tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651180449173391282024-03-05T04:06:13.902-08:0030 Days of AdventuresTaking a month at a time to explore new things...jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.comBlogger339125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-67903982806819897122013-10-14T07:53:00.001-07:002013-10-14T07:53:06.823-07:00Seeing is believing
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">October 13,
2013<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">21st Sunday
After Pentecost<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">2 Kings
5:1-3, 7-15c <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Psalm 111<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Luke
17:11-19</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Please pray with me,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">May the words of my mouth and the meditations
of all our hearts be acceptable in your sight, O God, our rock, our strength
and our redeemer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Seeing is believing….<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">A few weeks ago while I was on the elliptical
at the gym, I was chatting with the woman next to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We exchanged niceties, found out what each
other ‘did for work’ and the like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
she found out I was a pastor, she said, “Good for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need people like you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The world would be a much better place with
more God in it.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Hm, I thought, isn’t God already in the
world?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, what’s keeping us from seeing
God in our world and at work in our lives?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What leads us to think that we need more God?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe we’re just not seeing where God is
already busy at work in our homes, our communities and our world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
I<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">n the story “The Point” the main character
Oblio is traveling through to the Pointless Forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along his journey, he meets the Rockman (yup,
you guessed it, a man made of rocks) and asks him if he’s seen the forest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The Rockman says, “You see what you want to
see and you hear what you want to hear.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The Rockman asks, “Did you ever see Paris?”
Oblio says, “No.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The Rockman asks, “Did you ever see New Dehli?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oblio says, “No.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Well, says the Rock Man, “You see want you
want to see and you hear what you want to hear.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">You have to open your mind as well as your
eyes…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">You may wonder what seeing has to do with
believing with today’s lesson…but it’s there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You see faith, is not a matter of believing only, but also of
seeing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">All the lepers were healed; one however, saw,
noticed, let what happened sink in…and it made all the difference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Because he <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">sees</span> what has happened, the leper <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">recognizes Jesus</span>, his reign and his power.<br />
Because he <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">sees</span> what has
happened, the <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">leper has something for
which to be thankful</span>, praising God with a loud voice.<br />
Because he <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">sees</span> what has
happened, the leper <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">changes direction</span>,
veering from his course toward a priest to first return to Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Thinking about the role of seeing as it
pertains to believing…this story serves as an invitation to believers…both in
Jesus time, and now, to recognize how and when we see God at work in the
world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">In the face of adversity, do we see danger or
opportunity? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">In the face of human need, do we see demand
or gift? For example, as people line up for the food pantry do we see people in
need or do we see the crew of volunteers handing out an abundance of food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">In the face of the stranger, so we see the
differences between us that could separate us or do we see a potential new best
friend?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And it goes further. When we look to God, do
we see stern judge or loving parent? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">When we look to ourselves, do we see failure
or beloved child? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">When we look to the future, do we see fearful
uncertainty or an open horizon? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">There is, of course, no right answer to any
of these questions. How we answer depends upon what we see. Yet how we answer
dramatically shapes both our outlook and our behavior.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Perhaps this is the key to living our lives
as followers of Jesus that in seeing the world, we see God at work in the
details.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">AND, when we see God at work in the details,
we point that out to others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We know
that God is at work in the world and we know that we have been blessed
abundantly with life, friends, family and a supportive community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is good for us to see that….for what it
is…God at work in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Before we are called to believe or confess or
help or do we are called simply to see...and to help others do the same. We are
called, that is, to point out blessing, to claim mercy, to name grace wherever
we are and with all the courage we can muster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">At the outset of this story, ten men are
stuck. They live "between regions" in a "no-man's" land of
being socially, religiously, and physically unclean. By the end of the story,
all ten are made well. But one has something more. He has <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">seen</span> Jesus, recognized his blessing
and rejoiced in it, and changed his course of action and behavior. And because
he <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">sees</span> what has happened, the
leper is not just healed, but is made whole, restored, drawn back into
relationship with God and humanity. In all these ways he has been, if we must
choose a single word, <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">saved</span>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Because here’s the good news….God doesn’t
wait for us to have enough faith….God acts first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Phew, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Because truth is….after that comment from the
woman on the elliptical about needing more God in the world I was silent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wasn’t really sure how to react…and I’m a
pastor….I talk about God, it’s what I do….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So thank God that God is not waiting for us
to have the perfect faith to use us in the spreading of the gospel
message….because we may not always get it right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">But that’s okay, because God doesn’t wait for
us to have enough faith…God acts first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">God is already at work in your life and your
world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">God is already loving you, saving you and
blessing you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So, stop…and look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Last week, while in New Orleans, we traveled
either by foot, or by the city’s public transportation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So often when on the bus or streetcar, when
an older person got on, a younger person would stand up and offer their
seat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It happened more often than
not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">One day a woman entered the front of the
street car and began looking for her friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A man got up, offered his seat and she sat down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She called back to her friends wondering why
they got on in the back and why they were separated and then stopped mid-sentence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She looked at the man who offered his seat
and she said, “I’m sorry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I forgot to
say thank you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">You see, these moments of grace and
thankfulness are all around us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">We are constantly reminded of living in
community with others who see and react based on the needs of others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">It’s that easy….to see these moments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">See where God is at work in your home, at
school, at work….at the gym on the elliptical….wherever you may find yourself,
you are in a prime spot to see God at work in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Then take that next step and tell someone
else about, your pastor, your friend, your mom or your dad, your
neighbor…whoever you want!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may not
have the words in the midst of that moment…but that’s okay, because God acts
first.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And now may the peace which passes all understanding, keep our
hearts and minds in Christ Jesus and let all God’s people say amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-56467852664578907622013-06-23T19:18:00.002-07:002013-06-23T19:27:16.424-07:00checking in...and out.A week ago I was in Wildwood with an amazing group of Senior High Youth. (see previous blog post.)<br />
<br />
Our retreat ended Wednesday. <br />
<br />
Thursday and part of Friday was with a bunch of talented kids learning a musical to lead worship this weekend. Lunch on Friday was full of laughs!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUD-hQkqQGmlk4sathnMLxqjHOZtGUbxteuPPHf3S2IPpImYZZPWdmyaz9ki1ps-xrY4mOuEPFIrgs6y2nyIsCr8M76DNX3xIUcWb2lPTtTA6j8gqZTJtz_BPWuSJ91sqfhDksXaZA-w0/s1600/943223_10151508376037406_691054117_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUD-hQkqQGmlk4sathnMLxqjHOZtGUbxteuPPHf3S2IPpImYZZPWdmyaz9ki1ps-xrY4mOuEPFIrgs6y2nyIsCr8M76DNX3xIUcWb2lPTtTA6j8gqZTJtz_BPWuSJ91sqfhDksXaZA-w0/s320/943223_10151508376037406_691054117_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then the LYF assembly began. <br />
<br />
I met some amazing Senior High Youth. Over the course of 2+ days we laughed, sang, prayed, danced, talked about what the church looks like to us and what we'd like it to look like, shared serious changes we'd like to see in the world and risks we might have to take to make some of those changes happen. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUMw28OLfCDbWbVdqQGOzN7TWaR2asq2Q8w4lX5eaP_vx2O-F-Lxz6PMOx1uXp16A1XSwNHr7Qb8C0pKDYeqTJ9AvlodthUB_Mqp4RE-ov1aYg_hKJKb4Krq8OIs4J4qoWRkCCGfhIHlgB/s1600/1016075_10151510632022406_161648667_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUMw28OLfCDbWbVdqQGOzN7TWaR2asq2Q8w4lX5eaP_vx2O-F-Lxz6PMOx1uXp16A1XSwNHr7Qb8C0pKDYeqTJ9AvlodthUB_Mqp4RE-ov1aYg_hKJKb4Krq8OIs4J4qoWRkCCGfhIHlgB/s320/1016075_10151510632022406_161648667_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I took time to look at these two posters before heading to the dance last night. Truth be told, I was in tears as I read the changes and healing that these youth wish to see in their lives and their world. It's clear from this poster that life and faith are intersecting in their lives. Life is happening and the world is a challenging (and sometimes messy place to be.) I'm truly thankful for the honesty in these notes. I continue to pray that the writers of these notes know that they are not alone that there is a community of faith that surrounds them and is there to journey with them. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAh2uwNTUJoA1cILlsmVu992jTIMonBwBGIcCsZPkzyscKIw2HVhLkK8_uK3FLPfy6QiEjz24_heKOlY2leXlTTumSWEjKPMLE60v0Sf088jbA38WdD6_QAWhBBpubYrPKwpIDVcRSabk/s1600/1276_10151510635377406_1631573429_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAh2uwNTUJoA1cILlsmVu992jTIMonBwBGIcCsZPkzyscKIw2HVhLkK8_uK3FLPfy6QiEjz24_heKOlY2leXlTTumSWEjKPMLE60v0Sf088jbA38WdD6_QAWhBBpubYrPKwpIDVcRSabk/s320/1276_10151510635377406_1631573429_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The risks that people are thinking about taking as just as real as the changes they wish to see.<br />
