? These are our veggies that we have toiled over for our family to eat...NOT you. Move along little furry creatures...move along.)</div>
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The hardest event this summer has been that my dear friend's sweet father passed away all too soon. I cannot do this justice with my simple words, but yes I did attempt to. (<a href="http://awaken2life.blogspot.com/2013/05/prayers-and-story-unfinished.html" target="_blank">Here</a> and <a href="http://awaken2life.blogspot.com/2013/06/when-you-have-to-let-go-and-let-grace.html" target="_blank">here</a>)<br />
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<div>
We are about to plunge ourselves into some new transitions which are both scary and exciting to us. There are more things, but I must say, each event I have mentioned whether they sounded good or bad...were all laced with God's hand of grace and love. They have contained some amazing blessings as well.<br />
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My friend's kiddos came to stay with us for a while. We have a newer car for my hubby to drive and I am no longer in fear when he climbs into the "death trap". The fence while not yet finished is doing it's job. And I have a couple of friends kicking my booty into better shape. A big ol', "Booyah!" to that! And it's Summer! Finally!!! Summer!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">On the New Page...</span></b></div>
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Some of you may have seen the new page on my blog called, "<a href="http://awaken2life.blogspot.com/p/desperately-seeking-his-church_24.html" target="_blank">Let's Talk Church</a>".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWBRVK71WiZN7l0vlhDS3AAqPelVqSzimIEePsi3NbJW7rABAk6HtUJ90Pcphcj6KDpxLDlb6LkLzriP-JVr4oZ_edlMBbZAW3GM_oIWwOf4CrWCTrBeWQtHdEOt_q5tNG3q5IMsrwoGQ/s1600/19423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWBRVK71WiZN7l0vlhDS3AAqPelVqSzimIEePsi3NbJW7rABAk6HtUJ90Pcphcj6KDpxLDlb6LkLzriP-JVr4oZ_edlMBbZAW3GM_oIWwOf4CrWCTrBeWQtHdEOt_q5tNG3q5IMsrwoGQ/s1600/19423.jpg" height="494" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am simultaneously nervous and excited for this to get going. I haven't figured out if I will be posting on this topic once a month or more frequently. Any thoughts on this? Any suggested topics I should cover?</div>
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The<a href="http://networkedblogs.com/MqTz6" target="_blank"> last post</a> was full of great conversation in the comments I am grateful to those who spoke their hearts and minds in the discussion. I am telling you these comments were over-flowing with convicting and humbling insights. I thank you all for taking part in it. I am praying for more and more to step forward into these conversations.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">On a power-packed Book...</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1612913911/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1612913911&linkCode=as2&tag=biblednet-20" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4BAU5x5TDapuO_pOnf9N3wXaqR5vIsjMnlcq4-cufivc1QSW_HaFzSxyOWZGEWBGb4P48xg50Go_iQmkpf4GzjxFnYS-HLfJ47vNFcuVZC7aexxE3e964Y7aMMLL-jtbtAQRvqvBSJ0/s851/Activist+Faith.JPG" height="236" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am also excited as I finish up reading an exciting book. I mean just reading the different Authors' introductions for the book gave me goosebumps... or as my teens call them, "God-bumps."<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMnTpUqbUqnxq70RHKOJbwoHnHTCoCoAKfizRmEuAizHhQa7Uv0AN69hsH-9VKqVCcr5E2jBiyrt4MDYobYvUJcAiW7c_ubifoPBwoXJn5xEFIPv-ewKxbWKMjj9rwkpkVOoWhc4R8HE/s960/teens.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMnTpUqbUqnxq70RHKOJbwoHnHTCoCoAKfizRmEuAizHhQa7Uv0AN69hsH-9VKqVCcr5E2jBiyrt4MDYobYvUJcAiW7c_ubifoPBwoXJn5xEFIPv-ewKxbWKMjj9rwkpkVOoWhc4R8HE/s960/teens.JPG" height="280" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are, the aforementioned teens that use the phrase, "God-bumps". This crew is full of some amazing faith-filled activists. They will politely correct you if you say, "They are the church of the future." With a, "No, we are the church right now." Love em'!</td></tr>
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I will be reviewing it on here soon, but honestly go pre-order a copy.(There is a link in my side bar)</div>
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If you are struggling with where to start with volunteering or in searching out God's heart for the least of these, then this book is what you have been looking for. Whether you agree with the different Author's perspectives or answers to the problems their information is sound and bountiful. More to come on this friends. ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEP9J6O0M0XrJj7FX-T6UPrVdTSUb0_u2xtz2aosUBDnPrujmsNys_1oC2Jylvm4QxYhgIIV7pDf6XXkeEN18MtD1jYE5RK8ZOi6FH2hqbw1pWKEol-r7UeYWn3XQuyL1iuRaJQadh3WQ/s665/Activist+faith+quote.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEP9J6O0M0XrJj7FX-T6UPrVdTSUb0_u2xtz2aosUBDnPrujmsNys_1oC2Jylvm4QxYhgIIV7pDf6XXkeEN18MtD1jYE5RK8ZOi6FH2hqbw1pWKEol-r7UeYWn3XQuyL1iuRaJQadh3WQ/s665/Activist+faith+quote.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Umm... Yes, I definitely love this quote!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">On Freedom...</span></b><br />
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This week we have the 4th of July! I am grateful that we live in a country where we are free. It seems like people are chattering away in discouragement over the different decisions being made by the courts and government... </div>
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Some even saying we are not truly free.</div>
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And while I have been there at times myself, grumbling away... I have to put this reminder out here. </div>
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Friends we are living in a free country. </div>
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We have the freedom to work these things out and no I do not agree with all the limitations that some of our leaders are insisting on, but I can say just that.<br />
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I can say I don't agree with them to the press.<br />
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I can say I don't agree to my law-makers and reps.<br />
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And the police do not show up and take me away.<br />
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I have not been imprisoned or beaten by the authorities..<br />
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And eventually these things can be worked out.</div>
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Until you see the other side of the fence where persecution truly reigns. Where dictators rule and rampage with abuse and genocide.<br />
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I literally shutter when I think of what others are going through...</div>
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We are free.</div>
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We are free to lobby, debate, and stand up for our rights.</div>
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Please take a moment to breathe deep and realize the blessing of the freedoms you do have.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">A Prayer request..</span></b></div>
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Lastly, can I ask for your prayers? I am going in for eye surgery this week on July 5.</div>
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Could you pray for a quick recovery and complete healing with no complications? I would and am so very grateful for your prayers and for this opportunity.</div>
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I am trying to get things ready on my blog so the posts will still come while I am recovering. I hope and pray you have a blessed week!</div>
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How can I pray for you?</div>
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God Bless you and yours greatly,</div>
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-Heather</div>
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A tune for your thoughts and meditation today...I am so grateful that I am set free.<br />
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-27306870660105587032013-06-27T12:14:00.001-04:002013-06-27T13:00:26.986-04:00Farewells can be easy? Say What!?<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes I procrastinate the inevitable...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Like the fact that Google Reader is about to say farewell and I will be out of a lovely e-reader for all of the blogs I subscribe to.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As of </span><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">July 1st</span><span style="font-size: large;">,</span></b><span style="font-size: large;"> it's gone for good friends. Have you switched to a new reader yet? I highly suggest doing so right now. If you are anything like me, you may find your self waking up on Monday morning thinking, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"Oh crud, I was supposed to do this 2 days ago!"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So I am taking a moment right now, as I write this, to switch e-readers and I wanted to help you out as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Why?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1) I value your readership here at <a href="http://awaken2life.blogspot.com/">Awakened</a> and would love for our bloggie friendship to continue.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2) If any of you are like me, enjoying the summer of freeeeedom...You might have missed this update or may forget its almost here! (Ack!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is a very quick and easy to understand post about the different alternative Readers available for you to switch to before </span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">July 1st</span></b><span style="font-size: large;">. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Read this one while I go attempt a switch myself and then I will let you know how it went...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.designbyinsight.net/2013/03/farewell-google-reader-how-to-keep-reading-your-favorite-blogs/" target="_blank">Farewell Google Reader</a> pt 1</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">More options are explained here...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.designbyinsight.net/2013/06/farewell-google-reader-part-2-for-blog-writers/" target="_blank">Farewell Google Reader</a> pt 2</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Again the easiest way to keep in touch with your favorite bloggers is to subscribe by email. </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">Then they continue to arrive in your inbox without any issues. ;)</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you haven't subscribed to Awakened yet, it's right up there to the right. Make sure you click the "confirm subscription" in your email otherwise it will not go through. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Okay, that was easy and an utter non-event. just the way I like any technical situation on the computer to be! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I chose to switch to <a href="http://cloud.feedly.com/#welcome" target="_blank">Feedly</a> because it advertised that you could switch your Google reader account seamlessly without having to manually add in all of your blogs again. (Plus, I am sometimes a creature of habit and it has a function that displays my feed just like my Google Reader did. "Le Sigh" </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Guess what?!?!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">They weren't kidding around. I am happy to say it took all of 2-3 clicks and within a minute everything was switched over. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now it's your turn friends. Please, check out the links that explain it all in a simple and easy fashion. Then choose which alternative to Google Reader you want to switch to and get to it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Just remember you need to do it now before </span><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">July 1st</span></b><span style="font-size: large;">, because after that you will have to manually re-subscribe to each of the blogs that you follow.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Also if you missed it, I was sharing over at <a href="http://bibledude.net/reflections-on-the-church/">Bibledude.net</a> again. I love this amazing crew of writers who are in love with Jesus. Here is a link to my article. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am grateful especially for the comments. These people are sharing some fantastic insights! I hope you will share yours as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://bibledude.net/reflections-on-the-church/"><span style="font-size: large;">Reflections on Bird feeders and the Church</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">God Bless you and yours this week!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>-Heather</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">P.S. Don't forget to either subscribe by email to your favorite blogs or switch to a new e-reader before JULY 1ST! ;)</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.blogaholicdesigns.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Blogaholic Designs”=" src="http://images.blogaholicnetwork.com/buttons/comments/CommentsBrightenMyDayBlogButton.png" /></a>
</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-72443076864068016812013-06-10T12:29:00.000-04:002013-06-17T15:27:06.255-04:0099 Balloons and Unfinished Stories...<span style="font-size: large;">If you watch the video, I kid you not tears will fall, and yet it's beautiful. The love that is displayed here is amazing in it's depth and purity. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Oh that all the sweet children could know this love. Could experience it's sweetness and acceptance. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/th6Njr-qkq0" width="640"></iframe>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">When <a href="http://dankingblogs.com/about-dan-king/" target="_blank">Dan King</a> of <a href="http://bibledude.net/">Bibledude.net</a> showed it to us and asked if some of us would be willing to write an, "Unfinished Story" to help support these beautiful parents and their ministry I remember thinking, "Of course!" (And then I ran to get a tissue for my tears.)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">And yet, when I sat down to write one of our unfinished stories not one of them seemed quite right. I thought I would share about our different miscarriages, or the times I was in the hospital and doctors offices while they tried to figure out what in the world was wrong with me now. Maybe even about when my energetic and spunky daughter suddenly developed a debilitating auto-immune illness for 8 months...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Again not one of them seemed quite right.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Then one night sitting in one of our teen girl's small groups, God brought this one back to mind. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://networkedblogs.com/M0jDQ" target="_blank">In the Searching I Discover I am Found.</a> </span></b></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">It's short and to the point. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Some of you may not understand it and that is okay my friends, but I have quite a few friends who have experienced this in some degree or another. Some of you reading this may know it all to well. My heart goes out to each and every one of you.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I am grateful, so very grateful that God loves us so intently and deeply that we can be called His son's and daughters.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I pray today you know this my friends, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">1 John 3:1</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"See what great love</span><span class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-30581A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!</span><span class="crossreference" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-30581B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> And that is what we are!"</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Romans 8:38-39</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="text Rom-8-38" id="en-NIV-28155" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>"</b>For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,<span class="footnote" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="[<a href="#fen-NIV-28155k" title="See footnote k">k</a>]"></span> neither the present nor the future,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28155CD" title="See cross-reference CD">CD</a>)"></span> nor any powers,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28155CE" title="See cross-reference CE">CE</a>)"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="text Rom-8-39" id="en-NIV-28156" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span>neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28156CF" title="See cross-reference CF">CF</a>)"></span> that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For more information on their story and ministry visit, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://theatypicallife.com/blog/about/" target="_blank">The atypical life blog.</a></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://theatypicallife.com/blog/about/" target="_blank"><img src="http://theatypicallife.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/u-banner.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Sharing this week with, <a href="http://www.create-with-joy.com/2013/06/inspire-me-monday-week-76.html" target="_blank">Inspire Me Mondays</a>!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.blogaholicdesigns.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Blogaholic Designs”=" src="http://images.blogaholicnetwork.com/buttons/comments/CommentsBrightenMyDayBlogButton.png" /></a>
</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-59222787121432628952013-06-06T12:25:00.000-04:002013-06-13T10:59:49.473-04:00When you have to let go... and "Let grace take hold."<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFeclGeypi7FzdsFNgGWXmIl4crw73MjMkNFhQSa-LOiRoxT1V_eU2QxKwlPyW_YraBGYVLPQhlN5UWVPWC45tcohJIvxtkjem_1pH-FNWZJFkcdwvvZ6nBBUl4hOToou_Y8L7txTKUw/s1600/one+life+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFeclGeypi7FzdsFNgGWXmIl4crw73MjMkNFhQSa-LOiRoxT1V_eU2QxKwlPyW_YraBGYVLPQhlN5UWVPWC45tcohJIvxtkjem_1pH-FNWZJFkcdwvvZ6nBBUl4hOToou_Y8L7txTKUw/s1600/one+life+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 28px;"><span style="font-size: large;">"In every situation God is doing a thousand things that we cannot see and do not know."</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 28px;"><span style="font-size: large;">-John Piper</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Lately life’s blows have left me speechless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">If you know me then this is a feat in and of itself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">At times it's been over-whelming and yet we have been quietly
trudging forward. The verse that says, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will
worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> has never been more
poignant. (Matthew 6:34)</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">And while I could go on and on about our own families
“stresses” my heart is more heavy laden for those dear hearts of my friends and
family around me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One who
found her daughter has wandered into the dark and dangerous territory of a
cult.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A mother who
is grieving the gut-wrenching loss of her baby.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgg_80a4IyZyzFVbqEjRTugbFh7Luy8RivTAep785ETxNOf0qq-zHi4FvGgOSkyZabS7IcrQPswlsF2-mZ-nYAb8VUG1eJScq7fUpSaw2r8vxcGW-moSIUvQmVjboS-idiDwdx4UWZuuU/s1600/300px-Sky_over_Washington_Monument.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgg_80a4IyZyzFVbqEjRTugbFh7Luy8RivTAep785ETxNOf0qq-zHi4FvGgOSkyZabS7IcrQPswlsF2-mZ-nYAb8VUG1eJScq7fUpSaw2r8vxcGW-moSIUvQmVjboS-idiDwdx4UWZuuU/s1600/300px-Sky_over_Washington_Monument.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A brave
heart who is fighting the attacks of the enemy as she heals from the damage
left by childhood abuse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another that
