.GIGATTAATTGIG

2011 - BLESSED

2011-11-24T09:58:00.005-05:00

Today, I pray that those who are homeless, jobless, full of pain, in confusion, betrayed, living in fear... those who are experiencing separation and utter despair will KNOW GOD. God hears our cries... our pleas... our prayers! God cares! His timing is paramount! It is not always ours! For He is indeed GIGATTAATTGIG!

I have several friends and family who have known complete desparation! One friend told his story Sunday morning to our church family. Over two years on the streets, living out of dumpsters and on park benches, as he continued to pray and quote the 23rd Psalm. In time, God sent him his answer... the woman who rescued him would eventually become his wife for the last 21+ years.

Another dear friend's story was told recently on an OKC news station via a short video clip! A profound story of a man who exemplifies grace, mercy, and compassion.

I am putting a link here just in case the embedded video does not work.

http://www.news9.com/story/16060870/amanda-taylors-role-model-speaks-out-about-hunger

~BLESSED~

2011 - BLESSED - AS THE STORMS CONTINUE..

2011-09-27T04:59:00.003-04:00

The last time I posted here was in May. It certainly is not because I have forgotten that God Is Good All The Time. It might be more because there have been many days over the last 4 months or so that I have been hanging on by my fingernails repeating GIGATTAATTGIG!

The summer found me experiencing one of my heaviest work loads ever. Then, there was the earthquake and the hurricane. We have still not done all of our clean up from the hurricane. That, of course, was on top of the normal very busy life with a chronically ill daughter who lives in our home. How does one get through seasons of great stress without going crazy?

All I know is that as the storms of life beat down, I make it my goal to please Him, count my blessings and not my troubles, focus my eyes on Jesus, and consider who Jesus is and who I am in Him.

1. Fixing our eyes on Jesus and WHO HE IS!

2. Considering Jesus and WHO HE IS IN US!

Let's take a closer look at this partial list of who we are in Christ:

WHO I AM IN CHRIST:
A live with Christ - Ephesians 2:5
B eloved of God - Colossians 3:12; Rom. 1:7; 1 Thess. 1:4
B lessed - Matthew 5:1-12; Galatians 3:9
B orn of God -the evil one does not touch me - 1 John 5:18
C hosen - 1 Thess. 1:4; Eph. 1:4; 1 Peter 2:9
C omplete in Him - Colossians 2:10
C rucified with Christ - Galatians 2:20
D ead to sin - Romans 6:2, 11; 1 Peter 2:24
D elivered from the power of darkness - Col. 1:13
E stablished, anointed, and sealed - 2 Cor. 1:21; Col. 1:8
F ree from Condemnation–Romans 8:1
F irmly rooted, built up, established in the faith - Col. 2:7
F orgiven of all my sins–Eph. 1:7, Heb. 9:14; Col. 1:14; 1 John 1:9, 2:12
F riend of Jesus Christ-John 15:5
G od’s workmanship - Ephesians 2:10
H ealed by the wounds of Jesus - 1 Pet. 2:24; Is. 53:6
H oly and without blame before Him - 1 Peter 1:1; Eph. 1:4
I mage of His glory – 2 Corinthians 3:18
J ustified – Romans 5:1
J oint heir with Christ - Romans 8:17
K ingdom seeker – Matthew 6:33
L ight of the world and salt of the earth – Matthew 5:14
L oved – 1 John 3:3
M ore than a conqueror - Romans 8:37
M ember of Christ's body - 1 Corinthians 12:27
N ew Creature - 2 Corinthians 5:17
O ne in Christ - John 17:21-23
P rotected from the evil one - John 17:15
Q ualified to share in His inheritance - Colossians 1:12
R edeemed - 1 Peter 1:18,19; Gal. 3:13; Col. 1:14
R econciled to God - 2 Corinthians 5:18
R aised up with Christ - Colossians 2:12; Ephesians 2:6
R ighteousness of God - 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24
S aint - Romans 1:7, 1 Corinthians 1:2, Philippians 1

S alt of the earth - Matthew 5:1
S eated in heavenly places – Colossians 2:12; Eph. 2:6
S et Free - John 8:31-33
S trong in the Lord - Ephesians 6:10
T emple of the Holy Spirit - 1 Corinthians 6:19
U nited with God and one spirit with Him – 1 Cor. 6:17
V ictorious - Revelation 21:7
W ise – 1 Corinthians 3:30
eX alting Christ in my body – Philippians 1:20
Y ahweh’s Child – John 1:12
Z ion Dweller – Hebrews 12:21-23

~BLESSED~

2011 - BLESSED - THROUGH THE STORM... IN SPITE OF THE STORM... AFTER THE STORM...

2011-05-25T07:34:00.006-04:00

God continues to remind us of His presence and His goodness through the storms of life: tornadoes, tsunamis, earthquakes, floods, drought, death, disease... tragedies of all kinds...

Today, I take heart in the incredible stories that I have heard over the last few months as I am continually reminded that GIGATTAATTGIG. Here are links to a few that I believe will inspire you. These are of people who I know... friends... My goal is to be more consistent at posting more over the next few weeks... months...

1.
Greg and Kim Spink have led an amazing relief effort in the Joplin, MO area over the last few days, feeding and clothing over 1,500 at the Mt. Hope church of Christ's facilities. Today, the semi trucks continue to arrive, as donations pour in from all over the country. Read here to learn what happened just a few hours before... GIGATTAATTGIG...

http://www.christianchronicle.org/blog/2011/05/preachers-wife-missing-for-three-hours-after-massive-joplin-mo-tornado/

2.
Jon and Michiko Straker have kept thousands of us connected to the heart of the relief effort in Japan.... so has Dwight Albright... their FB page and this website have brought together people from all over the globe to serve... see how we must continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus showing that GIGATTAATTGIG to the people of Japan...

http://www.workingandprayingforjapan.org/

3.
Stephen and Joy Colwell's baby girl, Maggie, was born a few weeks ago. Stephen has kept a blog about their journey since before Maggie's birth. Today, they are saying their goodbyes to Maggie. Thank you, Colwell family for modeling that GIGATTAATTGIG.

http://mabeecolwell.weebly.com/blog.html

~GIGATTAATTGIG~

2011 - BLESSED - BECAUSE OF HIS CROSS WALK ON A MISSION OF MERCY....

2011-04-19T06:41:00.004-04:00

It was the last week of His:

SUNDAY:

Jesus entered Jerusalem (21,11,19,12) to much praise

Jesus spent the night in Bethany (21,11,00)

MONDAY:

Jesus cursed the fig tree in His 33rd recorded miracle (21,11,0,0)

Jesus cleansed the temple the 2nd time (21,11,19,0)

Jesus healed in the temple (21,000)

Jesus left Jerusalem in the evening (0,11,00)

TUESDAY:

Fig tree dried up (21,11,00)

Jesus taught in the temple and His authority was questioned (21,11,19,0)

Parable #40 - Two sons - Will & Won't (21,000)

Parable #41 - Two husbandmen - (21,12,20,0)

Parable #42 -Marriage of King's sons - (22,000)

Discourse #28 - on the 8 woes against Pharisees (23,12,20,0)

Discourse #29 - on the necessity of Faith (000,12)

Discourse #30 - on the destruction of Jerusalem (24,13,21,0)

Parable #43 - leaves of fig tree and other trees (24,13,21,0)

Parable #44 - householder watching (24,13,00)

Parable #45 - ten virgins (25,000)

Parable #46 - talents (25,000)

Parable #47 - sheep and goats (25,000)

Jesus knew that it was the week! He was on a MISSION OF MERCY! He must continually die to Himself... His needs... His wants... His desires... so that He might rescue others. There was a planet full of people (past, present, and future) depending on Him.

I am so thankful that His focus, His love for the Father, His work ethic, His persistence, and His endurance kept Him, that week, on His MISSION OF MERCY... a mission of healing that would reconcile us to our Heavenly Father. After all, it was God's idea! Brightly beams our Father's mercy! Brightly beams the love of our Savior! GIGATTAATTGIG

NOTE: In 1978, my mother-in-love, Robbie Sikes and family friend, Johnnie Luker, published a booklet entitled THE GOSPEL TRAIN. The idea originated with Johnnie in the 60's. Further years of prayerful study and development by Robbie (transformed mom of 13 children) birthed a graphic organizer to help others in studying the life of Christ and put it to memory. Within this study is the concept of GOSPEL ZIP CODES. Above, in parentheses, you see different strings of numbers. Here are some examples to aid you in the meaning and use of GOSPEL ZIP CODES:

25,000 means the story is found in Matthew chapter one, but not in Mark, Luke, or John

24,13,00 means the story is found in Matthew 24, Mark 13, and not in Luke or John

24,13,21,0 means the story is found in Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21, and not in John

0,11,00 means the story is only found in Mark 11

Join me, the remainder of this week and into Sunday on this blog as we follow the CROSS WALK of Jesus Christ during the week that He was crucified.

GIGATTAATTGIG

~BLESSED~

2011 BLESSED - BECAUSE MERCY CAME RUNNING...

2011-04-12T20:59:00.000-04:00

Our friends in Japan need our mercy. They will continue to need it for many days to come. Those who have survived face much loss, destruction, and sorrow. .

Our Japanese friends have been rescued from one or more storms. Who will rescue them from the over the top storms of life that so many are now experiencing?

Who will provide comfort for the broken hearted of Japan?

Who will give a hand-up to so many who are down and out in Japan?

Who will patiently wait, pray, work, and stand in the gap for the lost of Japan - who are in need of a Savior?

Who will help to heal their hearts, minds, bodies, and souls in the face of so much loss?

True, complete, eternal healing comes with the cross of Jesus! May the living breathing body of Christ, the church

show the people of Japan the love and mercy of our LIVING LORD. There are so many people worldwide who worship the created instead of the Creator. There are those who pray to a statue because they don't understand the height, depth, and breadth of the love of Jesus Christ.

In the past few weeks, christians have worked tirelessly as the hands and feet of Jesus to run with mercy to the people of Japan. We are the body of Christ! A big thank you to Jon, Joel, Ben, Chad, Dwight and their families! Thank you for getting us jumpstarted; for keeping us informed!

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The children in our church family are leading the way in collecting thousands of dollars to care for the Japanese.

Please join us in working together to continue to run with mercy as the body of Christ! As a mother, lead your children in missions of mercy! Lemonade stands, hot chocolate stands, selling toys or services, and asking for donations are all ways for your children to participate. One of our elementary school girls told her grandmother, in another state, about our effort to collect money for Japan. The grandmother collected $2,000 from her church and sent it to us. Another of our girls spoke to her principal and the principal is on board for the school to now help. These young girls have been the hands and feet of Jesus... voices crying out to prepare the way for the LORD. . .

Colossians 1:15-18 says,

15 He is the image of the invisible God,

the firstborn over all creation.

16 For by Him all things were created:

things in heaven and on earth,

visible and invisible,

whether thrones or powers

or rulers or authorities;

all things were created

by Him and for Him.

17 He is before all things,

and in Him all things hold together.

18 And He is the head of the body,

the church;

He is the beginning and

the firstborn from among the dead,

so that in everything

He might have the supremacy.

. . It is not just Japan who needs the loving mercy of our LORD! It is every people, every tribe, every nation... Recently I received an email from a sister in Christ who had been on business to India. Her message read:

See attached photo.

I am guessing you can find a way to use this. :)

Now here is "the rest of the story."

I have seen a lot of "religious" bumper stickers

but had never seen this before -

displayed on the back of a car window.

(It does not belong to anyone at Pitman!)

Unusual?

Well, considering this was on a car window in....

INDIA........

YES!

India is...

80% Hindu

13% Muslim

only 2% Christian (primarily Catholic).

Oh, how this message needs to be understood by the people of the world. Today, I pray especially for the people of Japan and India... that they come to know the love and mercy AND goodness of our LORD and SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST.

Link here to see ways you can help in taking Christ's love and mercy to Japan:

http://www.workingandprayingforjapan.org/donate-or-volunteer-today/

GIGATTAATTGIG

~BLESSED~

2011: BLESSED - BECAUSE JESUS - YOU ARE ENOUGH...

2011-03-21T22:51:00.005-04:00

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My thoughts for today were the heart of our worship time together, as a church family, on Sunday. As our son, Jordan, who was visiting from out of state, led our congregation in song and my husband, Steve, spoke from God's word - the message was clear:

No matter what we're going through - CHRIST IS ENOUGH!
For any challenges within me - CHRIST IS ENOUGH!
For challenges within my family - CHRIST IS ENOUGH!
For challenges within my neighborhood - CHRIST IS ENOUGH!
For challenges within my workplace - CHRIST IS ENOUGH!
For challenges beyond comprehension -CHRIST IS ENOUGH!
For Japan - CHRIST IS ENOUGH!

As you meditate on the words above and connect them with the scripture below, I encourage you to praise the LORD. .

Colossians 1:15-23

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15 He is the image of the invisible God,

the firstborn over all creation.

16 For by Him all things were created:

things in heaven and on earth,

visible and invisible,

whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities;

all things were created by Him and for Him.

17 He is before all things,

and in Him all things hold together.

18 And He is the head of the body, the church;

He is the beginning and

the firstborn from among the dead,

so that in everything He might have the supremacy.

19 For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in him,

20 and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things,

whether things on earth or things in heaven,

by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross.

21 Once you were alienated from God and

were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.

22 But now He has reconciled you

by Christ's physical body through death

to present you holy in His sight,

without blemish and free from accusation-

23 if you continue in your faith,

established and firm,

not moved from the hope held out in the gospel.

This is the gospel that you heard and

that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven..."

We thank You, Jesus, for the privilege of being part of Your body, the church.

May we be

Your hands,
Your feet, and
Your heart

as we serve our families, our neighbors, and the people of Japan.

The website, linked to here, is being designed by current and former missionaries to Japan and those in love with the LORD and the people of Japan. We work and pray because we know that as the body of Christ that GIGATTAATTGIG.

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.workingandprayingforjapan.org%2F&h=ce00d.

2011 - BLESSED to L1 and L2

2011-03-15T08:54:00.000-04:00

I cannot think of a better way to truly know that GIGATTAATTGIG. It is described by these words of Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 22:

"'Love the Lord your God

with all your heart and

with all your soul and

with all your mind.'

This is the first and greatest commandment.

And the second is like it:

'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

All the Law and the Prophets hang on

these two commandments."

The eyes of the world are focused on Japan.

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My "real world" connections are deep and go way back. I lived in Okinawa for three years in the 60's. My best friend's family were missionaries first to Japan and to the island south - Okinawa. The Joe Cannon family was originally from Canada.

Years later, as professors at York College, my husband and I got close to several Canadian students who knew the Cannon's well. A seed had been planted in the hearts of these students to go to Japan to continue the work, of sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, that the Cannon's and others had started. With much prayer and preparation, a team of missionaries was formed and they headed for Sendai, Japan. The stories of transformation, of Japanese lives and of the many who have gone via LST, have been many.

As you probably know, Sendai, Japan is very much in the center of last week's devastation. One of those Canadian mission students, Jonathan Straker, has been back in the states working on his Master's degree at Abilene Christian University. He and his wife are mobilizing efforts to help Japan via FB.

That is one of the 3 things that I am very grateful for today. All 3 have a similar theme:

I am grateful when christians band together and allow God to work through them in a powerful way to help others who are in the midst of one of life's storms.