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I'm thankful for the church, in our communities and in our world. Congregations are places where these amazing young people can be to ask tough questions, struggle with real issues and share experiences of life, service, love and grace. <br />
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Right now I am officially exhausted. BUT, I'm also incredibly inspired, fired up and excited about the church here and now and the church in the weeks, months and years ahead because there are passionate youth worshipping, serving, building relationships with God and one another all out of the love and grace that God has given to the world. <br />
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Our weekend wrapped up with worship. We came together to sing, pray, hear God's word and share in the Lord's Supper. <br />
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The altar was covered with the sins we brought to God this day, it was wrapped with the changes and healing we wish to see in the world and it held the body and blood of Christ. We were strengthened by this meal for service and love in the world. <br />
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Filled with joy, exhaustion and hope....I'll head to bed. Giving thanks to God for this fantastic week with amazing youth. The new IS now. <br />
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+peace all!jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-39604091781397935022013-06-19T19:12:00.000-07:002013-06-19T19:12:03.579-07:00re-treat.Retreat....definitions 2 and 3 for this word according to Miriam Webster online are as follows:<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">:</b> a place
of privacy or safety <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">:</b> refuge<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 7.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">:</b> a
period of group withdrawal for prayer, meditation, study, or instruction under
a director<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 7.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I just returned home from the Senior High Beach Retreat in Wildwood, NJ. When you think Wildwood, maybe this comes to mind. </div>
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Not, however, a 3 day get away with 8 high school youth, 3 adults and some 'rustic hotel' accommodations. I'm in the process of catching my breath from 3 days of sand, sun, rain, song, laughter, games, mini m&ms, ice cream, tacos, paris whales, Bible study, waves, go-carts, beach ducks, long conversations, deepening relationships, service, prayer, and killer bunnies. </div>
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We lived together with these expectations:</div>
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I like to think of the last 3 days as a re-treat. I was treated again and again to fresh and new moments of seeing God in unexpected places...as 8 youth from 4 school districts welcomed little kids into their fold as they played in the sand at the beach. </div>
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I can't put the entire weekend into words, but these youth are amazing. They are Spirit led, full of joy and excitement and just a complete pleasure to be with. I am so blessed to be called to serve these youth as they continue through high school and to see them shape and mold the youth ministry that happens at Trinity. I am ready to walk, run and sing at the top of my lungs as our journey as God's people continues in the years to come. </div>
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I'm truly excited for the ideas and hopes they have for the future including, but not limited to community outreach, service projects within the congregation and without, partnering up with other youth for fun and fellowship, leading worship and mentoring the incoming youth group members. </div>
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This was truly a retreat...a chance to get away ... to a place to just be ourselves - our wonderfully God made selves - and just be the body of Christ together. </div>
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Thank you, Senior High Youth (you know who you are) and for those who weren't able to join us, we are ready for more ideas, joy, enthusiasm, friends, passion and leadership with the future of youth ministry at Trinity. </div>
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Thanks, all, for an amazing 3 days. </div>
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Until the next amazing moment we share in God's beautiful creation and in the community of Christ, holding you in prayer. </div>
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+peace</div>
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PS. This would not have been possible without 2 other things. </div>
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a) The love and support from an amazing congregation who loves, cares for and supports the youth of Trinity. (THANKS!)</div>
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b) Last, but never least, the 3 chaperones who joined us on this adventure. Thanks for sharing 3 days of your week away from home to make a difference in the life of some crazy-fun youth! </div>
jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-56972653790173720812013-05-14T18:29:00.000-07:002013-05-14T18:30:38.126-07:00why i cookAs I went out to run errands today, I was excited to see that the local farm stand is open for the season! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Y5OYlFYUySrtbHUj6Dc8SesBPKeZn0E38dtKs3Dc0F8f4Vhy0U5TH7NtzfVsMdggBLUgQ5Jda454HlPeQ-uH_RR5qjhw2opQtd7mtXz3B6KKfZ-czKPhefPE7UyYHAEt5e8PBfNmaBL6/s1600/IMG_1347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Y5OYlFYUySrtbHUj6Dc8SesBPKeZn0E38dtKs3Dc0F8f4Vhy0U5TH7NtzfVsMdggBLUgQ5Jda454HlPeQ-uH_RR5qjhw2opQtd7mtXz3B6KKfZ-czKPhefPE7UyYHAEt5e8PBfNmaBL6/s320/IMG_1347.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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You can bet that I left with asparagus....two bunches in fact. I knew that they would be a part of dinner...if not the main attraction. <br />
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After yoga, I was ready to eat. I dressed one bunch of asparagus with olive oil, salt and pepper and preheated the oven to 400. I was plenty hungry...and the asparagus was so fresh and tasty, I ate two stalks (are they stalks?) before the tray went into the oven. <br />
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I started simmering some water for a poached egg and went to the garden for some fresh basil and oregano. <br />
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This was the side salad.....I was reminded that fresh lettuce really just needs a drizzle of olive oil and a tasty vinegar....tonight it was a later harvest riesling vinegar. <br />
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Here's the poached egg on the roasted asparagus with some whole grain bread all topped with a drizzle of olive oil, oregano, basil and freshly grated parm. <br />
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And just before the first bite...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimV0cWy0QiDBtIq-pxlwRyLXNmF1KIml8nm20dSxpNeQGSwbBsCgiah50EJLTemcbKyvgVvNLKeXJSJjgtbVFm2GegR5OeMMnjiLht_3dVi8KTWvnp0bHfeeM9b-eXXkGtFvFab51Nt8d9/s1600/IMG_1357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimV0cWy0QiDBtIq-pxlwRyLXNmF1KIml8nm20dSxpNeQGSwbBsCgiah50EJLTemcbKyvgVvNLKeXJSJjgtbVFm2GegR5OeMMnjiLht_3dVi8KTWvnp0bHfeeM9b-eXXkGtFvFab51Nt8d9/s320/IMG_1357.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here's to good local eats, fresh food and the simplicity of an egg with some veggies....</div>
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Until the next post....</div>
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<br />jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-31263769065796439182013-04-29T18:29:00.001-07:002013-04-29T19:18:30.986-07:00learning how to cook (again)I've been reading the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Everlasting-Meal-Cooking-Economy-Grace/dp/1439181888/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1367285427&sr=1-1&keywords=everlasting+meal">An Everlasting Meal: Cooking with Economy and Grace</a><br />
It's a journey with food in your kitchen with your host Tamar Adler. <br />
It's a joy to read....and it'll be read and re-read. I may loan it out, if you ask nicely. <br />
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It's inspired me to get back into the kitchen. I don't know about other cooks, but I ebb and flow from eating well to eating not so well, to getting too much takeout. It all seems to spiral together with sleep, exercise and my general well being. When I'm exercising, I like to eat well, and I sleep well, when one of those gets out of kilter, everything thing goes. <br />
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So I'm back on track. At least this week. <br />
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I've learned how to poach an egg. Super fun. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbGezgyuQKhnCvX5AolY13yZ_2b2kbo-grg93e96n9zjTbhz259RvxIJ9di4WMMPBQUxqQUI7mqBBWUiY1WTKC1a6qhkjRJ76dYV6FVCtySd_b452zTPDyETssTZV6YvcOjgsOZshcQ8u/s1600/IMG_1056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbGezgyuQKhnCvX5AolY13yZ_2b2kbo-grg93e96n9zjTbhz259RvxIJ9di4WMMPBQUxqQUI7mqBBWUiY1WTKC1a6qhkjRJ76dYV6FVCtySd_b452zTPDyETssTZV6YvcOjgsOZshcQ8u/s320/IMG_1056.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I remembered that I love to bake bread...and all I need to do it take time to mix up some dough (with some spent grains for texture) and then I can bake it fresh every day. <br />
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Before:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuHOpga4kW6U-8zNAjd3d8V-4ri5vwAVHiKR3qeERVFAD84v5GfaZDmkjNEcpSesTO41Lx7-5DqID5SM4Ckp_SPyQMVPpbI9rXb_60Qid6ZBZBzYIXivRDj0hjIcDjKf0gcqfCz-wWDah/s1600/IMG_1078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWuHOpga4kW6U-8zNAjd3d8V-4ri5vwAVHiKR3qeERVFAD84v5GfaZDmkjNEcpSesTO41Lx7-5DqID5SM4Ckp_SPyQMVPpbI9rXb_60Qid6ZBZBzYIXivRDj0hjIcDjKf0gcqfCz-wWDah/s320/IMG_1078.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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After:</div>
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I was wondering what to make for meals this week when I made it to the chapter on veggies. I was reminded of the joy of oven roasting them. <br />
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On Saturday, I roasted beets, carrots and parsnips. (Not pictured: beets)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgADhA8ec5OvW0PKAbZHalifnm-9PWlADiIyXRXYFb_DxMAMTj7QN_BM_fFwEXvPwG8ePm1VkWZdoyzIiLD_p3bSXRig9l5xBDAhuG7fVN74V9CvxSkGG7ZKqVltANpO1_S57ov3tZBp4yQ/s1600/IMG_1076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgADhA8ec5OvW0PKAbZHalifnm-9PWlADiIyXRXYFb_DxMAMTj7QN_BM_fFwEXvPwG8ePm1VkWZdoyzIiLD_p3bSXRig9l5xBDAhuG7fVN74V9CvxSkGG7ZKqVltANpO1_S57ov3tZBp4yQ/s320/IMG_1076.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Saturday night I enjoyed beet salad with walnuts and goat cheese. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7FpL7dwIay2GxroEL84heGRQSmNdPGI__xe40dY37PHpV-PQODNh1zVaDfW-uZruVVQC8Es9bfL5B4uM4lcjfnSz7moqEsRnrVg0Rg3NKK20yBKMLsXy3761ZI75xEG4_sRvzY2OL_8-_/s1600/IMG_1077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7FpL7dwIay2GxroEL84heGRQSmNdPGI__xe40dY37PHpV-PQODNh1zVaDfW-uZruVVQC8Es9bfL5B4uM4lcjfnSz7moqEsRnrVg0Rg3NKK20yBKMLsXy3761ZI75xEG4_sRvzY2OL_8-_/s320/IMG_1077.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Yesterday I roasted cauliflower and broccoli. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuo1Hngv6lPdlzZbuWTDwRhj7JToRqZsQKM1QR8rJfPQmS3pCOazW4M7cMSx3V3GAB_5Ndw5QTpp8HMZxL8udEFsGFlMCPofQm0zT66e3hPB-5wwsXfyT3-OR3lVEWwAvuse3zf5fZowN4/s1600/IMG_1080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuo1Hngv6lPdlzZbuWTDwRhj7JToRqZsQKM1QR8rJfPQmS3pCOazW4M7cMSx3V3GAB_5Ndw5QTpp8HMZxL8udEFsGFlMCPofQm0zT66e3hPB-5wwsXfyT3-OR3lVEWwAvuse3zf5fZowN4/s320/IMG_1080.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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And, per Tamar's recommendation, I popped the core of the cauliflower and the thick stems of the broccoli in some water and simmered until they were mushy. I knew I would use it for something....so I let it cool and popped it in the fridge. <br />
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Imagine my joy as today's weather was damp, rainy and a bit chilly. It had soup written all over it. <br />
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I made cream of broccoflower soup. <br />
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Here's the recipe. <br />
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In a soup pot add some olive oil and a smashed clove of garlic. Heat it slowly. I added a splash of water so I wouldn't burn the garlic. When the garlic was tender, I pulled it out. <br />
Meanwhile I was enjoying my new blender as I blended the cauliflower and broccoli remains. <br />
I added that to the soup pot and brought it to a boil, then reduced to simmer. <br />
When it was warm I added some milk, some Parmesan cheese and some freshly cracked pepper. <br />
When that was all mixed in, I tasted it and added some salt and a pat of butter....(that was to make up for the skim milk) <br />
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When it was done I added some of the oven roasted cauliflower for texture and garnished with parm and parsley. Super delicious. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStCtRuuz6KXj7RiQxYEdJFhRM5xmdCbCgU651Eaex441rxG46dn3FUAyTrGSNd2ONY-JCSZf8R_40B1NET7byhF03kTGiJ9HoFv1pzERBdgOzV5VdHrIE913JyKEYYFBwyNFn1UGfzTCU/s1600/IMG_1084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStCtRuuz6KXj7RiQxYEdJFhRM5xmdCbCgU651Eaex441rxG46dn3FUAyTrGSNd2ONY-JCSZf8R_40B1NET7byhF03kTGiJ9HoFv1pzERBdgOzV5VdHrIE913JyKEYYFBwyNFn1UGfzTCU/s320/IMG_1084.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here's to more fun recipes...book inspired and kitchen created. <br />