is planning her sweet Daddy's funeral after he was taken too soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A friend who
was told his place of work would be closing at the end of the month when he has
4 little mouths to feed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6C1KycyZvuzkCJO2YJuUmzSFYtqkC20II-ns4ds9jwuaYSAb9JoZiR_ZtARzol_k0zMLXpsHx9CX5MfSELG8la8z_QOI8JN7a1lezNMJdc9nRPlbvPdtuKPIQRuYlAbBs1d5n2fH-B2w/s1600/andrew.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6C1KycyZvuzkCJO2YJuUmzSFYtqkC20II-ns4ds9jwuaYSAb9JoZiR_ZtARzol_k0zMLXpsHx9CX5MfSELG8la8z_QOI8JN7a1lezNMJdc9nRPlbvPdtuKPIQRuYlAbBs1d5n2fH-B2w/s1600/andrew.JPG" width="502" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One who is
about to undergo another barrage of medical tests as the Doctors search for a
diagnosis yet again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another in
debilitating pain, still trying to work and support the family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">And more than one of my friends are dealing
with the pain of affairs and divorce.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Yet still, there’s more my friends, so much more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">I am sure you have been there because life is not always
rosy, and every rose has its thorns as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">As we sit here with a silly flooded basement and a hubby who
has been ill, sick kids and some of our own life’s plans thrown up in the air, it really all seems
minor in perspective.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> I am reminded of
something the Lord revealed to me on a cloudy, rainy day as I sat in the
airplane awaiting the take-off. The rain dripped down the windows of the plane and
carried the heavy cares of the day downward to the ground.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The heavy clouds hung low, dark and gloomy, but as the plane
made its decisive turn on the runway and began its ascent. As it continually pointed its nose upward towards the heavens something
amazing happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Onward and upward we plunged into the dark clouds. They grew so thick around the plane that I found myself unable to
see through the masses of gray apparitions. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Suddenly a flash of
blinding light broke forth searing my eyes. I blinked several times and had to
look away, but yet there it was…The blue sky, the sun, they were still there even during the storm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">The deep azure expanse of bright glowing sky was all the more alluring
after the hopeless pallor of the storm clouds. The rain drops that were being
pushed back across the window pane from the ascending winds, sparkled in the suns bright and blinding
light. A light that caused the once gray clouds from below to almost glow, stretching into fluffy white rolling
plains here above the storms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">And then I heard the Lord whisper to my heart,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> “You see my
daughter? I am still shining even during the storms of life. I am still working good things for my children. I
am always here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">And so </span><span style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 28px;">my friends, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">in our dark nights when our questions and "whys," pour out in a torrent into our tear stained pillows, this I cling to...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">This I absolutely know.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Our God never grows tired or weary and He never ever stops working for
our good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Isaiah 40:28-31</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-18449"></a><span style="line-height: 150%;">Do you not know?</span></span></i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
Have you not heard?<br />
The <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> is
the everlasting God,<br />
the Creator of the ends
of the earth.<br />
He will not grow tired or weary,<br />
and his understanding no one
can fathom.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-18450"></a>He gives strength to
the weary<br />
and increases the power of
the weak.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-18451"></a>Even youths grow tired and
weary,<br />
and young men stumble
and fall;<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-18452"></a>but those who hope in
the <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><br />
will renew their strength.<br />
They will soar on wings like eagles;<br />
they will run and not grow
weary,<br />
they will walk and not be
faint.</span></i> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">Romans 8:28</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 150%;"><i>And
we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,
who have been called according to his purpose.</i></span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;">So like a sweet friend encouraged us the other day, I will let “grace
take hold” for I have nothing left to offer and in the end I know the result
will be His masterful craftsmanship. A life's work that will point gloriously to the Lord because it is showered in His beautiful finger prints.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-88679794998784070782013-05-28T15:17:00.002-04:002013-05-28T15:21:26.546-04:00Prayers and a story unfinished...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGPk-NHN5fga7HLw5Vb1I8Mg5xPiLhb8CA5b-jT9qkZyVbwHKpcHLIj-pjeydtRfBHAjvpUQJGZY1-tzGM-zxEAYY2d84Dq8-CeIJOVapBJ9LvwjHhzsz7GwQbmgJuSVHTBrRoDPdYKA/s1600/P1000754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGPk-NHN5fga7HLw5Vb1I8Mg5xPiLhb8CA5b-jT9qkZyVbwHKpcHLIj-pjeydtRfBHAjvpUQJGZY1-tzGM-zxEAYY2d84Dq8-CeIJOVapBJ9LvwjHhzsz7GwQbmgJuSVHTBrRoDPdYKA/s1600/P1000754.JPG" height="640" width="564" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">As I write this today I have
tears wetting the corners of my eyes. Even though laughter echoes through my
home as dainty little feet pitter-patter around and precious sing song voices
call for a fashion show bounce off the walls and into my heart. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Two little munchkins twirl by
in a swish of tulle and lace in their dress-up gowns of blue and pink… </span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">They are
little moments of sunshine on this grey, wet, and rainy day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">But I know as this unfolds
here that my dear sweet sister in Christ is holding her Daddy’s hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">She along with her mother and
sister are bravely making big, hard, heart wrenching decisions as her Daddy’s
life hangs in the balance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">As the sounds echo in the
hospital room, as she sits, stands, and paces weary from the mental, emotional,
and physical exhaustion. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">While she walks the halls of
the hospital with questions fraying the edges of her mind and she stretches her
tired frame from the many days of riding a roller coaster that no one intends
to buy a ticket for. One filled with hospitals moves and surgical procedures,
hopeful moments and scary ones too…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">I ask and plead for you to
pray for them. I ask for you to pray for her sweet Father for healing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> If you met him my friends, I am sure you would
adore him too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">My poor words cannot do
justice to his quiet, friendly, and easy going nature. A nature which takes
great joy in discovering the items others have tossed out, and deemed worthless.
He would then work tenaciously to restore these objects, giving them renewed purpose
and life again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">A beautiful reflection of how
our Heavenly Father works in our lives daily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">And so as I hear the voices of
her sweet girls playing with mine filter like rays of sunlight through my home…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> I ask that you would hold her, her sweet Daddy,
and their family in your prayers as the sounds of hushed voices, machines, and
beeps echo in their ears. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Today as my mom put it, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">“God is all powerful. If God
wants him now we cannot stand in His way...” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">We will be praying.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">God will let us know whether
it is time for him to go home to his beautiful place in heaven or whether her sweet Daddy is
to bless us with his presence by remaining here for some time to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Please pray my friends. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;">Will you join me?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a2213; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"><b>James 5:13-15a</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><i>Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone
happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call
the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name
of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well;
the Lord will raise them up.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><b>Phillipians 4:6-7</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">Do not
be anxious about anything,</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with
thanksgiving, present your requests to God.</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"></span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><span id="en-NIV-29450">And the peace
of God,</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">which transcends all understanding,</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span></span><span class="text"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">will
guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-2173600061492558942013-05-25T00:17:00.000-04:002013-05-25T12:47:37.255-04:00A song which is on my heart today...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I was recently introduced to this group, <i>More than Rubies</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This song, <i>Image of God</i>, is hauntingly beautiful.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I find it speaks volumes.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am so grateful today my friends that we serve a loving, wonderfully creative, and healing God.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He can take our past sorrows, broken hearts, lost innocence, and make us whole...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%205%20:17&version=NIV" target="_blank">Make us new</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">For this today I am grateful. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I pray you know this.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I pray that no matter your past...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The good, the bad, the broken, and the hurting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I pray you have experienced His loving and healing hands which take the shards of our broken life and make them not just new, but beautifully stronger than ever before.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And if you haven't yet?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I would love to talk and pray with you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's an amazing gift to be on the <a href="http://awaken2life.blogspot.com/2012/08/sandbox-memories-and-endless.html" target="_blank">potter's wheel</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">God Bless you today my friends.</span><br />
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-71687435677565454812013-05-08T16:03:00.001-04:002013-05-08T16:08:04.197-04:00From the Archives, A Mother's Day to Remember<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-weight: bold;">This was taken from <a href="http://www.awaken2life.blogspot.com/2012/05/what-do-mothers-day-tummy-pains-and.html" target="_blank">a post</a> I wrote last year. It's a <a href="http://www.awaken2life.blogspot.com/2012/05/what-do-mothers-day-tummy-pains-and.html" target="_blank">Mother's Day lesson</a> I do not want to forget. I pray it blesses you my friends.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">With a grateful Heart,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">-Heather</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yesterday was Mother’s Day. We had some grand plans for the day ahead, at least grand to us. My sweet husband had it all worked out. We would go to church, then come home, change clothes, and head to one of our family’s favorite places, Beale Street to meet with my parents and my sister’s family.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">We were going to get messy eating some yummy barbecue and then head out to play tennis. We might even run around on my sister’s family farm outside enjoying the glorious weather and each other’s company. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">What a great day?! Right?</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"></span><span style="background-color: white;"> Well the day started out alright. We went to church. It was a great time in Bible study. The fellowship was sweet and the sermon was awesome. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">We happily went home afterwards. Changed our clothes, and at this point, I started to have a twinge of pain in my gut, but no matter it was not too bad. We hopped in the car and were off to the restaurant. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />In the short 15 minute drive, my health deteriorated. It felt like I had a bunch of quarters turning over all through my intestinal tract. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Excuse me for the details, but it felt awful. (At this point I chuckle in writing this. It was not funny at the time, but at the last winter youth retreat, 3 of the teens in our youth group decided to eat pennies. Oh my, oh my….a story for another day.)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Needless to say by the time we reached the restaurant I was working on a contortion act for the circus in the front seat where I was sitting and I could not bring myself to go in. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Sadly, I stayed in the car hoping it would pass, but it did not. So my dear hubby gathered the kids who had just exited the car and put them back in, and we headed home. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />So, so sad. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />They were upset. He was upset. I was…in pain, and upset. My daughter’s were having fits of drama since a fun day with their cousins, Aunt and Uncle, Grandparents, and family was canceled in such a quick moment.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When we got home I crawled into bed and curled into a ball. I listened as my daughter wandered the halls in misery saying,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> "How can this happen on Mother’s Day? It's unfair. This is possibly the worst day ever."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Those were her very words. (So does anyone else have a drama queen trapped in a six year olds body in their home too?)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And at one time, if my Mother’s Day did not go well, I too would find myself wandering the halls of self pity in my mind. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Consoling myself in what should have been and maybe even griping about this to my poor husband. The wonderful thing about all of this is that I didn’t feel like that. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />Okay... Yes, I felt awful physically speaking, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually I felt just fine. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />I felt loved. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />I felt no angst or self pity at all. I just felt grateful. God has done a lot in my heart over the years. This weekend was no exception. He has been teaching me about what matters most. When I keep my eyes on Him, all of the other stuff fades.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I thought about all the errands my husband and I were able to get done on Saturday. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />I thought about the fact that since we were home he could get some things done before he left for a quick work trip, which I know were eating at him the last few days.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I thought about how blessed I am right now. I have both of my parents still here on this earth to spend time with. Our family has a home, car, clothes, a loving extended family and my children are all healthy!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />It’s not always been like this and it will not remain this way forever. Even though I was sick on Mother's Day, I have been savoring the blessed time we are in right now.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I hope and pray this for you my friends, whether you are a mother, still have your mother with you, or have lost your mother. Whether your heart aches from the loss of a baby or child who went on to heaven before you or whether you desperately are clinging to hope for the child to come. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I pray that despite whatever the circumstances may be for you this Mother's Day, that you will look to the One who loves you more than anything and in Him discover a beautifully blessed Mother's Day this year and for many more to come. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;"><i>Colossians 4:2<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><sup><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></sup><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and
thankful.</b><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;"><i>Colossians 2:6-7<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;"><i><b>So then,
just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in
him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you
were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.</b><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;">How has your Mom or a mother figure blessed you in your life?</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent;">What are you grateful for this week?</span></span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-89978093567297264222013-05-01T17:37:00.004-04:002013-05-05T20:10:34.114-04:00On the Wings of Prayer and a Mocha... or the importance of Inviting Someone into Your Mess.<br />
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This was written previously. I was not sure that I was even going to share it, but now I hope it blesses you. We are not perfect beings and yet we strive so hard for this image. </div>
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In crying out for prayer I did not expect the answer the Lord decided to give me. I almost missed the beautiful blessing because I was hiding away in fear of what others might think. </div>
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I pray this encourages you to cry out to God and a trusted friend quickly when you are struggling. Don't buy the myth that you can handle this all alone. I pray that God sends a trusted someone to you, that you can invite into your mess too. Hope is on the way my friends.</div>
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-Heather</div>
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“Oh goodness, I was doing better for
a bit, but today I am a total crank. Need some prayers for a better
attitude.”</div>
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I fired off the text in a rush. My brow
remained furrowed...</div>
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I think there is a permanent crease
there now from the last few months.</div>
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Lately, my eyes need tooth picks to
keep them open. I feel like I constantly squint and not just from
site issues, but from the bleary eyed frustration of struggling
against the dark and gloomy thoughts that seem to be plaguing me
lately...</div>
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So I fired off the text. A cry for
prayer. I recognized the signs of depression that were knock knock
knocking on my door again and I knew I couldn't handle this battle
alone.