GRATITUDE #1:

Back several months ago, I shared with you about Jenny Marcum Reyes' who grew up as a missionary kid in Ecuador. Then, after marrying Eric, they went as missionaries to Bolivia. Jenny, a very healthy young mother of two (and my niece), had a massive tumor on her thigh.

So, in November, she was rushed back to the states and a christian medical team volunteered their services to do the surgery in Austin, Texas. It's been a long, hard road! Many who have this must have the leg amputated. Because of fervant prayer and God's intervention, Jenny's leg was saved. I'm so thankful that this medical team's lives are about L1 and L2: Loving God and Loving Others (specifically the Reyes' family).

One month later, Jenny wrote, "...was diagnosed with cancer 31 days ago, and I praise God for one of the best months of my life." Yesterday morning, after much rehabilitation and 30 radiation treatments, Jenny tried out jogging for the first time since surgery. She ran a couple miles! So full of thanks!

I'm so grateful that Jenny's life is about L1 and L2: Loving God and Loving Others.

GRATITUDE #2:

I was literally numb last night when I learned of the death of Gary Miller. What a blessing His life in Christ has been to so many of us. Humble, sweet, servant of Jesus Christ would begin a description of Gary. Steve has corresponded with Gary several times, since we've been in Jersey, about him bringing his group Vocal Union here to sing. Gary won't be singing in Jersey, but I cannot wait until heaven to hear that voice sing through the ages!

The last time I saw Gary was several years ago at the Tulsa workshop. As I was going into our motel room, I heard a voice say, "Is that you, Patti Sikes?" I turned around to see that Gary and some of his Vocal Union buddies were in the next room to us. What a treat! He was a man who lit up his world! I'm so grateful that his life was about L1 and L2: Loving God and Loving Others.

We need his music and his family needs our help. So, those who knew him best have rallied around his family to help. I'm so grateful that Acappella ministries and Vocal Union are about L1 and L2: Loving God and Loving Others (specifically the Miller family). Click on both of these links to see how you can do both:

http://www.vocalunion.com/

http://www.acappella.org/vocalunion/garymillerproject/index.html

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I am also convinced that Gary could explain more about the words to this song today:

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GRATITUDE #3:
I began this blog post today talking about Japan. I am so thankful for the initial mission team to Sendai, Japan of Ben Berry, Joel Osbourne, Crimson Runke, and Jonathan Straker whose lives shine L1 and L2: Loving God and Loving Others.
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Please join us on the FB page that Jonathan and Michiko Straker have begun as they want us all to join together in L1 and L2: Love God and Love Others (specifically Japan). I am grateful we can all help!
.
.

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You can get started by clicking here:

http://www.christianchronicle.org/blog/2011/03/facebook-group-focuses-on-prayer-relief-for-japan-earthquake-victims/
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May we see God's goodness

in all the ways we love each other.

We can know that

GIGATTAATTGIG

~WE ARE A BLESSED PEOPLE!~

2011 - BLESSED - HE COMFORTS HIS PEOPLE...

2011-01-25T06:21:00.003-05:00

Through our troubles, challenges, and even devastation we learn and grow. God provides comfort.
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1.
This week, more people from our congregation are in Haiti letting God use them for His glory. There are nurses in the group. There are seamstresses. There are those who are there to work... to serve... to provide comfort...
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I am confident that this group will be BLESSED beyond measure by what they did last week and are doing this week.

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2.
I just heard of more good... more comfort that has come out of the terrible tragedy in Tucson, Arizona. Christina Taylor Green, the 9 year old who lost her life was an organ donor. Her father, John Green, shared that they know her corneas have given sight to two children who were blind. - In the midst of tragedy, COMFORT... BLESSING....

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3.

Recently, after watching the memorial service in Tucson, I shared with my husband, Steve, that I was so excited that God was given a voice on this nationally televised service watched by millions. Later, Steve wrote this on his blog. He has given me permission to share it with you.
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“Comfort, O Comfort My People”

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On January 12, 2011, four days following the shooting spree in Tucson, Arizona, the President of the United States exhorted us as Americans to “expand our moral imaginations” and “sharpen our instincts for empathy.” “I believe we can be better,” he said.

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President Obama’s speech was one of comfort and consolation and strong encouragement for national unity in spite of our many differences. I believe, however, the most poignant moment of the night was the nationally televised reading of Isaiah chapter 40!

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God is good! Isaiah 40 begins with God’s exhortation, “Comfort, O comfort My people.”

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Comfort – how? Tell them…

Captivity is about to end.

Yahweh is coming as a gentle shepherd.

He will come ‘with a strong hand’ – able to save.

Take confidence in a God “who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand” and in comparison “the nations are like a drop from a bucket… (Isaiah 40:12 & 15).”

Wait on the One who can and will renew your strength!
This world will continue to have its tragic events; God help us! But to the Christian, no matter our nationality, our present comfort and hope is in a God who “so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life (John 3:16).”

Be comforted. God is good! Steve

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You can find Steve's blog at www.cochrist.org

~BLESSED~

2011 - BLESSED: 1/11/11 = 99

2011-01-11T01:11:00.002-05:00

At the end of the video below, the following verses from the book of Job are quoted. They are the verses immediately following when Job learned that his sons and daughters had died when their house collapsed on them.
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Job 1:20-22
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20 Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head, and he fell to the ground and worshiped. 21 And he said,

"Naked I came from my mother's womb,
And naked I shall return there.
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away.
BLESSED be the name of the LORD."

22 Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God.
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Before beginning the video, pause the playlist over on the right sidebar.
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2011 - BLESSED - Because GIGATTAATTGIG

2011-01-01T15:52:00.007-05:00

BLESSED NEW YEAR:

1 - GOD, the FATHER

1 - GOD, the Son - JESUS

1 - GOD, the HOLY SPIRIT

1 - GOD, The GREAT I AM

who gives

Blessing upon

Blessing

to every surrendered

and poured out spirit because

GIGATTAATTGIG!

Join us weekly (or bi-weekly) in the New Year

as we consider the BLESSINGS of God,

in spite of the fact that

life can seem to be so hard!

2010 CHALLENGE: Understanding by Faith that GIGATTAATTGIG even when our Feelings tell us otherwise...

2010-12-31T22:00:00.009-05:00

Any year of challenges does not change the fact that God is good all the time! As tornadoes currently hit the Midwest and South, here is our year in review. I plan to reconnect us with some of these stories in the new year!

CHALLENGE 20: UNDERSTANDING by FAITH that GIGATTAATTGIG even when our FEELINGS tell us otherwise...
CHALLENGE 19: REMEMBERING WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT...

CHALLENGE 18: PRAISING GOD THROUGH CANCER...
CHALLENGE 17: PRAISING GOD IN THE STORM...

CHALLENGE 16: PRAY DIFFERENTLY!

CHALLENGE 15: WHEN THE STRONG BECOME WEAK???

CHALLENGE 14: LAY YOUR BURDENS DOWN...

CHALLENGE 13: PRAYER AND REJOICING IN THE DESERT... IN THE FIRE...

CHALLENGE 12: ENDURING

CHALLENGE 11: NATURAL DISASTERS

CHALLENGE 10: BELIEVING

CHALLENGE 9: SORROW UPON SORROW

CHALLENGE 8: SORROW

CHALLENGE 7: THE LONG HAUL

CHALLENGE 6: THE 3 BEARS CHALLENGE
CHALLENGE 5: HIGH PLACES...

CHALLENGE 4: IF ONLY....

CHALLENGE 3: WHEN YOUR CHILDREN ARE SICK...

CHALLENGE 2: DEATH!

CHALLENGE 1: WE'RE ALL SO DIFFERENT!

2010 CHALLENGE 19: REMEMBERING WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT...

2010-12-24T06:38:00.002-05:00

2010 CHALLENGE 18: PRAISING GOD THROUGH CANCER...

2010-12-14T05:16:00.002-05:00

Jenny spent a lot of her growing up years in Quito, Ecuador as the youngest daughter of missionaries for Christ - Kent and Sharla Marcum. Sharla, is my husband Steve's sister who is one year younger than him. Throughout her young life, Jenny has been a model of faith for those who she has come in contact with.

Here you see a picture of Jenny and her husband Eric with their two little ones. They are missionaries for Christ in Bolivia, South America.

One month ago, Jenny found out that she had a rare form of cancer in her thigh. Usually there are about 200 cases of this in the United States each year. Generally, a person will need to have his/her leg amputated to survive.

Yesterday, Jenny wrote these words:

Thirty one days ago I was diagnosed cancer.

On day 1, we got on our knees and threw ourselves into our Fathers arms.

On day 3, we praised God for plane tickets that were given to us.

On day 5, we praised God as we were embraced by all the ones who have come to Christ in His body in Sucre Bolivia during these years of work.

On day 7, we praised God as we boarded a plane to seek medical care in the States on day 6 and were received in the airport by 30 loved ones.

On day 8, we praised God for Dr. Stanley as he established our diagnosis here in the States and arranged for the Mayo Clinic to see my case.

On day 11, we praised God for results of our CT scan that showed us that the cancer had not spread to my lungs...

I know that you will be blessed by reading the rest of this PRAISE from Jenny, HERE.

2010 CHALLENGE 17: PRAISING GOD IN THE STORM...

2010-10-31T00:01:00.004-04:00

Just when I thought I was doing better at giving God the praise, no matter what the circumstances, I raised my fist in the storms of last week. Challenge 16 was about "praying differently"... about praying for others and not for ourselves. I'm not sure why, but that about did me in last week. Maybe it's because I'm already up to my eyeballs in people. Whatever the reason, last week I was most certain that I was drowning AND IT'S NOT A GOOD FEELING!!! Yet, as my husband often says, "FAITH AND FEELINGS DO NOT ALWAYS GO HAND IN HAND."

I prayed for Roger Collins after the family posted on Facebook that he had a heart attack while running. Our friend, Roger, did not stay around on this planet! Steve and I have been so sad for his family! God answered our prayers with a resounding, "NO!"

I prayed for our daughter, Jessica, and she got worse last week. As the storms set over South Jersey, her high intracranial hypertension caused so much pain in her body that she became close to comatose. I drove around South Jersey during the storms. I saw the gorgeous fall leaves out of my rain soaked windows and I raised my voice to God, crying, "Why? If you can make all these millions of individual leaves into this gorgeous canopy of color... WHY will you not take our daughter's pain?" He answered with a "No! Wait!" Jessica's extreme pain stayed the same until sometime Friday afternoon when the storms lifted. Friday night I took her out for a drive in her mustang. It was the first time in two years that she has ridden in it. We talked. She smiled. Yesterday, she came in and sat on my bed and we talked for a long time. Precious memories! Thank You, LORD! That's it for now! Her pain has returned and she's back in bed!
I've prayed for Grace! Grace is another one of thousands who have the same chronic pain problems as our Jessica. This time, she's been in the hospital since October 13th. On October 21st, after yet another surgery to repair a spinal fluid leakage, Grace's mother posted on FB that the doctor "expects that she will feel much better later today when her spinal fluid level stabilizes." This is 10 days later and Grace is still in the hospital. God? Why?

I've prayed and prayed for our son, Caleb... his new little family... so thankful their move is partially complete... still no employement.... God we pray for your provisions for them...
The stories abound of pain and suffering and loss... many prayed and Stacia still lost her twins... Doc and Cathy still struggle with a myriad of health problems... we begged God to keep daddy of four, Scott McEndree here, but He chose not to... you get the picture...

The bottom line is that we may not ever understand. At least, we won't understand until we get to heaven. Yet, we MUST believe that our Father has the most perfect perspective and that He knows best. We can rest assured that He is looking out for our best interests.

Our job, no matter how hard, is to PRAISE HIM IN THE STORM!!!

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TRIBUTE TO ROGER COLLINS FROM STEVE SIKES:

It was August, 1971, York College, York, Nebraska, that my first memory of "freshman" Roger Collins took hold. I was a club president looking over the new "crop" of young men on campus, trying to make the wisest of decisions possible on whom to invite into our group. Some clubs were looking for athletes, some for personalities, etc. I distinctly remember looking for men with a Christ-like character and Roger Collins topping our list.

After joining our club, Roger became my pledge for a week and for the next 39 years Roger called me pledge-master and reminded me how easy I had been on him. We'd chuckle and then go on to other conversation. I learned pretty quickly I had a lot to learn from Roger. From 1971 till his death last night, Roger consistently emanated humility, genuine transparency and concern for others. Over the years, Roger became one of my rocks in the faith -- so accountable, so stable and unwavering in his faith and so at peace within himself.

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After leaving York College as students, Roger and I crossed paths again at Harding University and then later at York College as fellow teachers. I was so proud of Roger when he married Debbie and so proud of them both as they proved again and again how Christian parents are to bring up their children in the Lord -- faithful to the end. Roger was a runner (spiritually and physically) and over the years his children followed in his steps. This morning I read (again) a passage of scripture that has reminded me of Roger for several decades:

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1 Corinthians 9:24-27 "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air;but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified."

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Thanks, Roger, for continually running in such a way as to win! I love you and thank God for you and already miss you terribly.

Till we meet again, my brother and friend.
Steve Sikes

The York College home page talks about Roger's life: http://www.york.edu/news/2010/1025_collins.asp

Facebook Page Link: PRAY FOR ROGER COLLINS

GIGATTAATTGIG: Remembering to focus on what God has done and is doing:

Praising You for answering our prayers for Chip!
Praising You for Rich's new hands working!
Praising You that so many were blessed with You living in and working through Roger Collins.
Praising You, Father, in the storms...

2010 CHALLENGE 16: PRAY DIFFERENTLY!

2010-10-26T00:13:00.010-04:00

I am so grateful that God hears our prayers! He will answer: sometimes "Yes!", sometimes "No!", and sometimes "Wait!" Our Father knows best!
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Yesterday on Facebook, Patrick Mead gave his Facebook friends a prayer challenge. I'd like to pass it on to you:
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"Try this for the next 7 days.

Don't pray for anything for yourself

except for wisdom.

Spend your prayer time entirely

on behalf of others.

Name them.

See what happens."

This will be a hard challenge for many! Pray for wisdom:

James 1:2-8
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers,

whenever you face trials of many kinds,

3 because you know that the testing of

your faith develops perseverance.

4 Perseverance must finish its work

so that you may be mature and complete,

not lacking anything.

5 If any of you lacks wisdom,

he should ask God,

who gives generously to all without finding fault,

and it will be given to him.

6 But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt,

because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea,

blown and tossed by the wind.

7 That man should not think he will receive

anything from the Lord;

8 he is a double-minded man,

unstable in all he does."

