tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84328452509968790302024-03-20T01:32:02.389-07:00Andrew, Ashley, Madeline, Paulina, Simeon, & AnnaAshley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.comBlogger339125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-72890439469629396032014-06-09T12:58:00.001-07:002014-06-09T12:58:47.919-07:00hello thereHello there. Well, I just fell off for a bit. No excuses. Except very, very sleepy. Still sleepy but I want to keep up a tiny bit with our pictures and happenings so here is a burst for you. <br />
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Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-20272172467358337042014-04-23T18:23:00.001-07:002014-04-23T18:23:14.826-07:00and on today we did this...I am to full up to put anything into words. So here is a link for ya of the day we met our sweet Paulina Katherine, one year ago today. Such joy.<br />
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<a href="http://andrewandashley.blogspot.com/2013/04/meeting-our-sweetie-paulina-katherine.html">Meeting Our Sweetie</a>Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-293087642291591832014-04-22T06:33:00.000-07:002014-04-22T06:33:31.448-07:00a year ago today<span class="text Dan-3-16" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Exactly one year ago today, we walked into an appointment with the SDA of Ukraine, listened to a vast amount of Russian spoken between our facilitator and the ministry official, and then we were dealt a heart crushing blow when told we could not adopt Paulina, and should just go home. </span></span><br />
<span class="text Dan-3-16" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="color: purple;"><b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">"In the </span><span class="small-caps" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px; font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water</span></b></span></div>
<span class="text Dan-3-18" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><br />
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<span class="text Dan-3-18" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span style="color: purple;"><b><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Prov-21-1" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">that he channels toward all who please him."</span></b></span></span></div>
<span class="text Dan-3-18" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span class="text Dan-3-16" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span></b></span><br />
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<span class="text Dan-3-18" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="text Prov-21-1" style="position: relative;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Proverbs 21:1</b></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Dan-3-16" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span class="text Dan-3-16" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Within 48 hours, God did what only He can do. He changed the hearts and minds of men. He worked a miracle. And He forever changed our lives. </span></span><br />
<span class="text Dan-3-16" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Upon being asked by the king what god would rescue them when he threw them into the fire,</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span class="text Dan-3-16" id="en-NIV-21824" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">"Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-21824V" title="See cross-reference V">V</a>)"></span> replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Dan-3-17" id="en-NIV-21825" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-21825W" title="See cross-reference W">W</a>)"></span> us from it, and he will deliver<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-21825X" title="See cross-reference X">X</a>)"></span> us</span><span class="text Dan-3-17" style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">from Your Majesty’s hand.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Dan-3-18" id="en-NIV-21826" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-21826Y" title="See cross-reference Y">Y</a>)"></span>”</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="text Dan-3-18" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Daniel 3:16-18</b></span></span></div>
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This time in our lives is hardly expressible to us. It fills up the deepest parts of us. Our walks with Jesus, our faith, our love for Paulina. It is just too much to speak into words. We are beyond thankful for our God who gave us such a beautiful gift. </div>
<span class="text Dan-3-18" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="text Prov-21-1" style="position: relative;"><br /></span></span></span>
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For more of our time in Ukraine, check out the Paulina page and follow those links. <br />
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<span class="text Dan-3-18" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="text Prov-21-1" style="position: relative;"><br /></span></span></span>Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-68684593692473407722014-04-16T10:18:00.000-07:002014-04-16T10:18:18.368-07:00one very beautiful little word<div class="poetry top-05" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding-left: 2.6em; position: relative;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Rom-3-10" style="position: relative;">“There is no one righteous, <b><span style="color: #444444;">not even one</span></b>;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Rom-3-11" id="en-NIV-28003" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span>there is no one who understands;</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Rom-3-11" style="position: relative;">there is no one who seeks God.</span></span><br /><span class="text Rom-3-12" id="en-NIV-28004" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"><br /></span><b><span style="color: #444444;">All have turned away</span></b>,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Rom-3-12" style="position: relative;">they have together become worthless;</span></span><br /><span class="text Rom-3-12" style="position: relative;">there is no one who does good,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Rom-3-12" style="position: relative;">not even one.”</span></span><br /><span class="text Rom-3-13" id="en-NIV-28005" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span>“Their throats are open graves;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Rom-3-13" style="position: relative;">their tongues practice deceit.”</span></span><br /><span class="text Rom-3-13" style="position: relative;">“The poison of vipers is on their lips.”</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Rom-3-14" id="en-NIV-28006" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span>“Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.”</span></span><br /><span class="text Rom-3-15" id="en-NIV-28007" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span>“Their feet are swift to shed blood;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Rom-3-16" id="en-NIV-28008" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span>ruin and misery mark their ways,</span></span><br /><span class="text Rom-3-17" id="en-NIV-28009" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span>and <b><span style="color: #444444;">the way of peace they do not know</span></b>.”</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Rom-3-18" id="en-NIV-28010" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span>“<b><span style="color: #444444;">There is no fear of God before their eyes</span></b>.”<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28010U" title="See cross-reference U">U</a>)"></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Rom-3-19"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Rom-3-19" id="en-NIV-28011">Now we know that </span></span><span class="text Rom-3-19" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><span style="color: red;"><b>whatever the law says,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28011V" title="See cross-reference V">V</a>)"></span> it says to those who are under the law,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28011W" title="See cross-reference W">W</a>)"></span> so that every mouth may be silenced<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28011X" title="See cross-reference X">X</a>)"></span> and the whole world held accountable to God</b>.</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28011Y" title="See cross-reference Y">Y</a>)"></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law;</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28012Z" title="See cross-reference Z">Z</a>)"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"> rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.</span></div>
<div class="top-05" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; margin-top: -0.5em; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="top-05" style="background-color: white; margin-top: -0.5em;">
<br /></div>
<div class="top-05" style="background-color: white; margin-top: -0.5em; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Rom-3-21"><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>::but::</b></span></span><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-size: 16px;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="top-05" style="background-color: white; margin-top: -0.5em; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="top-05" style="background-color: white; margin-top: -0.5em; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-size: 16px;">But now apart from the law the righteousness of God<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28013AB" title="See cross-reference AB">AB</a>)"></span> has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28013AC" title="See cross-reference AC">AC</a>)"></span></span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Rom-3-22" id="en-NIV-28014"><span style="font-size: small;">This </span><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>righteousness<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28014AD" title="See cross-reference AD">AD</a>)"></span> is given through faith<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28014AE" title="See cross-reference AE">AE</a>)"></span> in</b></span></span><span class="text Rom-3-22"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: purple;"><b> Jesus Christ<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28014AF" title="See cross-reference AF">AF</a>)"></span></b></span><span style="color: purple;"><b> to all who believe</b></span></span>. <span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28014AG" title="See cross-reference AG">AG</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;">There is no difference between Jew and Gentile,</span></span><span class="text Rom-3-23" id="en-NIV-28015" style="font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span>for all have sinned<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28015AI" title="See cross-reference AI">AI</a>)"></span> and fall short of the glory of God,</span><span class="text Rom-3-24" id="en-NIV-28016"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">and </span><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>all are justified<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28016AJ" title="See cross-reference AJ">AJ</a>)"></span> freely by his grace<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28016AK" title="See cross-reference AK">AK</a>)"></span> through the redemption<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28016AL" title="See cross-reference AL">AL</a>)"></span> that came by Christ Jesus</b></span><span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span><span class="text Rom-3-24" style="font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><b> </b></span><span class="text Rom-3-25" id="en-NIV-28017" style="font-size: 16px;">God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28017AN" title="See cross-reference AN">AN</a>)"></span>—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28017AO" title="See cross-reference AO">AO</a>)"></span>—</span><span class="text Rom-3-26" id="en-NIV-28018" style="font-size: 16px;">he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Romans 3:11-26</b></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>::but::</b></span></span><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">what a very beautiful little word. </span></span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">We are the "not even one". we are the ones who "turned away". We know no way of peace and we have no fear of God. </span></span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="text Rom-3-21"><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>::but::</b></span></span><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-size: 16px;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">God has made His righteousness known; freely justified us through faith. Jesus has has redeemed our lives from the pit. </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">from death to life. despair to hope. slavery to freedom. darkness to light.