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Been there. Done that. Failed.</div>
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She answered quickly and reciprocated
the feeling.</div>
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In a single moment the Lord ushered in
grace, hope, and a feeling of communion that gently whispered,</div>
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“You are not alone.”</div>
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You see the enemy wants us that way.
He wants our vision tunneled by the hopelessness of looking down and
inward and losing site of the hope and light that is found by
looking up and outward.</div>
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Oh the blessings of sweet company. Now,
I knew I wasn't fighting this battle alone anymore.</div>
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I awoke the next morning still feeling
worn out. Why even get dressed yet? I wandered through my home with
thoughts of guilt and frustration pestering me.</div>
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I did a daily tango between, “I am
so exhausted... How does my house become such a wreck in just 3
days?” to the crushing guilt in realizing yet again, “Why in the
world am I so depressed, when I know I am INCREDIBLY BLESSED?!”</div>
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Grumble, grumble...you get the idea.
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And then there was an interruption to
my pity party saga...</div>
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A literal “Knock, knock, knock.”
came from the front door.</div>
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I froze.
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Someone was at my door? I wasn't
expecting anyone. I mean especially not in my lovely, and hilarious,
state of wreckage.
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Hair = Unbrushed and sticking out in
lovely formations</div>
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Pajamas = Check... Yep, still there.
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Dishes = Piled high in my sink. UGH!</div>
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Table = Spread with my kids school
books and papers...papers now floating down to the floor.</div>
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Floor = A splendid mix of K-nex, My
Little Ponies, and (Le gasp) a few Cheerios left from breakfast, to
boot.</div>
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Oh, the horror.</div>
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So I just stood there, frozen in my
kitchen.</div>
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My kids staring at me with questioning
looks. (Yes my sweet darlings, your momma is hiding in the kitchen
and she is a mess.)</div>
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My thoughts circling,</div>
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“It must be a door to door
salesman...Or those friendly Mormons have come back... I can wait
them out.“ (I was in a sad state. I know.)</div>
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After what seemed like an eternity of
waiting, (Ahem... Reality? Three minutes tops.) a text pinged my phone.</div>
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“Are you there?”
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A dear sweet friend was in the
neighborhood. She was surprising me with a mocha and a hug.</div>
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Sheepishly I shuffled my embarrassed
butt to the door where she stood with a beautiful smile full of
warmth and love.</div>
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I stood there a disheveled and
mortified wreck.</div>
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But then gloriously, God broke through
my introspective grumbling.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Suddenly I didn't care about “me”
anymore.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
I invited her into my mess.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
While our kids played, we shared.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
She listened. Like treasured gifts she
offered me <i><b>sweet grace</b></i> and <i><b>acceptance,</b></i>
instead of the judgment I feared.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
And those wonderful gifts have
lingered...</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Offered on the wings of prayers and a
mocha, I received a little more clarity and energy that day.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
And gratefully, each day these are
returning to my heart.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Bit by bit... Peeking through the cold
winter hardened soil and growing upward again.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Joy is breaking through my clouds and
that blasted tunnel has opened to the light of Truth.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
And for this, I thank you, my sweet,
sweet friends. You were God's hands and feet in my life that week.<br />
<br />
This is my prayer in thanks for you all. (Taken from the words of Paul.)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Philippians 1: 3-5, 9-11, Ephesians
3:14-21</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29366"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29367"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29368"></a>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I
thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of
you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel
from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who
began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day
of Christ Jesus.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29369"></a>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It
is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you
in my heart...</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29371"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29372"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29373"></a>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And
this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in
knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern
what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,
filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus
Christ—to the glory and praise of God. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29267"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29268"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29269"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29270"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29271"></a>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For
this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in
heaven and on earth derives its name.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I pray that out of his glorious
riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your
inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have
power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide
and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,and to know this
love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure
of all the fullness of God.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29272"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1743286631120811156" name="en-NIV-29273"></a>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now
to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or
imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be
glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations,
for ever and ever! Amen.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
Joining with these lovely places <a href="http://www.create-with-joy.com/2013/05/inspire-me-monday-week-70.html" target="_blank">Inspire Me Mondays</a>, Wednesday's Word,</div>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.blogaholicdesigns.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Blogaholic Designs”=" src="http://images.blogaholicnetwork.com/buttons/comments/CommentsBrightenMyDayBlogButton.png" /></a>
</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-88394766148185255172013-04-29T09:25:00.001-04:002013-05-07T16:45:18.683-04:00The Ultimate Homemaking eBook Bundle is Here! *********<span style="font-size: x-large;">THIS SALE IS NOW OVER</span>************************<br />
<br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-22932" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/UHeB-large-HomemakingBundle_revised.png" height="350" title="UHeB large HomemakingBundle_revised" width="600" /><br />
<br />
For 6 days only, more than 75 widely-known bloggers and authors in the homemaking sphere have joined together to offer 97 of their most popular eBooks and eCourses, valued at just over $600, for the <strong>incredibly low price of $29.97!</strong> That's about .31 cents a book! This get's even better when you see all of the freebies!<br />
Yes I am excited about this!!!<br />
<br />
This library of homemaking helps include topics such as mothering, organization and cleaning, recipes and kitchen helps, home education, spiritual growth for both moms and kids, home décor and DIY, pregnancy and baby care, frugal living, health and fitness, and even work-from-home and financial tools.
To sweeten the pot, <strong>we’ve also teamed up with 10 companies to bring you over $140 in bonus offers</strong>, giving you an affordable opportunity to get products you’ll use and love for only the cost of shipping, or in some cases, entirely for free<strong>!</strong><br />
<br />
<h3>
What's Included in the Sale?</h3>
When you purchase The Ultimate Homemaking eBook collection , you will get instant access to any of the 97 eBooks and eCourses listed below.
<br />
<h4>
<em>PLUS</em> over $140 of FREE Bonuses</h4>
The Ultimate Homemaking eBook collection comes with more than $140 of FREE Bonuses from 10 companies that we know you'll love. <em>More on these bonuses below. </em><em><strong></strong></em>
<br />
<blockquote>
Please note: <strong>This collection is only available from 9 a.m. EST on April 29th to 11:59 p.m. EST on May 4th.</strong> There will be no late sales offered.</blockquote>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisaHXSDG0snHSzFPRUbSfOYVqRYiRUa6pVDzwlxKA1Rb73W-u69EoQbHPrKm9MYWM_V3y171b0FBZWwwzIK9T0AQT404N5SDVoWq722dgGiVrsftS3QKfQ0Z9QFDpH6dw6AJIYXu5GOao/s1600/home+and+prperty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisaHXSDG0snHSzFPRUbSfOYVqRYiRUa6pVDzwlxKA1Rb73W-u69EoQbHPrKm9MYWM_V3y171b0FBZWwwzIK9T0AQT404N5SDVoWq722dgGiVrsftS3QKfQ0Z9QFDpH6dw6AJIYXu5GOao/s1600/home+and+prperty.jpg" height="640" width="572" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://31daystoclean.com/buy-the-book/" target="_blank">31 Days to Clean</a> by Sarah Mae @ <a href="http://sarahmae.com/" target="_blank">SarahMae.com</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://kaysepratt.com/getting-it-together-the-ebook" target="_blank">Getting it Together: Your Guide to Setting Up a Home Management System that Works</a> by Kayse @ <a href="http://kaysepratt.com/" target="_blank">kayse pratt</a> ($3.99)
<a href="http://www.cleanmama.net/2012/12/posts-2.html" target="_blank">Pulling Yourself Together: Implementing a Cleaning Routine that Sticks</a> by Becky @ <a href="http://www.cleanmama.net/" target="_blank">Clean Mama</a> ($10.00)
<a href="http://simple30.com/" target="_blank">Simple Living</a> by Lorilee @ <a href="http://lovingsimpleliving.com/" target="_blank">Loving Simple Living</a> ($2.99)
<a href="http://theinspiredroom.net/2011/10/25/not-a-diy-diva-how-to-create-an-authentically-inspired-life-in-a-pinterest-world/" target="_blank">NOT a DIY Diva</a> by Melissa @ <a href="http://theinspiredroom.net/" target="_blank">The Inspired Room</a> ($3.99)
<a href="http://simplemom.net/one-bite-at-a-time/">One Bite at a Time: 52 Projects for Making Life Simpler</a> by Tsh @ <a href="http://simplemom.net/" target="_blank">Simple Mom</a> ($5.00)
<a href="http://www.aslobcomesclean.com/28-days-to-hope-for-your-home/" target="_blank">28 Days to Hope for your Home</a> by Dana @ <a href="http://www.aslobcomesclean.com/" target="_blank">A Slob Comes Clean</a> ($5.00)
<a href="http://lifeasmom.com/organizing-life-as-mom-redesigned-and-updated-ebook" target="_blank">Organizing Life as Mom</a> by Jessica @ <a href="http://lifeasmom.com/" target="_blank">Life as Mom</a> ($9.00)
<a href="http://www.jennimullinix.com/clean-enough-ebook/" target="_blank">Clean Enough: Simple Solutions for the Overwhelmed</a> by Jenni @ <a href="http://blog.jennimullinix.com/" target="_blank">Live Called</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://lisawoodruff.net/10-steps-to-org-paper/" target="_blank">10 Steps to Organized Paper</a> by Lisa @ <a href="http://lisawoodruff.net/" target="_blank">Lisa Woodruff.net</a>($5.00)
<a href="http://www.thehandmadehome.net/handmadewalls/">Handmade Walls</a> by Jamin and Ashley @ <a href="http://www.thehandmadehome.net/">the handmade home</a> ($9.95)