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<br />jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-78414178847848065922013-04-21T19:04:00.001-07:002013-04-21T19:09:52.965-07:00Hand prints = heart prints<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, I have to say...being an Aunt is a super cool thing. Being invited into a family and being offered the title of Aunt, is an incredible blessing. Yesterday I spend the afternoon with Anna, she's 5. </div>
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What didn't we do? </div>
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After a solid lunch of chicken fingers, smiley potatoes, carrot and celery sticks and some chocolate milk, we were ready to roll....but too full for dessert at the moment. </div>
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We played with Marley, we played with her toys without her when she got bored and then we took a nail painting break. </div>
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Who knows why mom doesn't let her paint her nails...mine came out fabulous! Green with pink spots and blue with pink spots....for the Monsters, Inc...you know, like Sully. </div>
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This was the salon after we finished:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fiMkDIx3tDs6TZ18zd_Fkr9Rs1CElUFp3p1XHUMRg3LFJfTA04tqPDkVDPdSx-sXMk9pxx7Jl0wnHGkyH1ktFmihktU03GQUXSTvJYUoSxevN8ysOtv30BpOi2ysFCVLB4r2JXjZDFfr/s1600/IMG_1034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fiMkDIx3tDs6TZ18zd_Fkr9Rs1CElUFp3p1XHUMRg3LFJfTA04tqPDkVDPdSx-sXMk9pxx7Jl0wnHGkyH1ktFmihktU03GQUXSTvJYUoSxevN8ysOtv30BpOi2ysFCVLB4r2JXjZDFfr/s320/IMG_1034.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally, we were ready for dessert....Individual Fruit Pizzas, you can get The Pioneer Women's recipe: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/individual-fruit-pizzas-recipe/index.html">here!</a> I used the sugar cookie from a dear family friend, Ellen, Z. (thanks!) </div>
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Here's the clean slate:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJt9PJf6mzFI0vuYa5Fg_hZ3uQM7ni32j-4WFBexVxeIsnkgMbiGmuGAOx2KTKKNwvFu5f8n75BYZGRJhVQ41DJQragoEC9G4XiXMRkqfJaxklu7xRsyqQwy9PgTBBul7fi3VodFTdgyNd/s1600/IMG_1028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJt9PJf6mzFI0vuYa5Fg_hZ3uQM7ni32j-4WFBexVxeIsnkgMbiGmuGAOx2KTKKNwvFu5f8n75BYZGRJhVQ41DJQragoEC9G4XiXMRkqfJaxklu7xRsyqQwy9PgTBBul7fi3VodFTdgyNd/s320/IMG_1028.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here's one that's finished:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYY5dBUe4SfxYs-wltbV9FbI6H0OHXOhyphenhyphenYJN3Su-UbfYII2_0hPhnbaMpe9vuUKtjfwehQDNouB73ssKY49ETUGN4aXY4Lbedn2lbeSssx9_WmzLf1Nqt91X-ebK4LkhUuUhlEIF1hbzq/s1600/IMG_1031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYY5dBUe4SfxYs-wltbV9FbI6H0OHXOhyphenhyphenYJN3Su-UbfYII2_0hPhnbaMpe9vuUKtjfwehQDNouB73ssKY49ETUGN4aXY4Lbedn2lbeSssx9_WmzLf1Nqt91X-ebK4LkhUuUhlEIF1hbzq/s320/IMG_1031.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here are the ones we made for ourselves and for Gammie and PopPop. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4TfJpDyRa-ZtkLkoRWs-pi8_gMrpl1WWCDU04h9CR-QZI5hYtZFj5ZM8HNR1k9cglYh5USxDUVheKT9Hwv2wWR7rpmOLn1yIw010f3MBAK-oyDJgvKQTjUcfyGLxu049Ay3AeRdSpRLrz/s1600/IMG_1033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4TfJpDyRa-ZtkLkoRWs-pi8_gMrpl1WWCDU04h9CR-QZI5hYtZFj5ZM8HNR1k9cglYh5USxDUVheKT9Hwv2wWR7rpmOLn1yIw010f3MBAK-oyDJgvKQTjUcfyGLxu049Ay3AeRdSpRLrz/s320/IMG_1033.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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After that, we decorated the cake for the youth Sunday school class:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqcf3kouuy8rt3F0FaCr_pXmZXVMBFbj-PAC3JjjqSVabO78KuYDmIFBbG-5I_o_bLWbYg6d3IppE3keteSk80zw70fRSlipcSiIONHpuPtt3vLoZn5n7hP45hPBteF9eGbWihFGkecpv/s1600/IMG_1032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWqcf3kouuy8rt3F0FaCr_pXmZXVMBFbj-PAC3JjjqSVabO78KuYDmIFBbG-5I_o_bLWbYg6d3IppE3keteSk80zw70fRSlipcSiIONHpuPtt3vLoZn5n7hP45hPBteF9eGbWihFGkecpv/s320/IMG_1032.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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There wasn't much left after Sunday school and the donut hour....which is good because I would've polished it off at home if it had come home with me. </div>
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We looked at sno-globes and dusted them, too, since they were too dusty to look at.......oops! We played with Marley (again). </div>
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We played Uno and checkers and then it was time to go. </div>
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It was a full afternoon with lots of giggles, a few surprises when chasing the cat and each other, and a few things different in my house after she left. <br />
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I got to clean up the 'salon'. <br />
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The bathroom looked like this:<br />
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(Who has time to hang towels on the rack, right?)</div>
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It may be hard to see in this photo, but it contains the hand print of a 5-yr-old. :) <br />
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The bathroom may have been the highlight of the day. I loved seeing the hand print and knowing that a little person had spent the afternoon at my place. <br />
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I stopped and prayed and gave thanks for parents, who see this every day. For parents who hear the pitter patter of feet up and down the hallway and the squeal of giggles while the cat scampers around the corner. For parents who don't get a word in when hearing about dance and the mall and the cat. <br />
For parents who love unconditionally and for the tiny hands that they hold when they cross the street. For parents who have empty nests and those who welcome us home when we just need a bed and a roof over our heads. For parents who struggle. For parents who are doing college visits with their kids. For new parents and expecting parents. You all are awesome, thanks. Gracious God, be with parents when patience runs thin, when tempers flare, and when words are shouted. Be with kids when they stomp up the stairs, slam the door and keep quiet through dinner. Be in the lives of families through the gift of community in neighbors, friends and faith communities. In Jesus' name I pray, amen. <br />
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Until the next post . . .<br />
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<br />jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-23167973535834618872013-04-19T20:14:00.001-07:002013-04-19T20:14:41.144-07:00sabbath :)<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ready to wind down after a wonderful day off....</span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sleeping in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A short run.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Random fun purchases at the Thrift Shop. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Tasty lunch from Corropolese Bakery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Quality time with my beautiful neice, Eva! (and got to see her mom & dad, too!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Bottled the Hefeweisen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Enjoyed a wonderful home cooked meal of locally caught fish with the love of my life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Registered for a fun 5K-ish. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Relaxing with a purring cat as we listen to the rain fall. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Blessings to you all. Hoping you find peaceful moments, moments of joy and time with loved ones. </span></div>
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jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-79132384539213922522013-04-18T11:33:00.000-07:002013-04-18T11:34:21.910-07:00sunday's gospel preached on wedneday...Here's last night's sermon...it may look different on paper, due to the work of the Spirit, but in essence, it is the same. <br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">3<sup>rd</sup>Sunday of Easter<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Crossfire<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">April 17, 2013<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">John 21:1-19<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Please pray with me, <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">May the words of my mouth and the meditations of all of our hearts be acceptable in your sight, O God, our rock, our strength and our redeemer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So much in this text…where do we focus?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">On the fact that the disciples were fishing….<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And at least one of them was fishing naked….<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Or the fact that Jesus appeared to them, again helping them to fish….<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Or that Jesus sat and ate with them, as sign of his physical presence with them…<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Or that Jesus invited Peter into a moment of forgiveness and grace…and unconditional love?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Tonight, I’d like us to focus on the fact that they went back to fishing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The disciples went back to what they know…they were fisherman, so they fished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the wake of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection….being lost, confused, frightened or just lonely, they went back to what they knew….and that was fishing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So do we….<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">On Monday, tragedy struck in Boston.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had received a facbook message from Darrell at 1pm that he had finished the marathon in under 3 hours!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was very excited!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">At 3:43 pm I received a text message from him that read “We are okay and in hotel room.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I texted back, thanks…did you mean to text someone else?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had thought in the business of post-race celebrations and crowds that he was just trying to get in touch with friends or family at the end of the race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p>I was wrong. It was a response to the bombs that went off at the end of the marathon route. </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">There was fear, tragedy, and heart ache…in Boston that day…<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Monday evening and Tuesday all around the world, runners went running.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We put wore race jerseys to work, we put on sneakers, we hit the trails we hit the streets, we ran.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Runners went back to the familiar…to run for those couldn’t because they were injured or afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">There is comfort in going back to what we know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surrounded by people, places and faces that bring us comfort, joy, and give us places to laugh and cry. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">We live in a broken world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel like I don’t even need to say that out loud….because we know this to be true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Violence, hatred, war, sickness and death. You can see this on 24 hour news channels, get tweets about the latest news, read about it on facebook….we hardly need to say that we live in a broken world because it is displayed before us everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Yet, we, like the disciples are called, claimed and sent into this world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">On Sunday, not only did we have two baptisms at the late service, we also welcomed in new members….So we baptized and people affirmed their baptisms….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">As the babes were washed in the baptismal waters and marked with the sign of the cross we prayed these words… We give you thanks, O God, that through water and the Holy Spirit you give your daughters and sons new birth, cleanse them from sin, and raise them to eternal life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Sustain Greyson Paul and Molly Jane with the gift of your Holy Spirit; the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of council and might, the spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord, the spirit of joy in your presence, both now and forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I can say that Molly Jane did not have a happy look on her face…..It’s as if she knew that her life as a baptized Christian would not be an easy one….how telling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Later in the service as we welcomed in new members…we prayed for God’s blessing:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">We give you thanks, O God, that through water and the Holy Spirit you give us new birth,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>cleanse us from sin, and raise us to eternal life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Stir up in your people the gift of your Holy Spirit; the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of council and might, the spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord, the spirit of joy in your presence, both now and forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Amen<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Sound familiar?