I do believe that God Is Good All The Time! I believe that when He answers prayers, there is a reason for how He answers. If you want to get started on some heavy duty praying for people, please join me. I've got a lot of people on my mind:

My mom, Kathleen Klein, is being moved to a nursing home in the next few weeks. GIGATTAATTGIG
Jobless, our son, his wife, and baby are in the midst of a move this week from one state to another. GIGATTAATTGIG
Our friend, Roger Collins, (a college professor at York College) was in Springfield, MO this past weekend as he and his wife, Debbie, visited her dying grandmother. Roger went out running on Saturday and had a massive heart attack during his run. Others on the bike trail did CPR and called 911. In the last 48 hours, Roger has almost left this life several times. He is in a medically induced coma at this time. In the midst of it all, his wife's grandmother has died. Their 4 young adult children have arrived to stand vigil with Debbie. You may access PRAY FOR ROGER COLLINS on FB by clicking HERE. Please pray for Roger and his family. GIGATTAATTGIG
Our friend, Grace Billingham, has suffered from chronic migraines like our daughter Jessica. This year I cannot count the times Grace has been hospitalized or had surgery. She has some of the top doctors trying to help, including doctors from John Hopkins. This past week her spinal fluid has been leaking. Did I say that Grace is 17 years old? Please put Grace and her family on your prayer list! GIGATTAATTGIG!
Our daughter Jessica could sure use your prayers. Chronic migraines for the last 15 years... ask God if she has to "WAIT" much longer! We still insist that GIGATTAATTGIG...
It has been approx. 9 weeks since Dr. Rich Edwards had the 3rd double hand transplant in the nation. He is doing well after a surgery last week to graft skin to his right arm, but his leg is still pretty sore where they removed the skin. He had surgery again yesterday afternoon to put a pin in his right hand to prevent it forming a "claw". Good news, he used a fork and spoon to eat in his left hand for the first time this weekend. He was thrilled. He could only take about 4 bites before his hand tired - but this is a true gift from God that he can feed himself using utensils. Check out his amazing story on previous posts on this blog. Join me in continuing to pray for Rich and Cindy Edwards and family! GIGATTAATTGIG
Chip Bloecher's story is recorded in the video above. Chip and Lisa need our continued prayers. Yesterday, Chip was suffering from a major headache. His body is still trying to overcome all the trauma it's been through. GIGATTAATTGIG
My list is long! I know many who are hurting or feel helpless. If you begin praying... you will quickly become more aware of the hurting and the helpless, too.

Join me this week in taking Patrick's challenge! GIGATTAATTGIG

PATTI'S UPDATE - 10-26-10 at 4:00 a.m. eastern time:

Last night, at 11:34 p.m. central time, our humble and kind friend, Roger Collins went home to be with Jesus. GIGATTAATTGIG

2010 CHALLENGE 15: UPDATE 2

2010-10-09T18:11:00.005-04:00

TODAY'S MESSAGE FROM CHIP BLOECHER:
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Home. Not kinda, not at a rehab place, not in a temporary location waiting for my house to be accessible. Home. I am 100% back to pre-coma Chip. I am not saying I am normal, because that would be a stretch. I am, however, (other than some stamina issues) FULLY RESTORED, FULLY HEALED.

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THIS WEEK'S MEDIA ARTICLE AND VIDEO CLIP ABOUT RICH EDWARDS:
Doctors: Hand-Transplant Recipient Recovery 'Miraculous' - News Story - WLKY Louisville

2010 CHALLENGE 15: UPDATE 1

2010-10-05T00:34:00.022-04:00

We continue to believe that GIGATTAATTGIG as we watch the journey of these two men:

RICH EDWARDS:

I shared Rich's story in our 2010 CHALLENGE 15 post - the post previous to this one. Here are Rich and his wife, Cindy, in an interview not long after his amazing double hand transplant in August.

In the past three weeks, 2 main arteries that supply the blood to the right hand were not supplying the necessary blood flow in that hand and it had started to look pretty bad. But then, miraculously, Rich's body developed a sub-artery that began to supply the blood to the hand. Then, smaller capillaries developed and have grown wider bringing more blood into the hand. Doctors have been amazed and have told Rich and Cindy that what is happening is "unprecedented". We continue to pray for complete healing for Rich AND that all may know that this healing comes from our Almighty God answering the prayers of His people!

Yesterday, Rich went back into surgery on his transplanted hands. Doctors planned to do a deep tissue skin graft to his forearm, taking tissue from Rich's stomach, if the infection was completely gone from the forearm. Rich came out of surgery and is doing well. According to family, Rich's surgery yesterday was a success. They did an abridement and pinned fingers on R hand to prevent distortion. Doctor said there is no reason his right hand didn't die from the 2 clogged arteries. We remain so hopeful that Rich will have complete use of two transplanted hands! Rich's mother wrote this morning, "May God be glorified in every circumstance no matter what happens!" GIGATTAATTGIG

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Here is Rich before and after the TODAY SHOW on September 25 - with his doctor.

CHIP BLOECHER:
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Chip is a friend who I shared a lot about in the previous post. Chip was in a coma for 10 days in September after suffering a heat stroke at a Dallas Cowboys/Chicago Bears game. His body temperature rose to 107.
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Thousands have kept a prayer vigil for Chip. It has been a faith building experience beyond anything many involved have ever experienced. Here are some wonderful things that have happened in the last week. I share them via some of Chip's wife, Lisa's, status updates on FB:

9/29 - 11:45 a.m. - "Chip is awake!... Everyone will know this miracle is from You, LORD!"
9/29 - 7:45 p.m. - "I told Chip he gave me my bday present a week early, by waking up today. He smiled at me. Ah Lord...thank u."
9/29 - 7:47 p.m. - "Continue to pray for bloodclots in his lungs and the removal of the vent tube."
9/30 - 1:37 p.m. - "I feel very hopeful about Chip-his cognitive ability seems great. Now we just need his lungs to get stronger so we can get the tube out."
9/30 - 1:42 p.m.: "Chip's mom asked him whose anniv was Dec, he pointed to himself."
9/30 - 11:43 p.m. - "Chip cried 7 times today. Not in pain, not a reaction to meds... Just extremely humbled and overwhelmed with the outpouring of love. Thank you for loving us. Can't wait for you all to get one of those great big "Chip hugs".
10/1 - 11:00 p.m. - "Chip and I had a nice quiet, restful day together. I read the Word several times to him (Isaiah, again). And we listened over and over to my hymn CD. (Chip sings back-up on it). He "sings" along with it, practicing his breathing. Sweet quiet moments together. Thank you Lord. Forever, forever grateful..."
10/2 - 1:38 p.m. - "The tube is coming out!! no more vent. Thank you Lord!"
10/2 - 8:32 p.m. - "Thank you for praying for my husband, Chip. Forever grateful."
10/3 - 3:08 p.m. - "Chip is quite chatty today. He just called me 'Russell'. Yep, Chip is Chip!"
10/3 - 8:19 p.m. - "Chip and I had dinner together tonight. So sweet. Tomorrow...rehab begins. :)"
10/4 - last night - "Chip, Hope, and I had dinner tonight together. Oh, so sweet. Thank you Lord.
SCRIPTURE POSTED BY LISA LAST NIGHT: "To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal? Some people pour out their silver and gold and hire a craftsman to make a god from it. Then they bow down and worship it! They carry it around on their shoulders, and when they set it down, it stays there. It can’t even move! And when someone prays to it, there is no answer.... It can’t rescue anyone from trouble...I am God, and there is no one else like Me." Isaiah 46:5-8

There are video links in the previous post that will remind you that GIGATTAATTGIG!

2010 CHALLENGE 15: WHEN THE STRONG BECOME WEAK???

2010-09-30T13:04:00.016-04:00

Over the years, I have been blessed to know many strong christian men. Each of them has a story to tell. They have weathered many storms as they have walked the walk and talked the talk of The Fellowship of Suffering. I have on my mind two such men who God is using to teach so many. Both men went to a small christian college in York, Nebraska at different times. They went to York College, in part, because of their love for their LORD. I believe that they would both tell you that GIGATTAATTGIG. My connection to their story? Steve and I were both students at YC and then teachers in York in the 70's and then again in the 90's until 2002.

STORY #1:

Dr. Rich Edwards was injured when the truck he was driving was overcome by a brush fire on February 11, 2006. He was unable to escape the burning vehicle. His arms, hands, back and face were severely burned leaving very little tissue left on both hands. He has had multiple reconstructive surgeries and skin grafts, but had very little hand function. He was unable to use prosthesis and required complete assistance with all activities of daily living. Last month, things began to change with a DOUBLE HAND TRANSPLANT! The incredible story of this christian brother from Edmond, Oklahoma is still ongoing. The links below will give you a glimpse into the recent part of Rich's journey as he is able to say GIGATTAATTGIG. (Be sure to at least link to the last one which is an interview with Richard and his doctor in September). There have been more surgeries in September, but the family is still hopeful. Please pray for Rich, his wife Cindy, and their extended family

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http://handtransplant.com/ThePatients/RichardPRichEdwardsJrDC/tabid/170/Default.aspx

http://handtransplant.com/HandTransplants/tabid/62/Default.aspx

http://handtransplant.com/ThePatients/RichardPRichEdwardsJrDC/DoubleHandTransplantRecipientSeesHands/tabid/173/Default.aspx
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http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/39355799#39355799

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STORY #2:

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Chip Bloecher has been in a coma recently! He woke up yesterday! There has been much rejoicing as we continue to watch the hand of our LORD work through this. Here is a post that I wrote on another of my blogs last week:
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Their names are Chip and Lisa Bloecher: COUPLE EXTRAORDINAIRE! CHRISTIAN WARRIORS COVERED IN HIS ARMOR!
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Here is a very brief / simple synopsis of this salt of the earth / light of the world couple who I am so grateful for today:

When we built our house in York, Nebraska, the back of our two acres met up with Lisa's parents' property.

Lisa and Chip were students at York College... met... married... moved to KC, MO.
Chip began his journey as a teacher... Lisa learned how to play the guitar... Together, they were heavily involved in ministry... especially to youth.

As part of the planning committee of Youth In Action (YIA), Chip insisted that Steve be the main speaker for the guys and me for the girls for several years. Since it fell, each year, on the week between Christmas and New Year's, it usually included our anniversary (30th)... YIA took over the KC Airport Embassy Suites each year... Chip begged that if we would just do it, he would honor our marriage and anniversary... That he did! Upon arrival, much to our surprise, The Presidential Suite usually reserved for "dignitaries" had been reserved for us... we gave tours for the kids to see it... it was AMAZING!
Tragedy came to Lisa's family twice... her dear daddy passed away... her sweet sister was watching a parade with her family in Lincoln, NE when a careening/out of control car came at the crowd and took Connie's life...

Through the long process of healing, Lisa read her Bible, wrote in a prayer journal, and made music...

Chip and Lisa remained deeply involved in ministry. Lisa's blog chronicles her journey and her music: http://www.lisabloecher.com/

Eventually, they moved to Texas... Chip has been principal at Carrollton Christian Elementary School for four years... http://www.ccasaints.org/10141012692647493/blank/browse.asp?A=383&BMDRN=2000&BCOB=0&C=52848

They've had a little girl since moving to Texas.

Lisa's musical reach expanded greatly when she cut a C.D. in November 2009 to share the Good News of the Kingdom to the people of Japan.

Their ministry has continued to youth, the sick, downtrodden, homeless, orphaned....
Their ministry includes several continents... the countries of: Ghana, Guatemala, Honduras, and Japan.

Below, I share photos of this family that so passionately and compassionately wears the name of JESUS...

In every sense of the WORD, they are WARRIORS OF THE CROSS!

Each day, Lisa updates her FB status with her SWORD (which Ephesians 6 says is the WORD OF GOD)... her scripture choices are most often just what I need for that time of the day... she deeply encourages me daily...

Yesterday, about 5 p.m., Lisa posted this on her FB status: "...u all know I'm a prayer warrior, but it's so good to know I can take a break--go to bathroom, take rest, shower...and u all have my back. I luv u all dearly."
Why did she post that? Because it's true... and tragedy has hit once again...
Please enjoy the journal of pictures and then join me in STANDING FIRM, PUTTING ON GOD'S FULL ARMOR, and doing some WARRIOR PRAYING for Lisa and Chip...

CHIP AND LISA = FAMILY PEOPLE

CHIP AND LISA =ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL AND MUSICIAN

CHIP AND LISA = LOCAL MINISTRY

CHIP AND LISA = WORLD WIDE MISSIONS:

CHIP BLOECHER IS A PRAYER WARRIOR WHO NEEDS PRAYER WARRIORS! Sunday afternoon Chip went with friends to the Cowboys/Bears football game in Dallas. He became ill and went to his truck. Later, he was found passed out inside his truck with no AC on. Police broke through the window and took him directly to ER. His body temperature was 107, For the next almost 24 hours, in a coma, Chip was on the brink of death. In the ICU he has been ice packed and covered in prayer. Yesterday afternoon, he was able to open his eyes and move all four limbs... although still somewhat unresponsive. Praise God in all things!

TEXT YOUR PRAYERS AND ENCOURAGEMENT WHETHER YOU KNOW THEM OR NOT: A special line has been set up to receive text messages. Your messages will signal to Lisa that someone is in prayer for her family, and especially her beloved, Chip.

You can send texts to 214-868-7133

If you are on FB, you can go to a group page that was set up on Sunday evening called: PRAY FOR CHIP BLOECHER.

.The above was originally written on 9/21/10. Today, we say:

Thank you, GOD! Chip woke up yesterday - 9/29/10! He's nodded "Yes!" and "No!" This morning, he chuckled! This afternoon, when his mom asked him who had an anniversary in December, he pointed to himself.

He and Lisa will now have a new story to tell of how GIGATTAATTGIG!

"But we see JESUS,

who was made a little lower than the angels,

now crowned with glory and honor

because He suffered death,

so that by the grace of God

He might taste death for everyone.
In bringing many sons to glory,

it was fitting that God,

for whom and through whom everything exists,

should make the Author of their salvation

perfect through suffering.

Both the One who makes men holy and

those who are made holy are of the same family.

So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.

12 He says,

"I will declare your name to my brothers;

in the presence of the congregation I will sing your praises."
***

13 And again, "I will put my trust in Him."

Hebrews 2

Join others who put their trust in HIM @ Facebook Group: GIGATTAATTGIG

2010 CHALLENGE 14: LAY YOUR BURDENS DOWN...

2010-08-28T23:26:00.003-04:00

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A little over a month ago, I got a letter from a friend who reads this blog. It was quite the letter! I have pondered it, meditated on it, and re-played it in my mind like a movie. It was convicting and challenging. It was something that within 24 hours of receiving the letter that I could pass on the advice to someone else. I needed to be reminded. You see, it is advice that my husband and I give often. The challenge is doing it!
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The theme song of our April women's retreat had been on the same subject that our friend's letter was on. This friend lives in another state. I don't see her often, but the Spirit connects us on a regular basis. I asked her if I could share her letter, in part, for you here. She said to share it all... I think I'll share part.
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Dear Steve and Patti,

So, I think I told you that my daughter has started going back to church and it’s because of my granddaughter that she’s going. It’s taken 10 yrs... ... I could not emotionally deal with (her) living with her alcoholic dad and step-mom, so I gave her back to God and laid her on the cross for God to take care of her for me. It was hard, but from that moment on there was peace. I knew that she was in God’s hands and He was looking out for her, in college for example she had a Christian room-mate. Her best-friend in high-school – a Christian. So I knew God was taking care of her. Sure, I was hurt and devastated but I would not pick her up again and worry about her. Fast forward 10 yrs or so and now her young daughter of four years is going to church with her “Pop” and (my daughter) is feeling guilty for not going and thus she begins going again to church. (She) loves it and each time she goes she calls me with something about the service that she tells me about, or she has questions that she asks me about – it’s so cool to hear in her voice the excitement that she’s actually learning.
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So, my health has been terrible... .... and things with (my hubby and I) had gotten pretty bad. He had lost yet another job from his constant absenteeism (his back) and I just couldn’t take being the “bread winner” of the house while He sat and watched TV and popped pain pills. I knew that the two weeks I would be home (after my surgery with him) would either make us or break us so one night on the way home from church I was listening to my gospel music and I just lost it, I just boo hoo-ed and poured my heart out to God and did what I should have done years ago. I laid that burden down, and I laid (my hubby) down at the cross and gave him over to Jesus to take care of. I was at my breaking point and could no longer take care of (my hubby) because my health was now effected by carrying him for so many years. Yes, Steve, I had reached the stairs and there was no way I was strong enough to climb them carrying (him)- let alone by myself. So I laid him down at that cross and gave him to Jesus and walked away. That was 2 weeks before my surgery.
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It is now July 14th and (my hubby) has made a huge turn around. (However the worse thing - he did not even show up for my surgery. He had a shot scheduled for his back and he expected me to change my surgery – so he went for his shot and had it without any (anesthesia) so that he could drive home. I was SO upset with him I was steaming all day; however, mom and dad came to the hospital and stayed the whole day...