<a href="http://www.goodolddaysfarm.com/easychorechart/" target="_blank">Easy Peasy Chores: An Easy-to-Use Chore System That Brings JOY Back Into Family Chores</a> by Alina Joy @ <a href="http://www.goodolddaysfarm.com/">The Good Old Days Farm</a> ($17.99)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJO4gIfRUKEO29JV9PxaIq9Zedg3UEscyGA7HSsSUKlhyphenhyphenVZQ7VMX4nT1L9qXwVsL2ha1YHWKrtFE-UT3yDXR7aODPcNmi51pBOZx4rrRjPMSY5W921Idlc3ABXZCXzcKML9YUhc7za_I/s1600/educational+kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJO4gIfRUKEO29JV9PxaIq9Zedg3UEscyGA7HSsSUKlhyphenhyphenVZQ7VMX4nT1L9qXwVsL2ha1YHWKrtFE-UT3yDXR7aODPcNmi51pBOZx4rrRjPMSY5W921Idlc3ABXZCXzcKML9YUhc7za_I/s1600/educational+kids.jpg" height="640" width="572" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.underthegoldenappletree.com/p/little-apples-school.html">Princess Training</a> by Richele @ <a href="http://www.underthegoldenappletree.com/">Under the Golden Apple Tree</a> ($3.99)
<a href="http://www.underthegoldenappletree.com/p/little-apples-school.html">The Armor of God</a> by Richele @ <a href="http://www.underthegoldenappletree.com/">Under the Golden Apple Tree</a> ($2.50)
<a href="http://www.underthegoldenappletree.com/p/little-apples-school.html">My Bedtime Learning Book</a> by Richele @ <a href="http://www.underthegoldenappletree.com/">Under the Golden Apple Tree</a> ($1.00)
<a href="http://www.generationcedar.com/main/our-products/ebooks">Think Outside the Classroom</a> by Kelly @ <a href="http://www.generationcedar.com/">Generation Cedar</a> ($6.97)
<a href="http://www.1plus1plus1equals1.com/store.html">Raising Rock Stars — Kindergarten Bundle</a> by Carissa @ <a href="http://www.1plus1plus1equals1.net/">1plus1plus1equals1</a> ($10.00)
<a href="http://roadto31.blogspot.com/p/godly-girls-curriculum.html">The ABC's For Godly Boys Curriculum</a> by Lindsey @ <a href="http://roadto31.blogspot.com/">Road to 31</a> ($8.00)
<a href="http://roadto31.blogspot.com/p/godly-girls-curriculum.html">The ABC's For Godly Girls Curriculum</a> by Lindsey @ <a href="http://roadto31.blogspot.com/">Road to 31</a> ($8.00)
<a href="http://store.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/">K4 Curriculum</a> by Erica @ <a href="http://www.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/">Confessions of a Homeschooler</a> ($15.00)
<a href="http://intoxicatedonlife.com/copywork-printables-write-through-the-bible/">Write Through the Bible (print)</a> by Trisha @ <a href="http://intoxicatedonlife.com/">Intoxicated on Life</a> ($5.00)
<a href="http://intoxicatedonlife.com/copywork-printables-write-through-the-bible/">Write Through the Bible (cursive)</a> by Trisha @ <a href="http://intoxicatedonlife.com/">Intoxicated on Life</a> ($5.00)
<a href="http://reluctantentertainer.com/balcony-girls-e-book/" target="_blank">Balcony Girls (books 1 & 2)</a> by Sandy @ <a href="http://reluctantentertainer.com/">Reluctant Entertainer</a> ($19.90)
<a href="http://thedigforkids.com/">The Dig for Kids: Luke (Volumes 1 and 2)</a> by Patrick, husband of Ruth @ <a href="http://www.thebettermom.com/">The Better Mom</a> ($5.98)
<a href="http://www.resoundschool.com/music-an-essential-ingredient-for-life" target="_blank">Music: An Essential Ingredient for Life</a> by Ryan @ <a href="http://www.resoundschool.com/">Resound School of Music</a> ($6.99)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkm9jmMAmXxud7zfV5twD51fH9rwicMEo0H1b0NrthUaGrfjGj3ZgWBq8cb2W1rBMdJYlF-eYn2zXGKIdqUeBFNNj4EbtXobcD3w3le_WmnKRohYmKh99HeExL0sJpmzyrNBr_IfteVY/s1600/budgeting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkm9jmMAmXxud7zfV5twD51fH9rwicMEo0H1b0NrthUaGrfjGj3ZgWBq8cb2W1rBMdJYlF-eYn2zXGKIdqUeBFNNj4EbtXobcD3w3le_WmnKRohYmKh99HeExL0sJpmzyrNBr_IfteVY/s1600/budgeting.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.debtortobetter.com/the-book/">From Debtor to Better</a> by Barry @ <a href="http://www.debtortobetter.com/">From Debtor to Better</a> ($10.00)
<a href="http://amylynnandrews.com/tell-your-time/">Tell Your Time</a> by Amy @ <a href="http://amylynnandrews.com/">Blogging with Amy</a> ($2.99)
<a href="http://www.raisingarrows.net/the-homemakers-guide-to-creating-the-perfect-schedule/">The Homemakers Guide to Creating the Perfect Schedule</a> by <a href="http://www.raisingarrows.net/">Amy @ Raising Arrows</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://authenticsimplicity.net/yourgrocerybudgettoolbox/">Your Grocery Budget Toolbox</a> by Anne @ <a href="http://authenticsimplicity.net/">Authentic Simplicity</a> ($7.99)
<a href="http://www.generationcedar.com/main/our-products/ebooks">Finding Financial Freedom</a> by Kelly @ <a href="http://www.generationcedar.com/">Generation Cedar</a> ($5.97)
<a href="http://www.theconfidentmom.com/services/classes-products/frugalita-ebook/">Become a Frugalista in 30 Days</a> by Susan @ <a href="http://www.theconfidentmom.com/">The Confident Mom</a> ($3.99)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDykqWtzf9RkPwbtnL4fKhB__h5var2DMnUARTIZ9N0xDOPlMUvFICLYCtp3sP9X7GChPETiqiwbRW5XeNZ67AaWJWTWL4C5aW0NNQBvsTFsSh4OfYeeqZGwER-tOh9BdYZOY8ZyOiqfg/s1600/in+the+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDykqWtzf9RkPwbtnL4fKhB__h5var2DMnUARTIZ9N0xDOPlMUvFICLYCtp3sP9X7GChPETiqiwbRW5XeNZ67AaWJWTWL4C5aW0NNQBvsTFsSh4OfYeeqZGwER-tOh9BdYZOY8ZyOiqfg/s1600/in+the+kitchen.jpg" height="640" width="572" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.stacymakescents.com/crockon">Crock On</a> by Stacy @ <a href="http://www.stacymakescents.com/">Stacy Makes Cents</a> ($5.00)
<a href="http://thehumbledhomemaker.com/my-ebooks">Real Food, Real Easy</a> by various bloggers @ <a href="http://thehumbledhomemaker.com/">The Humbled Homemaker</a> ($9.95)
<a href="http://www.littlenaturalcottage.com/cottage-mama-ebooks-shoppe/wholesome-mixes/">Wholesome Mixes</a> by Kristy @ <a href="http://www.littlenaturalcottage.com/">Little Natural Cottage</a> ($4.00)
<a href="http://intentionalbygrace.com/20-minute-meals-giving-weary-chefs-grace-while-keeping-families-healthy/">20-Minute Meals by</a> Leigh Ann @ <a href="http://intentionalbygrace.com/">Intentional by Grace</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://www.nourishingjoy.com/restocking-the-pantry/">Restocking the Pantry</a> by Kresha @ <a href="http://www.nourishingjoy.com/">Nourishing Joy</a> ($9.99)
<a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/13857891478923475-2">Money Saving Mom's Guide to Freezer Cooking</a> by Crystal @ <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/">Money Saving Mom</a> ($3.99)
<a href="http://www.modernalternativemama.com/store/simply-summer/#.UV4-8pOTiSp">Simply Summer</a> by Kate @ <a href="http://www.modernalternativemama.com/">Modern Alternative Mama</a> ($7.95)
<a href="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/do-the-funky-kitchen-ebook-2">Do the Funky Kitchen</a> by Laura @ <a href="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/">Heavenly Homemakers</a> ($4.95)
<a href="http://gnowfglins.com/ecourse/realfoodkidsebook">Real Food Kids: In the Kitchen</a> plus 1 month access to select Real Food Kids eCourse videos by Wardeh @ <a href="http://gnowfglins.com/">GNOWFGLINS</a> and Jami @ <a href="http://eatnourishing.com/" target="_blank">Eat Nourishing</a> ($20.00)
<a href="http://www.spain-in-iowa.com/">Seasonal Menu Plans on a Budget: A Month of Meals from My Humble Kitchen to Yours</a> by Diana @ <a href="http://www.spain-in-iowa.com/">My Humble Kitchen</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://just-making-noise.blogspot.com/p/just-making-ebooks.html" target="_blank">Just Making Ice Cream</a> by Marillyn @ <a href="http://just-making-noise.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Just Making Noise</a> ($12.00)
<a href="http://www.handypantry.com/freebook" target="_blank">The Curative Kitchen</a> by Susan @ <a href="http://www.handypantry.com/" target="_blank">Handy Pantry</a> ($20.00)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieFjRTzUPiA0nCfyDFTcYu2PRL6oVMKo88T1eVF1kP71Y3p5uitZrjCsHPdbcthJj6wV7zRrRCC-OQ55oBh6gn9WIzBvRgP0GN0sE0k2Vh0MvC6qJbyclQS8PdgWXxq3pX47XoEPiWKl0/s1600/pregnancy+and+babycare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieFjRTzUPiA0nCfyDFTcYu2PRL6oVMKo88T1eVF1kP71Y3p5uitZrjCsHPdbcthJj6wV7zRrRCC-OQ55oBh6gn9WIzBvRgP0GN0sE0k2Vh0MvC6qJbyclQS8PdgWXxq3pX47XoEPiWKl0/s1600/pregnancy+and+babycare.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://firstbitesbook.com/">First Bites</a> by Hilary @ <a href="http://www.accidentallygreen.com/">Accidentally Green</a> ($9.99)
<a href="http://thehumbledhomemaker.com/cloth-diaper-convert" target="_blank">Confessions of a Cloth Diaper Convert</a> by Erin @ <a href="http://thehumbledhomemaker.com/" target="_blank">The Humbled Homemaker</a> ($9.95)
<a href="http://www.yourthrivingfamily.com/2013/03/your-guide-to-stress-free-baby-shower.html" target="_blank">Stress-Free Baby Shower</a> by Sara @ <a href="http://www.yourthrivingfamily.com/" target="_blank">Your Thriving Family</a> ($4.00)
<a href="http://unboundbirth.com/store/" target="_blank">Unbound Birth</a> by Jenny @ <a href="http://thesoutherninstitute.com/" target="_blank">The Southern Institute</a> ($2.99)
<a href="http://simplydesigns.org/products/my-pregnancy-journey-a-printable-journal-and-planner/" target="_blank">My Pregnancy Journey</a> by Mindy @ <a href="http://simplydesigns.org/" target="_blank">Simply Designs</a> ($9.99)
<a href="http://www.hardlotion.com/ebook/" target="_blank">My Buttered Life Baby Edition</a> by Renee @ <a href="http://www.hardlotion.com/" target="_blank">Made On Hard Lotion</a> ($5.00)
<a href="http://www.theminimalistmom.com/book/" target="_blank">The Minimalist Mom’s Guide to Baby’s First Year</a> by Rachel @ <a href="http://www.theminimalistmom.com/" target="_blank">The Minimalist Mom</a> ($5.00)
<a href="http://redeemingchildbirth.com/free-downloads/reader-only/" target="_blank">Redeeming Childbirth: Growth & Study Guide</a> by Angie @ <a href="http://redeemingchildbirth.com/" target="_blank">Redeeming Childbirth</a> ($3.99)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiurDILE-DZ8jQe3PhPmIBsJuUi46EgQU527SuHC6pLUwEBEtxF3OwyxhzQIggVfhqgdTpoxQA7QpEZ0DzQAGq91zCrrcUAWbjT3_7B2Gw4EXTmru1zxIpZmd1OmWkefBepYaFttUC400U/s1600/holidays+events.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiurDILE-DZ8jQe3PhPmIBsJuUi46EgQU527SuHC6pLUwEBEtxF3OwyxhzQIggVfhqgdTpoxQA7QpEZ0DzQAGq91zCrrcUAWbjT3_7B2Gw4EXTmru1zxIpZmd1OmWkefBepYaFttUC400U/s1600/holidays+events.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.modernalternativemama.com/festive-traditions/?ap_id=jillmarks#.UWxTkbWTiSp" target="_blank">Festive Traditions</a> by Jill @ <a href="http://www.modernalternativemama.com/" target="_blank">Modern Alternative Kitchen</a> ($7.95)
<a href="http://www.littlenaturalcottage.com/cottage-mama-ebooks-shoppe/holiday-mixes-gifts-in-a-jar/" target="_blank">Holiday Mixes: Gifts in a Jar</a> by Kristy @ <a href="http://www.littlenaturalcottage.com/" target="_blank">Little Natural Cottage</a> ($4.00)
<a href="http://frugalgranola.com/books/flourishing-spring/" target="_blank">Flourishing Spring</a> by Michele @ <a href="http://frugalgranola.com/" target="_blank">Frugal Granola</a> ($5.95)
<a href="http://www.kitchenstewardship.com/ebooks-at-kitchen-stewardship/" target="_blank">Family Camping Handbook</a> by Katie @ <a href="http://www.kitchenstewardship.com/" target="_blank">Kitchen Stewardship</a> ($6.95)
<a href="http://truthinthetinsel.com/buy-the-book/" target="_blank">Truth in the Tinsel</a> by Amanda @ <a href="http://ohamanda.com/" target="_blank">Oh, Amanda!</a> ($7.99)
<a href="http://www.givinguponperfect.com/plan-a-fabulous-party/" target="_blank">Plan a Fabulous Party</a> by Mary @ <a href="http://www.givinguponperfect.com/" target="_blank">Giving Up on Perfect</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://store.alliworthington.com/iphone-photography-the-visual-guide/" target="_blank">iPhone Photography: The Visual Guide</a> by Alli @ <a href="http://about.alliworthington.com/" target="_blank">Alli Worthington</a>($9.97)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguozj2Yv2tKCiXOdJn7Ok_bW-uvgbrEovJrzOg7f5Ph11eMGwW3u1ko4bSkeoSAHasYymJRjOVuJJZe8Tqq_xBzbnK__qJgHN3A9KNWE_Zjqhm2wsMcGvvSvsxjwFgQgSNUSnQ2Nv_gdg/s1600/spiritual+path.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguozj2Yv2tKCiXOdJn7Ok_bW-uvgbrEovJrzOg7f5Ph11eMGwW3u1ko4bSkeoSAHasYymJRjOVuJJZe8Tqq_xBzbnK__qJgHN3A9KNWE_Zjqhm2wsMcGvvSvsxjwFgQgSNUSnQ2Nv_gdg/s1600/spiritual+path.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://amybayliss.com/pursuit-of-proverbs-31-bible-study-and-inspiration/" target="_blank">Pursuit of the Proverbs 31</a> by Amy @ <a href="http://amybayliss.com/" target="_blank">Amy Bayliss</a> ($3.99)
<a href="http://www.visionarywomanhood.com/the-best-of-visionary-womanhood-volume-one/" target="_blank">The Best of Visionary Womanhood</a> by Natalie @ <a href="http://www.visionarywomanhood.com/" target="_blank">Visionary Womanhood</a> ($5.00)
<a href="http://www.thepurposefulmom.com/p/gods-word-in-my-heart.html" target="_blank">God’s Word in my Heart: A Scripture Memory Learning Guide with Verses {all 4 versions}</a> by Jenn @ <a href="http://www.thepurposefulmom.com/" target="_blank">The Purposeful Mom</a> ($3.99)