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we affirm our baptisms, we continue to pray for God’s blessings upon us, because we know the world in which we live.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">But the good news is that this is a place to where we can return time and time again…to be splashed with this water, fed with God’s word, nourished with the body and blood of Jesus Christ only to be sent back out into the world to be beacons through which God’s light may shine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Even in the midst of tragedy and despair, we are called to be the light of the risen Christ in our world…here and now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So maybe the challenge for us….is how do we make that happen?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">How are we living our lives, proclaiming our faith and showing the light of the resurrected Christ to others in our day to day lives?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Yes, how are we living our lives?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Proclaiming our faith?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Showing the light of the resurrected Christ to others in our day to day lives?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Each of us does so in a different way….whether through a listening ear, or a comforting hug, saying please or thank you, spending the night at Trinity during a family promise week, bringing in food items or sharing your time at the food pantry, tutoring someone, mowing someone’s lawn, speaking up for someone who is being bullied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">How many more can I name?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">This is our call…our vocation...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I want to share something from the 1954 Evanston Assembly of the World Council of Churches:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">“The time has come to make the ministry of the laity explicit, visible and active in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The real battles of the faith today are being fought in factories, shops, offices, and farms, in political parties and government agencies, in countless homes, in the press, radio and television, in the relationship of nations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Very often it is said that the church should‘go into these spheres’; but the fact is, that the church is already in these spheres in the persons of its laity.”</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">1954….things haven’t changed too much, have they?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think the only thing to change is add the internet….to places where the real battles of faith are being fought today….<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Our vocation is to be the light….be the church in the world….. not take sermons out to the world but to be the light of christ be who we are…the church….in the places we already are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The classroom, the stage, the sports fields, the office, our homes, the grocery store, wherever we find ourselves is where we are called to be the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">But the good news, friends, is that we are already in those spheres….we are already active and a part of the world around us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And by living in the light of an empty tomb, by being present with others, serving others and giving voice to the voiceless, we are letting Christ’s light shine around us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">May this place continue to be a place where we are forgiven, fed and nourished and sent, so that our light may shine before others…and glorify our Father in heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And now, may the peace, which passes all understanding, keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus and let all God’s people say, amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-88704220233376889552013-04-17T18:49:00.000-07:002013-04-17T18:57:03.093-07:00community through food.We gathered around tables this evening for dinner followed by worship. <br />
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It was around the table, that I was blessed with the community of faith and the joy of family. <br />
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As we ate baked potatoes topped with toppings galore...we enjoyed the buffalo chicken dip on them, too! <br />
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We thought about the many uses for this amazing dip....here are a few.<br />
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Topping for a baked potato.<br />
Put it in a quesadilla. <br />
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Put it in an omelet.</div>
Eat it with tortilla chips.<br />
A nacho topping.<br />
Put it in a wrap.<br />
A tasty schmear on a burger....or a bagel.<br />
Have it on some waffles...you know, chicken and waffles with a twist?<br />
Put it in a bread bowl.<br />
Eat it with celery and carrot sticks.<br />
Use it to make mac 'n cheese.<br />
Put it in a crepe.<br />
Put it on a pizza, top it with just a bit of mozzarella, and when it comes out of the oven top it with some blue cheese and diced celery :)<br />
As the hollandaise sauce on your eggs Benedict.<br />
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These are just a few.... if you have some other ideas, please share!!<br />
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And enjoy. <br />
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PS. Here's the recipe I used:<br />
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3 cans cooked chicken<br />
3/4 C. Franks Hot Sauce<br />
1 block of cream cheese<br />
1 block of Neufchatel cheese<br />
2 C shredded cheddar cheese<br />
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In a skillet I heated the chicken and hot sauce. When they were warmed through, I added the 2 blocks of cheese. When that was fully mixed, I added 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese and mixed thoroughly. At that point you can put it in a crock pot for 3 mins, or bake it for 20-30 mins at 350. I added the last 1/2 cup of cheddar as a topping at the end. <br />
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<br />jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-6298327406290833902013-04-15T18:52:00.000-07:002013-04-15T18:52:07.678-07:00speechless...nearly.<span style="font-size: large;">I'm not really sure how to blog tonight, it may be more of a stream of consciousness post as I think and pray and weep over the events that occurred in Boston today. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So many thoughts, as a runner, I know what it's like to prepare for the big race. While Boston has not been on my radar or plan, I understand the training, preparation, rest, nourishment and mental prep that goes into preparing for a distance race. For those who did prepare for this day my heart goes out to you. I can't imagine how the events of the day impacted your run (whether you finished or not.) I give thanks that Darrell and Tim (friends of mine who were in the race today) and their families are safe. That's the most important thing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I began to see the coverage on the news, I was able to watch the video from the finish line only once. Tears came to my eyes as runners were shaking and falling due to the impact of the explosion. As reports came streaming in from friends and family I wanted to keep checking the facebook posts....and then I became overwhelmed. The mixed blessings of social media and the web is our instant access to just about everything and everyone. I turned on the tv and went for the Food Network. I needed to take a step away from all the information pouring in. It would have been possible to watch coverage all afternoon...but I knew that would not be a good choice. Don't get me wrong, it was great to know that friends and family were safe and that people were posting ways to reconnect in the city and places to go for help. But to just read and get sucked in, just isn't healthy either. Because as much as our online community is supportive....we need to connect to the ones we see face to face. (I realize I'm blogging this...as part of online community....and I do see the value in that, but I also want to stress and emphasize the face-to-face communities in which we live. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was truly thankful for the Stewardship Committee meeting tonight. We gathered to talk about church things, but we began in prayer. We were the presence of the risen Christ gathered together, in the midst of tragedy, to talk, to shed tears and to struggle with our lives of faith in a world with violence. We talked about how what shakes us up in an event like this is our lack of safety. That in places we once felt safe, that is what has been taken away....and that is a scary place to be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just yesterday in my Sunday school class, we talked about how real it is to struggle with the situations that we face in our day to day lives, even in light of the empty tomb....and that even walking in the promise of the resurrection, we struggle to understand why these things happen. I shared that sometimes all we can lean on are those words of hope and promise. Yet today, it is hard for me to do so. And so today, I give thanks for the gift of community. That some of us gathered together for a meeting and were able to voice our frustration, anger and fear and pray because of what happened in Boston today. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are no answers...although some will come at some point. I continue to pray that as we grieve and mourn and begin to pick up the pieces that we are able to do so in light of the empty tomb, the promise of the resurrection and the words of grace and forgiveness. There is so much hurt in Boston this night and our world every day. May we continue to seek God's presence in our lives and let that light shine so that others may see it and know of the love and grace God has for each and every one of us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So take time this day and in the next few, to do things or be with people who help you to see the light of the empty tomb. Hug your kids, talk with your neighbors, be together offering words of forgiveness and grace. You, too, will be the light of Christ to others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings of love and peace to all...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let us pray,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Gracious God, this brings tears to my eyes. Wrap your arms around those who are hurt, those who are dying, those who are rescuing, those who are still trying to connect with loved ones, those who are scared, those who are safe and those who turn to violence. We are all in need of your love, grace, healing and forgiveness. Amen. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">P.S. This was a blog post....which reaches out to a community online. I'm still struggling with how to balance online and face-to-face community. Yet, if this blog speaks to you and you feel connected, comforted, challenged, touched....I'm thankful. I encourage your thoughts, responses, questions, comments or concerns. But I also challenge you to think off-line, and to connect with people face-to-face, as well. Wherever your groups of support are...church, the gym, the coffee shop, your dining room table, the grocery store....engage with others, talk to each other....continue to build community. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">P.P.S. Somehow Marley knew it was important to be close tonight...</span><br />
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<br />jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-49462932335850638282013-04-08T19:25:00.000-07:002013-04-08T19:25:36.402-07:00For JudySometimes I just plain forget that I blog....and for that I apologize. <br />
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I definitely go through phases where I'm blogging early and often and then there are almost 2 months of down time. I could blame Lent, but that wouldn't do any good. <br />
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I was thinking of 30 days of blogging...but some days I don't have much to share except the color of my socks or the length of my day. Believe you me, sometimes the socks would make a better posting. But I was reminded today, by a dear friend, that I do blog. So here we go....I just want to say that I'm happy this day, to be in the presence of friends from all different times of my life. The things we share, the new friendships being built and just the opportunity for fellowship, worship, a time to learn and many times to laugh. <br />