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….. the next week is when the change happened. He was diagnosed with pre-diabetes, the same day he went to his diabetes class was the same night that mom was rushed to the hospital with heart issues and of course I couldn’t drive yet so I was stuck at home calling everyone... ...Here we are now 3 months later and (my hubby) has lost 40 lbs, he has a brand new job and LOVES IT and his whole attitude has changed. He had become so grumpy and depressed that nobody wanted to be around him, he was up to 325.lbs and was a walking time bomb with his high blood pressure and temper and threatening to commit suicide on a pretty regular basis. I was sure that I would come home and find him dead one day….it was awful.
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So I know this is all garbled and jumbled but I am so excited!!! It has taken me 14 years but I finally turned my husband over to God and let Him take care of him and within months look what all has happened. WoW!! Even better? I am at peace for the first time in many years. I feel like I have the man that I married back. He is happy, he is laughing and just a joy to be around. Yesterday, was our Anniversary and we both felt like it was a celebration, like a new start for us.
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My burden has lifted Steve, and it’s taken me HOW MANY YEARS to figure this out?? You tried to teach me but I guess I had to learn it myself the hard way – or at least give him back to God and LEAVE him there. Believe you me, I’m not picking that load back up – he’s too heavy to carry!!!
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So with this novel, just wanted to give you some good news for a change. My hubby is back and we’re both thrilled. Now if I can just get him back to church…but that’s not my job, when he decides to join me he will.... God is Good!!! Love ya both,
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CHALLENGE 14: LAY YOUR BURDENS DOWN

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The theme song from our women's retreat is one we sing now quite often on Sunday mornings. I wish I could find it on a playlist, but for now, here are the words to this beautiful song - GIGATTAATTGIG:

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HERE IN THIS PLACE
Chris Davis

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Lay your burden down
Every care you carry,
And come to the table of grace,
For there is mercy.
Come just as you are,
We are all unworthy
To enter the presence of God
For He is holy.

Chorus
Lift up your heart, lift up your hands,
Fall on your knees and pray;
For the King of kings

and the love He brings
Is here in this place.
We raise our voices,

raise our song,
We offer Him our praise;
For the King of kings

and the joy He brings
Is here,

He is here in this place.

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1999 One Man Band

THANK YOU, JESUS! WHAT A JOY IT IS TO BE ABLE TO LAY MY BURDENS DOWN AT YOUR FEET!!! GIGATTAATTGIG

Join us for Gratituesday at Heavenly Homemakers!

2010 CHALLENGE 13: PRAYER AND REJOICING IN THE DESERT... IN THE FIRE...

2010-07-25T22:54:00.012-04:00

Even though I have not been posting lately, GIGATTAATTGIG!!!

Life has been challenging for our family. Satan has thrown his firey arrows. We have chosen to continue to wear God's armor, including His shield of faith to protect our hearts. I hold fast to His promise in Ephesians 6 that if I put on all of my Daddy's armor, I can remain standing firm.

It's been a year ago this week since Lauren had her heart transplant. You may remember that her mama's songs of sustenance had the words "through the calm and through the storm" and "while I'm waiting on You, LORD." Recently Cristi wrote that she had a new favorite song that is sustaining her as they continue to work with Lauren to catch up on all of her developmental skills (including swallowing and chewing). It's been quite a year for their family as daddy finished grad school and the family prepared for their move to a new location. Through it all, Lauren's "strong new heart" is doing well!

Life remains hard, but God is Good All The Time! Join me in praising God on the anniversary of Lauren's heart transplant one year ago this week.

You may want to follow along with the playlist song via the words below of Cristi's new favorite song:

Desert Song Lyrics

as sung by Hillsong

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This is my prayer in the desert

When all that's within me feels dry

This is my prayer in my hunger and need

My God is the God who provides

This is my prayer in the fire

And weakness or trial or pain

There is faith proved of more worth than gold

So refine me Lord through the flames

I will bring praise

No weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoice

I will declare

God is my victory

and He is here

This is my prayer in the battle

When triumph is still on its way

I am a conquerer and co-heir with Christ

So firm on His promise I'll stand

I will bring praise

No weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoice

I will declare

God is my victory and He is here

All of my life

In every season

You are still God

I have reason to sing

I have a reason to worship

All of my life

In every season

You are still God

I have reason to sing

I have a reason to worship

All of my life

In every season

You are still God

I have a reason to sing

I have reason to worship

All of my life

In every season

You are still God

I have a reason to sing

I have a reason to worship

I will bring praise

No weapon formed against me shall remain

I will rejoice

I will declare

God is my victory and He is here

And this is my prayer in the harvest

And favor and providence flow

I know I'm filled to be emptied again

The seed I receive I will sow

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You can pause the playlist to listen / view this beautiful clip:

2010 CHALLENGE 12: ENDURING

2010-05-21T15:50:00.008-04:00

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Have you ever been so exhausted that you could fall asleep standing up? Have you ever experienced being too tired to sleep? I've experienced both recently. It's at times like these that the sheer day to day journey becomes almost too overwhelming. The first of this week, I finished grading the last of almost 1,400 college papers, projects, reflections, and activities. I turned around immediately to begin teaching a summer intensive five week course on Tuesday / Thursday evenings for 4 hours each evening. Before Tuesday ever got here, there were emails from the students who had just received their grades for Spring semester. I had made a mistake in my grading and left off one of the 20 grades. This would certainly impact the final grade for some of them. That means that I'll need to sit and fill out "change of grade" forms. Ahhhh! Does it even matter if I need sleep? Does anyone care?
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A little while ago, I was sitting at my computer posting my assignments for next week, I went to click on some background music from my other blog and there it was... a former post from 2/5/09. God showed me once again how much He cared! He knew I needed to be directed to this... the funny thing is that I do not remember ever posting this video! Please notice the words at the end of the link... COURAGE TO ENDURE: http://momstransformed.blogspot.com/2009/02/in-me-courage-to-endure.html
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That's what I need today: COURAGE TO ENDURE!!! There is a video on that post, that I have embedded here as well. It was what I needed for today. Maybe it's just what you need, too! GIGATTAATTGIG!
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Be sure and scroll down to pause the playlist before starting the video.
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BE BLESSED!

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2010 CHALLENGE 11: NATURAL DISASTERS

2010-05-08T09:13:00.015-04:00

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Thankful for trials? Peter says that they are there to refine us like gold is refined by fire (at 1,102 degress Celsius). On this blog, we are talking about challenges that stretch and grow our faith in the goodness of God. Being involved in a natural disaster is like firing up the degrees on the refining furnace!!! Yet, Peter reminds us to REJOICE!

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1 Peter 1:6-9 says,

"In this you greatly rejoice,

though now for a little while

you may have had to suffer grief

in all kinds of trials.

These have come so that your faith

-of greater worth than gold,

which perishes even though refined by fire-

may be proved genuine and may result in

praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

Though you have not seen Him, you love Him;

and even though you do not see Him now,

you believe in Him and are filled with

an inexpressible and glorious joy,

for you are receiving the goal of your faith,

the salvation of your souls. "

My first knowledge of the Nashville, Tennessee flood, of May 2010, was in an email message from my friend, Benja. She described the flooding and said that they were able to save all the furniture from her sister's house, but not the house. Two of her sister's neighbors' houses burned because of the water causing electrical shortages.

Over the last week, I've received pictures and videos from friends in Nashville. I'd like to share two videos with you.

VIDEO ONE: As I viewed this video, my thoughts were many.... here are five:

To the background music, in my mind, I replaced "Here comes the sun..." with "Here comes the Son..."
To the comment of "no looting", I thought "Praise God! This is how it should be in a city known to have "possibly the most churches per capita of any city".
To the pictures, I often responded with "I've been there!"
To the overwhelming thought of the enormity of the situation, I whispered, "Rejoce in trials! God be with them!"
To the last slide, "We are Nashville!" , I thought "It would be nice if it said "We are christian!"
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VIDEO TWO: This second video (down below) is taken on Interstate 24 (at Bell Rd.) in Nashville, Tennessee. You will see many cars submerged. There is a semi truck in the left foreground. I do not know if when this was taken (from a helicopter) if there were people in any of these vehicles or not. What I do know is that this classroom building from Lighthouse Christian School came off it's foundation and floated down the highway. If you don't have time to watch the entire video, scroll the little cursor over to almost halfway and watch a little over the last half. I cried!

Please join me in praying for Nashville. Andrew Krinks, who grew up in our church family here in NJ, has been committed to serving the poor in Nashville (with his wife, Lindsey) since they were students at David Lipscomb University. Nashville's Tent City, it's largest homeless encampment, has been completely flooded over . As a result, the Red Cross has set up a temporary site for them on the University's campus until more permanent housing can be secured. Andrew and Lindsey are very involved in this effort. Can you rally forces to help? Contact Andrew at AndrewKrinks@gmail.com

Please join me in begging God to let them see all the reasons for rejoicing in these trials. Let them see that GIGATTAATTGIG.
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Scroll down a little to see the videos!

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2010 CHALLENGE 10: BELIEVING

2010-04-04T00:01:00.003-04:00

"Mary Magdalene went

to the disciples with the news:

"I have seen the Lord!"

And she told them that

He had said these things to her.

On the evening of that first day of the week,

when the disciples were together,

with the doors locked for fear of the Jews,

Jesus came and stood among them and said,

"Peace be with you!"

After He said this,

He showed them His hands and side.

The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.
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Again Jesus said,

"Peace be with you!

As the Father has sent He,

I am sending you."

And with that He breathed on them and said,

"Receive the Holy Spirit.

If you forgive anyone his sins,

they are forgiven;

if you do not forgive them,

they are not forgiven."
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Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve,

was not with the disciples when Jesus came.

So the other disciples told him,

"We have seen the Lord!"

But he said to them,

"Unless I see the nail marks in His hands

and put my finger where the nails were,

and put my hand into His side,

I will not believe it."
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A week later His disciples were in the house again,

and Thomas was with them.

Though the doors were locked,

Jesus came and stood among them and said,

"Peace be with you!"

Then He said to Thomas,

"Put your finger here;

see My hands.

Reach out your hand and put it into My side.

Stop doubting and believe."
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Thomas said to Him,

"My Lord and My God!"
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Then Jesus told him,

"Because you have seen Me,

you have believed;

blessed are those who have not seen

and yet have believed."

NIV JOHN 20:18-29

Do you find it hard to believe that Jesus is who He says He is and He will do what He says He will do? I AM SO THANKFUL THAT HE IS!!! I leave you today, with 4 things:

The scripture above

The song playing in the background to consider, "Above All"

The video to watch below (you'll have to pause the playlist for that)

These words that I read for the first time yesterday:

Jesus had no servants,

yet they called Him Master.

He had no degree,

yet they called Him Teacher.

He had no medicines,

yet they called Him Healer.

He had no army,

yet kings feared Him.

He won no military battles,

yet He conquered the world.

He committed no crime,

yet they crucified Him.

He was buried in a tomb,

yet He lives today!

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2010 CHALLENGE 9: SORROW UPON SORROW

2010-03-30T01:07:00.004-04:00

How can this happen? Tanya and Sue, both close to my age, were my sisters in Christ who sat not too far away from me each Sunday morning. They both have left behind husbands and young adult children! How can this be?
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When Steve gets up to preach, he always begins his sermon with "God is good all the time..." and then the congregation responds with, "and all the time God is good!" These were two women who believed this wholeheartedly! I can hear them now responding to Steve. Oh, wait! That's not them I hear! They've passed on... Tanya on January 1st and Sue last week of a massive heart attack.

What we saw in Sue was God! From her effervescent smile to her advocating for students with special needs to her.... Oh, wait! I'll just let some quotes from a "sharing time" at her funeral let you get a glimpse of the goodness of God:

"They were a family of best friends."

"Can we emphasize the pivotal role that Jesus played in her life?"

"She loved these songs: "Living for Jesus", "I'll Fly Away", "Great Is Thy Faithfulness", "One Step at a Time", "This is My Father's World", and "I Come to the Garden Alone".

"She was a big part of the ministry at Park Place seniors center - often visiting the residents in their rooms who could not come out to the main room."

"When a local high school opened opportunities for people to teach adult education classes on Tuesday evening, she was Jay's #1 supporter as he began a class on looking at the Bible."

"Bethany, you are your mother's daughter... very smart." (Bethany was valedictorian of her high school graduating class).

"Sue quietly sent a letter/card to Jessica Sikes each week."

"Sue hurried to the hospital to see Ilene (a sister in Christ who is a widow) this last Saturday when she heard that Ilene had fallen and broken her back."

"Sue handed me a bag with a tea set and tea bags and told me to use this to sit down for chats with my teenage daughter."

"Sue did what she said she would do... she showed up at our family movie night with popcorn and drinks."

"To many of her students Sue was known as 'Mrs. Wonderful!'"

"Her dinner table was a sacred space!"

"Sue's Proverbs 31 service to Jay freed him up to "be respected" in the workplace." (spoken by a co-worker)

"When Bethany was asked what her mom's favorite scripture was, she said 'the whole book of Colossians'!"

Emphasis was made on the following scripture from Colossians. She lived it! She gave us a little picture of the characteristics of God.
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Colossians 3:12-17
12 Therefore, as God's chosen people,

holy and dearly loved,

clothe yourselves with

compassion,

kindness,

humility,

gentleness

and patience.

13 Bear with each other

and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.

Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

14 And over all these virtues put on love,

which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,

since as members of one body you were called to peace.

And be thankful.

16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly

as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom,

and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs

with gratitude in your hearts to God.

17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed,

do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus,

giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

2010 CHALLENGE 8: SORROW

2010-03-16T00:01:00.011-04:00

3:16

For God so loved the world

that HE GAVE His only begotten Son

that whosoever lives in Him

shall have ETERNAL LIFE.

John 3:16

Today is March 16 or 3/16 and I am reminded that Jesus came to give LIFE and to give it abundantly. I have also been reminded that the "abundant life" that we may think of as humans probably does not align itself to God's version.

This is Kristy and her mother Kathy in a picture taken at our church building several years ago. When I think of these two women, I think of LIFE... ETERNAL LIFE...

This past Sunday morning, Kristy spoke to our women's class, telling her story of her recent trip to Haiti. Her account was sobering. Kristy is no stranger to mission trips. Throughout her young life, she has been on several. She has had a great model, in how Kathy, in how to give of herself through missions. After graduating from Rice University, Kristy spent 2 years working with the Peace Corps in the jungles of Ecuador. She realized that her undergrad degree in mediterranean cultures would help more if she had a nursing degree. So, she returned to the states and took more schooling to become a nurse. Her trip to Haiti was with a christian medical team.

As she spoke to us on Sunday morning, there was one part that was revolutionary to my thinking. Kristy said that arriving in Haiti may have been much like the experience those had arriving in New York after 9/11. There was grief beyond measure. There was wailing. There was a stench. She quickly thought of our Lord Jesus who was no stranger to any of this. She said that she gained perspective as she "thought a lot about The Man of Sorrows who was well acquainted with grief."