<a href="http://quenchbible.com/bible-studies/kept/" target="_blank">Kept: a 13-Week Inductive Study on 1 Peter</a> by Lara and Katie @ <a href="http://quenchbible.com/" target="_blank">Quench Bible</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://quenchbible.com/bible-studies/love-like-him/" target="_blank">Love Like Him: an 8 week Inductive Bible study on 1 Corinthians 13</a><strong></strong> by Lara and Katie @ <a href="http://quenchbible.com/" target="_blank">Quench Bible</a> ($2.99)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryhwW5zag1dRI_0O52p-6QgPxwm3pK20vdTQsn0MCNgX2B0cQAiNmBnArV2CBYpsYQ2vPaRXEkRly5H70vH6fBSk0L_8WqpkXU4OJ5FLQ1XwU_KWb7_ERe0gVd1P66x-QMFs5sN9ZlW8/s1600/marriage+and+romance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryhwW5zag1dRI_0O52p-6QgPxwm3pK20vdTQsn0MCNgX2B0cQAiNmBnArV2CBYpsYQ2vPaRXEkRly5H70vH6fBSk0L_8WqpkXU4OJ5FLQ1XwU_KWb7_ERe0gVd1P66x-QMFs5sN9ZlW8/s1600/marriage+and+romance.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://youngwifesguide.com/rekindling-romance-ebooklet-printables-kit/" target="_blank">Rekindling Romance</a> by Jason & Jami @ <a href="http://abiblicalmarriage.com/" target="_blank">A Biblical Marriage</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://time-warp-wife.blogspot.com/2012/03/good-wifes-guide.html" target="_blank">Good Wife’s Guide</a> by Darlene @ <a href="http://time-warp-wife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Time-Warp Wife</a> ($2.99)
<a href="http://31daystopray.com/buy-the-book/" target="_blank">31 Days to Build a Better Spouse</a> by Ashley @ <a href="http://ashleypichea.com/" target="_blank">Ashley Pichea</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://tolovehonorandvacuum.com/2012/11/31-days-to-great-sex-is-here/" target="_blank">31 Days to Great Sex</a> by Sheila @ <a href="http://tolovehonorandvacuum.com/" target="_blank">To Love, Honor and Vacuum</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://entangledbook.com/" target="_blank">Entangled: Recognize Your Emotional Affair</a> by Amy @ <a href="http://www.amyjbennett.com/" target="_blank">Amy J. Bennett</a> ($4.99)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bHK1idQAqdnGde_DemCGlV_LuA3J0uB9scNn3HuT2ZZY62IGJ1fAqM2_6YzYjin_SiVf12ycKnj6hyrSpoqNx8zx3PACR73XNvyRD5MXDzjhDNTL6mJR0UUiy4U6HdgDxq69KiroqcE/s1600/motherhood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bHK1idQAqdnGde_DemCGlV_LuA3J0uB9scNn3HuT2ZZY62IGJ1fAqM2_6YzYjin_SiVf12ycKnj6hyrSpoqNx8zx3PACR73XNvyRD5MXDzjhDNTL6mJR0UUiy4U6HdgDxq69KiroqcE/s1600/motherhood.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theheartofsimplicity.com/purchase/" target="_blank">The Heart of Simplicity</a> by various authors @ <a href="http://www.theheartofsimplicity.com/" target="_blank">The Heart of Simplicity</a> ($9.99)
<a href="http://www.truechristianmotherhood.com/p/buy-book.html" target="_blank">True Christian Motherhood</a> by June @ <a href="http://www.awisewomanbuildsherhome.com/" target="_blank">A Wise Woman Builds Her Home</a> ($7.00)
<a href="http://www.hulahoopgirl.net/" target="_blank">Hula Hoop Girl</a> by September @ <a href="http://www.septembermccarthy.com/" target="_blank">One September Day</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://www.generationcedar.com/main/our-products/ebooks" target="_blank">When Motherhood Feels Too Hard</a> by Kelly @ <a href="http://www.generationcedar.com/" target="_blank">Generation Cedar</a> ($4.97)
<a href="http://mindsetformoms.com/buy-the-book/" target="_blank">Mindset for Moms</a> by Jamie @ <a href="http://www.steadymom.com/" target="_blank">Steady Days</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://www.cube2farm.com/ebook/" target="_blank">From Cube to Farm</a> by Heather @ <a href="http://www.cube2farm.com/" target="_blank">From Cube to Farm</a> ($2.99)
<a href="http://4moms35kids.com/4-moms-of-35-kids-answer-your-parenting-questions-ebook-sale/" target="_blank">4 Moms of 35+ Kids Answer Your Parenting Questions</a> by various authors @ <a href="http://4moms35kids.com/" target="_blank">4 Moms, 35+ Kids Parenting E-book</a> ($7.99)
<a href="http://thatworksfor.me/buy/" target="_blank">That Works for Me!</a> by Kristen @ <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/" target="_blank">We are THAT Family</a> ($8.00)</div>
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</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVA9DvnP9hfeRyhwlBVKFRZnnKa6PWgHFIrGCTOt4QI7NirWHcWx1Dg5RVK_klfQKkDBFvs4fTE26wfI822Md22P6tk-rvtg0ztq8g7zqWXk7GqyAdZKqWVMEjIt_HB-qeuIaN_gkgPOk/s1600/health+fitness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVA9DvnP9hfeRyhwlBVKFRZnnKa6PWgHFIrGCTOt4QI7NirWHcWx1Dg5RVK_klfQKkDBFvs4fTE26wfI822Md22P6tk-rvtg0ztq8g7zqWXk7GqyAdZKqWVMEjIt_HB-qeuIaN_gkgPOk/s1600/health+fitness.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/100-Pound-Loser-Control-ebook/dp/B009UKX7HY/" target="_blank">100-pound Loser</a> by Jessica @ <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jessica.M.Heights">Muthering Heights</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/honoring-the-rhythm-of-rest/" target="_blank">Honoring the Rhythm of Rest</a> by Danielle @ <a href="http://www.domesticserenity.org/" target="_blank">Domestic Serenity</a> ($2.99)
<a href="http://42daystofit.com/books/" target="_blank">42 Days to Fit</a> by Brandy @ <a href="http://themarathonmom.com/" target="_blank">The Marathon Mom</a>, Emma @ <a href="http://realfitmoms.com/" target="_blank">Real Fit Moms</a> and Stacy @ <a href="http://adelightfulhome.com/" target="_blank">A Delightful Home</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/my-books/my-ebook-healthy-homemaking" target="_blank">Healthy Homemaking</a> by Stephanie @ <a href="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/" target="_blank">Keeper of the Home</a> ($12.95)
<a href="http://www.listplanit.com/store/eplanners/personal-eplanner/" target="_blank">Personal ePlanner</a> by Jennifer @ <a href="https://www.listplanit.com/" target="_blank">ListPlanIt</a> ($5.00)</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeseI7kSj-RlqJVCVoCOp8SBi5r6hz2APYbXLI9ew7mcQ6jy5LoksaTuPqBcizRDFWMy6Jsiqh92zEgACP6Pegj7vBbEO3z0O46zKIuF8MBWZ3DROkTCXdIWGwOKRiaLq162O2SMrp9g/s1600/beauty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeseI7kSj-RlqJVCVoCOp8SBi5r6hz2APYbXLI9ew7mcQ6jy5LoksaTuPqBcizRDFWMy6Jsiqh92zEgACP6Pegj7vBbEO3z0O46zKIuF8MBWZ3DROkTCXdIWGwOKRiaLq162O2SMrp9g/s1600/beauty.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://frumpstopumps.com/buy-the-book-or-get-it-for-free/" target="_blank">Frumps to Pumps</a> by Sarah Mae @ <a href="http://sarahmae.com/" target="_blank">SaraMae.com</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://www.littlenaturalcottage.com/cottage-mama-ebooks-shoppe/the-cottage-mamas-diy-guide/" target="_blank">The Cottage Mama’s DIY Guide</a> by Kristy @ <a href="http://www.littlenaturalcottage.com/" target="_blank">Little Natural Cottage</a> ($4.00)
<a href="http://adelightfulhome.com/simplescrubs/" target="_blank">Simple Scrubs to Make and Give</a> by Stacy @ <a href="http://adelightfulhome.com/" target="_blank">A Delightful Home</a> ($3.99)
<a href="http://www.thenobrainerwardrobe.com/about-the-book/" target="_blank">The No Brainer Wardrobe by Hayley</a> @ <a href="http://www.thenobrainerwardrobe.com/" target="_blank">The No Brainer Wardrobe</a> ($7.99)
<a href="http://trinaholden.com/embracing-beauty/" target="_blank">Embracing Beauty</a> by Trina @ <a href="http://trinaholden.com/" target="_blank">Trina Holden</a> ($9.00)
<a href="http://www.thefrugalgirl.com/reuse-refresh-repurpose/" target="_blank">Reuse, Refresh, Repurpose</a> by Kristen @ <a href="http://www.thefrugalgirl.com/" target="_blank">The Frugal Girl</a> ($3.99)
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraxfV7xv7laLEGa9ju0UnGc3eirdqOnKqe80YrZJFSh-m-77c84PAP8JxkRcdWCrmc6EY9M_x1s_8dd1Q2JAelwNuHuE539FXzSs4VbLyqy-hHqYAglu0ag8y90W_ULsqWDuS8YGFSG8/s1600/working+at+home+blogging.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraxfV7xv7laLEGa9ju0UnGc3eirdqOnKqe80YrZJFSh-m-77c84PAP8JxkRcdWCrmc6EY9M_x1s_8dd1Q2JAelwNuHuE539FXzSs4VbLyqy-hHqYAglu0ag8y90W_ULsqWDuS8YGFSG8/s1600/working+at+home+blogging.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://christianmommyblogger.com/your-blogging-business-tax-talk-and-tips/" target="_blank">Your Blogging Business: Tax, Talk and Tips</a> by Nikki @ <a href="http://christianmommyblogger.com/" target="_blank">Christian Mommy Blogger</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://www.thebootstrapva.com/" target="_blank">The Bootstrap VA</a> by Lisa @ <a href="http://www.thehomelifeand.me/" target="_blank">The Home Life {and Me}</a> ($12.99)
<a href="http://www.growinghomeblog.com/p/how-to-grow-your-blog.html" target="_blank">How to Grow Your Blog and Manage Your Home</a> by Jacinda @ <a href="http://www.growinghomeblog.com/" target="_blank">Growing Home</a> ($4.99)
<a href="http://life.yourway.net/how-to-have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too/" target="_blank">How to Have Your Cake and Eat It, Too</a> by Mandi @ <a href="http://life.yourway.net/" target="_blank">Life Your Way</a> ($12.00)
<a href="http://simpleblogging.net/" target="_blank">Simple Blogging: Less Computer Time, Better Blogging</a> by Rachel @ <a href="http://smallnotebook.org/" target="_blank">Small Notebook</a> ($8.00)
<img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-23123" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ECourse1AdFinal21.jpg" height="300" title="ECourse1AdFinal21" width="300" /></div>
<h3>
Ecourses</h3>
<a href="http://cafe.tougas.net/products/learning-love-preschool-years" target="_blank">Learning in Love: The Preschool Years</a> by Renee @ <a href="http://fimby.tougas.net/" target="_blank">FIMBY</a> ($7.99)
<a href="http://cafe.tougas.net/products/homeschooling-heart-ages-5-8" target="_blank">Homeschooling from the Heart</a> by Renee @ <a href="http://fimby.tougas.net/" target="_blank">FIMBY</a> ($7.99)
<a href="http://groceryuniversity.com/grocery-university/" target="_blank">Grocery University</a> by Carrie @ <a href="http://coloradobargains.com/" target="_blank">Colorado Bargains</a> ($24.95)
<a href="http://www.wellgroundedsite.com/work-with-lisa/courses/" target="_blank">Vibrant Living Strategies for Moms</a> by Lisa @ <a href="http://www.wellgroundedsite.com/" target="_blank">Well-Grounded Life</a> ($59)
<a href="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/ecourses/welcome-to-heavenly-homemakers-ecourses/" target="_blank">You Can Do This! The First Five Steps to a Real Food Kitchen</a> by Laura @ <a href="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/" target="_blank">Heavenly Homemakers</a> ($5.00)
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<h3>
PLUS, You will receive FREE Bonuses from these companies...</h3>
<a href="http://fit2b.us/" target="_blank" title="Fit 2 Be Studio - Wholesome Workouts for the Whole Family"><img alt="" class="alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fit2B_Logo.png" height="75" title="Fit2B_Logo" width="75" /></a>A FREE Two-Month Membership to <a href="http://fit2b.us/" target="_blank">Fit2B Studio</a> (for new members) or $20 off a Yearly Membership (for current members), where their wholesome workouts for the whole family are <a href="http://fit2b.us/" target="_blank">tummy safe</a> and particularly target Diastasis Recti (split abs). (<strong>$19.98 value.</strong> <em>No shipping restrictions.</em>)<br />
<a href="http://www.trukid.com/" target="_blank" title="Tru Kid Natural Body Care for Kids"><img alt="" class="alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/TK_Logo-square.png" height="75" title="TK_Logo square" width="75" /></a>A $15 store credit to <a href="http://shop.trukid.com/" target="_blank">TruKid</a>. With products like their award-winning sun care, they are dedicated to providing all natural skin and hair care for kids, babies, and now pets. (<strong>$15.00 value.</strong> <em>Standard shipping applies. International shipping available.</em>)<br />
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<a href="http://www.redmondtrading.com/" target="_blank" title="Redmond Trading - Real Products for Real People"><img alt="" class="alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/RedmondIncBlack1-300x210.jpg" height="53" title="Redmond Trading Inc." width="75" /></a>Your choice of incredible natural products like sea salt and clay for FREE. Choose from the <a href="http://www.redmondtrading.com/" target="_blank">Redmond Trading</a> Earthpaste Bundle (<strong>$24.90 value</strong>) or the Facial Mud Bundle (<strong>$26.90 value)</strong>. (<em>Standard shipping applies. Continental US only.</em>)<br />
<a href="https://www.culturesforhealth.com/" target="_blank" title="Cultures for Health - Where Health Food Starts"><img alt="" class="alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/CFH_MainLogoBig-500px-150x150.jpg" height="75" title="Cultures for Health" width="75" /></a>Your choice of a <a href="http://www.culturesforhealth.com/starter-cultures/sourdough-starter.html" target="_blank" title="Sourdough Starter"><em>FREE heirloom</em> sourdough starter</a> or <a href="http://www.culturesforhealth.com/starter-cultures/yogurt-starter.html" target="_blank" title="Traditional Buttermilk Starter"><em>FREE</em> yogurt starter</a> from <a href="https://www.culturesforhealth.com/" target="_blank">Cultures for Health</a>, the leading supplier of starter cultures and supplies for making cultured and fermented foods (<strong>$12.95 value</strong><em>. US & CAN addresses only. Standard shipping applies</em>.)