</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">He is so, so good. </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Rom-3-26"><span class="text Rom-3-21" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-14115134496311453342014-04-13T18:28:00.003-07:002014-04-13T18:28:48.352-07:00as the darkness settles inAs I sit, the thunder is booming and the rain is coming. Darkness settles over us for the night and all things in our home slow to a stop. I have spent these days of Lent in the Gospel accounts of the last week of the life of Jesus. It is weighty and glorious wrapped together as one and, if I am honest, I don't always know what to do with it all. Luke tells us, as Christ drew His final breath:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span class="text Luke-23-44" style="background-color: white;">"darkness came over the whole land...</span><span class="text Luke-23-45" id="en-NIV-25981" style="background-color: white;">for the sun stopped shining"</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span class="text Luke-23-45" style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
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I know what comes next. Yet I think I will sit here for a bit, with no sun, just darkness. I will draw as near as I can to Jesus in His suffering, longing to know Him more, longing to love Him more, longing to be filled more deeply by my Savior who has mostly amazingly redeemed my soul. </div>
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR6KcFdc2OAVpeTZzrUWQbQ7gwPkp65TpRp8p4i0JEgkNBQWRbL" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR6KcFdc2OAVpeTZzrUWQbQ7gwPkp65TpRp8p4i0JEgkNBQWRbL" /></a></div>
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He is so, so good.</div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-21490766523850684722014-04-07T11:16:00.004-07:002014-04-07T11:16:58.712-07:00ladies, let's all look up and smile at one anotherHave you (and I know you have) ever been walking through the grocery store, the hallways of church, the school parking lot, and seen someone you know and done one of the following: <div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
1. Lower your head and pretend you didn't see them?</div>
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OR</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. Find their gaze and still act as if you don't know them?</div>
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I know the answer is yes. Why in the world do we do this? Are we all just really mean people? Must this mean that we are actually really more important than the one we pass by? I'm gonna go out on a limb and say a big no. Instead, let me offer my personal experience reasons. Why do we do this? Fear and insecurity. Generally 1,000 thoughts/concerns/comments/questions run through my mind in this situation. I'm sure she doesn't remember me, I'm not cool enough to say hello, she surely doesn't want to speak to me, I look a mess, I'm terrible at small talk, she has better people to be friends with, I just don't make the cut. And on. And on. I'm afraid. Like crazy. </div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I believe I'm not important enough to be remembered and I'm so insecure that I won't allow myself to find out if it is true. </span> </b></div>
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<div>
I just spent the weekend with some incredibly lovely ladies from my church and I had such a sweet time with the group in my cabin discussing and sharing our hearts on what comparison and criticism does to us. It paralyzes us. Comparison paralyzes. When the truth is we are all women, in need of and seeking the same Jesus, longing to get rid of sins and find ourselves more in obedient step with God. And we could use each other. I mean we really need each other. We are not chained to the lies that Satan sneaks into our thoughts. We have been set free. Let's call the lie by name and fight it. For the sake of the gospel and the glory of God and for the edification and beauty of the community of women God has given each of us. </div>
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This here just scratches the surface but for now let me encourage this among us women...</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Let's all look up and smile at one another. </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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Speak by name. Lift your arms to embrace, your words to encourage and prayer, and your joy to fight off the lies that entangle each one of us. You, my friends, are worth it to me. Let's consider the value of one another and walk with our heads high and our hearts open. I commit to remembering you, knowing you, and covering you with the love of Christ in me. </div>
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Will you?</div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-82724939147565032012014-04-02T11:03:00.003-07:002014-04-02T11:03:58.216-07:00some Scripture for this week<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Col-1-15"><span style="font-size: small;">"The Son is the </span><b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">image<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29481AH" title="See cross-reference AH">AH</a>)"></span> of the invisible God</span></b><span style="font-size: small;">,</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29481AI" title="See cross-reference AI">AI</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Col-1-15"><span style="font-size: small;">the </span><b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">firstborn<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29481AJ" title="See cross-reference AJ">AJ</a>)"></span> over all creation</span></b><span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Col-1-16" id="en-NIV-29482" style="font-size: 16px;">For in him all things were created:<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29482AK" title="See cross-reference AK">AK</a>)"></span> things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities;<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29482AL" title="See cross-reference AL">AL</a>)"></span> all things have been created through him and for him.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29482AM" title="See cross-reference AM">AM</a>)"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Col-1-17" id="en-NIV-29483" style="font-size: 16px;">He is before all things,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29483AN" title="See cross-reference AN">AN</a>)"></span> and in him all things hold together.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="text Col-1-18" id="en-NIV-29484"><span style="font-size: small;">And he is the </span><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>head</b></span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29484AO" title="See cross-reference AO">AO</a>)"></span> of the body, the <b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">church</span></b>;<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29484AP" title="See cross-reference AP">AP</a>)"></span> he is the <b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">beginning</span></b> and the <span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>firstborn</b></span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29484AQ" title="See cross-reference AQ">AQ</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> from among the dead,</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29484AR" title="See cross-reference AR">AR</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> so that in everything he might have the supremacy.</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Col-1-19" id="en-NIV-29485">For <span style="color: purple; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">God was pleased<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29485AS" title="See cross-reference AS">AS</a>)"></span> to have all his fullness<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29485AT" title="See cross-reference AT">AT</a>)"></span> dwell in him</span><span style="font-size: small;">,</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="text Col-1-20" id="en-NIV-29486" style="font-size: 16px;">and through him to reconcile<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29486AU" title="See cross-reference AU">AU</a>)"></span> to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29486AV" title="See cross-reference AV">AV</a>)"></span> by making peace<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29486AW" title="See cross-reference AW">AW</a>)"></span> through his blood,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29486AX" title="See cross-reference AX">AX</a>)"></span> shed on the cross.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Col-1-21" id="en-NIV-29487">Once <b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">you were alienated</span></b> from God and were enemies<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29487AY" title="See cross-reference AY">AY</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> in your minds</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29487AZ" title="See cross-reference AZ">AZ</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> because of your evil behavior.</span><span style="font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"> </span></span><span class="text Col-1-22" id="en-NIV-29488"><span style="font-size: small;">But now </span><b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">he has reconciled</span></b><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29488BA" title="See cross-reference BA">BA</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> you by Christ’s physical body</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29488BB" title="See cross-reference BB">BB</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> through death to present you</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29488BC" title="See cross-reference BC">BC</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29488BD" title="See cross-reference BD">BD</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;">—</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="text Col-1-23" id="en-NIV-29489"><span style="font-size: small;">if you continue</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29489BE" title="See cross-reference BE">BE</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> in your faith, established</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29489BF" title="See cross-reference BF">BF</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> and firm, and do not move from the hope</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29489BG" title="See cross-reference BG">BG</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> held out in the gospel. </span><b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">This is the gospel</span></b><span style="font-size: small;"> that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven,</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29489BH" title="See cross-reference BH">BH</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> and of which I, Paul, have become a servant."</span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Col-1-23"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Colossians 1:15-23</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Col-1-23"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is the Gospel. It's sometimes grips me in ways that are too deep for words. He has made me holy. Taken me from death and freed me from all accusation. He has reconciled me. I'm sitting here for the week, dwelling in this truth and letting it wash over me. Who He is, who I am, what He has done, and who I am in Him. He draws me to worship, He is so so good.</span></span></div>