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Good conversations were had, too, even though we may not have heard all of them....<br />
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This 3 day retreat/continuing ed is a welcome time for me...for all of the above that I just listed. For continuing ed, fellowship, laughter, sharing stories, rest and some time away from life in the parish. It is a welcome break post-Easter and has already given me food for thought for the many ways ministry happens in the parish. <br />
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Until the next post, which will hopefully be in the next day or two.... <br />
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<br />jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-12404156252370703082013-02-21T06:03:00.003-08:002013-02-21T06:03:34.061-08:00Last night's sermon. <span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">February 20, 2013</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Lenten Mid-Week Service</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Hebrews 3:7-15<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Please pray with me, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">As you led the Israelites through the wilderness, as you were with Joseph and Mary as they journeyed to Bethlehem, and as you journeyed with Jesus to the cross….you are with us now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Guide our hearts, minds and bodies on this Lenten journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Continue to turn us toward you, our light and our path, guiding us every step of the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Jesus’ name, amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">At this point, I read the book<em> </em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Caps-Sale-Book-Esphyr-Slobodkina/dp/0061215120/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1361454891&sr=1-1&keywords=caps+for+sale"><em>Caps for Sale</em></a><em> </em>by Esphyr Slobodkina. If you don't have a copy click <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INptSCKqdfg">Here</a> and you can have it read to you! (It's worth a listen.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">It is written in Hebrews, Take care, brothers and sisters, that none of you may have an evil, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today’, so that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For we have become partners of Christ, if only we hold our first confidence firm to the end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">It’s so easy to get angry and upset, to stomp our feet and shake our fists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">William Willamon writes, “Anger is a natural, necessary response in the face of injustice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is an acknowledgement that this is not the world as it is meant to be, not the world as God intended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The anger should be expressed, preferable in church, in prayer, in conversation with God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a God who is good enough and great enough to receive our anger, to take even the most raw human emotions and weave them into his purposes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anger can be expressed, but ought not be acted upon without the greatest of care……Gross injustice, great anger, ought to be given to god as our offering, our confession that we have come to a place in our lives where we are unable to fix that which afflicts us.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sinning Like a Christian </i>p.72)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Hear that again, anger ought to be brought to God as our offering, our confession that we have come to a place in our lives where we are unable to fix that which afflicts us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Anger may be that place where we most need to be reminded of the cross and God’s presence in our lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That anger is not something we can respond to on our own…that this is a time in our lives and our hearts that we need peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Tonight was ask God to create in us….peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In doing that, we offer up to God the knowledge and the confession that we cannot fix the problems that surround us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">When we ask God to create peace in ourselves…we are giving up the anger to God….saying we know we can’t deal with it….but know that we have it and know that we need your presence here and now as we express it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">As this time, I invite everyone, starting with the younger ones up front to come and offer your stone to the cross….may this be our confession and our offering of our anger to God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May we do it quietly as we think about things that cause us anger….of that keep us from feeling peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">As we give this up, we create space for peace in our hearts, our homes, our lives and our community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">As you depart from worship this night, you are invited to take a stone from the basket in the narthex….take a stone home with you, keep it with you in your pocket, or place it on your tableaux with the ash cross, as a reminder that God is with us in all of our emotions and wishes us to have peaceful hearts, yet it is so easy to have our hearts harden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So may a stone and a cross be your daily reminder that you, that I, that we cannot handle life on our own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God is always present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May we take time this Lent to return to the cross, return to opportunities to see and bring to life God’s relationship with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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L<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">et us pray,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Gracious God, we come before you this day praying for the peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Create in us clean and peaceful hearts O God, may we release to you our anger and our pain….and may we know that you can handle it…that you are ready for it….and that you will continue to hold us, listen to us and love us no matter what.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And may the peace which passes all understanding keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus and let all God’s people say, amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-79150817150315322122013-02-20T18:23:00.000-08:002013-02-20T18:26:37.910-08:00evilToday's word: evil. <br />
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I had a hard time with this one. <br />
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Part of the reason is because I was thinking about my homily for worship this evening....and the theme was Create in us....Peace. We handed out stones....and my homily focused more on our own anger...and how we need to let go of that so there is room in our hearts for peace. <br />
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I'll probably post the homily tomorrow. <br />
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But I was so focused on anger....evil seemed to slip my mind. <br />
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But here's the picture for the day: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDoD6WfrKwN-qWHhZnivc_BlDKaUQuEeKPUxeKe0RpHpfG-pdGdPWgmjaE0Gm4KeTfzs09WbGGRIY2wMMuft-n1zCApaTAvd3b4xTmmK3TxjPzu87ZQj1Vwix8Ci1maLE4vLDKs3PKeHj/s1600/IMG_0655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDoD6WfrKwN-qWHhZnivc_BlDKaUQuEeKPUxeKe0RpHpfG-pdGdPWgmjaE0Gm4KeTfzs09WbGGRIY2wMMuft-n1zCApaTAvd3b4xTmmK3TxjPzu87ZQj1Vwix8Ci1maLE4vLDKs3PKeHj/s320/IMG_0655.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here are the stones that we left at the foot of the cross.....but there are still some in the basket....some were taken home, as a reminder that there will and are times when we will be angry....but we're not alone in it. God is ready to hear about our anger....ready to receive it....and remain with us in the midst of it. <br />
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When I think about evil...I think about the times when we keep that anger penned up and turn to violence or turn in on ourselves instead of offering the anger and the frustration up to God....<br />
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My prayers this day are for those who struggle with anger...and for those who do not feel as if they can express it, or do not have safe places to let go of it.<br />
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Until next time . . .<br />
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<br />jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-1557809703093039092013-02-15T18:07:00.001-08:002013-02-15T18:07:09.443-08:00seeThe word for day 3 is see. <br />
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I did plenty of driving today, to hang out with 2 awesome women. An old friend and a new one. Good times were has all day. <br />
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As I looked in the rear view mirror. I saw the reflection of the road in my sunglasses. It was super cool. I could see what was in front of me and what was in the mirror. <br />
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At a stoplight I tried to capture what I saw. <br />
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Here's to being able to see where we have been and were we are going. <br />
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Until the next picture. <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ei-qifkeSomGmwVKov4p0gBrGUESRUPLZkySyzph-xY_jrH2MJeN91u1fOcmbHse98Ask39OiGRczIzWc2r8482FPweEPbEQMvfVhO6C7QBWkTKZgY4dVWV4_rFAfKDqn_Iolfn8DJaG/s640/blogger-image-1814588872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ei-qifkeSomGmwVKov4p0gBrGUESRUPLZkySyzph-xY_jrH2MJeN91u1fOcmbHse98Ask39OiGRczIzWc2r8482FPweEPbEQMvfVhO6C7QBWkTKZgY4dVWV4_rFAfKDqn_Iolfn8DJaG/s640/blogger-image-1814588872.jpg" /></a></div>jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-48057473465673804212013-02-14T18:28:00.001-08:002013-02-14T18:32:20.743-08:00returnAs soon as I realized the word of the day was return, I couldn't seem to get 'return to the Lord your God, for he is patient and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love....' <br />
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So I looked and looked today for something to 'fit' this verse. <br />
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And I looked and looked....continually thinking about returning. <br />
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Sadly, I was driving when I saw a sky full of geese in multiple v formations. I thought, oh man, they are totally returning to somewhere....but by the time I got to the parking lot they were out of range. <br />
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So, instead I went with this one...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgypMjhAlSDlXYeeb8ADuq3zKk8SrHJoPae1dA957GAI8XFtx_IDzhN5zSkNQeqrgG41fUhfUc_dxV9z4-5lOifh9iwTdwOklMenexiIpwdScuEkFiXN4VXgnWlHSdHGfsD-YPTT9WioZ3l/s1600/IMG_0567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgypMjhAlSDlXYeeb8ADuq3zKk8SrHJoPae1dA957GAI8XFtx_IDzhN5zSkNQeqrgG41fUhfUc_dxV9z4-5lOifh9iwTdwOklMenexiIpwdScuEkFiXN4VXgnWlHSdHGfsD-YPTT9WioZ3l/s320/IMG_0567.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Tonight I returned back to a meal I made for the first time last week - simple risotto...and it was just as good this time. I'm happy to know that it's something I can make on a weeknight and still enjoy.<br />
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I have also returned to morning devotions....but that's a tech free time of the day....so no pictures of that....<br />
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I will also be returning to a Valentine's Day tradition of a glass of red wine, some chocolate and Casablanca. Isla couldn't return to Rick....but they'll always have Paris. <br />
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Until the next picture . . .jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-29237095797670183002013-02-13T19:10:00.002-08:002013-02-13T19:10:35.869-08:00Who am I?<br />
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So it's the first day of Lent.</div>
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I received a post on Facebook from a friend who was asked by a co-worker if I was eating meat today.</div>
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Let me just say that there was a time when I refrained from things in Lent. When I was a kid I gave up Brussels Sprouts (I hated them when I was a kid, so it wasn't something that I was truly missing.) As I got older I tried to give up things or refrain from things that I enjoyed. Looking back, I'm not so sure I really got the point. Thing about Lent now...I'm more focused on taking time this season to think about the things that separate me from God and looking for ways to allow more time for me to think, pray and and act in ways that remove the things that get in the way of seeing God at work in my life and sharing that with others.</div>