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<a href="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/PlanToEat-150x150.gif"><img alt="" class=" wp-image-23024 alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/PlanToEat-150x150.gif" height="75" title="PlanToEat-150x150" width="75" /></a>Your choice of: a <strong><em>FREE</em></strong> 3-Month Subscription (for new accounts) or 30% off a One Year Subscription. <a href="http://www.plantoeat.com/" target="_blank">Plan to Eat</a> is an online menu planner that uses your recipes, scheduled for the days you want them. (<strong>$15.00 value</strong>. <em>No shipping restrictions.</em>)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/www.wheatgrasskits.com" target="_blank" title="Wheatgrass Kits - A living whole foods company"><img alt="" class="wp-image-22891 alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/WheatGrassKits.com-square.png" height="75" title="WheatGrassKits.com square" width="75" /></a>A FREE Culinary Herbs Assorted Seed Pack Check just in time for spring planting from <a href="http://www.wheatgrasskits.com/" target="_blank">www.wheatgrasskits.com</a>, a living whole foods company. (<strong>$11.95 value.</strong> <em>Standard shipping applies to all US states and territories- no international shipping for seeds.</em>)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.union28.net/" target="_blank" title="Union 28 - Marriage Apparel"><img alt="" class="alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/union-28-square-logo.png" height="75" title="union 28 square logo" width="75" /></a> Get $10 off <a href="http://www.union28.net/" target="_blank">Union28's</a> original "my husband rocks" tee. Their marriage apparel lets you celebrate your spouse in style. (<strong>$10.00 value</strong>. <em>Standard shipping rates apply. International shipping available, but free shipping only available within USA.</em>)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.beeallnatural.com/" target="_blank" title="Bee All Natural - Organic Skincare for Everyone"><img alt="" class="wp-image-22892 alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Bee-all-natural-square.jpg" height="75" title="Bee all natural square" width="75" /></a>A $10 store credit plus 1 FREE lip balm from <a href="http://www.beeallnatural.com/" target="_blank">Bee All Natural</a>. Their whole body products nourish and heal, and are made using only the highest quality, food grade, organic ingredients. (<strong>$13.49 value.</strong><em> Standard shipping applies. International shipping available.</em>)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.trilighthealth.com/" target="_blank" title="Trilight Health - Fast Acting, Great Tasting - Liquid Health Formulas"><img alt="" class="wp-image-22896 alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/TLH_LOGO_square.png" height="75" title="TLH_LOGO_square" width="75" /></a>A FREE 2 oz. bottle of your choice of liquid herbal formula from <a href="https://www.trilighthealth.com/" target="_blank">TriLight Health</a>. They specialize in fast acting, great tasting natural herbal remedies. (<strong>$12.95 value or more</strong>. <em>Standard shipping applies, within the USA only.</em>)
<br />
<div>
<a href="https://www.listplanit.com/" target="_blank" title="List PlanIt - Lists to put your world in order"><img alt="" class="alignleft" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/square-logo-150x150.jpg" height="75" title="square logo" width="75" /></a>Your choice of 3 FREE ePlanners OR a 3-Month FREE Membership to <a href="https://www.listplanit.com/" target="_blank">ListPlanIt</a>, whose mobile lists will help to organize your life. (<strong>$15.00 value</strong>. <em>No shipping restrictions.)</em></div>
<h4>
The fine print:</h4>
<strong>Bonus Offers</strong>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Each bonus offer can be redeemed once only per eBook Bundle purchase.</li>
<li>For each bonus offer, transaction numbers or proof of purchase may be required at the time of redemption.</li>
<li>All bonus offers are free gifts from the bonus sponsors, are their sole responsibility to provide, and are subject to availability.</li>
<li>All bonus offers expire at midnight on May 19th, 2013 (2 weeks from the last day of this sale).</li>
</ul>
<strong>General</strong>
<br />
<ul>
<li>It is your responsibility to <b>download and back-up your purchase within the 1-month download time-frame. </b>With proof of purchase, we can renew download links up until August 1st, 2013. After this date we will no longer have access to the books and will not be able to provide any new links to download.</li>
<li>Due to the nature of this sale, <strong>there will be no refunds available.</strong> However, <strong>we would invite you to read our <a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?ii=1231095&c=ib&aff=246575&cl=229192" target="_blank">Frequently Asked Questions page </a> </strong>to learn more about the file types, the download process, how the bonus offers work, etc.<strong></strong></li>
</ul>
<img alt="" class="alignnone wp-image-22951" src="http://www.keeperofthehome.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Buy-Now-Pink-and-Green.png" height="89" title="Buy Now Pink and Green" width="300" />
<br />
<blockquote>
Please note: <strong>This collection<strong><strong>(<---)</strong>
</strong> is only available from 9 a.m. EST on April 29th to 11:59 p.m. EST on May 4th.</strong> There will be no late sales offered, so make sure that you get your bundle right away!</blockquote>
Particularly for those wanting to read these ebooks on their mobile devices (iPhones or iPads, Android, Kindle, etc.) you will want to learn more about the file types, how to download them correctly, and how to transfer them to your device <a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?ii=1231095&c=ib&aff=246575&cl=229192" target="_blank"><b>Please click HERE</b></a><br />
<h6>
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
This post includes affiliate links, and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I </span><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 0.23in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you</span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'century gothic'; line-height: 0.23in;">.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Since this site's purpose is ministry based I decided to donate the profits I receive from the sale to charity. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> If you have any questions please do so in the comments. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Thank you for your support of this site.</span></span></h6>
</div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-83191559323322616932013-04-28T23:06:00.003-04:002013-04-29T09:58:51.861-04:00A Sneak Peek of the Ultimate Homemaking E-book Bundle Sale<br />
So this is not something I normally do, but a friend of mine, <a href="http://blog.jennimullinix.com/" target="_blank">Jenni Mullinix </a>has her awesome book in this bundle,
<a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=174968&c=ib&aff=246575" target="ejejcsingle">Clean Enough</a>. Plus there are about 6 other books I have been wanting to purchase and you guessed it... They are in this bundle!!! (Hence my excitement! I love getting a deal. Woot!)<br />
<br />
This bundle goes on sale tomorrow morning at 9am EST and will only be on sale until May 4th.<br />
<br />
I can honestly tell you I am buying it for myself. Just check out this listing of fabulous books and I think you will see why. I am already following some of their blogs and have read some of their books.( I cannot vouch for all of them as I have definitely not read all 97 books, but I am looking forward to it.)<br />
<br />
Some of the items I am especially excited about are the home school resources and the devotional studies to do with your children. I am especially excited about, The Dig, which I have already heard great things about from quite a few people.<br />
<br />
Also in my families efforts to switch to healthier, more natural meal plans, I am pumped for the cook books section. (EEP!) The ice cream cookbook (Not healthy!) and 20 minute meals are quite handy too. (Okay, so I love cooking. I really, really do.)<br />
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The list keeps going with devotionals for women, marriage, cleaning helps, home decorating, pregnancy and more. Truthfully, I am a little over-whelmed by this listing, but then I love to read and once I download them to my reader I get to take my time going through them. :)<br />
<br />
If you have questions about how to use this with your particular E-reading device Please <a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?ii=1231095&c=ib&aff=246575&cl=229192" target="_blank"><b>Click Here</b></a> for the Frequently Asked Questions page.<br />
<br />
Please, take some time and check out this list that is a hint of whats to come tomorrow. It's only on sale for one week and then I promise you won't hear a thing about it again. I normally do not have the time to review or sell things from my blog, but I thought this was worth it and I love helping to get the word out about some of my wonderful blogging friends.<br />
<br />
I hope you have a wonderful week friends, and again there is absolutely no pressure to buy any of this. (Seriously, I don't like pressure.) I just wanted to let you know about it.<br />
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<img alt="final collage" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-24788" src="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/final-collage.png" height="5659" width="578" /><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Disclosure</span><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 0.23in; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #444444;">Disclosure: </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">Starting</span><span style="color: #444444; font-size: large; line-height: 0.23in;"> o</span><span style="color: #444444; font-size: large; line-height: 0.23in;">n April 29, if you opt to purchase this bundle via a link from this site, I will receive a small percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. I am excited to tell you the Funds provided to this site through this sale will be donated towards charity. (Since my site is for ministry purposes, I wanted to keep it that way by using the profits for ministry.) Of course, you are never obligated to make a purchase. Thank you!</span><span style="color: #444444; font-size: large; line-height: 0.23in;"> </span></span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-69427591248560411462013-04-26T18:04:00.001-04:002013-04-26T18:04:50.443-04:00Blog Issues, Updates, and... Hey! The Sun is Actually Shining!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYstt_uMEbNEipSoDrxtLunNeOAxA_OvQRv6WAfDrK1e8HhxrDihRpEe4nSseNLUCNTKVUmBYtR0MWzwm6RHpT686r25O7FwM85qBemHhT8IHgpwgi24DWYcgBMZ7WzwCdUvShCgR-TRk/s1600/PICT0289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYstt_uMEbNEipSoDrxtLunNeOAxA_OvQRv6WAfDrK1e8HhxrDihRpEe4nSseNLUCNTKVUmBYtR0MWzwm6RHpT686r25O7FwM85qBemHhT8IHgpwgi24DWYcgBMZ7WzwCdUvShCgR-TRk/s1600/PICT0289.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hi Everyone!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Well, I have to apologize for I have been a bit quiet on here the last 2 weeks. Mainly due to some issues I am having with Disqus. They promised "seamless integration with any platform" on their website, but this apparently does not apply to mine. ("Argh!" does not begin to cover it.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> My comments have returned to me in utter discord. They are completely out of order and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">because of this,</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> sound a bit nonsensical now.(In other words...my replies to other people's comments sometimes appear all in a row like I am having imaginary conversations with myself on my own blog.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> Disqus and I have been communicating and I truly hope they can fix it, but so far they are not being very helpful. :P</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I will keep you posted. (Seriously, they need warning labels on their site.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moving on...</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOnPT3HMrrsRy3fU59mfGHZR_VQUUOinqj_44kpXH_hgyu29V54xdmcqFP_aJCKgIBJJD_a6HSu_2UPoX2axVGv5YcY22ZxtvqkrUT9c5pDJo-u7aymyLPb-FEK4sIr8qyKssHk-R5Ps/s1600/P1040220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOnPT3HMrrsRy3fU59mfGHZR_VQUUOinqj_44kpXH_hgyu29V54xdmcqFP_aJCKgIBJJD_a6HSu_2UPoX2axVGv5YcY22ZxtvqkrUT9c5pDJo-u7aymyLPb-FEK4sIr8qyKssHk-R5Ps/s1600/P1040220.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am happy to tell you that I am still on the adventure of doing <a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/books.htm" target="_blank">Seven</a>. (A book that encourages a mutiny against excess.) Some of the fab chickies from our youth group have also joined in. They have been a huge encouragement to me. I have now done the food fast twice, the clothing fast and our whole family did the media fast. (Pssss... We are about to start a mutiny against <i>Stress</i>, if you would like to join us.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When I get some more time I will have to write out some posts on it. I can tell you this, at the start of each fast I am nervous about the craziness that is about to ensue, but by the end of each one I absolutely desire it to become a way of life for myself and our family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you<a href="http://jenhatmaker.com/" target="_blank"> Jen Hatmaker</a> we are wrecked for normal in the best possible way. ;)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LxQ0iYq5RSzyHs2K2bQadJil4kMv3Zgw9a8yW1u15zaUeHK0K_z2-sEsiakPein3ZfpHKQJjwB6MLMpciBXuujBetqDVYHD0DBzqmgMfTfGvHGtukrndZcmfWoJp2JO-brbbDcfWqLI/s1600/251761_10151420597923289_2069102383_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6LxQ0iYq5RSzyHs2K2bQadJil4kMv3Zgw9a8yW1u15zaUeHK0K_z2-sEsiakPein3ZfpHKQJjwB6MLMpciBXuujBetqDVYHD0DBzqmgMfTfGvHGtukrndZcmfWoJp2JO-brbbDcfWqLI/s1600/251761_10151420597923289_2069102383_n.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And on that note I have never been one who is okay with normal anyways. The last 2 years have been nothing if not a time of the Lord opening our eyes to His Word like never before. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He has been turning things upside down and then right side up again and it's a beautiful kind of mess that has ensued. What an amazing adventure and blessing it has been. I am excited to see whats next. My God, You rock!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDluEKnhQk1ny5w5amhiN_ERqpSL3DugXV31awN9EZyfvp1LscDFA0pqivSrjN0ZZ371R01mA2eOXBqrFwkT1brvMHY_K9dEZrAO42JxAHDXxyiuOUnTi_SO1HsCqLXMviT_ifgXD9mp4/s1600/solo+tree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDluEKnhQk1ny5w5amhiN_ERqpSL3DugXV31awN9EZyfvp1LscDFA0pqivSrjN0ZZ371R01mA2eOXBqrFwkT1brvMHY_K9dEZrAO42JxAHDXxyiuOUnTi_SO1HsCqLXMviT_ifgXD9mp4/s1600/solo+tree.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh and one more thing...The sun is actually shining!?! This is a big deal for us. It has been raining and raining and raining and ...Well you get the idea. ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Time to get out with my kids and go for an adventure! Bike rides, sidewalk chalk art, and climbing a tree...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How are you doing?</span><br />
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-72149633493729995752013-04-15T13:42:00.000-04:002013-04-17T10:33:03.846-04:00Dirty Laundry, Spit, & Fallen Idols...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygmWH47Ynur3RkW7a8s9712u2R3XsrxXimfroakWxZkg8faXwFZNvJxk31BvdsCssOMrYRLlQg4hGvH8KDCZbZXgv-4fhjdvfeCkz2JP0mi3mTOILNtJ0mq4lWdDoRkc-FJOpqrr5dv8/s1600/P1040984-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygmWH47Ynur3RkW7a8s9712u2R3XsrxXimfroakWxZkg8faXwFZNvJxk31BvdsCssOMrYRLlQg4hGvH8KDCZbZXgv-4fhjdvfeCkz2JP0mi3mTOILNtJ0mq4lWdDoRkc-FJOpqrr5dv8/s1600/P1040984-001.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">Oooooh! Oh no, it' going to fall!” </span>
</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">We
excitedly exclaimed as my daring young daughter stealthily removed the wooden game block from the tottering tower and placed it at the
top. </span>
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<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">There
was a collective and audible sigh as the tower, still rocking from her
move and its ever diminishing foundation finally
stilled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">This
simple children's game reminds me of how we tend to lift and revere
certain people up in our lives. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">He speaks so passionately. He is just amazing... I would follow him and his preaching where-ever he goes.”</span></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“This author's<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;"> writing is breathtakingly brilliant. If only I could write like that...”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">She
is so real, with her talks about dirt on the floors and crazy kid
moments. She's so pretty and fun... I wish I could be like
her.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">And
there they are...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">Our
tendencies to lift these people up. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Polishing
them with a cloth and placing them high for all to see on a
beautifully gilded pedestal of our own design...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">And
then I hear the shocking words of a good friend of mine pop into my
head,</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">I
think I need to spit on you now and just get this over with.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">She
was responding to a woman gushing over her and praising her talents
as a Bible teacher and speaker.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">She
noted the sincere woman's words went far beyond encouragement and
were trickling into a lofty ideal she knew she couldn't possibly live
up to.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Isn't
it true though?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Eventually
people will let you down. Sometimes in direct proportion to how high
the pedestal is in which we set them on...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'DejaVu Serif', serif; font-size: large;">Is
it any wonder God had to utter this reminder to His people again and
again?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Exodus
20:2-4</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">“<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">I
am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land
of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not
make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or
on the earth beneath or in the waters below.”</span></span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'DejaVu Serif', serif; font-size: large;">Lifting
them up on this pedestal is making them our idol.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Like
my sweet children's game of wooden blocks, we detract from our foundation in
Christ in an effort to place these people ever higher on tottering
towers.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">We
become as the Israelites, choosing to stumble down into the ever
welcoming trap of slavery yet again. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;"><span style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">W</span>illingly,
we shackle ourselves to the binding chains of comparison. </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Our
outlooks imprisoned to strive for an image we never can, nor ever
should, try to be.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">And
when our lovely idols spit on us? </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">When
their dirty laundry is exposed for all to see and their tottering
tower leans too far from the weight of our expectations?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">When
it breaks and crumbles to the ground?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif;">We
discover we are stumbling in a downward spiral with them... </span>
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Feeling
betrayed and broken.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Haven't we all been there at some point or another?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Let us remember,</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;">Galatians
5:1</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>"</b><i>It
is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then, and do
not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.<b>"</b></i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Who
are you lifting high today?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: DejaVu Serif, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Linking with these fabulous places... <a href="http://www.create-with-joy.com/2013/04/inspire-me-monday-week-67.html" target="_blank">Inspire Me Mondays</a>, <a href="http://www.findingheaventoday.com/" target="_blank">Soli Deo Gloria Party</a>, <a href="http://www.lauraboggess.com/2013/04/playdates-with-god-haircut.html" target="_blank">Playdates With God</a>, <a href="http://www.janiscox.com/wednesdays-word-shepherd/" target="_blank">Wednesday's Word</a></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-74642933846480486212013-03-30T23:47:00.001-04:002013-04-08T23:48:11.424-04:00And this is Where my heart breaks...Part 2. there is hope.<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">Sticks
and Stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me…</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh
I used to sing that little ditty, but oh mama... It was not true.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
have scars from words that have lasted far longer than the bruises
and scrapes I got into as a child.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="color: black;">I
have been sharing about the damage that labels can have in our lives.