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Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-30719704200590013692014-03-31T20:28:00.000-07:002014-03-31T20:28:03.495-07:00sometimes I eat ice cream for dinner...and I think that's an okay thing to do.<br />
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Let me tell you why.<br />
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Season.<br />
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This word that floats in and out of our mouths all the time. We all know what it means. And yet it is this weird thing to me. It is supposed to mean "a short period of time that will end soon so power on sista" but really life is just one short time that runs into the next short time that runs in to the next short time and so on and so on. <br />
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Does that mean I am always needing to power through? <br />
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I hope not. I don't want to just make it through a season, tough it out, look for the light at the end of the season, hold on tightly because it goes by so fast, or any of those other phrases I've been told and told to others as an attempt at encouragement. <br />
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I think this phrase, just a season, can become an excuse and escape. Factually, it's probably true. Whatever life you are in right now is just a season. But the implications that come with saying that need to be fought out of our minds. Saying it isn't usually encouraging. It's more like a conversation stopper. It is like saying just sit and deal the best you can until it blows by. That's sounds rough so good luck friend and all I can offer you is this, "it's just a season." <br />
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Who walks away from that feeling lifted up? <br />
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Dwelling on things just being a season makes me think drowning and feeling negative is the right thing to feel because, after all, it is my season. Not reading the Word, losing patience with my kids, making no time for date night...it's just a season. This is such a huge misguided statement! I need someone who will look me in the eye and tell me that my frustration is actually sin. My impatience with my kids isn't excusable because it's a tough season. My lack of getting in the Word isn't justified because I'm tired. I need to be pointed to Jesus. Pushed to Him and away from me. <br />
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We do live in seasons. Seasons of rest, frustration, peace, child-bearing, no sleep, no exercise, child-raising, loving our spouses...and on and on. Let me make this suggestion: Live in your life. Not outside of it, not in working toward getting to greener grasses, not in longing for something different. I have a friend who says the grass is only greener where it is watered. <br />
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<b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">So water your own grass. </span></b></div>
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Long for more of Jesus in your day, not more of Him once you get through {fill in the blank}. Pursue patience now. Get in the Word now. Fight for your marriage now. This season will only be followed by another. And every one you walk through without Jesus will leave you weaker for the next. Find what works best for you but also push yourself. If you know you process and grow through writing out your thoughts then make some time. If you know God's Word is never crossing your mind as you parent then get it posted on your mirrors, fridge, computer screen, iphone. If quality time with a couple of girlfriends pushes you to more prayer or encourages your week then seek it out. You can do this. It's not a season. It's your life, your walk with Jesus, your example to your children. Take deep breaths. Don't let your season drown you. God is so much bigger. He has so much more. His promises are for right now. Hold dearly to Jesus. And remember,<br />
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>It's not about me.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>He is so much more.</b></span></div>
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A few months after we came home with Paulina I was dragging hard. I was tired, eating badly, not exercising, never getting in time with Jesus, and I was feeling low. I knew something had to change. For me it was getting up early, plugging my head phones in to some All Sons & Daughters, and hitting the sidewalks for some much needed exercise. Now it is cutting out TV shows and using my kids rest time to eat something healthy and read or journal and meeting weekly with some seriously great women who lift me up. <br />
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Back to my first statement. Sometimes I eat ice cream for dinner. Yes, I do. And yes, it is usually at the end of a a full and exhausting day. I'm okay with this because neither the day nor the bowl of ice cream can defeat or sink me. I can do that all by myself. Give me a day where I never seek Jesus and I'm out. So if my life calls for ice cream I will eat it. If it calls for tears then I will cry. Laughter? Accountability? Prayer? These are the things I will do as I live my life day in and day out. <br />
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Watering my own grass and finding less of me, more of Jesus.Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-69323727805370094632014-03-26T11:13:00.000-07:002014-03-26T11:13:18.389-07:00who do you say I am?<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Luke-9-18"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 11.818181991577148px;">"</span><span style="font-size: small;">Once when Jesus was praying</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-25320C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span><span style="font-size: small;"> in private and his disciples were with him, he asked them, </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">“Who do the crowds say I am?” </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">They replied, “Some say John the Baptist;</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-25321D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">others say Elijah; and still others, that one of the prophets of long ago has come back to life.”</span></div>
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<span class="text Luke-9-20"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="woj"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Luke-9-20" id="en-NIV-25322"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span class="woj">“But what about you?”</span> he asked. </b></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Luke-9-20"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="woj"><b>“Who do you say I am?”</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Luke-9-20"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Peter answered, “God’s Messiah.”</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Luke-9-21">Jesus strictly warned them not to tell this to anyone.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-25323G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span></span> <span class="text Luke-9-22" id="en-NIV-25324">And he said, <span class="woj">“The Son of Man<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-25324H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></span> must suffer many things<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-25324I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)"></span> and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-25324J" title="See cross-reference J">J</a>)"></span> and he must be killed<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-25324K" title="See cross-reference K">K</a>)"></span> and on the third day<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-25324L" title="See cross-reference L">L</a>)"></span> be raised to life.”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Luke 9:18-22</span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Who do you say I am?</b></span></div>
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<span class="text John-6-67" id="en-NIV-26325"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="woj">“You do not want to leave too, do you?”</span> Jesus asked the Twelve.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26325CA" title="See cross-reference CA">CA</a>)"></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-6-68" id="en-NIV-26326">Simon Peter answered him,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26326CB" title="See cross-reference CB">CB</a>)"></span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-6-68">“<span style="color: #999999;"><b>Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26326CC" title="See cross-reference CC">CC</a>)"></span></b></span></span><span style="color: #999999;"><b> </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-6-69" id="en-NIV-26327">We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”</span></span></div>
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<span class="text John-6-69"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">John 6:67-69</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Who do you say I am?</b></span></div>
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</span></span>Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-49057415512130282612014-03-24T12:03:00.001-07:002014-03-24T12:03:36.493-07:00because these ones are the "ministry" I do<div style="text-align: center;">
Day in & day out these littles (& bigs) bring joy, pain, stretching, growing encouragement, tears and laughter like no one else in my life. Love them like crazy.</div>
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Ren & Elijah...so much laughter and love with these two!</div>
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Father Daughter Dance 2014</div>
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And yes, I let them dress and do their own hair.</div>
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As I talked with Madeline's teacher at the start of spring break, and she told me all four of her kiddos were off on different trips, I decided to squeeze in extra tight this crazy week and embrace the good chaos of all being together. </div>
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Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-14871381519735065962014-03-19T18:47:00.002-07:002014-03-19T18:47:34.805-07:00"here I am, starving to death"<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the parable of the lost son there is a moment when the younger son says,</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"here I am, starving to death"</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Luke 15:17</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;">I read this passage yesterday and couldn't get over that thought. Here I am, starving to death. This son had known and lived in the fullness of his father's household. Yet here he was, dying. In Mark's account of the time Jesus spent praying in the garden before His death Jesus finds His disciples, whom He had asked to watch and pray, sleeping and speechless. </span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;">"They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, </span><span class="woj"><span style="font-size: small;">“Sit here while I pray.”</span><b> </b></span></span><span class="text Mark-14-33" id="en-NIV-24788">He took Peter, James and John<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24788B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled.</span><span class="text Mark-14-33"><b> </b></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-34" id="en-NIV-24789"><b><span class="woj">“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,”<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24789C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span></span> he said to them. <span class="woj">“Stay here and keep watch.”</span></b></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-35" id="en-NIV-24790">Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24790D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span> might pass from him.