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The first thing I did was to get a book for my Lenten Devotions. I ordered <a href="http://www.amazon.com/40-Day-Journey-Julian-Norwich-Dahill/dp/0806680474/ref=pd_sim_b_7"><span class="s1">40 Day Journey Julian Norwich</span></a> from Amazon and it's kick starting each day with a writing from Julian, some meditation time and questions, some scripture, some journal prompts and a closing prayer. It made for an early morning, but it's a routine I'm happy to get back into.</div>
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The other addition to my days this season is a Lenten Photo-a-day Challenge from <a href="http://rethinkchurch.org/article/lenten-photo-day-challenge"><span class="s1">rethinkchurch.org</span></a></div>
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Each day there is a word or phrase to guide your daily photo.</div>
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Here's the list from their website:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy0UTitwL7N1zSTuyR4NiTdtxFeebgCrPE9ZsCp3nH8Cdj_q-1RkCONTxTe1e_MlpXfjzahPrORMSFGoFaXbQIX20px_vFfhWh_bhRCrUeeV_uXcebSiU39eMuStdPLF2JyZwNCTKo8fkN/s1600/photo-a-day-lent-final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy0UTitwL7N1zSTuyR4NiTdtxFeebgCrPE9ZsCp3nH8Cdj_q-1RkCONTxTe1e_MlpXfjzahPrORMSFGoFaXbQIX20px_vFfhWh_bhRCrUeeV_uXcebSiU39eMuStdPLF2JyZwNCTKo8fkN/s320/photo-a-day-lent-final.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
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So as I went about my day today....I kept asking myself....who am I?</div>
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I thought runner, child of God, pastor, daughter, sister, friend, colleague, someone who loves chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting, listener, fiance, home brewer, sinner, saint, cat owner....and the list goes on and on...and I thought of all these pictures I could take of stuff that I have that represent who I am...or potential self portraits....and as I walked home from the Ash Wednesday service this evening (in the snow) I had to catch some flakes on my tongue...I couldn't help it! So....in the midst of it, I decided a photo was in order.</div>
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Who am I? This girl....</div>
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One who takes time to find joy in the day and the weather....and just stop to catch snowflakes.</div>
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Who knows where the rest of the photos will take me over the next 40 days....but there's potential for silly, thought provoking, God revealing, or all of the above and then some.</div>
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See you in the next photo . . .</div>
jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-80922093525174350432013-02-09T18:37:00.001-08:002013-02-09T18:38:50.551-08:00today's cooking adventures.So, I tried two new recipes today. Sadly, neither of them came from cookbooks in the house. But on the plus side, they were both delicious! <br />
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The first was dinner. It was my first attempt as risotto and it was a success. I went with the basic recipe from <a href="http://culinaryarts.about.com/od/ricegrains/r/risotto.htm">about.com</a><br />
The only personal touches I added were freshly grated Parmesan. (I like good fresh cheese...I didn't want to use a handful of the powdery stuff.) It called for a quart of chicken stock...I heated up some extra because it took a few additional ladles to get to the point where the rice didn't have at tough bite. The stock I used was called 'tuscan' chicken stock. It had basil and oregano seasonings in it. (It was the only one they had at the discount grocery...and at $1 per quart it was a good find.)<br />
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I topped it with some seared scallops....yum. <br />
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Dessert was a Mardi Gras King Cake...I was in the mood for one the other day and my friend Corey sent me a link to a simple recipe at <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Mardi-Gras-King-Cake/Detail.aspx?ms=1&prop25=104925835&prop26=Baking&prop27=2013-02-05&prop28=Feature&prop29=ImageLink&me=1">allrecipes.com</a><br />
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Here it is before the second rise:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qbM_lh_Zf5_4b0ldZ8fUPkWQAqGixCoq5ZSyyX3Ae7po9C4dEyd08C2cJOqJZAb646nCwbjkBK_Qrfhp7vI7Aa_BIKMLp0PoZQO0v-A6A9T9QexDz0bH6eIZoKyAIO27KtcrpW_ohQZF/s1600/IMG_0537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qbM_lh_Zf5_4b0ldZ8fUPkWQAqGixCoq5ZSyyX3Ae7po9C4dEyd08C2cJOqJZAb646nCwbjkBK_Qrfhp7vI7Aa_BIKMLp0PoZQO0v-A6A9T9QexDz0bH6eIZoKyAIO27KtcrpW_ohQZF/s320/IMG_0537.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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And here's the tasty goodness after the glaze and colored sugar. I did have to make my own purple, since I couldn't find any. It came out more grey than purple....but I think you get the idea of the Mardi Gras colors. </div>
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Smile cake: it's your close up!</div>
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And after the first slice....it was still warm when I cut it...<br />
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I highly recommend it with a cold glass of milk...but I'm sure it will be just as tasty with a cup of coffee in the morning. It works for breakfast, right? <br />
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It was a good eating day. And now it's time for bed. <br />
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Until the next post . . .jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-30603769950794980402013-02-09T08:49:00.000-08:002013-02-09T08:49:34.821-08:00belated birthday postSo thankful to welcome into the last year of my 30s with many fond memories! <br />
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It was totally worth going to work...it began with a workout. (which based on my food intake for the rest of the day was a really good thing.)<br />
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I enjoyed several of the mini cupcakes from my friend Chris...and shared the rest with co-workers and friends. We went out for our usual cluster lunch...and I was highly encouraged to get the 'birthday special'....which was the colossal drink. A larger than life mojito with four bendy straws and a glow in the dark plastic ice cube. Woo...I had a little help with it...but not nearly enough. <br />
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I needed copious amounts of caffeine to get through the rest of the day. <br />
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Which continued in an excellent manner. Calls from friends and family and the fun comments on Facebook. Dinner was at The City Tap House. If you are in the University City area of Philly you must check it out. 60 brews on tap and if you get a flight you can fill out a card with tasting notes :) <br />
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Tasty Jambalaya pizza for an appetizer and 1/2 chicken roasted on black beans for the main course. Yum! <br />
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Dessert was a tasty Young's Double Chocolate Stout Ice Cream Float. <br />
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Then we waddled over to The Blockley for a great night of music. A great small venue...a good crowd and we were a few feet from the stage. We danced to the music of the New Sound Brass Band out of Philly....<br />
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Nothing compares to a stage with 6 trombones! Good times...</div>
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We also danced until 1 to the sounds of Kermit Ruffins and the Barbecue Swingers. </div>
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What a wonderful night. <br />
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The next day was brought to you by a large coffee from Dunkin Donuts followed by a chai latte with a shot of espresso.<br />
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Several days later and I'm nearly caught up on my sleep...but again, totally worth it. <br />
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Thankful for the opportunity to celebrate. jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-13925522783958515812013-02-01T17:16:00.001-08:002013-02-01T17:16:21.315-08:00D. Day. I tell ya, I could get used to this sabbath thing. <br />
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After being pretty sick this past week, I was truly looking forward to shopping for my wedding dress today. I got up early, had some breakfast a cup of coffee....and even completed a load of laundry before my good friend showed up for the best girl's day out, ever! <br />
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We started with frou frou coffee drinks at the local coffee shop and headed on our way to the first appointment. With just one picture....and many, many ideas, we began to pluck dresses off the walls. The first dress was a winner. Then there were some others that just didn't look so good. <br />
One would have been perfect if the wedding was in Greece. <br />
Another would have been perfect if I was trying to look like a purse. <br />
And then a beautiful one. And it was a perfect fit. <br />
But I wasn't totally sold. That one came off and the first one went back on....and then a few more dresses. <br />
The consultant working with me went 'upstairs' to look for a few more. <br />
The first one, not so good. <br />
And then....*the* dress. A totally winner. A perfect fit. No alterations needed. <br />
I wasn't totally sure about it and had another appointment after lunch, so we left it there and had some lunch. 5 minutes into lunch I knew it was the dress. <br />
Luckily our lunch spot was less than 5 minutes away from the bridal shop. <br />
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Needless to say, I canceled the second appointment. :)<br />
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So...now to look for a bouquet...I'm thinking paper flowers or fabric flowers...so they are easy to travel with...and to talk to my good friend Corey about some jewelry to wear on that special day. <br />
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I'm getting more and more excited! <br />
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To complete my sabbath day...I spent some time starting a puzzle, dropping off a package and some mail at the post office.<br />
I tried on a few skirts and sweaters at the local goodwill....although it was weird not having someone help me get in and out of the clothes....and then picked up some Chinese take out for dinner. With a few messages sent to girlfriends to get together over the next few weeks and a blog post, I'm calling it a day. <br />
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I think I'm ready for bed. <br />
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Until the next post . . .jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-81820898608297706482013-01-26T18:08:00.000-08:002013-01-26T18:08:52.546-08:00Thankful.A wonderful sabbath day was had yesterday. <div>
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From a new haircut, to relaxing with my fiance, to a little tidying up in the kitchen, to dinner with good friends, and finishing off the day with some tasty home brew. </div>
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It was a day that provided relaxation, friendship, good food, rest and time away from work. </div>
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Yay for sabbath days. </div>
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Today began early....and it was cold....but the first annual Frosted Chocolate Buns 5K was a success! </div>
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The race was well received even with the freezing temps! I was super thankful that I was able to run. After over 3 months of rest due to Achilles Tendonitis, I was given the okay to run on Monday. The tendon felt fine. I started the race with friends of mine, but as we skirted around slush and ice, they bobbed and weaved ahead....and I didn't hustle to keep up. It felt so good just to be out there. I found my groove and stuck with it. I'll be back running with them soon enough. </div>
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I indulged in a map this afternoon, since I haven't run in 3 months I was pretty tired after the race. </div>
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I did muster up the energy after worship to check out the Chocolate Festival at church. I walked around the silent auction and placed a few wagers and hoped for the best. After a second round of wagers I ended up winning one of the baskets. It contained a nalgene bottle, power bars, and a three month membership to the local gym. I'm pretty excited. It looks like cross training and strength training is in my future. Good times. </div>
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Here's hoping you all are having some good days...some restful moments and daily joys. </div>
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Until the next post . . . </div>
jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-89373801057956893872013-01-17T18:38:00.003-08:002013-01-17T18:49:49.166-08:00eggplant parmLet me begin by saying that I had a pretty tasty eggplant parm on Sunday night when I was at the staff and council thank you dinner. <br />
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Luckily, I had picked up two of these last week:<br />