As she talked, I began to think a little bit of what Jesus' last three years of life on this planet were like for Him... all the people He served... Here are just a few of the stories of His service with the scripture locations of the stories after each one. My mother-in-love's "gospel zip codes", after each story listed below, help to find multiple places the same story is told in the gospels. Example: (for instance, the first one about healing the nobleman's son is not found in Matthew, Mark, or Luke but it is found in John 4).

Jesus healed the Nobleman's son - 0004

Jesus healed the man with demons - 0140

Jesus healed Peter's mother-in-law - 8140
Jesus cleansed the leper - 8150

Jesus healed the paralyzed man whose friends let him down through the roof -9250

Jesus healed the man at the Pool of Bethesda - 0005

Jesus healed the man with the withered hand -12,360
Jesus healed the Centurion's servant - 8070

Jesus raised back to life the widow of Nain's son - 0070

Jesus healed the blind and mute man - 12,000

The gospels are full of story after story of hurting and sorrow. Jesus was there. He ministered. He listened. He served. Jesus was well acquainted with sorrow and grief.

Isaiah 53 says,

"He was despised and rejected by men,

A MAN OF SORROWS,

and familiar with suffering.

Like one from whom men hide their faces

He was despised,

and we esteemed Him not.

Surely He took up our infirmities

and carried our sorrows..."

As Kristy continued to talk about Haiti, she told of the primitive conditions. She was in charge of a large tent with 50 cots holding injured women. They used buckets for toilets and bed pans. Death and dismay were all around. She shared about the nursing school that collapsed while it's nursing students were still in class. Gone! The Department of Health... gone! The Medical School... gone! Sobering!

Kristy saw lost limbs and open wounds. There were many orphans! Yet, in the midst of the death, sorrow, and great grief people began to seek God. They wanted life that is eternal! They wanted something that would give them hope!

Because of Kristy, and those like her, seeds of hope have been and are being planted of a God who is good all the time. Kristy said that she is aware that, oftentimes, it is sorrow that draws people to Him!

3:16
For God so loved the world
that HE GAVE His only begotten Son
that whosoever lives in Him
shall have ETERNAL LIFE.
John 3:16

Jesus is LIFE and LIGHT,

the CHIEF SERVANT,

and the WOUNDED HEALER!!!

GIGATTAATTGIG!!!

Note:

You may learn a little more about Kristy Here.

2010 CHALLENGE 7: THE LONG HAUL

2010-03-09T06:30:00.005-05:00

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Perseverence and endurance or not easy. Yet, what better way to endure than by hanging on to the hand of the Living God, who is good all the time!!??!!!! I am so thankful for His goodness that sees us through the long haul!
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Over the years, I have come to know some of my own personal heroes and heroines of faith. They were people who chose to persevere and endure through extremely difficult years and years and years:

Margaret cared for her son, Terry, who had polio and had to sleep in an iron lung for 50+ years
Sue is still caring for her son, Curtis, who has cystic fibrosis and turned 40 this year.
Woody and Katherine cared for a child they had to carry everywhere.
Many parents of children I have taught over the years are committed to a lifetime of service to that child with special needs, whether it be, down's syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, etc.
Others, like my brother, Steve, and his wife, Sandi, care for adult parents who have Alzheimer's and must live the "36 hour day".
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Some of you may already know about the story of a soldier who was severely injured last month in Pakistan. LeGrand, called "Grand", has been in a coma, had both legs amputated, and contracted meningitis. The last month has been horrific for Grand and his young family. They know that they are in for a "long haul".
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Family members are chronicling the daily unfolding of this remarkable story on a site that Grand's in-laws have set up. Last Wednesday, his wife, Carrie posted this:
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"He ate applesauce, and he gulped down a cup of water.

He drank half a can of Dr. Pepper

and also took a few bites of pureed turkey,

mashed potatoes,

and pureed green beans.

After the trache came out,

he was talking clearly and giving orders.

As the day went by,

Grand told Major Sturm and me that

he was having Phantom leg syndrome.

This surprised both of us,

and we wondered how he knew about that.

Apparently he had been really listening in his sleep!

We also asked him if he remembered what happened,

and he said, "I got shot or something."

We discussed the incident with him a little,

and he asked who was with him.

We just said we would talk about that later,

and he was okay with that.

I told him God loves him

and saved him for a reason and he said,

"I know!!"

He really came alive today

and everyone that came in to see him

from Doctors, nurses, therapists -

EVERYONE was amazed by what they saw.

That Phantom pain really is bothering him right now

so please keep that in your prayers....

your prayers are carrying us right to the Throne Room,

and I thank you with all my heart that you love him

that much to pray day and night.....

GOD IS SO GOOD, GOD IS SO GOOD,

GOD IS SO GOOD, HE'S SO GOOD TO ME."

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Please click the picture to connect with this family's story and leave them some encouragement to endure:

GIGATTAATTGIG

2010 CHALLENGE 6: The 3 Bears Challenge (Too Soft? Too Hard? Just Right?)

2010-02-22T23:42:00.004-05:00

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This past few weeks I have been connected with numerous challenges that are EXTREMELY DIFFICULT. I am so amazed and thankful for people who choose to do it JUST RIGHT and trust God in difficult circumstances.
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This story has been all over the internet and on thousands of blogs. So, forgive me if you have read it before. It is new to me! Most people say that the author is anonymous, but I did see it attributed to a woman named Mary Sullivan. It was sent to me by a GIGATTAATTGIG FB member yesterday. After reading it, I decided to change my post to this. If you have already read it, feel free to skip on down to the links at the bottom.
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A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up, She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.
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Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.
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In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners.. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, ' Tell me what you see.'
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'Carrots, eggs, and coffee,' she replied.
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Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft.
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The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.
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Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma.
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The daughter then asked, 'What does it mean, mother?'
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Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water... 212 degrees! Each reacted differently.
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The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak.
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The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened.
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The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.
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'Which are you?' she asked her daughter. 'When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean? Think of this: Which am I?

Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?
Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity?

Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?

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Here are some of my friends, some of your friends,

or friends of friends who are choosing

to do it right and trust God in the midst of great challenge!

1. Cathy was in a terrible truck wreck years ago and has had major health problems, including horrific migraines, from the injuries suffered. She and her husband "Doc" refused to give up and believed that something could be done. She had a shunt put in two weeks ago to relieve spinal pressure and by the afternoon of the surgery she was "dancing with the nurses" - praising God!

2. Grace is a teenage girl who has had migraines for 7 years. There were a lot of theories until recently. Through it all Grace and her family have trusted God. A very small pituitary tumor showed up on an MRI two weeks ago. Last Wednesday, doctors broke her nose and cut open her gums to get to her pituitary. There was "stuff" in there that needed to be moved and taken out. After surgery, Grace was headache free. She went home on Sunday and played a game with her family amidst light and sound.

3. In the fall, Scott passed from this life, leaving behind Bonita and their 4 children. Scott's 33rd birthday would have been on Valentine's Day! Since Scott died in the fall, Bonita has lost two grandparents and the family dog. The children have all battled sickness. Bonita, in the midst of a fog of grief, is reminded of Scott's words: God Is Good All The Time! http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/scottmcendree

4. On February 2, LeGrand Strickland was struck by a roadside bomb in Pakistan. LeGrand is now in critical condition in a San Antonio hospital with his wife, Carrie, and family by his side. LeGrand's legs have been amputated and he has contracted meningitis. This family loves and trusts our LORD. Updates are here: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/legrandstrickland

5. This afternoon, Jenny Ross Bizaillion, after battling pneumonia and multiple complications, went home to be with God. Her family has posted the following:

Where, O death, is your victory?

Where, O death, is yoursting?

But thanks be to God!

He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!

Jenny Bizaillion passed from this world at 3:38pm.
She was the most beautiful, wonderful friend,
perfect mom,
devoted sister,
loyal daughter,

and best wife a person could ever have.
We will see her again.

https://www.carepages.com/carepages/JennyBizaillionUpdates

We lift up Jenny's entire family to God for comfort and peace!

You may be thinking of someone right now who has been under great challenge and is choosing to be "coffee". Give them a call! Write a note of encouragement! Stop right now and pray! Take them to lunch! It might be just what they need to not become too hard or too soft.

GIGATTAATTGIG

2010 CHALLENGE 5: High Places...

2010-02-06T17:33:00.018-05:00

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Life can often be almost maddening... at breakneck speed... full of difficult circumstances and emotional highs and lows...

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Each of us are emotional beings to different degrees. We respond in various ways to our feelings of being out of control, worthlessness, hurt, anger, loneliness, tiredness, and stress. Although God's first and greatest commandment says for us to love Him with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength, that often does not happen. Why do our emotions get in the way of putting God at the Highest Place in our hearts?
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In 2 Kings 12:2-3 "And Jehoash did right in the sight of the Lord all his days... only the high places were not taken away."
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Satan is battling fiercely for our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. Scripture tells us that God is the Father of truth and love but satan is the father of lies. God is a gentleman and he gives us a choice. Satan is a snake and he'll weasel his way into our lives any way he can.
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When I feel out of control... who or what do I allow to be in control?
When I feel worthless... what or who makes me feel special?
When I've been hurt... how am I comforted?
When I am angry... how do I find my contentment?
When I am lonely... how do I get connected?
When I am tired... where does my energy come from?
When I am stressed... how do I cope?

Unfortunately, it is not only unbelievers who emotionally self medicate. Is it possible that we really don't believe that God Is Good All The Time and we choose one of the following to "share the High Place" with our God. Can we use any of the following to answer the questions above?

drugs
nicotine
alcohol
food
television
sports
gaming
work
shopping
sex
pornography

Jesus chose to go counter cultural. He knew that God was in control.. He was deeply connected to His God through scripture, prayer, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. He was connected to a community of believers for encouragement and support. He made real life connections in the most important places.

Last weekend Steve and I traveled to present a weekend church seminar to a church family in Huntsville, Alabama. They have chosen to believe that their battle is not against flesh and blood. They want their church family to be connected in all the ways that matter, so they are choosing to take up their "swords" and fight. For last week end their focus was THE SILENT KILLER: PORNOGRAPHY.

Is this one of the ways that you or someone you know has chosen to self medicate?

There are an average of 72 million hits per month on porn sites.
Porn sites generate 57 billion dollars per year worldwide.
The average age of first exposure to pornography is 11.
Ages 12-17 is the largest group to visit porn sites.
About 70% of men ages 18-34 visit porn each month.

Whatever the way we have allowed ourselves to be deceived by satan... however he has deceived us into thinking that what we are doing is not sin... whatever the way that we have chosen to self-medicate... please join me today in allowing Jesus to make us pure and holy sanctuaries for Him. Join me in making the decision to put God and GOD ALONE back on The Highest Place of our hearts.

GIGATTAATTGIG...

2010: CHALLENGE 4: IF ONLY...

2010-01-22T22:40:00.008-05:00

How many times have I caught myself saying, "If only..."? "If only life wasn't so tough, I would..." Really, Patti? I came across this powerful piece on a blog this week and knew that I needed to share it with you. A young mother who follows my "Transformed Moms" blog shared that she had received the following from her grandmother. It's great food for thought for those of us who desire to always believe that GIGATTAATTGIG.

GOD SAID...

If you never felt pain, then how would you know I am the Healer?
If you never went through difficulties, how would you know that I am the Deliverer?

If you never had a trial, how could you call yourself an overcomer?
If you never felt sadness, how would you know that I am the Comforter?

If you never made a mistake, how would you know that I am the Forgiver?
If you knew all, how would you know that I will answer your questions?

If you were never in trouble, how would you know that I would come to your rescue?
If you were never broken, then how would you know that I can make you whole?

If you never had a problem, how would you know that I could solve them?
If you never had suffering, how would you know what Jesus went through?

If you never went through fire, how would you become pure?
If I gave you all things, how would you appreciate them?

If I never corrected you, how would you know that I love you?
If you had all power, how would you learn to depend on Me?

If your life were perfect, why would you need Me??

-Author Unknown

2010: CHALLENGE 3: When Your Children Are Sick...

2010-01-15T19:33:00.000-05:00

Experts say that the worst emotional pain is the illness and death of a child.

Yesterday, more children were found dead in the rubble of the horrific earthquake in Haiti. The pain is uncomprehendable!

Yesterday my friend, Andrea's next door neighbors lost their 21 year old daughter to a five year battle with cancer.

Yesterday, our daughter Jessica spent her over 5,000th day suffering from severe migraines

Yesterday, my friend Lauren turned 4 years old!

Yesterday, Lauren's daddy posted on Facebook, "Tim's world was changed forever four years ago today."

Today, my friend Sonya posted on Facebook some food for thought, "God doesn't give you the people you want; He gives you the people you NEED... to help you, to hurt you, to leave you, to love you and to make you into the person you were meant to be."

In 1985, I was part of the faith journey involved with a heart transplant. My brother-in-law, who had been strong and healthy, had a virus attack his heart. Transplantation was new. The choice was clear. Heart transplant or death. He prayed. We prayed. We all prayed for wisdom, asking God that His will be done!

My Uncle John would hear the same words. Choices! Prayer! Both men went through much to receive their new hearts. Someone had to die so another could live! Now, 24 years later, my "brother-in-love" lives a transformed life. He thrives. My uncle has since passed on.

In December of 2008, when Steve's niece Vanessa informed us that a family from their church in Virginia would be coming to CHOP (Children's Hospital Of Philadelphia) to wait for a heart for their almost 3 year old daughter... well... I knew God was calling me to be there for them. For me, it was a rich journey of faith to become friends with Tim and Cristi Schwamb and their children. After a very difficult 3 and 1/2 years of life, Lauren received her heart transplant in July!

Yesterday, Lauren turned 4 years old at home! She is doing well. Her body is accepting it's new heart! Life... healing... transformation are apparent! Her energy levels and lifestyle have been transformed! We praise You God for Your grace and mercy in this life changing situation for Lauren! GIGATTAATTGIG!

Transplant? v., -plant·ed, -plant·ing, -plants

To uproot and replant a living thing. (A new heart was uprooted and replanted in Lauren).

To transfer from one place or residence to another; resettle or relocate. (A living and active heart has relocated to a new residence inside Lauren).

In Medicine: To transfer (tissue or an organ) from one body or body part to another. (A new organ, a living and active heart, has been given from one to another)

Transform? v., -formed, -form·ing, -forms

To change markedly the appearance or form (Much of Lauren's old heart was not working; in my brother-in-law's case, they said his old heart literally fell apart when they took it out of his body).

To change the nature, function, or condition of; convert. (The nature of a new heart leads to a huge improvement in the quality of life... As the body begins to accept the new heart, the person eventually feels that conversion from death to life).

In Mathematics: To subject to a transformation.

In Electricity: To subject to the action of a transformer.

In Genetics. To subject (a cell) to transformation..

As Lauren's family learned more about what must be done to save Lauren, we can learn much from their diligence, steadfastness, perseverance, endurance, and trust over the last 4 years. They wanted their daughter to live a full life! They prayed for wisdom, decision making, the right doctors... They immersed themselves in understanding how to help their daughter to live. They did not spend time focusing on their difficult circumstances, but kept their eyes on Jesus.

Each of us has a time to die and a time to live. A young child died that night in July so that Lauren might live... and living she is!!! It's a spiritual concept we each need to wrap our arms around: Heart Transplant or Death! Which do you choose? I choose Heart Transplant with ongoing Transformation!!!