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="text Mark-14-36" id="en-NIV-24791"><span class="woj"><i>“Abba</i><span style="font-size: small;">,</span><b> </b><span style="font-size: small;">Father,”</span><span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24791E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> he said, </span><span class="woj">“everything is possible for you. Take this cup<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24791F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span> from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24791G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-37" id="en-NIV-24792">Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. <span class="woj">“Simon,”</span> he said to Peter, <span class="woj">“are you asleep? Couldn’t you keep watch for one hour?</span></span> </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-38" id="en-NIV-24793"><b>Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.<span class="crossreference" style="vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24793H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></span> </b></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-38"><b>The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”</b><span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24793I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)"></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-39" id="en-NIV-24794">Once more he went away and prayed the same thing.</span> <span class="text Mark-14-40" id="en-NIV-24795">When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-41" id="en-NIV-24796">Returning the third time, he said to them, <span class="woj">“Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24796J" title="See cross-reference J">J</a>)"></span> has come. Look, the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners.</span></span> <span class="text Mark-14-42" id="en-NIV-24797">Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"" </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mark 14:32-42</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;">I am overwhelmed by this truth as it hits hard right in my inner being. I am weak and needy and God has provided in full. Yet I fall asleep instead of drawing near Him, I die hungry and thirsty sitting in sins He has removed from me. Some days it is me looking for approval and affirmation by comparing myself to other mamas out there. Or other days it is me longing for more Jesus but making no time or effort to meet with Him. Why do I hold on to the life of the flesh? Why do I starve myself and fall asleep in His presence? Because I see me more than I see my Rescuer. I trust me more than Him. It's not outright and we are tempted to say we are trying to trust Jesus more or something like that but truly it's sin and I believe we should call it that. My spirit may be willing, but my flesh is so weak. In my pride and self-centered state I miss this giant truth of God: </span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="color: #181818; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">“The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.” </span></b><span style="color: #181818; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">― </span><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/847789.Timothy_Keller" style="color: #666600; line-height: 18px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">Timothy Keller</a><span style="color: #181818; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">, </span><span style="color: #181818; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/16321346" style="color: #666600; text-decoration: none;">The Meaning of Marriage</a></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Yes! </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It's all about Jesus.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Remove me from me, Lord! Always this is what I need. More of Him, less of me. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="color: #073763; font-size: small;"><b>It's not about me.</b></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="color: #073763; font-size: small;"><b><br />He is so much more. </b></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-14-32"><span style="font-size: small;">I will leave you with this LaCrae song that is a fav in our household. Enjoy.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/4Ec7ofMOqVM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"dying of thirst, yet, willing to die thirsty"<br />LaCrae</span></div>
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Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-59505356010491877142014-03-12T09:17:00.000-07:002014-03-12T09:17:48.986-07:00do as I have done<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text John-13-1"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #545454; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; text-align: left;">“True </span><span style="color: #545454; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; text-align: left;">humility is not</span><span style="color: #545454; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; text-align: left;"> thinking less of yourself; it is </span><span style="color: #545454; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; text-align: left;">thinking of yourself less</span><span style="color: #545454; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; text-align: left;">.” ― C.S. Lewis</span></span></b></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text John-13-1"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text John-13-1"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There is so much packed into these following Scriptures. Rather than any ridiculous attempt at delving into them, I have one little focus point that I can't get away from. </span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text John-13-1"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text John-13-1"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In humility follow Jesus. </span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text John-13-1"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text John-13-1"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">That's it. He has set an example, given His life. Loved us to the full extent. And asked us to follow Him. We can become consumed in trying so hard to "figure it out" that we miss Him completely. We are seeking understanding, clarity, a guarantee, great insight, writing in the sky. When He has given us the example already of how to follow His will in our lives. Take on humility, die to yourself, become a servant of all. </span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text John-13-1"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-1" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Phil-2-3" id="en-NIV-29395">"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29395F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span> Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, </span><span class="text Phil-2-4" id="en-NIV-29396">not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29396H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-5" id="en-NIV-29397"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29397I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)"></span></span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-13-1"></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;">
<div class="line">
<span class="text Phil-2-6" id="en-NIV-29398" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Who, being in very nature<b> </b>God,</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="indent-1"></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Phil-2-6" style="position: relative;">did not consider equality with God<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-29398K" title="See cross-reference K">K</a>)"></span> something to be used to his own advantage;</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="indent-1">
</span><span class="text Phil-2-7" id="en-NIV-29399" style="position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;">
rather, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>he made himself nothing</b></div>
</span><span class="indent-1"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;">by taking the very nature of a servant"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;">Philippians 2:3-7</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;">I generally want to make more of myself than nothing. I want to be known, understood, seen, valued. I mask this desire with spiritual cover ups saying I know I need that to come from Christ but sadly I'm still searching for it from the world more than I am finding it in Jesus. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;">But praise the Lord that He doesn't quit on me. He is reminding me daily it seems of these two great truths:<br /><br /><b>It's not about me</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>&</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;"><b>He is so much more.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Phil-2-7" style="position: relative;">As I read through the washing of the disciples feet, I'm praying for a heart, mind, and active life that lives in light of the example of my Savior. Giving my all for the glory of God. </span></div>
</span></span></div>
<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-13-1">"It was just before the Passover Festival.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26632A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span> Jesus knew tha</span>t the hour had come<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26632B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> for him to leave this world and go to the Father.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26632C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span> Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-13-2" id="en-NIV-26633">The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26633D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span></span> <span class="text John-13-3" id="en-NIV-26634">Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26634E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></span> and that he had come from God<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26634F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span> and was returning to God;</span> <span class="text John-13-4" id="en-NIV-26635">so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26635G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span></span> <span class="text John-13-5" id="en-NIV-26636">After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26636H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></span> drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.</span></span></div>
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<span class="text John-13-6" id="en-NIV-26637"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”</span></span></div>
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<span class="text John-13-7" id="en-NIV-26638"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Jesus replied, <span class="woj">“You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26638I" title="See cross-reference I">I</a>)"></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text John-13-8" id="en-NIV-26639"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">“No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”</span></span></div>
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<span class="text John-13-8"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Jesus answered, <span class="woj">“Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text John-13-9" id="en-NIV-26640"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">“Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-13-10" id="en-NIV-26641">Jesus answered, <span class="woj">“Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26641J" title="See cross-reference J">J</a>)"></span> though not every one of you.”<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26641K" title="See cross-reference K">K</a>)"></span></span></span> <span class="text John-13-11" id="en-NIV-26642"> For he knew who was going to betray him,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26642L" title="See cross-reference L">L</a>)"></span>and that was why he said not every one was clean.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-13-12" id="en-NIV-26643">When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. <span class="woj">“Do you understand what I have done for you?”</span> he asked them.</span> <span class="text John-13-13" id="en-NIV-26644">“You call me ‘Teacher’<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26644M" title="See cross-reference M">M</a>)"></span> and ‘Lord,’<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26644N" title="See cross-reference N">N</a>)"></span> and rightly so, for that is what I am.</span> <span class="text John-13-14" id="en-NIV-26645">Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26645O" title="See cross-reference O">O</a>)"></span></span> </span></div>