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The Book: (Thanks, mom for a gift from many years ago.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi27wRVBcymyTYD_o1Q7GjIHn2cKjXOXAdngal8D6iQFOYFmmu9vov7Mtc2Bm7oP-ThEADz-FkeOLU-7H4Klpb4g7srODJoxrotwBHPhFOG1z4VK7umt_vQVRpVHAcuveXAs2c8t77fG3b/s1600/IMG_0417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi27wRVBcymyTYD_o1Q7GjIHn2cKjXOXAdngal8D6iQFOYFmmu9vov7Mtc2Bm7oP-ThEADz-FkeOLU-7H4Klpb4g7srODJoxrotwBHPhFOG1z4VK7umt_vQVRpVHAcuveXAs2c8t77fG3b/s320/IMG_0417.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
The recipe: (p. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Better-Homes-Gardens-Cook-Book/dp/B001LNOOGG/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1358475900&sr=1-6&keywords=better+homes+and+gardens+cookbook">518</a>)<br />
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Things were off to a good start. From the egg and flour (here's another purpose...coating eggplant)<br />
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To the frying stage....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXx9wd8ntOrYs21H2vgRniajK2DegOzngkT6DPyBUnpFt7W4ZkM9uzyyphY8pXUzE3P4ML5wB1FewcYjCC1ZUPVbaLiMNxqGAxneI29ztDet2HJVDpWuNY6GlUxBA1zLZnrWRcgaHIWz_Y/s1600/IMG_0421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXx9wd8ntOrYs21H2vgRniajK2DegOzngkT6DPyBUnpFt7W4ZkM9uzyyphY8pXUzE3P4ML5wB1FewcYjCC1ZUPVbaLiMNxqGAxneI29ztDet2HJVDpWuNY6GlUxBA1zLZnrWRcgaHIWz_Y/s320/IMG_0421.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Until the last batch....when apparently the pan was just too hot. </div>
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The kitchen was a bit smoky, and the last two slices looked like this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ0zVq-TrJInuP22W0MxDilV5EmUqqebdjSo0qH005cBkNaAhv8VGohC4Hx_JrmE_y3StFFrcrp5ODPWCYmz2SwTootDUiXtbu1fUdbMi6IPGrK-6PSS7xy9crVVqgsUJtnq6fYt2qipC2/s1600/IMG_0423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ0zVq-TrJInuP22W0MxDilV5EmUqqebdjSo0qH005cBkNaAhv8VGohC4Hx_JrmE_y3StFFrcrp5ODPWCYmz2SwTootDUiXtbu1fUdbMi6IPGrK-6PSS7xy9crVVqgsUJtnq6fYt2qipC2/s320/IMG_0423.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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They may have been salvageable, but smelled so smoky and burn-ey that I just pitched them. As I've been watching a fair amount of Chopped and Top Chef, I've learned that it's better to leave it off the plate if it's not up to par. </div>
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So the other slices went in the pan, topped with grated Parmesan, spaghetti sauce, and then some grated mozzarella. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BkfgTvGGQ8LU-xH22PJNZVkmaQ0YB3uONpEkbe6h_TD6_pyVsaAsEHbo9nzbfXnxg8vOKM5FgZgeCaerCRrc_9TDI2HL86sUJw9UmuFp-Ko5am1Rc1lVzB-ZkzQ0XfK9a8SxhgOkiiMh/s1600/IMG_0424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BkfgTvGGQ8LU-xH22PJNZVkmaQ0YB3uONpEkbe6h_TD6_pyVsaAsEHbo9nzbfXnxg8vOKM5FgZgeCaerCRrc_9TDI2HL86sUJw9UmuFp-Ko5am1Rc1lVzB-ZkzQ0XfK9a8SxhgOkiiMh/s320/IMG_0424.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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After baking for the allotted time, I turned on the broiler and finished it off. </div>
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It came out looking like this: </div>
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It was easy and tasty.<br />
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I had it alongside a tasty salad....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0_VW5kALeLgahfHarme-Hbqwf-TMA5H4FqRDnhXRCKYQRRtvmNm98f-ONoI-SiOCPhqrEbSM4_Nh8HBxnXyl6qDq1KkY8lEy6rq__xCzdoBny_tzbi0LLDJXpNRrkskJqWWRHSMl9sKe/s1600/IMG_0427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx0_VW5kALeLgahfHarme-Hbqwf-TMA5H4FqRDnhXRCKYQRRtvmNm98f-ONoI-SiOCPhqrEbSM4_Nh8HBxnXyl6qDq1KkY8lEy6rq__xCzdoBny_tzbi0LLDJXpNRrkskJqWWRHSMl9sKe/s320/IMG_0427.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Chef's Notes:</div>
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It was yummy and it will be a repeat recipe with one major change. </div>
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It was lacking in salt. The only salt in the dish was in the parm directly on the eggplant before the sauce and baking. </div>
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I have two thoughts, but am also open to other suggestions.</div>
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1) salt and pepper the flour before dredging the eggplant in it.</div>
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2) as soon as the eggplant is fried season them with salt (like you would onion rings)</div>
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So, all you great chefs out there how/when would you salt it? </div>
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Until the next post . . .</div>
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<br />jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-63304726596591906252013-01-17T17:58:00.000-08:002013-01-17T17:58:11.406-08:00Best. Bars. Ever. Last Friday night there was an epic baking experience in my kitchen. <br />
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Thanks to some good music and more importantly and awesomely cool sous chef....I mean friend, who was here visiting from New York we made the Best. Bars. Ever.<br />
The Book:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQsZMX6FTaUg32FVJk9TTiSu04oTuasPbYcx6UHfW5d3s8QvkGchC72AyEZ7kCE-QVuvO4eHUq8BqsvZAEy9u2Vq2ThjCILfdeJGkGH3n8ST5VHCHcXppjOJ1OMKm1iTOfRe4dQ-EqUad/s1600/IMG_0401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQsZMX6FTaUg32FVJk9TTiSu04oTuasPbYcx6UHfW5d3s8QvkGchC72AyEZ7kCE-QVuvO4eHUq8BqsvZAEy9u2Vq2ThjCILfdeJGkGH3n8ST5VHCHcXppjOJ1OMKm1iTOfRe4dQ-EqUad/s320/IMG_0401.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The recipe: Margarita Cookie Bars (p. 223)</div>
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This was the first time I made a 'lemon bar' type recipe. And having my dear friend Steph in the kitchen with me was the highlight of the evening. </div>
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With all-purpose flour (what are all those purposes? see post script), powdered sugar and butter ready to go in the mixer, we began the base of the bars. I started it up, went to check something in the other room and when I came back, it was to this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXY9SOTsImpgikd2mCrOuSwPF8-3Vu3Gi1xvFYKnI1r7WYs7VhfzXD0nthretqYiSf4RtoCp2f234ck9heAYph-7wkGSoFW_LzRAIXIvBXRVC6mFAtLO7u9e_iBHk4k_kBwPs0zjIE5SD/s1600/IMG_0403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXY9SOTsImpgikd2mCrOuSwPF8-3Vu3Gi1xvFYKnI1r7WYs7VhfzXD0nthretqYiSf4RtoCp2f234ck9heAYph-7wkGSoFW_LzRAIXIvBXRVC6mFAtLO7u9e_iBHk4k_kBwPs0zjIE5SD/s320/IMG_0403.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The site of the flourpocalypse. </div>
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The next morning I found some on the water pitcher. </div>
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Luckily all the rest of the bar ingredients made it into the pan and into the oven. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFRhEP66Ck-WMacZIH79jZvOwNEHkppsSKyvb9LCULoEJYVj1oUiC27eidjgyRtOzxSgb2EQDIGOvDzLnjl7G8aomVJEChrhmAcEyG2RPNA6JWtxt8Q6y8hhFIfy7cXTw6ewY5Q4-RFz4/s1600/IMG_0406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFRhEP66Ck-WMacZIH79jZvOwNEHkppsSKyvb9LCULoEJYVj1oUiC27eidjgyRtOzxSgb2EQDIGOvDzLnjl7G8aomVJEChrhmAcEyG2RPNA6JWtxt8Q6y8hhFIfy7cXTw6ewY5Q4-RFz4/s320/IMG_0406.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The next step was the margarita part stuff....Steph's first time zesting! Watch out lime...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEjRSuMZAdWXJDtAduYc5sS5_V1AkAeSmUWLynB0jEds_7L7sxAeA7qr2Shp3dq-ouZj385rv3Ms297a7rpoCdhyljpMZhlH6_jYpfLef-4ES9wGeSkjs8r3JcWspPY37reISa7F2jCZh-/s1600/IMG_0405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEjRSuMZAdWXJDtAduYc5sS5_V1AkAeSmUWLynB0jEds_7L7sxAeA7qr2Shp3dq-ouZj385rv3Ms297a7rpoCdhyljpMZhlH6_jYpfLef-4ES9wGeSkjs8r3JcWspPY37reISa7F2jCZh-/s320/IMG_0405.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Lots of zest means a naked lime. Or half a naked lime, the half-naked lime? That would be a great name for a bar at the beach. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVbtYfFcwIwmjWONQUgqx4fUk6r90GRUtyfiHMQEYorkdJaZwb0Qz21QLbslmf9fFrYIGWHNQDKfxSE3N_bLJieXZKBXI7zeaPUv33npdiYCBtJLHnYhOKDmVW7pjmeOOyucL_EpkTh6o/s1600/IMG_0404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVbtYfFcwIwmjWONQUgqx4fUk6r90GRUtyfiHMQEYorkdJaZwb0Qz21QLbslmf9fFrYIGWHNQDKfxSE3N_bLJieXZKBXI7zeaPUv33npdiYCBtJLHnYhOKDmVW7pjmeOOyucL_EpkTh6o/s320/IMG_0404.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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There's the amazing Steph with the baked bars!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4KOFbUsjYKUhc5ZH9LEMZB4TFIdRCcJtwsixlsqzLlnmDGoFA1fu9QAjQ9OL24T5CNfWrJRURqiimQB2phD8S6a5cE3KtMEOFlmjjG48DCL9WCg_RjJa_m2-LyYHg-luzZ42xsPDHLBw/s1600/IMG_0407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4KOFbUsjYKUhc5ZH9LEMZB4TFIdRCcJtwsixlsqzLlnmDGoFA1fu9QAjQ9OL24T5CNfWrJRURqiimQB2phD8S6a5cE3KtMEOFlmjjG48DCL9WCg_RjJa_m2-LyYHg-luzZ42xsPDHLBw/s320/IMG_0407.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The only thing missing in that picture is the final touch of confectioners' sugar. Yup, I did say confectioners' sugar. You may have noticed above that the recipe called for powdered sugar. It did. The first half of the recipe called for powdered sugar and the second half called for confectioners'. We had to check it several times. <br />
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It was so fun baking with a friend. <br />
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Until the next post . . .<br />
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Post Script.<br />
Purposes for all purpose flour<br />
<br />
Yeti making<br />
Baking<br />
Flourpocalypses<br />
Flouring fingers<br />
Leaving tracks showing where the cat has been<br />
Showing exactly where you brushed up against the counter in a black shirt<br />
Making it snow inside (or out)<br />
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This certainly can't be all the purposes, so feel free to make additions to this list. jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-80683113098744963802013-01-15T07:19:00.000-08:002013-01-17T17:12:18.234-08:00Baby steps.Drum roll please.....<br />
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I went for a walk today. Nothing uber-strenuous. I didn't time it nor did I push myself to go super fast. I was just feeling incredibly stir crazy this morning and knew that I needed to get out. <br />
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It felt great. Not just the fresh air, but also the time to pray, think and reflect. I plotted out some of the trek that I'll be leading at the YouthQuake this weekend and pondered my newsletter articles and upcoming events. <br />
<br />
I saw a fellow who I used to pass by on a regular basis back when I was running and biking more regularly. He said, "You're walking now, huh?" I told him about my tendon and the 3 months of rest and how I hoped to get back into being out and about by walking first. He touched me on the arm as he said it was good to see me. <br />
<br />
So often I talk about the affirmation of my call to serve in this place. The affirmations are not so much the 'nice sermon, pastor' comments, but the connections that I see throughout the community. <br />
<br />
I'm thankful for those brief moments where a smile or conversation is shared....and the presence of God is in the midst of it. <br />
<br />
In other news, I go to the doctor next week to see how my tendon looks. It hasn't ached for over a week which is a good sign. I'm hoping that I can get back into movin' and groovin' a few days a week with some strength training a few other days and feel a little more human again. But it's one day at a time. <br />
<br />
Until the next post...jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-41513789906083596692013-01-14T14:01:00.001-08:002013-01-14T14:02:36.655-08:00You WILL get wet!Yesterday's sermon...<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">January 13,
2013</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The Baptism
of Our Lord</span><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Isaiah
43:1-7</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Psalm 29</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Acts 8:14-17</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Luke
3:15-17, 21-22</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Please pray with me, may the words of my
mouth and the meditations of all of our hearts be acceptable in your sight, O
God, our rock and our Redeemer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Pilgrim’s Plunge is the first ride I ever
went down with my hands up in the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s a water ride at <a href="http://www.holidayworld.com/">Holiday World/Splashin' Safari</a> in Santa Claus, Indiana.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">It looks like this: <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5QM7BQZ9lLduux7Gx_jh1XrkPu4QzSwarRGPbjGgSw7-Tl9AU2RRe_CgKKgMBNHTZcjDn5FXn9iTcPbz3nFxB0qmwcShShtUSufBUPlroc_BTij588V4Ocwk7KtDs2QTg5T8Xr2eyjqV/s1600/plunge_004_t607.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5QM7BQZ9lLduux7Gx_jh1XrkPu4QzSwarRGPbjGgSw7-Tl9AU2RRe_CgKKgMBNHTZcjDn5FXn9iTcPbz3nFxB0qmwcShShtUSufBUPlroc_BTij588V4Ocwk7KtDs2QTg5T8Xr2eyjqV/s320/plunge_004_t607.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">It’s actually the World's Tallest Water Ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Riders in 10-person boats will first float
calmly through a tunnel before entering an open-sided elevator lift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After swiftly rising to the top of the