Some of you have kept up with Lauren's story through my blogs. Those of you who are new can click Lauren's parents picture over on the right sidebar to access their blogs or you can click here and go to my post about the day of the heart transplant and the days that followed.

It was during their time of "waiting on the Lord" for Lauren that Tim and Christi joined the Facebook group GIGATTAATTGIG. What a legacy of love and faith that they have given to so many of us. Thank you! And, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LAUREN! May God bless you with many more!

2010: CHALLENGE 2: Death!

2010-01-07T09:36:00.011-05:00

I started the year out on this blog by proposing a format to follow for the year, "Let's look at different challenges that you and I might have that would lead us to believe that God is not all that good. Let's start today by talking about the people who we live and work with." Little did I know that morning when I wrote my New Year's post on this blog that a friend of mine, a follower of Jesus Christ, had gotten her prayer answered.

Tanya prayed, "God let me live to see 2010!" She died a little over an hour into 2010. Yesterday, was Tanya McBride's funeral. An overcomer, Tanya was the wife of Tom for 38 years and the mother of six young adult children (the youngest being a senior in high school). It's amazing what we can learn about life through someone else's death. Yesterday, I did!

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Tanya planned her own funeral... the songs... scriptures... even the 5 people who would speak... I was one of the singers and her choice of songs were so encouraging... songs like the one that should be playing on the playlist as you read this right now,

"Oh, Lord prepare me to be a Sanctuary, pure and holy, tried and true. With thanksgiving, I'll be a living sanctuary for You..."

That song alone speaks to who Tanya was. While on this earth, she was a sanctuary of the life and light of Jesus because she was plugged in to Him - THE ETERNAL TRANSFORMER!!! Jesus Christ is the reason that Tanya has overcome death with ETERNAL LIFE!
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Her life on this earth was certainly not an easy one. She waitressed for many years before deciding (with six kids) to go back to school to be an R.N. The 5 men who she chose to speak: Steve, Greg, Derrick, Dan, and Dwight used words to describe her:
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ENCOURAGEMENT

PERSEVERANCE

WARRIOR

UNCOMPROMISING FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST

SANCTUARY
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I chose my own words: OVERCOMER! TRANSFORMED!
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I think you will understand all of the above words even more as I share with you the following. Dan asked each of her children, "What is one thing that your mother taught you?" Here are their responses:

"We're all flawed!"

"We choose our friends, so choose carefully."

"God gave us family! So, take care of each other!"

"God gave me a strong work ethic because of my mother!"

"Nothing from my mom was about her... her needs were not important... the needs of others were!"

"I learned from my mom to fix my eyes on the unseen."

And, one of the children added one more thing:
7. "I've learned the importance of going to church."
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I could not write fast enough to record what happened next. Her youngest daughter, a senior in high school, got up and read a poem she had written to her mama. It was long. I captured words at the end as tears streamed down my face.
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"Mama, I love you and I always will.... memories of you I'll keep near and pass them on to those who are dear.".

Then, already deeply touched, the standing room only auditorium full of friends and family were not prepared for what happened next. One of her four sons stood and gave an inspiring tribute beginning with reading Proverbs 31. He started with verse 10:

"A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm,all the days of her life..."
.

Then, he continued with more than I can possibly remember or write here...

"The English language has no one word that can capture my mom..." And, then he began to list, "Strong! Courageous! Caring! Faithful! Loyal!..."

"She had the amazing ability to turn negatives into positives! She gave me a quote of Abraham Lincoln's when I was younger that she loved and now I do, 'Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be.'"

"Whether she waitressed or studied til 2 a.m., she still was up to make us breakfast and send us off to school."

"It was amazing how she balanced the love she gave to all six children...including the different ways we liked our PBJ sandwiches: crust off, crust on, cut diagonally, in fours..."

"She had the gift of gab..."

"She was devoted..."

"The most amazing thing about her was her consistency..."

"She was the first person in NJ history to get a perfect score on the nursing critical thinking exam."

"She was voted by her nursing school graduating class in 2004 to speak at their graduation ceremony."

"Then came breast cancer and she beat it!"

"Then came lung cancer and she beat it!"
"On the top of her very tall stack of medical files she had scrawled the words, "TRUST GOD! DON'T WALLOW IN THIS!"

"She loved to sing!"

"She tried to keep up with the newest slang... she overused 'The Bomb!'"

"She'd fix us hot chocolate and grilled cheese!"

"She loved her ice cream cones!"

"Each one of her kids have at least five friends who call her 'mom'."

"Everyone loved being with mom. I know God does..."

"She prayed that she would see 2010! God listened to mom again and granted her prayer. She died a little over one hour into 2010."
"We should use our ENERGY to not be sad, but to make mom proud!"
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And where does that kind of energy come from? Tanya knew! She stayed plugged in to it. She used it to overcome! She stayed plugged in to the Transformer of all transformers: Jesus Christ! I am so thankful she did! I am so thankful His love, life and light are so available!

1 John 5:2-5
"For this is the love of God,
that we keep His commandments;
and His commandments are not burdensome.
For whatever is born of God
overcomes the world;
and this is the victory
that has overcome the world —
our faith.
And who is the one who overcomes the world,
but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? "

If you have an extra 3 minutes, it would be well spent to learn about Tanya's attitude in her own words by clicking here and then scrolling down to her picture and the post surrounding that picture.

2010: CHALLENGE 1: We're all so different!

2010-01-01T01:11:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the New Year - 2010

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I am convinced that too many of us spent too many days in 2009 with the wrong view of God. It's so easy when things aren't going "right" to...

blame God

say I must have done something wrong and I'm being punished

say that God's not listening

say that God doesn't love me

say there really isn't a God

Job's friends bought into some of the above when they tried to determine what Job had done to deserve all his difficult circumstances. It's called a "transactional" view of God! I've noticed a lot of comments on FB recently where believers were really ticked about certain circumstances in their lives. Their status' seem to indicate a raised fist at God.

Let's look at different challenges that you and I might have that would lead us to believe that God is not all that good. Let's start today by talking about the people that we live and work with.

Why are we all so different? We have differences in interests, preferences, strengths, weaknesses, processing, expressing, and thinking. It gets frustrating when we can't get anyone to be similar to us in some of these areas.

Wouldn't it be odd if all animals in the animal kingdom were mice? It would be kind of strange to go mouseback riding instead of horseback riding or go mouse hunting instead of deer hunting or pet the mouse instead of pet the dog. "The same" can be very boring! I like the popular phrase "Variety is the spice of life!" Differences do provide variety!

The problem with differences is that they can be irritating if not understood or accepted. Couples are often attracted to someone who is opposite from them, but the saying goes like this, "Opposites attract and then attack!"

Two days ago, Steve and I celebrated our 36th wedding anniversary. Each year is a milestone for people as different as we are. We had friends and family warn us that we were too different to marry. We even had a pre-marital counselor who had some concerns. The two of us were talking recently about our differences which have been accentuated the last several months. As you well know, differences often come to the forefront during times of stress. Throughout the years, we have had a whole lot of intense stress in our marriage, it's just that this time has been a little different. Three people in the house... two sick for an extended period of time... the one who is well (me) tries to spin too many plates... Maybe you get the picture....

On the Smalley/Trent "animal personality" chart, I am a lion and Steve is a golden retriever. We have chosen some different animal names for ourselves. I am an elephant and he is a bear. In fact, when raising our four children, it was apparent to us that we had a zoo in our home. Differences abounded! It was easy to raise a fist to God and say, "How did you get me in this mess?"

So, how can two such animals live together and still be a blessing to each other? How can a family live together and bless one another? I am here to say... only if God is in the mix!

Below, just for fun, I have compiled animal descriptions of the elephant and the bear from some random internet research. While looking through the descriptions, it doesn't take long to wonder how an elephant and a bear could truly live together in love, peace, and harmony. The amazing thing is that below these descriptions you will find parts of a letter that the bear wrote to the elephant two days ago. This bear's letter modeled the goodness of God: love, peace, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness, joy...

For both of us, over the years, it's been about coming to an understanding that things are not always the way we think they should be: NOT RIGHT - NOT WRONG, JUST DIFFERENT. It's been about learning to HONOR THE DIFFERENCES!

Patti is an elephant:

HABITAT AND RANGE: can live on the plains and in the mountains up to 15, 000 feet... many live on parks and reserves
DIET: eats lots of vegetables; drinks lots of water
LIFE SPAN 65 to 70 years in the wild; 70 to 80 years when domesticated; their life span depends on their teeth - once their last set of teeth wear out, they can no longer eat and they die
REPRODUCTION: most give birth during the rainy season
COMMUNICATION: use several types of sounds to communicate: 1) rumbling - a deep growling sound, most of which is below the range of human hearing; 2) a variety of screams and trumpets used to frighten and intimidate predators as well as communicate alarm...also for greeting
SENSES: keen senses of hearing and smell; weak eyesight
SIZE: big and tall
OTHER PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: use trunk to dig
SOCIABILITY: families are made up of sisters and their offspring often living in groups of 9-11; a mature adult female dominates family groups; related family groups are part of larger herds that move and feed together
THINKING: well developed brains and great memories
ROLE: Often pave the way for others to follow; they can lead a procession of animals stomping down the brush with their feet or removing trees/branches that are in the way with their trunks

Steve is a brown bear:

HABITAT AND RANGE: prefer to live in cooler climates and will migrate away from the heat; can be found on the plains, in the forests, the tundra, and in sub-alpine mountain areas
DIET: carnivores who eat berries and vegetation
LIFE SPAN: 20-25 years
REPRODUCTION: monogamous
COMMUNICATION: is complicated, sometimes misunderstood, and primarily through body language: 1) sitting down indicates disinterest or lack of concern for onlookers; 2) standing on hind legs generally an indication of curiosity or interest in whatever it may have noticed, not an act of aggression; 3) when threatened or apprehensive, the typical response would be the popping its jaw, slapping the ground, or expelling air loudly; 4) when afraid, the bear chomps or clacks teeth which is often misunderstood by other animals as getting ready to be aggresive; 5) loud roars are usually a warning that they want to protect their territory, not that they want to be an aggressor; 6) bears often "purr" when comfortable or warm much like a cat
SENSES: great eyesight and keen sense of smell; strong instinct for food -can be easily trapped when humans put out food; a common saying among forest rangers is, "a fed bear is a dead bear"
SIZE: big and tall
OTHER PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: long claws for great digging ability; strong teeth and jaws that are almost incapable of breaking large bones; long thick fur; although they usually move slow and leisurely, they are able to run fast and swim well
SOCIABILITY: shy; mostly solitary; can be easily frightened; small families; may gather in large numbers at food sources; not a full hibernator, the brown bear likes to "den" in a protected spot such as a cave, crevice, or hollow log in the winter
THINKING: curious and intelligent; "complex and fascinating animal deserving of great respect"
ROLE: quiet protector; no other animal will be a predator on a brown bear other than a tiger or another bear.

On December 30, 2009, our 36th wedding anniversary, the bear wrote a full page typewritten letter to me, the elephant. A few excerpts from that Holy Spirit led letter are as follows:

Besides giving my life to Jesus, marrying you is the best thing I’ve ever done.
You’ve made me a better person. You’ve opened my eyes to what it looks like to give of oneself for the betterment of others.
You are the kinkeeper of our family. Our children and their spiritual health are at the forefront of your mind and top of your prayer list.
We’ve faced some pretty tough times together over the last three and ½ decades, but what we have discovered again and again is the solid truth of 1 John 4:4 – “Greater is He in us than he that is in the world.” God created His children to be “overcomers,” and by His grace, we have been – together!
Our marriage has not been perfect – NO SURPRISE – there are no perfect marriages. However, our marriage has tested and challenged our individual growth to the point that we are better individuals because we are married, first to Christ, then one another.
You deserve the best husband I can be. Please forgive me when I’m not and praise God when I succeed.
Next to Jesus, I love you more than anyone and anything!
Happy 36th anniversary! God is good all the time and all the time God is good..
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Father God, thank you for my husband, the Spirit-led, steel and velvet, brown bear. Thank you for blessing me with this man who I so honor and respect. I praise you for Steve Sikes! I honor the differences! God, I have learned that when I do things in Your way and Your timing that I am convinced that GIGATTAATTGIG. Because of Jesus, we are still husband and wife! I choose to raise my hands in praise to You - not my fist!

2009: DECEMBER - IT'S ABOUT THE CROSS

2009-12-24T16:59:00.004-05:00

Thank you for stopping by. I am posting my favorite Christmas video for your inspiration. Be sure and scroll down to the bottom to pause the playlist songs before viewing the video. May Jesus be the reason for everything you do in your life. Please know that no matter what your circumstances GIGATTAATTGIG!!!
God's richest blessings on you, Patti

2009: October 22, 2009 JOY IN THE MORNING

2009-10-23T13:35:00.013-04:00

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For over two weeks I have not been able to write a post. For some unexplainable reason, each time I started, I felt like it just wasn't the right time. Oh, I had plenty of things to write about. Several of you had sent me things. I also knew four stories that needed to be shared, but for some reason or another, I just couldn't do it. Now, I know why. I needed to wait for yesterday, October 22, to happen in one of those four stories.
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My husband, Steve, wrote this this morning. He has given me permission to share it with you.
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TWO TELEPHONE CALLS
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Call number one: This past May, Stacy, my oldest brother, called me from Rochester, MN and said, “Steve, we have a Christian family from Minnesota who has temporarily moved to Philadelphia, PA. The man is seeking cancer treatment and I was wondering if you could reach out to them?” I asked Stacy their names and telephone number and contacted the family immediately. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that as a teacher at York College (1995-2002), I knew the wife and mother of the family, as well as all of her siblings as ex-YC students.
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A few days later, on Saturday, May 30, I put some groceries together for the family and drove across the river to Philadelphia. I visited with Scott and Bonita and their four little children in their single-bedroom efficiency – thus beginning a relationship that will forever impact my life for good. Scott gave me his “card” that on one side is the picture of his and Bonita’s four children with the statement, “We pray for our Daddy”; on the other side the words “GOD IS GOOD” (Psalm 73:1) and the following note – “Your prayers for Scott’s healing are greatly appreciated. His updates can be found on the following website. www.caringbridge.org/visit/scottmcendree”. (OR, over on the right sidebar on their family picture)
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The next day, Sunday (May 31, 2009), the McEndree family drove 45 minutes to worship with us and participate in our 5th Sunday fellowship. The children loved the hot dogs! Scott put it this way on his daily post:
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Sunday, May 31, 2009 8:36 PM, CDT
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Today was a relaxed, enjoyable day.

We had been checking on

a couple different churches in the area.

God blessed us today as we worshipped

with the Pitman Church of Christ

http://www.cochrist.org .

At the beginning of worship

we stood up and

they prayed a special prayer for us

and some members gathered around us.

Afterwards we met

and spoke with many members

and joined in their 5th Sunday picnic downstairs.

The kids loved the hot dogs and chips

and we all enjoyed ourselves.

We feel blessed to have a church family

with connections even though

we are so far away from home.

For the next two months, we enjoyed worshipping and fellowshipping with the McEndree family every Sunday. On one occasion I remember they couldn’t make the 1 and ½ hour round trip because of Scott’s poor health, and another time they had worship as a family on the Jersey shore. Otherwise, they were with us, blessing our fellowship of believers.