This stemmed from an over night youth girls only event that we
recently had at our church. If you feel a bit lost while reading
this, it might help if you read the previous post, "<a href="http://awaken2life.blogspot.com/2013/03/and-this-is-where-my-heart-breaks.html">And
this is Where my heart breaks...</a>"</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMYwu5H2nhedhyzuj8zCo5cFbawcxIvz4kb_O7EdoHCAqvjtkX_dftiBtpnHfiQnCAUETOKifwU0Hblltw0-p0pxOuPNHwKCtqf5v4r2INg_aOIFZOQ4UMO0hJ5MpQRuXh-793FLmVBvk/s1600/P1040849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMYwu5H2nhedhyzuj8zCo5cFbawcxIvz4kb_O7EdoHCAqvjtkX_dftiBtpnHfiQnCAUETOKifwU0Hblltw0-p0pxOuPNHwKCtqf5v4r2INg_aOIFZOQ4UMO0hJ5MpQRuXh-793FLmVBvk/s1600/P1040849.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
have a confession to make…</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">Each
time I stare at these blasted stones with their crushing words of </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">condemnation my eyes begin to tear up. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">Each one of these stones
represents a person who is living under its chains and bondage.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
find myself holding each stone and praying,</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span>
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</span>
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</span>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> “Dear God let this one know
she is loved.
</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">Let
her know she is wanted. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">That her past failures do not mean she is destined to fail forever.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">Let
this precious daughter know she is worth our time, our love, and efforts."</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Can
you imagine these being the defining labels in your life?
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY543Z6sv9PGiKQX5vmDvpHmNcYsjcI-C_j9gs92tPR8gjeTuc4Xr5fyQIoFpxTGu43T_3nYVcex8rqP3TP0qn8A_WY-86GtQ7tuH_ZxH3BIomiufNYXi0_qRjEQGQk20yensNYzLBIDk/s1600/P1040787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY543Z6sv9PGiKQX5vmDvpHmNcYsjcI-C_j9gs92tPR8gjeTuc4Xr5fyQIoFpxTGu43T_3nYVcex8rqP3TP0qn8A_WY-86GtQ7tuH_ZxH3BIomiufNYXi0_qRjEQGQk20yensNYzLBIDk/s640/P1040787.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have
you been there? Do you remember when?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I do.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And
my heart breaks and my soul cries out,
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Who
will advocate for them?
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Who
will defend their worth?
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Who
will stand in the gap?”</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">You?
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Me?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
mean we can try, but the the bill to be paid is too big for just you
and me my friends.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Except
there is someone.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
know Him, and believe me when I say He gets it... In fact
He's has been there.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">His
friends left him. They didn’t stick around when the chips began to
fall and the pressure hit. When the people yelled false accusations
at him...</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> His friends weren't there to defend his honor.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When
he was being beaten and whipped, mocked and spit upon...</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> While
people yelled for his death his friends hid in the shadows and
watched in fear. Some claimed they didn’t even know him.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As
the skin on his back was ripped away by the glass and metal barbs
connected to the end of the Roman Guard's whip, he held firm.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When
the crown with piercing thorns more than an inch long was driven into the
flesh around his head. He kept each of us in locked in His heart.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When
they threw the cross upon his back with wounds gaping open down to
the very bones, he soldiered on seeing each of our faces before him.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As
the spikes were driven between his wrists, and ankle bones connecting
him to the roughly hewn and splintered wooden cross. His blood and
love poured out forgiveness for us all.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
still find myself humbled and in awe over Jesus.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Taking on my sin, my most wretched moments, my labels, my own destructive
ways, and then He willingly paid their price putting them to death so that I could walk
free.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Me...</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Little
old me.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And
you too my friends.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And,
here is the hard part...</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He
also died for the lady who was rude to you in the store the other
day. The guy who cut you off in traffic, and even the bully in your
class who pushed you into the mud while mocking you...
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He died for t</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">he
one who is in a relationship with someone of the same sex, and the
guy who swooped in and broke up your marriage.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He
died for the druggie mom who forgot to feed her kids because she was
too stoned, and even the one who is sitting in a church pew today
thinking they have it all together because they don't look like,
“that guy”.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Amazingly, He
died for each and everyone of us so that we could be...</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">FREE</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; line-height: 150%;">Free
through Him...</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">His
life. His death. His resurrection.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">All
because He loved us. This Holy, Perfect, and Righteous God wants to
spend eternity with us. We didn't ask him to pay this price. We
definitely did not deserve this sacrifice, but He did it so that we
could have the choice...</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And
this turns me into a bleary eyed mess.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How
can I not begin to see others with God's eyes filtered through love,
grace, and truth.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
find it amazing that if we choose to live our lives for Him, and love
like Him then one day, His glorious light of truth will spread
through our love.
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Out
of the crumbling walls, and heaps of rubble and wreckage... Through
beautiful tears of repentance there springs forth a beautiful
rebellion to combat the misery and lies of this world.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It
rises up from the dirt birthed by this undeserved grace and pure
enveloping love.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Once
again Hope blooms.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">There
at the foot of the cross a new label is born from this sweet and
blessed truth.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-MJD9sXhXgnXx9LuUgSskFnWnFPQOsnwI9D7vVyteb5bJ2i534GhZ0MLzZMnlZyY5cj29y3yPZRs0P9zRWtkSsGLhnpUXNUy-eZF_JXJwpxQo6zmAtDOzwwrvuXxnOKRqjtCDc6pak8/s1600/P1040837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU-MJD9sXhXgnXx9LuUgSskFnWnFPQOsnwI9D7vVyteb5bJ2i534GhZ0MLzZMnlZyY5cj29y3yPZRs0P9zRWtkSsGLhnpUXNUy-eZF_JXJwpxQo6zmAtDOzwwrvuXxnOKRqjtCDc6pak8/s1600/P1040837.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I
am LOVED.”
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A
new cornerstone for our foundation.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“I
am Loved”</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Do
you know this my friends?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Say
it out loud with me.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I
am Loved!"</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Are
you with me friends?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We
are loved by an amazing and all powerful God and it is an everlasting and amazing love.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Isn't
it beautiful?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So
today, will you choose to see past the labels in others and listen to
their story?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Love
them right where they are at and live out love the way Jesus did?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Can
we make this choice friends to do this right now this week, and the
next, and the next, to be Jesus to others?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Will you join me?</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RxTOsQ3LDE4" width="420"></iframe><br />
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Linking with these wonderful places, take a moment and visit them... <a href="http://www.create-with-joy.com/2013/03/inspire-me-monday-week-65.html" target="_blank">Inspire Me Mondays</a>, <a href="http://www.janiscox.com/wednesdays-word-committed/" target="_blank">Wednesdays Word</a>, <a href="http://intentional.me/no-more-failure-it-all-matters/" target="_blank">Thought Provoking Thursdays</a>, <a href="http://jenniferdukeslee.com/tellhisstory-holding-the-story/" target="_blank">Telling His Story</a>, <a href="http://www.missionalwomen.com/faith-filled-friday-blog-link-up.html" target="_blank">Faith Filled Friday</a>, <a href="http://www.findingheaventoday.com/2013/04/hope-and-soli-deo-gloria-party.html" target="_blank">Soli Deo Gloria Party</a><br />
<br /></div>
</span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-33962437883228522712013-03-28T09:36:00.000-04:002013-03-29T10:47:11.983-04:00And this is where my heart breaks...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIa3LrrUTDT__dcFmTe8Mb9ssGlzN-EMurBBh-dbTowCPhjbDml4oezquW_etD4rKJsftncExq1J5rsP7DkLi7ab33l0h1Gz5XR-Sh5rVMLrheeo5SxOX_J4Fvu13NwgAdtIdCMInWXiM/s1600/P1040782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIa3LrrUTDT__dcFmTe8Mb9ssGlzN-EMurBBh-dbTowCPhjbDml4oezquW_etD4rKJsftncExq1J5rsP7DkLi7ab33l0h1Gz5XR-Sh5rVMLrheeo5SxOX_J4Fvu13NwgAdtIdCMInWXiM/s1600/P1040782.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The candle light flickered as they came to the altar. Preps and nerds, freaks and emo, rich and poor...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">From the ages of 13 to their 40's they came and on
this night these differences no longer mattered because we all shared a dark and hidden secret in
common. We all had labels, lies really, which had taken root in our lives and begun to define us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1KKnPbB4lps77rzO3or_80MbBGpFLqldONMzTfgU2MuD6B268FDQh3sechmy5eQjnFmpzCEjI4F_m5k51MDI7H1q59-wmBSL2MvJxeuuoQ9HqM6A2SRwkIWgOuDTREq05gNd_hVLKz4/s1600/P1040786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1KKnPbB4lps77rzO3or_80MbBGpFLqldONMzTfgU2MuD6B268FDQh3sechmy5eQjnFmpzCEjI4F_m5k51MDI7H1q59-wmBSL2MvJxeuuoQ9HqM6A2SRwkIWgOuDTREq05gNd_hVLKz4/s640/P1040786.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Worthless<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Shy</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Fat</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Ugly</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Stupid</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Slut</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Used, and unloved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Not worth your time...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnjLyfZcNyyKvd-zdIJZo2qhYeLvDenFtmSnowpQ04Xss5crNJ-oEal_3W6xfZg3Dy4k68kvcJDLNj6KIk0JgdhN5Q-IbVT5o7XGhqj4m0gOLvuMkn9fQmqCJ3QQL4AaH2umF0v7qCfc/s1600/P1040876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQnjLyfZcNyyKvd-zdIJZo2qhYeLvDenFtmSnowpQ04Xss5crNJ-oEal_3W6xfZg3Dy4k68kvcJDLNj6KIk0JgdhN5Q-IbVT5o7XGhqj4m0gOLvuMkn9fQmqCJ3QQL4AaH2umF0v7qCfc/s1600/P1040876.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">And the labels continued as the stones
dropped into the water. Some were written in tears and others in anger.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUe5o5YIaKkNnGDXXhPHhKzTXkIJq-aDrzFQCPEoIKrn7ofJjy9m5uTRorqNeM7CBZNeWC6eQUlLnp0nH2RxZZyJIyZKJFMZctav1_kz7YKxdPrze3HuB9_jujZjVGrmVtCDYEq_b7io/s1600/P1040878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUe5o5YIaKkNnGDXXhPHhKzTXkIJq-aDrzFQCPEoIKrn7ofJjy9m5uTRorqNeM7CBZNeWC6eQUlLnp0nH2RxZZyJIyZKJFMZctav1_kz7YKxdPrze3HuB9_jujZjVGrmVtCDYEq_b7io/s1600/P1040878.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">All were
confessed from deep wounds cut and forged by the words that came from a tongue
waging war...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlfQffTSKRoJEwfDQbnGB3mzegPKQMgeCeV09LKYTYUQMUtsnB_Os7qpyKKpmYAqwQAVXkBA_zYj_tB2VNPCvfhVUs7JdFdmvC_46tLrnK6wd6RYBrgwkZ20iUCh7WvlktKQpnG6L_Mg8/s1600/P1040871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlfQffTSKRoJEwfDQbnGB3mzegPKQMgeCeV09LKYTYUQMUtsnB_Os7qpyKKpmYAqwQAVXkBA_zYj_tB2VNPCvfhVUs7JdFdmvC_46tLrnK6wd6RYBrgwkZ20iUCh7WvlktKQpnG6L_Mg8/s1600/P1040871.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">These labels may have been based on choices
these girls and women once made, but the true travesty is when later these vicious labels took
root and defined the girl and her future. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2rGlXtmEnXVIuwsd4CmNkMVRuuDqRYepbVlQP0kmmS3_yqRy4nbaaHOnvE1p3RxNnCTT8Os-ErygEeY5T5dpVD48I9IVVzV2C2a0aoEf9S12pVMaSsIaJyJ3HaH_u1U2vCz7wrqAn_A/s1600/P1040875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2rGlXtmEnXVIuwsd4CmNkMVRuuDqRYepbVlQP0kmmS3_yqRy4nbaaHOnvE1p3RxNnCTT8Os-ErygEeY5T5dpVD48I9IVVzV2C2a0aoEf9S12pVMaSsIaJyJ3HaH_u1U2vCz7wrqAn_A/s1600/P1040875.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">These lies devoured and gorged on each one's hopes and
dreams until she had been bled dry and found hopeless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Truth was a distant echo...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3L2fO8ND7PmEDgJ2ZSAAzWu7WpbzdZ8wTmvES9lshFg65XuHdFHCRPW9W5r8F95jNPGIJy-HOfiqtP-jz8VY17b2FFOflfR6wTQnitCmWmNqOrYI-n7y_Ac-TtRIdTOjkVTy-tG_ZNQ8/s1600/P1040857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3L2fO8ND7PmEDgJ2ZSAAzWu7WpbzdZ8wTmvES9lshFg65XuHdFHCRPW9W5r8F95jNPGIJy-HOfiqtP-jz8VY17b2FFOflfR6wTQnitCmWmNqOrYI-n7y_Ac-TtRIdTOjkVTy-tG_ZNQ8/s1600/P1040857.JPG" height="510" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">What was the truth about her identity
anymore?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Words, labels, and the gossip that falls so easily from
our lips is devastating and its leprous effects are lasting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Do you realize what we are really doing though?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">We are tearing down the very handiwork of
God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">You see God labors over his precious creations daily.