135-foot tower, each boat will pause briefly before descending rapidly down the
flume at a 45-degree angle, creating a dramatic splashdown. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Here’s a view from the front: <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALPqBdZ5TD206QWQWUBuOWKYgcewHbBARr02DlghAjZWRXRDDgoCoi9QGCIrc3IgbA7w9IIecaOr_ev3_5ImS8ZrgwX3eOh1NFbq_i59GFK5g2fYG8_s2HFXfHivafv2Vklso3ENhyphenhyphenhGt/s1600/HWN-5-30-2009-Pilgrims-Plunge-9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALPqBdZ5TD206QWQWUBuOWKYgcewHbBARr02DlghAjZWRXRDDgoCoi9QGCIrc3IgbA7w9IIecaOr_ev3_5ImS8ZrgwX3eOh1NFbq_i59GFK5g2fYG8_s2HFXfHivafv2Vklso3ENhyphenhyphenhGt/s320/HWN-5-30-2009-Pilgrims-Plunge-9.jpeg" width="256" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The maximum speed tops 50 miles an
hour….which makes it even scarier to ride with your arms up in the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And as if you needed any more warning before
approaching the plunge, riders see this sign. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEfi44KRHGoj5K26kwLAv_GDBpBT-JZGvyhHjRn_OmqG68PKqjc3pXy6crH9F3qarj4FNaZOWCkmOJQlVbzuJAhwqEiXurj_aRMIzltBb1Qw-H0de62-kOk6jiF-gcRiqwYdt4565wlaz/s1600/5530_1175768396552_7281354_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEfi44KRHGoj5K26kwLAv_GDBpBT-JZGvyhHjRn_OmqG68PKqjc3pXy6crH9F3qarj4FNaZOWCkmOJQlVbzuJAhwqEiXurj_aRMIzltBb1Qw-H0de62-kOk6jiF-gcRiqwYdt4565wlaz/s320/5530_1175768396552_7281354_n.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">As if it wasn’t obvious, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That you’ve paid admission and you're in a
water park, just in case you didn’t realize it yet, you WILL get wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Speaking about getting wet, let me tell you about the baptism of the
Gauls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dr. Mark Allan Powell shares this
story in his book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Giving-God-Bibles-Living-Generous/dp/0802829260/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358200673&sr=8-1&keywords=giving+to+God">Giving to God: The Bible's Good News about Living a Generous Life</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">"The Gauls were a warlike people who in
ancient times inhabited what is now France and Belgium. They spoke a Celtic
language and were Druids by religion. And by the time that Christians arrive on
the scene, they had been conquered by the Roman Empire and were supposedly
under its control.</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Well, a number of Christian
missionaries entered into Gallic territory and, over time, many of the Gauls
became Christians. And so the story goes that whenever a converted warrior was
baptized in a river or a stream, he would hold one arm high in the air as the
missionary dunked him under the water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">This seemed to be a most peculiar
custom and the missionaries were very puzzled until they finally learned the
reason for it. When the next battle or skirmish broke out, the warlike Gaul
could proclaim, “This arm is not baptized!” grab his club or sword and go off
to destroy his enemy in a most un-Christian manner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">No one knows if this story is
authentic. It is probably just an ancient version of what we would call today
an “urban legend.” But the picture is compelling of the way we all try to keep
some part of identity free from the influence of baptism."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">But here’s the thing, when it comes to
baptism, you WILL get wet….and try as we might, we need to let go and let the
water completely soak us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Water, is something we think of as life
giving, necessary for life even, and usually it is not a frightening
thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s not so much the case for
the hearers of our text from Isaiah today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The book of Isaiah, all 66 chapters of it, is
broken into three sections, First, Second and Third Isaiah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The passage we hear from today is in the
beginning of second Isaiah, also known as Deutero-Isaiah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a section of Isaiah that brings words
of comfort promising that God would free the exiles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">In this section, the prophet takes words and
images that were dangerous or scary and turns them into examples of places
where they should no longer be afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The images of water and fire were common
throughout the Old Testament.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Waters
signified the threat of chaos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember
back in Genesis…and a voice moved over the waters….the waters seemed
uncontrolled and just whirling and swirling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Passing through the waters also brings back
memories of passing through the Red Sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The second exodus as some call it, as the Israelites fled from Pharaoh
and Moses parted the Red Sea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
passed through the sea, but Pharaoh’s army was washed away by the rushing
waters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">But as we hear about waters today, it is in a
different tone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is one that comes
with comfort and protection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“When you
pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall
not overwhelm you;”</span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">When you pass through the waters….not if….but
when.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s as if the prophet is telling,
even warning the people, that their journey will not be smooth sailing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There will be trials and tribulations, but
God will be in the midst of them, with you, through it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">They will get wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But God has called them by name…and God will
be with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">We, too, will get wet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But God has called us by name…and God will be
with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">We may want to keep part of ourselves from
getting wet….we may not want to give our whole selves up to being plunged into
the water….but all of who we are, all of who we were created to be is God’s
creation….is God’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And because of that,
we can take comfort knowing that God is with us through it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">All this talk about water is because today is
the day we remember Jesus’ baptism….and as we hear about it…we are reminded of
our own baptism.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A reminder that we have
been baptized, anointed with the Spirit…and that we, like Jesus, will encounter
evil and temptation in the world around us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Yet in the midst of it, we know that we have
a “beloved” and “well-pleasing” relationship with God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a relationship that God created with
us, through the waters of baptism and the work of the Spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try as we might, we cannot sever this
relationship because it began with God loving us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Being in relationship with God comes with
some responsibility though, doesn’t it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It doesn’t mean we need to do things to be in God’s good graces, or to
earn God’s love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But out of this deep
and unconditional love that God has for us, we hear and fulfill the mission God
sends before us, to live up to the confidence God has placed on us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No pressure, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">God created us, knows us and claims us for
who we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In that we can do our best
to see God’s work done in the world around us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because of God’s love for us, we can let the waters completely get us
wet….and give all of ourselves to the work of God in our homes, in our church,
in our community and in our world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The waters of baptism have washed over us all…we
have been called by name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The challenge
for us is letting people know of our baptism…through our words and actions in
response to a hurting, aching world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">May God continue to bless all of our journeys
as we continue blessed and nourished in this Christian community and may we go
forward, ready to get wet and live out our baptismal promises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">And now may the peace, which passes all
understanding, keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus and let all God’s
people say amen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-265118044917339128.post-41531444886647044962013-01-09T14:15:00.001-08:002013-01-09T14:16:05.528-08:00684 miles. Two years ago today was the longest ride of my life. With Marley (my cat) by my side in a travel crate, we journeyed the 12 hours (684 or so miles) from Loogootee, Indiana to Robesonia, Pennsylvania. It's a day that I went through a range of emotions in the truck as the journey began before sun up...and ended well after sundown. I remember watching the back of a Uhaul truck for pretty much all of the driving time....and truth be told, I would have followed anywhere that truck went. It was the Little Bo-Peep of moving vehicles and I was the little lamb. <br />
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It took a good 3 hours for the meds to kick in for Marley and for her to sleep for a majority of the trip. To keep myself awake for the early hours of the trip, I sang, sang, and sang....and for the first several hours Marley sang with me. <br />
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Our best duet was to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkwJ-g0iJ6w">I Can See Clearly Now</a> (Johnny Nash provided a nice lead, and you can sing along with him in that link if you wish....) My version was on the Gross Pointe Blank soundtrack. I clearly knew most of the words to the verses, but Marley joined in on the chorus.<br />
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Me: It's gonna be a bright.<br />
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Marley: Meow<br />
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Me: Bright.<br />
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Marley: Meow.<br />
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Both: Sunshiny day/meow. <br />
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Good times....and hard to see it in her now, but she was quite uneasy in our new digs for the first week or so....but she has definitely learned to call this place home. <br />
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I, too, have learned to call this place home. From the first meal with folks, through the deconstruction and reconstruction of the kitchen, to more relationships growing and deepening...to sharing God at work in our world and our lives....I continually feel affirmation of my sense of call to serve in this place. It's a pretty amazing feeling. That, yes, this is my home. And yes, this is where I am called to serve, live and fall in love. <br />
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From that long ride....to this day, so many things have changed. Yet the ebb and flow has been a real experience. Not all experiences have been good, but God has been at work in them, all of them. <br />
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In the meantime, I realize that I am still the little lamb...following and following...maybe not a Uhaul truck....which some folks are worried about now that I'm engaged. (Let me say it one more time, I'm not leaving Trinity.) But I'm still following.....Still continually listening for God's call in my life and allowing it to take me to places I've never been. Still meeting new people and being in new situations that are sometimes challenging, sometimes life-changing and most often call-affirming. I'm blessed to work with a great group of folks and to have a great circle of friends nearby as well. <br />
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A good friend once said I did a pretty brave thing moving across the country all by myself. Thanks, CT, but I didn't do it all by myself. The call of God led me, the people of Loogootee sent me with blessings, the people of Robesonia transported me...and a congregation of 1,300 people plus my family and friends carried me in thoughts and prayers through the journey. I've been welcomed with open arms....and continue to seek new ways God is working through the congregation and through me. <br />
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Thanks to you all who have been on the journey through the blog....jake, ehhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01042918047150051291noreply@blogger.com1