Scott never felt very good – he just didn’t want to miss anything! On Wednesday night, July 22, 2009, before the McEndrees returned home to Minneapolis, MN to decide further treatment, Patti and I had them and the Mansdoerfer family over to our house for supper. Afterwards, we all went to our Pitman Wednesday night prayer meeting where the elders called Scott and Bonita and children up front and prayed over them. After receiving the elders’ blessing, Scott, blessed our church family. This simple act epitomized Scott McEndree: he was blessed and he blessed. Praise be to God!
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Even after the McEndree family moved back to Minnesota, we kept up with them through their website. Hardly a prayer session went by without someone praying for Scott’s healing and for Bonita’s strength and courage as well as for the entire McEndree family. The months of August, September, and our present October found Scott and Bonita continuing to pursue any cancer treatment leads possible, asking for prayers all along the way.

Scott lived life to the full as much as anyone I’ve ever met! He continued to work when possible, he and Bonita took their kids to the park, Phillies’ games, fishing, to the softball field, to the pool, and of course, to church. Plus, Scott went camping on two separate occasions in the last two months. Almost a month ago before their flying to Reno, NV to see about another cancer treatment option, one of our brothers from the church, Brian Mansdoerfer, spent a week with Scott and some other men on a camping trip just south of the Canadian border. What a man’s man! What a husband and father! What a brother in Christ! What a friend!

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Call number two: My brother, Stacy, called me again yesterday afternoon (2:54 pm EDT, October 22, 2009) and said, “Steve, Scott McEndree has died and gone on to be with the Lord.” I cried out “Oh, No!”

After hanging up, I wept and wept. This morning during our men’s Friday a.m. prayer session, I couldn’t stop weeping for Bonita and the children. Yes. I know Scott is in a much better place; I know he is no longer suffering; I know he is where we all long to be. But, I can’t help but cry for a faithful young widow who freely gave years of her life, since 2002, to serve her husband and stand in the gap for his healing. My mind races back to one of Scott’s earlier website post about his thoughts about his wife, Bonita:
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Friday, March 20, 2009 1:01 PM, CDT:

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"I think of all I’ve been through

and the stress it can take on a family,

and on a marriage.

I have thanked God many times for my wife.

If I were not a Christian,

or if divorce was an option,

then I would worry about Bonita

wishing to leave me and

get away from the cards we have been dealt.

Before I ever asked Bonita to marry me,

I knew divorce would never be an option for us.

We both believe that God wants us to

stay together to uphold the promise

we made to each other before Him,

“In sickness and in health”.

No matter how bad it may get,

or how good things may be,

I never worry that Bonita will leave

and I never think of leaving her.

We are married,

stuck together…

WHAT A BLESSING!"

Yes. The blessing of marriage – two godly servants, matured and maturing in the fires of suffering, faithful to God and to one another, and in tune to the other’s needs… so, I cry for Bonita. And I can’t help but cry for four small children who will never again have the blessing of sitting in their daddy’s lap, having him stroke their hair and bless them with words of kindness and wisdom. I can’t help but cry for a godly family that will never, on this earth, be the same. I cry for Scott’s parents who have lost a godly son, his sister who has lost a godly brother. I cry for Bonita’s family – her parents, brothers, sister, sisters/brother-in-law who also accepted Scott as family. Traditions like family camping trips will never be the same. I cry.
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As I’m sitting at my computer typing these words I can’t help it, the tears just keep rolling down. My faith says Scott is better off and at peace; my feelings cry out in pain.
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Two phone calls: I am forever blessed. I was introduced to a family where the man was the godly shepherd of his flock and the woman, his strong helpmate and loving companion. I came to love and admire four little children, who even in their own unique personalities and different sets of energies and inquisitiveness were so obedient to their parents and exceptionally respectful and kind to others. I witnessed a family as I believe God envisioned family to be. Not perfect – just as complete as I’ve ever witnessed a family. Now a great loss has come and I cry out,
.

“O God,

please hold this family close in Your lap;

speak Your blessing upon them;

stroke their hair

and lead them through this life

and forever more where we all long to dwell –

with You!”

I’ll finish my thoughts today with one of Scott’s website posts over eight months ago (February 8, 2009) and a word from God:

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“The personal challenge I face is

to keep my chin up and walk forward.

Many of us are able to praise God

when our lives are going well.

How many of us know we can praise God

during the storm?

It makes me think of the Casting Crown’s song

“Praise You In This Storm.”

Here is a link to the song lyrics

if you are not familiar with the song http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/castingcrowns/praiseyouinthisstorm.html

My heart is torn,

but I will praise the God who gives and takes away.

To help us praise God everyday through these treatments,

Bonita and I have been gathering some scriptures

and what we’d like to do is post a scripture everyday.

We will be thinking on and praying on

these scriptures each day and

would encourage you to do the same…”
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“Therefore, having been justified by faith,

we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,

2 through whom also we have obtained

our introduction by faith

into this grace in which we stand;

and we exult in hope of the glory of God.

3 And not only this,

but we also exult in our tribulations,

knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance;

4 and perseverance, proven character;

and proven character, hope;

5 and hope does not disappoint,

because the love of God

has been poured out within our hearts

through the Holy Spirit

who was given to us.

6 For while we were still helpless,

at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.

7 For one will hardly die for a righteous man;

though perhaps for the good man

someone would dare even to die.

8 But God demonstrates

His own love toward us,

in that while we were yet sinners,

Christ died for us.

9 Much more then,

having now been justified by His blood,

we shall be saved

from the wrath of God through Him.

10 For if while we were enemies

we were reconciled to God

through the death of His Son,

much more, having been reconciled,

we shall be saved by His life.

11 And not only this,

but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ,

through whom we have now received the reconciliation.”

(Romans 5:1-11)

God is good.
Steve
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NOTE FROM PATTI:

Christians understand that this world is full of struggle, challenges, and heartache. We believe that no matter our circumstances, God is good all the time and that God always keeps His promises. Therefore, we look forward to eternal life.

On October 22, Scott's family posted this on his Caring Bridge site:

God called Scott home this morning. Information to follow.
Psalm 100:5
For the LORD is good
and His love endures forever;
His faithfulness continues
through all generations.

2009: SEPTEMBER 20 TO OCTOBER 4: GRIEVING WITH HOPE

2009-09-20T23:50:00.005-04:00

The last few weeks I have...

had several friends who have passed away
had several friends who have had relatives who have passed away
had several friends who have had brushes with death
attended the funeral of the sister-in-law of my friend Dottie (our church secretary)

As is often the case in times like these, I meditate about my own life and the lives of family and friends. I rejoice with the families of those who have died in the LORD.

This weekend, I attended a Women of Faith conference in Philadelphia with 49 other women in our church group. We joined other women at the Wachovia Center to make it about 18,000 women. There were many things that touched me deeply. Yet, one in particular touched many of us... hearing Steven Curtis Chapman... seeing his two sons on stage with him... contemplating the grief that their family has experienced since the tragic death of youngest daughter/sister Maria in their family driveway...

I came home Friday evening and read/watched multiple things on the internet that told the Chapman's story. I found one that was extremely well done and would like to share it with you as the remainder of this post. When times like these come, because GIGATTAATTGIG... we can grieve with hope!!!

Romans 8:24-25

For in hope we have been saved,

but hope that is seen

is not hope;

for why does one also hope

for what he sees?

But if we hope

for what we do not see,

with perseverance we wait eagerly for it..."

Revelation 14:13

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"And I heard a voice from heaven, saying,

Write, 'Blessed are the dead

who die in the Lord

from now on!'"

"Yes,"

says the Spirit..."

2009 - SEPTEMBER 7 - SEPTEMBER 20 - MAKING GOD'S GOODNESS PERSONAL!!!

2009-09-07T14:55:00.004-04:00

Recently as I was visiting with my friend, Janet, she said something in passing that meant much more to me than she intended. She talked about giving scriptures to go with a person's name. Scriptures that would be an encouragement to that individual... scriptures that might describe who that person is or the journey that he or she has been on. Since our daughter Jessica's 26th birthday was last week, I knew that was something that I wanted to do for her. As I have shared before, Jessica has had 24/7 migraines and chronic pain since she was 12 years old. She had multiple surgeries as a young child. She also has multiple challenges with her eyes. She is no stranger to difficult circumstances. Through the pain, she has graduated from high school and been a student at 3 institutions of higher learning. She has worked with and mentored people "on the fringe" and found herself standing to defend her God in classes where God was cursed.
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I sat down to write some verses with Jessica's name and in a short amount of time God, in His goodness, gave me some powerful messages from Job and Hebrews for Jessica:
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J - esus, the author and perfecter of our faith,

who for the joy set before Him ENDURED …

Hebrews 12:2

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E - arlier days after you had received the light,

when you stood your ground in a great contest

in the face of suffering (Remember?).

Sometimes you were publicly exposed

to insult and persecution;
…. So do not throw away your confidence;

it will be richly rewarded…

persevere

so that when you have done the will of God,

you will receive what He has promised.

Hebrews 10:32-37

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S - ee to it that no one misses the grace of God

and that no bitter root

grows up to cause trouble…

Hebrews 12:15

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S - lay me, yet will I hope in You!

I will surely defend my ways to Your face.

Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance,

for no godless man would dare come before You!

Job 13:15-16
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I - f I speak, my pain is not relieved;

and if I refrain, it does not go away.

Surely, O God, You have worn me out;

you have devastated my entire household.

Job 16:6-7

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C - onsider Him who endured such opposition

from sinful men,

so that you will not grow weary

and lose heart.

Hebrews 12:3

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A - pproach the throne of grace with confidence,

so that we may receive mercy and
find grace to help us in our time of need.

Hebrews 4:16

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Powerful! Thank You, God! Thank You for this gift that You gave to Jessica through Janet and then through me! Giving encouragement to each other is so powerful when it's through God's own Word!
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1 Thessalonians 5:8-11

"For God has not destined us for wrath,

but for obtaining salvation

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

who died for us, that whether we are awake or asleep,

we may live together with Him.

Therefore encourage one another,

and build up one another,

just as you also are doing."

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Who could you encouarge this way? Besides my immediate family members, there are many others who have come to mind who would benefit from such a gift because life IS hard. Just this past week alone...

I attended the funeral of a virtuous woman who died in her sleep at the age of 60, one month after her physical exam gave her a "clean bill of health". Her memorial service was a celebration of GOD'S GOODNESS in her life!
I listened to someone pour out her heart to me about her abusive son-in-law and her fears for her daughter and grandchild. She ended our conversation pointing to heaven and then putting her hand over her heart, saying, "GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME..."
I listened as another someone shared of deep wounds from anothers words. She said, "Patti, I'm hurting! Please continue to pray for me! I know that GOD IS GOOD and He will see me through this." Then, she proceeded to talk about how she had doubled, tripled, maybe even quadrupled her time spent in the Word and prayer.
I stood in a store and had a conversation with a young lady as I was looking to make a purchase. The more we talked, the more connections we had. Not only was she a believer, but she had been on a very long journey trying to decide what she wanted to do with her life. Through it all, she saw the GOODNESS OF GOD in her life. She now is completing her college degree and plans to spend her life as a teacher around the world for missionary kids.
I sat in front of my sister-in-Christ, Tanya, during our Sunday morning service. She had propped herself up on a chair next to the wall with heating pads plugged into the wall to help her pain. Tanya has spent the last few years in excruciating pain with one thing after another. After the worship service, she said, "I now have two tumors growing on a lung and evidently one of those tumors is touching a _____ nerve.... God will get me through this, Patti... He always does."

Yes, Tanya! GIGATTAATTGIG!

2009 - AUGUST 23 to SEPTEMBER 6 - JESUS BRING THE RAIN!

2009-08-23T01:12:00.009-04:00

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It's interesting when two people in the same town pray for totally opposite things to happen on the same day. Years ago, my husband Steve was the preaching minister with a church in west Texas. One day two men came by his office at different times. Knowing that Steve was steadfast in his prayer life, the first one, a farmer, asked Steve to beg God to bring the rain so that his crops in the field would be nourished and not die. The second one owned a roofing company and business had been slow. He requested that Steve pray for God to send just the right kind of hail storm that people would need to have insurance companies replace their roofs, thus giving him plenty of business. God answers our prayers with "NO!" or "YES!" or "WAIT!" He also weighs the thoughts and intentions of our hearts!

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If you read my last post, you know the dilemma that barometric pressure and an ensuing storm bring to our home. As Hurricane Bill has headed for the shore, the climate on the East Coast has definitely been effected. I'm sure that there are some people who need the rain and are thankful for the storms. I scream - GOD HAVE MERCY - on days like yesterday and today! I have the head knowledge that there are reasons for most things and that GIGATTAATTGIG! Sometimes my heart screams otherwise!
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Over the past few weeks, multiple people have removed themselves from the GIGATTAATTGIG group on Facebook. Several have informed me that the more they have thought about this concept, it seems that their lives have gotten tougher. Several are just not sure that they really believe the phrase. One person emailed me and said, "Faith just seems so hard to hold onto or trust anymore." James, the brother of Jesus, responds to this in the book of the Bible that he wrote:
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"Consider it pure joy, my brothers,

whenever you face trials of many kinds,

because you know that the testing of your faith

develops perseverance.

Perseverance must finish its work

so that you may be mature and complete,

not lacking anything."

James 1:2-4

There are several contemporary christian songs that address this issue of "rain". They get us to pondering on whether or not GIGATTAATTGIG. I have put two of those songs on this blogs playlist. As you have been reading this, Michael Smith's HEALING RAIN has probably been playing in the background. Will you join me in listening to the second song on the playlist and following along with it's thought provoking words below?
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BRING THE RAIN by Mercy Me

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I can count a million times

people asking me how I can praise You

with all that I've gone through.

The question just amazes me.

Can circumstances possibly

change who I forever am in You?

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Maybe since my life was changed,

long before these rainy days,

it's never really ever crossed my mind

to turn my back on you, oh Lord

my only shelter from the storm

but instead I draw closer through these times.

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So I pray:
Bring me joy!

Bring me peace!

Bring the chance to be free!

Bring me anything that brings You glory!

And I know there'll be days

when this life brings me pain...

but if that's what it takes to praise You -

Jesus, bring the rain!

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I am Yours regardless of

the dark clouds that may loom above

because You are much greater than my pain.

You who made a way for me,

by suffering Your destiny...

so tell me what's a little rain!

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So I pray:
Bring me joy!

Bring me peace!

Bring the chance to be free!

Bring me anything that brings You glory!

And I know there'll be days

when this life brings me pain...

but if that's what it takes to praise You -

Jesus, bring the rain!

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Holy, holy, holy!

Holy, holy, holy...

Is the Lord God Almighty...

NOTE -8/23/09 @ 10:30 p.m.: Since posting this early this morning, I have learned that the group Mercy Me had a car run into their tour bus this month. There has been tragedy. A comment made by one of the singers includes these words:

"Every night on stage when we introduce our song,

“Bring the Rain”,

we talk about God being in control.

If we believe what we say,

then we must continue to look at how

He will get the glory through this,

and bring healing to so many."

You can learn more by accessing their website here:

http://www.mercyme.org/main/

GIGATTAATTGIG!

2009: AUGUST 9 TO AUGUST 23 - TORRENTIAL DOWNPOURS

2009-08-09T20:47:00.001-04:00

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It is even in the storm that the strength, majesty and power of God are revealed:
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The hours of pressure before the storm arrives...
The dark clouds and rumbles in the distance...
The moment of stillness...
Then, much like Psalms 77:17-18 describes, "The clouds poured down water, the skies resounded with thunder; Your arrows flashed back and forth. Your thunder was heard in the whirlwind, Your lightning lit up the world; the earth trembled and quaked..."