Minute by minute He is carefully clearing away the rubble, and laying a sure
foundation built on His truths. Building brick by brick with care because each of these children is
one of His beautiful masterpieces.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">That’s you and me friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Yet, we are so very quick to tear each other
down through hurt, anger, revenge, and our own deep wounds. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sometimes it's someone else's foundation we choose
to wreak our havoc on and other times it can be our own. We ravage it and plant
the seeds of destruction that will soon crack the mortar and start the walls to
crumbling down when enough pressure is applied...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">And these seeds we are spewing come from one
source...the enemy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">He is a liar from the beginning, and a murderer who wants to steal our joy. He roams around this earth looking for those whom he can devour and
kill, but here is the real question for us... Do we know Jesus?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I mean do we really know Him? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Because as believers we should be following His example right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">What was His response to the ones who
wore these very labels?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%208:1-11&version=NIV" target="_blank">The Slut?</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%207:36-50&version=NIV" target="_blank">The Worthless?</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The woman caught in the very act of sleeping
with a married man. Who was grabbed from a bed still warm and then dragged out to be
publicly humiliated and stoned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jesus dismissed her accusers by pointing to the sin in all of us. He offered her forgiveness and told her to sin no more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">And the woman scoffed at for weeping over his
feet and anointing his head with oil. The one that the men in the room dismissed as a worthless
sinner...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">He called attention to her faithfulness. He
pointed out the depths of her gratefulness that led her to bravely walk into
this religiously self righteous leader's home, just to thank Jesus for His
amazing gift of grace, love, and forgiveness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">And the liar?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4urV3DPKIVzPpFMPOExPQGqomq6rajfQawyRkLgMLrMz7FI5ZlXwfQdzR6W73xiH-CKcUknmf6TFAJy3MtgoSx9P9W_WlfHSABDUx6l6A1ttkZG8WRbyHqV5-HZr22Pjarf_Em55KeAE/s1600/P1040797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4urV3DPKIVzPpFMPOExPQGqomq6rajfQawyRkLgMLrMz7FI5ZlXwfQdzR6W73xiH-CKcUknmf6TFAJy3MtgoSx9P9W_WlfHSABDUx6l6A1ttkZG8WRbyHqV5-HZr22Pjarf_Em55KeAE/s1600/P1040797.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The chief tax collector, the man people
despised because he not only collected the taxes for Rome, but was lining his
own wealthy over-flowing pockets by charging even more from the poor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Oh how the people despised him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wouldn't you?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">But, the wealthy tax collector had heard about Jesus… that Jesus was coming to his town and a deep chasm broke open within
him. He knew with every fiber of his being he had to see this mysterious Jesus.
So much so, that at the cost of losing his standing and respect in wealthy
society, he climbed a tree in hope of just catching a glimpse of him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jesus, who had every right to yell at this
putrid excuse of a man, instead told him while he was still up in the tree He
wanted to have dinner with him that very night...In front of everyone. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Jesus, You were so the King of the shock and
awe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Son of God, You turn our notion of justice on
its head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In each account these people's lives were
radically changed by encounters with the living God who chose to see past their
labels and love them right where they were. Faith and repentance followed in a beautiful mix that replaced their muddied and hopeless past with freedom, hope, and a new life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">So what about you? Will you make war on
labels my friends?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Can we, like these beautiful teen girls and
women I met the other night, cast down our stones with their slanderous labels
and say no more?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7aIOqtcagSBAJRwUvCxmyJZ5fKcHx0HvnXyZjjg5qov_cnPVohqZqcRVqy1YFJ_tqbiVJC37nryLjUeamhXSvrd4NvhxBVas1G-4-lTGCY7_em5Xl1pJ0jT84sAsPx7xLLdwvfpMfrY/s1600/P1040849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7aIOqtcagSBAJRwUvCxmyJZ5fKcHx0HvnXyZjjg5qov_cnPVohqZqcRVqy1YFJ_tqbiVJC37nryLjUeamhXSvrd4NvhxBVas1G-4-lTGCY7_em5Xl1pJ0jT84sAsPx7xLLdwvfpMfrY/s1600/P1040849.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Will you wage war instead with Truth and
Love?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/QKFMycq_Czg?rel=0" width="560"></iframe>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> This is a two part series so m</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">ore on this soon friends… Hope is around the bend.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">Are you struggling too friend?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 21px; line-height: 31px;">Will you take a moment in prayer and ask God to reveal the lies and labels in your life that are not from Him?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;">Will you name them and cast them down with us today and say no more?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 150%;">I am linking with <a href="http://intentional.me/" target="_blank">intentional.me</a> , <a href="http://www.janiscox.com/wednesdays-word-transformed/" target="_blank">wednesdays word</a></span></div>
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</div>Hwindeler@gmail.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12247448036229895173noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1743286631120811156.post-71689505542098089952013-03-12T21:40:00.000-04:002013-03-21T09:45:16.768-04:00God Speaks Through Play Dough Hearts<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>More Lessons Learned from SYMC</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">For all who are struggling. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Psalm 13</u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How long,</span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-14076A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span class="small-caps" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; font-variant: small-caps;">L</span><span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>ord</b></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">? Will you forget me</span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-14076B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">forever?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-13-1" style="position: relative;">How long will you hide your face<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-14076C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></sup> from me?</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
<span class="text Ps-13-2" id="en-NIV-14077" style="position: relative;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="text Ps-13-2" id="en-NIV-14077" style="position: relative;">How long must I wrestle with my thoughts</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="text Ps-13-2" id="en-NIV-14077" style="position: relative;">
</span><span class="indent-1"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-13-2" style="position: relative;">and day after day have sorrow in my heart?</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1">
</span><span class="indent-1"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-13-2" style="position: relative;">How long will my enemy triumph over me?</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1">
</span></span></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Look on me</span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-14078F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">and answer,</span><sup class="crossreference" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-14078G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></sup><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span class="small-caps" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; font-variant: small-caps;">L<b>ord</b></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">my God.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-13-3" style="position: relative;">Give light to my eyes,<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-14078H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></sup> or I will sleep in death,</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
<span class="text Ps-13-4" id="en-NIV-14079" style="position: relative;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="text Ps-13-4" id="en-NIV-14079" style="position: relative;">and my enemy will say, “I have overcome him,<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-14079J" title="See cross-reference J">J</a>)"></sup>”</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="text Ps-13-4" id="en-NIV-14079" style="position: relative;">
</span><span class="indent-1"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-13-4" style="position: relative;">and my foes will rejoice when I fall.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1">
</span></span></div>
<div class="poetry top-05" style="background-color: white; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding-left: 2.6em; position: relative; text-align: start;">
<div class="line">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">But I trust in your unfailing love;</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-13-5" style="position: relative;">my heart rejoices in your salvation.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
<span class="text Ps-13-6" id="en-NIV-14081" style="position: relative;"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="text Ps-13-6" id="en-NIV-14081" style="position: relative;">I will sing<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-14081N" title="See cross-reference N">N</a>)"></sup> the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">L<b>ord</b></span>’s praise,</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="text Ps-13-6" id="en-NIV-14081" style="position: relative;">
</span><span class="indent-1"></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-13-6" style="position: relative;">for he has been good to me.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="indent-1">
</span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In
the darkness, with only the stage lights filtering between the seats, I
fumbled for the small container of play dough that the speaker, Jason Ostrander, assured us would be there.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“Where
are you at with God? If you were to mold the play dough into a symbol
of where you are at in life right now, what would it look like? Take some time and let God speak to you on
this...”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div align="LEFT" style="background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So
there I sat in the darkness of the conference session. Squishing the
soft malleable substance in my hands...
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
settled in, quieted my mind, and listened to the speakers...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Before
long I had made my first sculpture.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This
was how I have felt this last year.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Like
Jesus and His cross had broken my heart wide open so that it was spilling out...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYahUWUjEJmKcWxMhD82PGWqv-GD81d1jvWMarIYfjHXhPWnBjznNsj4ig9iXtFupXVnorA4ByQRjPKQgYUaCp2SJsRTsJLTrU66uN4c0D9Poa5uiQ5PJcIXgqkLVI_whej27eOyk8YA/s1600/heart+sclptr.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYahUWUjEJmKcWxMhD82PGWqv-GD81d1jvWMarIYfjHXhPWnBjznNsj4ig9iXtFupXVnorA4ByQRjPKQgYUaCp2SJsRTsJLTrU66uN4c0D9Poa5uiQ5PJcIXgqkLVI_whej27eOyk8YA/s1600/heart+sclptr.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It
symbolized a year of Jesus turning my world upside down. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then, <a href="http://www.johnstumbo.org/blog/" target="_blank">John Stumbo</a> began sharing about a vision God had given him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">After
a year of pain and agony due to a debilitating and unexplained
illness, God revealed this </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxMqrzgx4a0" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">vision </a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">to him...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He
saw the clay formed and molded still spinning wet on the potters
wheel...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then
He saw the potters hands reach down and crush the pot back down into a lump on the wheel, only to begin to mold it again.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">God?
Are you starting over with me?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">God
whispered back,
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“<i>This
heart cracked open and bleeding? It's not the complete picture. I
have a better design.</i>”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So reluctantly, I squished the hot pink play dough I had so carefully
constructed back into </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">an ugly lump and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">waited with one question on my breath...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What
is it You want to show me, Father?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Slowly, in the quiet, the Lord prodded me to place this silly misshapen ball
of play dough into my left hand and to close my right hand over it.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
waited there with my hands closed around the dough in prayer...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
felt the dough in my hands begin to
grow warm, molding into the spaces and crevices of my palms.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">His
voice came into my thoughts,</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“<i>I
am Holding you my dear child.</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>I
am holding you.</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>My
veins my finger prints, my wounds are impressed upon you...</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Just
stay here, while I hold you.</i>”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Warm
salty tears began to fall as His words sank in.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“<i>I
love you, I am not done with you my child. Open your hands and see.</i>”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
was fascinated by what I saw.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">There in my hands was a heart, but not like the one I had molded earlier. The one we
have so commercialized on cards, posters, t-shirts...</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This
looked more like a real heart.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMSHFDQEvt8lJOUNUqaL4DcMSokP0NZ_pVV2BPFb9QZxUysBvsZvKaEDj_R9YrY3UtBYesffXw5Q1ETDjBPMcmLHQ9eeu4j0UMTa35E9k8voEYMQcaFoBDI0J6e2WM-nIDzJh7TBnrhU/s1600/real+heart.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMSHFDQEvt8lJOUNUqaL4DcMSokP0NZ_pVV2BPFb9QZxUysBvsZvKaEDj_R9YrY3UtBYesffXw5Q1ETDjBPMcmLHQ9eeu4j0UMTa35E9k8voEYMQcaFoBDI0J6e2WM-nIDzJh7TBnrhU/s1600/real+heart.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He
whispered,
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">“<i>You
see I am not done with you yet.</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>This represents my heart. A real beating heart for a life that is not over yet.
</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><br />
</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>A
life that needs to be lived now.</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>This
is My design. So much more complex and amazing.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLJsslG5rh1mVNsKHwm5SYR7h0ikro559zDadKz9ceb3AroULCsVaohASHc1SMcRUlbwNbX9QHC1KTqtYoZsuLz4zqSmbCQfre0WvCSgZYEFBlMJnDCuGn6PHT5VX80-M4Mi9ovhe3TOk/s1600/human_heart_front_view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLJsslG5rh1mVNsKHwm5SYR7h0ikro559zDadKz9ceb3AroULCsVaohASHc1SMcRUlbwNbX9QHC1KTqtYoZsuLz4zqSmbCQfre0WvCSgZYEFBlMJnDCuGn6PHT5VX80-M4Mi9ovhe3TOk/s1600/human_heart_front_view.jpg" height="570" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>The
blood flows out, but it also constantly being fed again. It continues
to beat and flow, beat and flow,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i> bringing <b>LIFE</b> to the rest of the
body.</i>"</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I
looked at the play dough heart...the crevices and lines of my palms had created veins that are pathways of life.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"<i>My
ways are not yours my daughter...My ways are not yours, but I am not
done with recreating you yet.</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><br />
</i></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>I
took your heart that was broken for Me and have given you Mine
instead.</i>”</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Are you there friends?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Are you unsure of the path that the Lord has been taking you on?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Have you surrendered your heart to His amazing and capable hands?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><span class="text Col-2-2" id="en-NIV-29497" style="background-color: white;">My goal is that <b>you</b> may be encouraged in heart<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29497A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup> and united in love, so that <b>you</b> may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that <b>you</b> may know the mystery<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29497B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup> of God, namely, Christ,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="text Col-2-3" id="en-NIV-29498" style="background-color: white;">in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span class="text Col-2-3" style="background-color: white;">Colossians 2:2-3</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">To hear John Stumbo's amazing story you can click here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">John Stumbo: The Deeper Life in Jesus</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlzZhSXjyc0" target="_blank">part 1</a> , </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxMqrzgx4a0" target="_blank">part 2</a> , </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vgSo-60pCU" target="_blank">part 3</a> , </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDUAvs6xTYM" target="_blank">part 4</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Need some praise time?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>The heartbeat of my life is to worship in Your light...</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://intentional.me/whodoesthat/" target="_blank">Thought Provoking Thursday</a></div>
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