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<span class="text John-13-15"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-13-15" id="en-NIV-26646"><b>I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.</b><span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26646P" title="See cross-reference P">P</a>)"></span></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-13-16" id="en-NIV-26647"><br />Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master,<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26647Q" title="See cross-reference Q">Q</a>)"></span> nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.</span> <span class="text John-13-17" id="en-NIV-26648">Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."</span></span></div>
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<span class="text John-13-17"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">John 13:1-17</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text John-13-17"><br /></span></span></div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-16780292046676452012014-03-07T07:56:00.001-08:002014-03-07T07:56:34.900-08:00Lent Devotions with LIttles<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As we prepare ourselves for Easter we attempt to walk our whole family through Lent devotions. This year we are using the Hands On Bible for pre-schoolers. We have family night on Wednesday nights so we add our Lent devo's into these nights and then read through these 6 stories throughout the week. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hands On Bible</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. Jesus Rides A Donkey; Mark 11:1-11</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet; John 13:1-17</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. The Last Supper, Matthew 26:17-30</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. Jesus Prays in the Garden; Mark 14:32-42</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5. Jesus Dies on a Cross; Mark 15</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6. Jesus Comes Back to Life; Luke 24:1-12</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For our Lent devotions we focus each week on a verse, some words to understand, and some ideas to talk through. We've done this same thing for several years but still feel it fits with our kiddos ages and understanding. We also choose a song to teach them and talk through. This year we are learning <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0h-6Q_KPPw">Hallelujah! What a Savior</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Week of Sunday, March 9th</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Memory Verse: “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>John 1:5</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Light, Darkness</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ideas: Jesus is the light, hiding</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Week of Sunday, March 16th</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Memory Verse: “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>John 1:5</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Sin, Holy</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ideas: Holy/sin (Clean vs. Dirty)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Week of Sunday, March 23rd</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Memory Verse: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Remembrance, Repentance</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ideas: Last Supper</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Week of Sunday, March 30th</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Memory Verse: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Crucifixion, Sacrifice</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ideas: Death, Suffering, Christ’s Sacrifice/Punishment</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Week of Sunday, April 6th</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Memory Verse: “I am the Resurrection and the Life, he who believes in me will live & not <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>die.” John 11:25</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Forgiveness, Resurrection</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Idea: Crucifixion/Resurrection, Death/Life</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Week of Sunday, April 13th-Palm Sunday<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Memory Verse: “I am the Resurrection and the Life, he who believes in me will live and not <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>die.” John 11:25</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Salvation</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ideas: Salvation/Redemption, Savior/Rescuer</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thursday, April 17th-Maundy Thursday</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Remembrance, Repentance</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ideas: Last Supper</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Friday, April 18th--Good Friday<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Crucifixion, Sacrifice</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Ideas: Death, Suffering, Christ’s Sacrifice/Punishment</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sunday, April 20th-Easter</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Memory Verse: “I am the Resurrection and the Life, he who believes in me will live & not <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>die.” John 11:25</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Words to Know: Forgiveness, Resurrection</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Idea: Crucifixion/Resurrection, Death/Life, Rejoice</span></div>
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Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-76374168792490650092014-03-05T11:25:00.000-08:002014-03-05T11:25:22.343-08:00unexpected Jesus<div class="chapter-2" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-11-1"><span class="chapternum" style="bottom: -0.1em; font-size: 1.25em; font-weight: bold; left: 0px; line-height: 0.8em; position: relative;"> "</span>As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24642C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span> at the Mount of Olives,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24642D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span> Jesus sent two of his disciples,</span> <span class="text Mark-11-2" id="en-NIV-24643"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;"> </span>saying to them, <span class="woj">“Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24643E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></span> Untie it and bring it here.</span></span> <span class="text Mark-11-3" id="en-NIV-24644">If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.’”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Mark-11-4" id="en-NIV-24645" style="font-size: 16px;">They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24645F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span> As they untied it,</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="text Mark-11-5" id="en-NIV-24646" style="font-size: 16px;">some people standing there asked, “What are you doing, untying that colt?”</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><b> </b></span><span class="text Mark-11-6" id="en-NIV-24647" style="font-size: 16px;">They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><b> </b></span><span class="text Mark-11-7" id="en-NIV-24648" style="font-size: 16px;">When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><b> </b></span><span class="text Mark-11-8" id="en-NIV-24649" style="font-size: 16px;">Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><b> </b></span><span class="text Mark-11-9" id="en-NIV-24650" style="font-size: 16px;">Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted,</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Mark-11-9" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">“Hosanna!”</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Mark-11-9" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24650G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Mark-11-10" id="en-NIV-24651" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">“Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!”</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Mark-11-10" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-24651H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)"></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Mark-11-11" id="en-NIV-24652"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve."</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Mark-11-11"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mark 11:1-11</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Mark-11-11"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I think it is fair to say we would all, at different times in our lives, like Jesus to fit into our mold, our boxes, our ways. <br /><br />But He doesn't. He never has.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">He enters Jerusalem, the start of the week that will be His last, and the people rally around Him. Following and praising. But ultimately we know they mostly fall away. Because after He enters nothing is as they expected. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Isa-55-8" id="en-NIV-18749" style="font-size: 16px; position: relative; text-align: start;">“For my thoughts<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18749AB" title="See cross-reference AB">AB</a>)"></span> are not your thoughts,</span><br style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Isa-55-8" style="position: relative;">neither are your ways my ways,”<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18749AC" title="See cross-reference AC">AC</a>)"></span></span></span><br style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="right" style="font-size: 16px; margin-left: 2em; text-align: start;"><span class="text Isa-55-8" style="position: relative;">declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>.</span></span><br style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="text Isa-55-9" id="en-NIV-18750" style="font-size: 16px; position: relative; text-align: start;"><span class="versenum" style="display: block; font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; left: -4.8em; position: absolute; vertical-align: top;"> </span>“As the heavens are higher than the earth,<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-18750AD" title="See cross-reference AD">AD</a>)"></span></span><br style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Isa-55-9" style="position: relative;">so are my ways higher than your ways</span></span><br style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;" /><span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Isa-55-9" style="position: relative;">and my thoughts than your thoughts."</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="text Isa-55-9" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="text Isa-55-9" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Isaiah 55:8-9</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="indent-1" style="font-size: 16px; text-align: start;"><span class="text Isa-55-9" style="position: relative;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now is the time to throw out my expectations and find in Him the glorious joy of His ways. Whatever they bring. In parenting, in serving others, in friendships. With my heart, my mind, my actions. He must be the Source. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After all, it's not about me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">He is so much more. </span></div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-81258362939107653562014-03-04T11:19:00.000-08:002014-03-04T11:19:14.787-08:00lean in and draw near<strong style="background-color: white;"></strong><br />
<pre style="display: block; overflow-x: auto; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am a bit weary in life right about now. There are a vast array of big and little reasons spurring this weariness on. If you gazed through my window you wouldn't see anything grand or drastic happening. No out of the ordinary obedience or disobedience by my children. We aren't living off of pizza and cereal nor am I cooking any five course meals. My kitchen floors might be covered with cheerios and the back door cluttered with shoes but that's normal. It's not a practical weariness. It's actually hard to pin down. I keep resting my head on my pillow at night and deeply sighing. Wondering, what will take away this weary? When will it go? I'm tired. I'm overwhelmed. I'm feeling like I just won't ever get it together. </span></pre>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A few nights ago Madeline lost it over cleaning her room but mostly she was tired and I knew it. I gave her lots of graces and watched as her little mind and heart tormented over whether to sit in her frustration or be lifted up out of it with me and move forward. She ended in my arms, crying and talking it through. We talked of forgiveness and reminded ourselves that we can't ever try hard enough to be right and have it all together. But, thankfully, the frustration in all that reveals all the more the beauty of Christ and our deep need for Him. We are weak and we will fail. Christ calls us in our weakness and failure and draws us into His forgiveness, grace, and love. We need only to lean in and draw near to Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lean in and draw near. As Lent begins tomorrow this is where I find myself. Weak, weary, overwhelmed, and very very aware of my need for Jesus. Now I need only to go to Him. The question will be whether I will sit in my weariness or be lifted up out of it with Him and move forward. Forward to the fullness of life with Jesus. Forward in knowing Him, resting in Him, and also being obedient to give up my life for what He asks, even if it means I remain tired and overwhelmed. Because dwelling in the weary tends to take life and make it all about me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And my life is not my own. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I have been bought with a price. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lord, remind me. Teach me to remember. Teach me now to take my eyes off of me and gaze on You. To give up dwelling in my weariness and sighing and lean in to You. So I may see beyond myself and my days and be alive in Christ and who He is. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Will you join me these next weeks leading up to Easter? Join me in making your life wrapped up in Jesus and not in yourself. Whatever you do, give something up, add something in, do it as you lean in and draw near to see, know, and glorify Him who gave His life. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It's not about you. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">He is so much more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Join me this Lent season in making space for Christ in your life. I will be posting a bit on how we walk through Lent with our children, as well as Scripture each Wednesday that I am going through. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-72049211210283928642014-03-03T11:45:00.003-08:002014-03-03T11:45:48.131-08:00Marriage Letters: deep thoughts Andrew,<br />
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You are a deep thinker. You take your time, ingest things, think long and steady on them. You are quick to listen and slow to speak. We joke in our house and with close friends, poking fun at you honestly, that you never want to be boxed in by saying something when you aren't ready to commit yourself to those outloud thoughts. <br />
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But I actually really love it about you, even if sometimes it drives me crazy. When you are dwelling and thinking on things you are actually doing so much more. It's how God's wired you to pursue Him. It's how He teaches you, prepares you, and leads you. Out of your silence comes great perspective and discernment. You don't take steps in haste, but you constantly pursue which steps are next to be taken. In your work, our family, our marriage, friendships, commitments. I watch you think and pray and come alive. <br />
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You think deeply because you are deeply rooted. I am very thankful. Love you,<br /><br />
Ash<br />
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*pictured: how we generally feel these days as we walk in the ways God has directed our lives, often through your deep thinking ways :) love you. <br />
<br />
linking up with my friend <a href="http://therunamuck.com/2014/03/02/marriage-letters-what-makes-you-come-alive/">Amber</a> today. go check her out...she will certainly make you smile. Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-42685253972359338572014-02-28T10:44:00.000-08:002014-02-28T10:44:19.697-08:00all believers together and a new van<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">About two weeks ago we got a new van. But we didn't go somewhere, pick it out, take out monthly payments, or test drive anything. No, I turned and looked out my front window one evening and there it was. Sitting, shiny and bright, in my driveway. And our friends said to us, it's yours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br />Someone anonymously gave us a van. Gave. Us. A. Van. A brand new off the lot 2014 Honda Oddessey.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">We were and still are slightly dumbfounded by it all. Amazed, humbled, thankful...these words hardly scratch the surface of what we've been processing. I think the only words out of my mouth, through tears, for the first couple of hours were, </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">"Oh my goodness, oh my goodness! Who gives someone a van? Oh my goodness!"</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">And repeat. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">One beautiful Scripture God has brought to mind as we've been reflecting on this new van is from Acts 2:42-47,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Acts-2-42" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">"They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26992BE" title="See cross-reference BE">BE</a>)"></span> and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26992BF" title="See cross-reference BF">BF</a>)"></span> and to prayer.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26992BG" title="See cross-reference BG">BG</a>)"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Acts-2-43" id="en-NIV-26993" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.</span><span class="text Acts-2-43" style="background-color: white; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><b> </b></span><span class="text Acts-2-44" id="en-NIV-26994" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">All the believers were together and had everything in common.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26994BI" title="See cross-reference BI">BI</a>)"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Acts-2-45" id="en-NIV-26995" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26995BJ" title="See cross-reference BJ">BJ</a>)"></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Acts-2-46" id="en-NIV-26996" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26996BK" title="See cross-reference BK">BK</a>)"></span> They broke bread<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26996BL" title="See cross-reference BL">BL</a>)"></span> in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,</span><span class="text Acts-2-46" style="background-color: white; font-size: 11.818181991577148px;"><b> </b></span><span class="text Acts-2-47" id="en-NIV-26997" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26997BM" title="See cross-reference BM">BM</a>)"></span> And the Lord added to their number<span class="crossreference" style="font-size: 0.65em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-26997BN" title="See cross-reference BN">BN</a>)"></span> daily those who were being saved." </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Acts-2-47" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">As we pondered in awe over and over again, who would give us a van?, I found my answer in these verses. All the believers were together, had everything in common, sold and gave to anyone who had need. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Acts-2-47" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Acts-2-47" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">It is simple and beautiful and in a hard and dark world people are living and breathing the life of Christ with others. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Acts-2-47" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">It makes no difference who has what, who needs more, who has more. What these believers had in common was devotion to their Savior. Stuff was interchangeable and dispensable. The love of Christ was filling their lives. And it was so clearly evident to others and people were drawn to follow Jesus daily. And they lived together with glad and sincere hearts. No comparison, no jealousy, no shame for having less or pride for having more, no "faking" it. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Acts-2-47" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Sincere, loving, generous hearts. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Acts-2-47" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Somewhere out there, someone has shown this kind of living to us. This kind of sincere, loving, and generous heart. We didn't do something to deserve this gift; just as we don't deserve the kindness and mercy of God towards us. But He is Good and He is Love. And so we thank Him and ask that we might live our lives with sincere hearts that seek more for His glory than worldly pleasures. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text Acts-2-47" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">And to the one who gave us a van, we say thank you. Thank you for your gift and thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus to us. </span></span></div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-19348852960627006672014-02-19T10:39:00.000-08:002014-02-19T10:39:25.638-08:00a lost tooth and something new foundMy big girl Madeline lost her tooth this week. This is a first in our household. It's been wiggling for a few days now and all of us have been eagerly anticipating this together. And her joy! It's just the sweetest, most genuine joy! She is giggly and grins so big. It just makes me love her all the more. <br />
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Since Madeline was born we've prayed for her to know Jesus. She has such an intricate little heart and mind and getting to know her is such a blessing and challenge to me. She has asked questions about Jesus, sin, Satan, grace. We've read countless Bible stories with her and watched her curiosity grow, her understanding deepen, her imagination take off into the stories. She is sensitive and emotional and dramatic and intense. Beautiful. Strong. Passionate. <br />
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When she messes up, we call it sin. We sit together and she processes with me. Crying and wondering why she keeps messing up, telling me she doesn't know how to stop when she gets frustrated, falling into my arms overcome with remorse. We speak grace and forgiveness and pray. It is a beautiful battle that we are in with her. Watching her first attempts to walk in faith. <br />
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A few weeks ago Madeline sat through church with us. We take communion weekly and she walked back with us. She has done this before and we've never let her take communion but this time was different. She asked if she could. At first I said no, but I could tell she wanted to talk. So we moved to the back and I told her that communion was something we did not just because we believe Jesus is real, but because we know we need Him to rescue us. I asked her what she thought of all that. She looked at me with tears in her eyes and said that's what she believes. It was quiet and sweet. I pushed a bit. Tell me what you mean, I asked. And she did. Very shyly she told me that she knows she needs Jesus and she wants to follow Him and that is why she wants to take communion. I had no words. I asked her if we could pray together so we did. Then I told her she should talk to Jesus as well, and she did, and she cried as she prayed. And I had the privilege of taking her first communion with her. <br />
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It is a moment etched in my heart. <br />
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What does she understand? What does this all mean? I don't really know. But what I do know is this-in her heart and mind, in all she knows and understands, she wants to follow Jesus today. She knows she needs Him. So we rejoiced with her, hugged, and smiled. When I put her to bed that night I asked her if she had thought any about what she had talked with Jesus about at church. She said yes but didn't elaborate. I sat in bed with her and we prayed and afterwards she told me that the reason she knew she really loved Jesus and wanted to follow Him was that every time we talked about it it would make her cry. It was the sweetest moment with her. Hearing her voice and heart spill out in joy and tears. She is so much like me in how she processes so I know exactly what she means when she says that. A few days later we bought her a new Bible, put her name on it, and read together. <br />
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I couldn't be more thankful to get to walk this road of faith with my sweet girl and pray for many, many more conversations and prayers that bring us closer to Jesus. Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-45562528752931833512014-02-12T07:16:00.000-08:002014-02-12T07:16:44.318-08:00why I get so mad at my garage door<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We have lived in our home for over three years now. We try to live fairly simply, not focus on our "stuff" or invest in things that don't matter. That statement, along with the fact that we 1. aren't handy, and 2. have 8 people in our home and therefore no time to focus on much else, are what generally dictate what gets worked on in our house and what doesn't. Back to the point, which is, our garage door has been mostly broken for a long, long time. We have a one car garage so this really only matters to me, the one whose van gets the garage spot. In order to open or shut the garage door one must push the button, wait while it opens a bit and then stops, push it again, wait while it lowers a bit and madly push the button over and over in hopes that it will raise. If not, just try again. And again. People, it's cold outside, there is ice on the driveway, I have four kids, a wheelchair, blah, blah, blah... I've been annoyed, to say the least. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure children of God, in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe, holding out the word of life." Philippians 2:14-16</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bam. Sometimes those little verses you say to your children throughout the day smack you right back in the face. I know we all know we should not complain. But have you ever tried this? Once Andrew & I attempted to see if we could make it an entire day without a complaint pouring forth from our lips. I won't say if we succeeded or not, you just try it for yourself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So here I am, frustrated beyond words over a garage door. Whining, complaining, whining, complaining. And I see no reason I shouldn't. It is after all, fairly significant to my life. Can't it just work properly? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What an overwhelmingly discouraging reflection of my heart! I claim contentment with my life: our belongings, my mama job, my status before others. Yet all it takes is something small to wedge its little way into my heart and mind and all contentment is lost. Replaced with complaints, comparisons, insecurities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You want to know the crazy thing? All it took was a can of WD-40 and a little time and the door was working smoothly again. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What is the WD-40 for my heart? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The battle in my heart is in the little things. It's in the morning when I wake up and choose to spend time in the Word. Or in the shower when I spend 5 minutes in prayer. It's while I am cooking and reading with the kids and listening to worship music in the background. These are the moments that prepare me for the battles. So that when I could lose my patience, I don't. When I want to hold back forgiveness, but instead I give it. When I need to say I'm sorry and I do. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Jesus. He is how I grease my squeaky, broken heart. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Time with Him, transformed by Him, walking with Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What in your heart needs some greasing? Will you let Him in? </span></div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-12208484561773121132014-02-10T13:01:00.002-08:002014-02-10T13:01:15.414-08:00don't forget you were carried to the table<div style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;"><i><b>somedays and weeks and hours you just need to remember.</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;">this is my day, my week. life is pressing in and i am feeling weak. my sin and flesh are edging out victory in my heart, mind and actions. i am losing patience, being rude and short with my children. i am frustrated with my inability to figure things out. i am not gracious where grace is needed. i am relying on my own strength even when i know it's impossible and fruitless. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;"><b><i>remember your shattered state. remember the feeling of lost. remember the weakness that drew you to your knees in the first place. </i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;">i need to remind myself all the more in these moments that i am not enough. i am not all sufficient. i am nothing. but He most certainly isn't. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;"><i><b>remembering makes space and time to see all over again the beauty and glory of the King and His rescue of you. </b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;">Glory. He certainly is good. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;"><b><i>summoned by the King, into the Master's courts. </i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;"><b><i>carried to the table, seated where you don't belong. </i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px;"><b><i>in His holy presence, i'm healed and unashamed.</i></b></span></span></div>
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Wounded and forsaken </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;">I was shattered by the fall</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"> </span></div>
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Broken and forgotten </div>
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Feeling lost and all alone </div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;">Summoned by the King </span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;">Into the Master's courts </b></div>
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Lifted by the Savior </div>
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And cradled in His arms </div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;">I was carried to the table </span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: transparent;">Seated where I don't belong </b></div>
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Carried to the table </div>
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Swept away by His love </div>
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And I don't see my brokenness anymore </div>
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When I'm seated at the table of the Lord </div>
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I'm carried to the table </div>
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The table of the Lord </div>
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Fighting thoughts of fear </div>
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And wondering why He called my name </div>
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Am I good enough to share this cup </div>
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This world has left me lame </div>
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Even in my weakness </div>
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The Savior called my name </div>
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In His Holy presence </div>
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I'm healed and unashamed </div>
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You carried me, my God </div>
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You carried me</div>
</span></span></span>Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-22931460292147089782014-02-03T07:24:00.003-08:002014-02-03T07:24:36.575-08:00Marriage Letters: Once Upon a TimeAndrew,<br />
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Once upon a time we were babies getting married. It's been around 11 years. I know because I asked you the other day when I couldn't remember. <br />
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On our wedding day, I walked my 20 year old self down the aisle to you. Hoping mostly for the moments of our marriage to be good, fun, godly, exciting-and also not to pee my pants. We were eager and excited for our future. We lived in our tiny house, spend about $70 a month on our groceries, had a land line and dial up internet. You worked for Keith & I went to school. <br />
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On our wedding day, I didn't even know to hope for what has actually come. I don't count that as missing out then, I just count it now as the unbelievable grace and goodness of God to do so much more than my little heart and mind could imagine to hope for. I hoped for goodness, He has given us a deep and hard fought for friendship. I hoped for fun and laughter and He has given us joy that surpasses our moments. I hoped for godliness, but really just through an easy path I was sure, and He has broken and repaired and shaped us so much that we can't help but love Him. As for exciting? Well, there are no words for that one. We are sleep deprived, we balance our weekly calenders every Saturday night, we track our spending meticulously, we hang on a planned date night that is several weeks out, you go to work, I stay home, we hit all our kids scheduled appointments and activities, and I really couldn't ask for a more exciting life. <br />
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Some people see us as crazy, some say they could never do what we are doing, and some wouldn't want our life at all. But we know we only live our life, our marriage, our parenting, our everything, because God has called us to, and He alone equips us to. You have pursued Jesus like crazy, which leads me to, which leads our family to, which is the only reason we are making this whole thing work. So thank you. <br />
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We are older, have more wrinkles and have grown a lot. But I hope we never lose our eagerness for each other, our family, our future. Love ya,<br />
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Ash<br />
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My friend Amber is writing Marriage Letters on her <a href="http://therunamuck.com/2014/02/03/marriage-letters-once-upon-a-time-2/">blog</a> each month. Go read over there & be encouraged!<br />
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<br />Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-16857366093509480572014-01-29T18:57:00.001-08:002014-01-29T18:57:10.247-08:00things we are loving around here: devotions & worship<div style="text-align: center;">
We have tried, failed, and succeeded at many family devotion plans, family nights, Scripture memory, prayer time, and so forth with our crew around here. Here are some things we are loving in our home right now.</div>
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Jesus Storybook Bible</div>
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We have used this Bible for years and loved it. Our kids have basically memorized the stories and we love how every story points to Jesus. We attempt family devotions about 4 nights a week. We sit together, read a story, sometimes have an activity, sing a few songs, and pray. This has looked very different over the years but we are so thankful we've taught them and ourselves the discipline of devotions together. </div>
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Seeds of Worship</div>
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These cd's are Scripture put to song. We've learned a lot of Bible verses through these cd's and even Ren, Andrew, & I enjoy them. </div>
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Slugs & Bugs</div>
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There are several of these cd's out and we love every single one! They are a great mixture of silly, funny, worshipful songs and the latest cd they have is all Scripture put to song. </div>
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Thoughts to Make Your Heart Sing</div>
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<img alt="Product Details" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/617vYV9yWrL._SL160_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-dp,TopRight,12,-18_SH30_OU01_AA160_.jpg" /></div>
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We just got this great devotional and so far are enjoying it. It is written by the same folks that did Jesus Storybook Bible and has a short devo a day with a verse. We keep it at our breakfast table and try to do one a morning. </div>
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NIRV Adeventure Bible</div>
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<img height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/519c4R45APL._SY344_PJlook-inside-v2,TopRight,1,0_SH20_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="124" /></div>
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We have had the sweetest conversations with Madeline lately about how to be a follower of Jesus and we wanted to get her a Bible to celebrate and remind her of her desire to know Him. We picked this one and so far like it. It is her first full-version Bible and even though she can't read this well yet, there are lots of little sidebars and sections and stand alone verses that she is working through. We are attempting to both sit with her once a week to read and talk. </div>
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Rain for Roots</div>
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<img alt="Product Details" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81B5R%2BfFaRL._AA160_.png" /></div>
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Another cd we love. Very mellow and all songs tell stories and Scripture. Our kids currently listen to it as they fall asleep. </div>
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Window to the World</div>
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<img alt="Product Details" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51K20XMRYNL._AA160_.jpg" /></div>
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This book is so good! It is a kid-friendly version of Operation World and has 2 pages focused on a specific people group, who they are, what they believe, how to pray for them, and more. The kids really like to see the pictures and learn. </div>
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My First Hands on Bible</div>
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<img alt="Product Details" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51%2Bm5GD0qIL._AA160_.jpg" /></div>
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Anna just got this Bible for Christmas and it has been a nice change up for our devotions. It has little and easy activities that go along with each story and good questions to ask. The kids definitely understand it, can answer the questions, and the stories don't loose their attention. </div>
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Big Picture Bible</div>
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<img alt="Product Details" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51GPZl5GJpL._SL160_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-dp,TopRight,12,-18_SH30_OU01_AA160_.jpg" /></div>
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This was the first Bible we used to do devotions with the kids. It is simple, short, and accurate! We still pull it out every once in a while but it is great for kids under 4 to get them used to a devo time. </div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-46206190039642758682014-01-27T19:49:00.004-08:002014-01-27T19:49:29.598-08:00radiant with joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, I've updated a bit around here. New pictures, new colors, new Scripture. For almost a year now I've been working through this verse above and several others from Psalm 34. If you haven't lately, you should read it. My goodness I have learned a lot. In the midst of a lot of transition these last months I've seen so clearly that God had been prepping me for them. After Anna and before Paulina God was working in the deep parts of my character. Places I didn't realize I needed refining, especially for now. He has shown me my selfishness, my desire for approval of others, my need for acceptance or status outside of Him, my weaknesses and idols. And He has broken me. Mostly gently, although He is tough where my sin is the most stubborn and blind. I read this verse and say it over and over in my head and outloud. <br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>"Those who look to Him for help will be radiant with joy, no shadow of shame will darken their faces." Psalm 34:8</b></span></div>
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look to Him<br />
help<br />
radiant with joy<br />
no shadow of shame<br />
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Have you found such free-ness as this? No shadow of shame. <br />
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Anna has this cut in the crevice of the underside of her pinky toe. Seriously. It will not heal. It keeps getting ripped back open, bleeding, and bothering her. We put medicine on it, multiple bandaids, and cover it with her sock. Yet still, it is taking forever. If she even slightly hits it on the right spot we have to start over again. <br />
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Her toe is like my shame. Shame is brutal and secretive. It attacks all parts of heart, soul, and mind. It shapes thoughts, character, emotions, responses, everything. It cuts deep and takes work to find restoration from. <br />
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I long for this restoration. And have to fight for it. Putting into light the lies that keep me in the darkness. Looking to Him who has overcome the darkness. And ultimately, radiating Him, not me. <br />
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When I turn my eyes away from Him, the destructions are instant. Self. World. Fear. Shame. Comparison. Jealousy. But when I look to Him? Radiant with joy. Radiant because I know the source of joy. Radiant because I am consumed in heart, mind, and soul with the One who has set me free. <br />
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The destructive things are still out there, nearby in fact. But I will say it again, those who look to Him for help...<br />
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And another,<br />
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<b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1</span></b></div>
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No shadow of shame. Instead, I get to dwell with Him. He must become greater, I must become less. <br />
<br />Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-16298695844344955432014-01-25T19:24:00.000-08:002014-01-25T19:24:36.977-08:00grasping for love<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My little Paulina has been laying in a hospital bed for the last 24 hours and will be for a bit longer. We know some, but a lot is still very unknown. Often, when describing my day with Paulina to Andrew, I give him the basics but end by saying, "She is such a little mystery!" And now, as we try to figure out what is going on in her little body, we say it again, she is such a little mystery! I am so thankful for an incredibly caring community of doctors and friends who are walking through this with us. It is a confusing, mysterious, overwhelming mess. But we are figuring it out! And she is totally worth every second of our time on this and every second we have to spend in a hospital. </span><br />
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<b><span class="text 1Cor-1-26" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; vertical-align: top;">"</span>Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text 1Cor-1-27" id="en-NLT-28351" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text 1Cor-1-28" id="en-NLT-28352" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text 1Cor-1-29" id="en-NLT-28353" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God." </span></b></div>
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<b><span class="text 1Cor-1-29" style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">1 Corinthians 1:26-29</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love her so unbelievably much and am often overwhelmed at how blessed I am to have her as a daughter. She teaches me so much about God's goodness and grace. Today, as I was sitting in her hospital bed with her, she again brought me to my knees before Jesus for the way He loves His children and abundantly meets our needs. She was sleeping soundly after being poked and prodded and I was resting next to her. I rolled over to reach for my phone, and she cried out and took hold of me, grasping with all her little might. She knows me, she trusts me, and she clings to me when fear and pain come. I have no words to describe the joy and gratitude and humility this brings in me. We've asked Him on her behalf that she would know us and trust us and know we are here, we are constant, we love and will take care. And oh beautiful glory, she does. She does. I can't help but praise Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This brings me to my question and conviction. Do I grasp for Jesus when fear and pain surround me? When we are overwhelmed by the medical unknowns of our daughter? Tired and confused about what to do? Frustrated that we can't be in two places at once, the hospital with Paulina, and home with Madeline, Simeon, & Anna? And on and on...fear and pain. Where do I turn? Do I know Jesus, trust Him, cling to Him? Oh, I long to! I am trying to. I am thankful for His tender grace to remind me and draw me more and more to Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I'm holding her, she's grasping me; I will grasp hold of Jesus, and He will hold me. </span>Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8432845250996879030.post-54158398341591082362014-01-21T11:53:00.004-08:002014-01-21T11:53:52.445-08:00a good start<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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All dressed up to play in the freezing cold temperatures. Whatever works!</div>
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Aunt Lauren & I got to take Madeline & Anna to the Sound of Music sing-a-long at the Walton Arts Center and we all had a blast! The girls got to go on the stage and show off their outfits-Madeline dressed as Leisel and Anna as Louisa-and sing and have such a good time! So glad we got to go. </div>
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And now, just some random, good old cuteness! </div>
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building trains</div>
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going for a walk</div>
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getting to see Frozen with Ms. Becca </div>
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first haircut!</div>
Ashley & Andrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14765405473791662794noreply@blogger.com0