Some of you have shared on Facebook about some of the amazing displays of God that you have seen in the storms, the last few weeks. I've heard of majestic lightning shows in Kansas and Nebraska. One person shared about a storm causing so much electricity in the air that the hair on people's arms stood on end in Texas. A status or two said, " enjoying more global moisturization" and "I LOVE THIS WEATHER!"

Our daughter has excruciating headaches from multiple triggers including barometric pressure. She can tell you about 3 hours before a storm will hit with great accuracy. I have never paid as much attention to storms as I have lately to the multitude of them that have come our way in South Jersey. Today there have been two - one this morning and one as I am typing this. As the pressure changes and the darkness envelopes outside our home, the pressure builds inside Jessica's body to where she is almost paralyzed. There is no place that she can be touched on her body without it hurting. Now, as I watch the rain subside and the sinking sun peak out behind the trees, I know that her pain will decrease soon. There is light... hope... at the end of each storm for relief. Still, it is a horrible condition! God have mercy! We know that You are good - no matter the difficult circumstances!

As Job said in his darkest times, in Job 13:15-16...

Though He slay me,

yet will I hope in Him;

I will surely defend my ways to His face.

Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance,

for no godless man would dare come before Him!"

I remember another storm. It was 1986. We were moving from Indiana to western Nebraska. Steve was driving the U-Haul truck. Behind him were two cars holding our 4 children, my sister, her husband, and me. It was night and we were on Interstate 70, in Illinois, east of St. Louis. Traffic was heavy and the storm was torrential! Our vision was limited. Driving was tedious to say the least. Then, it happened! The U-Haul truck stalled. We had to slam on our brakes. I screamed, "LORD save us! LORD help us!" It seemed that there would be no way any of us would get out alive. Hope seemed fleeting as we heard horns and the whiz of the cars passing by...

Then, in almost slow motion, not understood by any of us at the time, it seemed that there was no traffic, no one coming behind us. It was as if we were in the eye of the storm. It was as if God took His hand and held back the traffic.

It was later that we were to learn that a trucker had seen our horrific situation and radioed back for miles for truckers to build a wall of protection in front of us, beside us, and behind us. They did! They moved traffic over to the left of what I believe was a six lane spread of highway headed west. We were able to get our cars over to the right and breathe easier until more help arrived.

Oh, I know... not everyone has such a "perfect" ending to a story like this. In this case, I am 100% sure that God chose to answer our prayers with "YES!"

Just as I was typing the word "YES!", Jessica's door opened, and she headed down the hall... she is moving again... hope... LORD, save us! LORD, help us! GIGATTAATTGIG!

HOW DO YOU RESPOND

WHEN THE STORMS OF LIFE COME?

2009: JULY 26 TO AUGUST 9: WHAT DO MIGRAINES AND PKU HAVE TO DO WITH YOU?

2009-07-26T23:15:00.004-04:00

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I often need to recalibrate my mind to think the way God thinks as opposed to the way that I think. We have a daughter who has had many and varied physical challenges since birth. I am not the same person that I would be had Jessica not been in my life. Last year, as she was getting ready to graduate from college, Jessica came back home to live with us because of her 24/7 migraines. We have been to many places in this country seking medical help for her. We have tried an array of therapies, treatments, procedures, medications, and diets. Above all, we have prayed fervently. Almost daily I process this scripture:
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John 9:1-3

"And as He passed by,

He saw a man blind from birth.

And His disciples asked Him, saying,

"Rabbi, who sinned,

this man or his parents,

that he should be born blind?"

Jesus answered,

"It was neither that this man sinned,

nor his parents;

but it was in order that

the works of God might be displayed in him."

I have put to memory a scripture that reminds me to renew my mind to think God's way and not get off track and think my way:

Romans 12:22

"And do not be conformed to this world,

but be transformed by the renewing of your mind,

that you may prove what the will of God is,

that which is good and acceptable and perfect."

I have friends whose lives are full of huge challenges because their children have special needs associated with autism, cystic fibrosis, AD/HD, learning disabilities, bi-polar, schizophrenia, etc. Yet, it is through those challenges that they say God has helped to mold, shape, grow, and enrich their entire families.

Last week, I got a very special email from my friend who has a son who has PKU. Children born with PKU basically cannot metabolize protein. Unless just the right diet is given, the child's brain cells will begin to deteriorate and eventually mental retardation becomes an unwelcome guest. This story that I am about to share in my friend's many faceted life is two part. I'll let her letter to me tell the first part. I'll tell the second.

FIRST PART: "Dear Patti, This is an example of how God's timing is so different from our human conceptions... As you know B. and I have been struggling with the financial burden as well as worrying about being able to provide the best care for E's PKU with our limited and ineffective insurance. We have prayed fervently for 5 years over this situation. Recently we were told that the grant we were utilizing to offset the $10,000/yr cost of E's Medical formula would expire when he turned 5 years old. All along God was working everything out, even through B's lay off. If he hadn't lost that job, we wouldn't have this new (job and) insurance. Two days after E's 5th birthday, we were notified that Formula and Special Low Protein Medical Food is 100% covered! Praise God. GIGATTATTGIG!!! Love you, M

Yes, M, GIGATTAATTGIG! He was good a year and a half ago when your house burned! He was good every time you took E to the emergency room! Just like you said, "all along God was working everything out..." So, why do we worry? Why do we not trust?

SECOND PART: Last year, E was in the hospital several times. At one point, he was in CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia). M asked me "Why one more hospital stay?" She was weary! My husband and I tried to visit and encourage as often as we could. Eventually, E was released from CHOP and as they were checking out, M asked where E's nurse was because she wanted to thank her. She was informed that his nurse was off that day. When M asked if she could get the nurse's name to write her a thank you note, she was shocked to find that his nurse had the same uncommon last name as M's maiden name. M wrote E's nurse a note with her phone number telling her this new found information. She asked the nurse to give her a call. That phone call was the call that M had been praying about for years! E's nurse was M's long lost half sister! ..... This has been a wonderful year for strangers to become friends. M has gotten to know more extended family that she did not know that she had. It's been a time full of many blessings! God knew all the time that this month her sister would buy a house just down the road from M and her family. God knew that today, E would be getting ready to start school in the fall with the foods that he needs and his new aunt living right down the road. GIGATTAATTGIG!!!

God says, "Ask and you will receive." Why do we so often think that it has to be in our timing. Our job is to patiently wait! Two families! Migraines! PKU! God's timing is often different from our own, yet GIGATTAATTGIG!

JUST A NOTE: M and I have a friend in CHOP hospital with her 3 year old daughter waiting for a heart transplant since January. Today, Tuesday 7/28/09, the heart has arrived. God's timing is everything! You may click here for updates: http://momstransformed.blogspot.com/

2009: JULY 12 TO JULY 25 - THE WHITE FORMAL DRESS

2009-07-12T15:55:00.002-04:00

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Guest author: Dr. Steve Sikes
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Patti and I are new to the Northeast... South Jersey... but we are not new to understanding the goodness of God and/or seeing how He works in and through His people. The following is one of my favorite stories of how much God is involved in our simple, everyday lives:
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My Dad and Mom worked in children’s homes for 36 years; 18 of those years, Dad was the Superintendent of Westview Boys’ Home outside of Hollis, Oklahoma. Westview was completely supported by the generous donations of christians. Clothes, food and other items were given to the Home on a regular basis to help take care of the 65 boys.
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My family grew up on a cotton farm a mile from the Boys’ Home. I have seven sisters and five brothers and almost all of us attended a small country school, along with all of the boys at the children’s home. My GIGATTAATTGIG story goes back to the mid-1960s and centers on my sister Sharla and her upcoming 8th grade graduation ceremony.
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Sharla is one year younger than I am, so I remember this account as a freshmen in high school – soon to be a 10th grader! Sharla was told by the school that she would need a white formal dress to wear for the 8th grade graduation ceremony. All of the rest of the girls in the 8th grade class had a white formal dress – except Sharla! Mom said that we couldn’t afford to buy one, but we could sure pray. I remember us praying for Sharla to get a white graduation dress, but day after day nothing happened. Sharla prayed! She knew God would answer her prayers!
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Two days before the school’s graduation ceremony, a big box came in the mail, addressed to Westview Boys’ Home. It was filled with second-hand jeans, shirts and even some sneakers. (Clothes and shoes were regularly marked and put in the storage room for any boy who needed them in the future.)
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After emptying the box and marking and putting away the clothes, it was discovered that the box wasn’t quite empty! At the bottom was a brown sack with a note attached which read, “I know this is a Boys’ Home but if there is anyone who can use this, please take it.”
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The sack was quickly opened and found enclosed was (you guessed it!) a white formal dress – just Sharla’s size! Amazing!! I am sure you can imagine the screams and the “Thank you, God” exclamations made that day!
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As Mom and Sharla and others were in prayer believing that God would provide a white formal dress, someone else, who was listening to the Holy Spirit, was convicted to extend God's goodness via a dress to a Boys’ Home! The result ended up being much more than a young 8th grade girl getting a white formal dress for her graduation ceremony. Much more! Our entire farm family had the seed of truth planted in our hearts forever that God is involved in our everyday lives and He really does answer prayer!
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So, my friend, my encouragement is for you to keep on believing that God has your best interests in mind – in both the informal and “formal” times! Our faith rests in the One who is always good and faithful. Plus, if God chooses to send a white formal dress to a Boys’ Home at just the right time – He can address our every need!
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God is good all the time, and all the time, God is good!

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PATTI'S NOTE: Sharla grew up... went to college... became a missionary... married... she and her husband Kent eventually became missionaries in Quito, Ecuador where they still minister today. Kent and Sharla have raised 3 children to adulthood, still have one at home, and one who has already gone home to be with the LORD. They all testify to God's goodness. Faith can be passed on from generation, as it was from Jack and Robbie Sikes to Sharla, then from Kent and Sharla Marcum to their children and now from their children to their grandchildren. There are many faith stories of this family that we will share from time to time on this blog. In the last few weeks there have been tragic circumstances surrounding Kent and Sharla's son, Joshua. You may connect to Joshua and Julie Marcum's ongoing faith story here: http://momstransformed.blogspot.com/2009/07/perfect-peopletrust-god.html
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2009: JUNE 28 TO JULY 11 - BLESSED BE YOUR NAME!

2009-06-28T00:01:00.007-04:00

While waiting...
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GIGATTAATTGIG!
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That is what the Tim and Cristi Schwamb family believe as they wait on the LORD. Tim and Cristi's 3 year old daughter, Lauren, needs a heart transplant. No one wants someone else's child to die so that another might live. Yet, all this family knows to do is trust God and WAIT. And, that's just what they have been doing.
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Cristi and Lauren have been in a hospital room at CHOP (Children's Hospital Of Philadelphia) since the beginning of January - TRUSTING AND WAITING. This video was made by Tim and Cristi just a few weeks before coming to CHOP. This family is an inspiration to me as I have watched them live out what they say here. I have seen set backs, additional difficult circumstances, sleepless nights, and months of separation not deter them from praising God.
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May you join me in being blessed as you watch. You may need a tissue or two before you finish watching. We welcome you to leave messages of encourgement for the family afterwards. GIGATTAATTGIG!

2009: JUNE 14 to JUNE 27 - I CAN ONLY IMAGINE

2009-06-14T15:07:00.015-04:00

This is Franny Stetser. A year ago, in June 2008, Franny went on to his eternal home, with his awesome GOD, after a brain hemorrhage took him from this life. Franny was 46 years old and had only been born again since April 2007. Yet, to those who knew Franny well, his conversion was truly life changing.
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In May 2008, Franny was replacing the upstairs toilet in our house and he and I were visiting. He asked me if I knew his "story" and I said, "maybe just a little." He went on to tell me about his relationship with the owner of the construction company he worked for. Franny and Rich had been friends for 18+ years. Franny said that there were many things he had done to Rich that were not good and that he was not proud of, yet "through all the times I disappointed Rich, he never stopped loving me."

In fact, Rich let the incredible goodness and love of his God live through him to serve Franny. This eventually made Franny want to have the kind of life that Rich had. Franny began to understand that it was only JESUS who could give him eternal salvation, erasing all of his sins and giving him a clean slate and a fresh start. So, he decided that is just what he wanted. He followed through on answering this question of the scripture Acts 22:16: "And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on His name."

Since repentance is about turning away from your past way of life, Franny deeply desired for that to happen. He really wanted the kind of transformation to take place in him that he had seen in his friend Rich. Not too long after Franny took the steps necessary to become a christian, Rich and Franny started sponsoring AA meetings in our church building on Monday nights. He began to change in how he lived his life from the inside - out. Sandy, his wife began to see the changes. His friends and family took notice. His favorite song became, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE! Franny knew God's amazing mercy, grace, and forgiveness and was excited for what his eternal future had to hold for him. He and Sandy certainly did not realize that it would come so quickly.

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After the intense shock and grief of his death, Sandy began to question her relationsip with God and wanted what Franny had come to know. So, after days and nights and weeks of studying God's WORD - The Bible, Sandy, her daughter Kristi, and Kristi's husband, Tim, decided to do what Franny had done as Galatians 3:26-29 says. They became children of God just like Franny had:

"You are all sons of GOD through faith in CHRIST JESUS, for all of you who were baptized into CHRIST have clothed yourselves with CHRIST. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in CHRIST JESUS. If you belong to CHRIST, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."

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Here is Rich baptizing Sandy into Christ on Sept. 13, 2008.

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God's love is patient! He was patient with Rich, Franny, Sandy, Kristi, and Tim like scripture says in 1 Peter 3:20-22:
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"GOD waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also-not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward GOD. It saves you by the resurrection of JESUS CHRIST, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at GOD's right hand-with angels, authorities and powers in submission to Him."
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It's been a year since Franny left us! He had come to understand what Peter had said about JESUS in Acts 4:10-12:

"It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth...salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."

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We can only imagine what Franny now knows or sees or has experienced. We walk by faith and not by sight... we believe that life here on earth is hard, but Jesus has shown us that GIGATTAATTGIG!
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Join us as we celebrate God's goodness and love with these two videos set to the song Franny had come to love, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE!

G.I.G.A.T.T.A.A.T.T.G.I.G.

GIGATTAATTGIG!

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2009: MAY 31 TO JUNE 13 - IF THAT'S WHAT IT TAKES

2009-05-31T00:01:00.009-04:00

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"God doesn't love me because of my performance. He loves me in spite of my performance." - Steve Sikes.
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Thank you God for your grace! GIGATTAATTGIG!!!!!!!!!!!
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2009: MAY 17 TO MAY 30 - GOD IS LIGHT... GOD IS LOVE...

2009-05-17T14:43:00.003-04:00

The God of this universe is a Spirit. As His creation, we were made in His image. Yet, because there is a spiritual battle going on, between the forces of LIGHT and the forces of DARKNESS, at some point each person wanders away from the LIGHT. Some people are turned off when they hear the word SIN, yet it is that word that means we've wandered away from our CREATOR... from the LIGHT of His presence.
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The Bible says in 1 John 1:5-10 that,
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"God is light,

and in Him there is no darkness at all.

If we say that we have fellowship with Him

and yet walk in the darkness,

we lie and do not practice the truth;

but if we walk in the light

as He Himself is in the light,

we have fellowship with one another,

and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.

If we say that we have no sin,

we are deceiving ourselves,

and the truth is not in us.

If we confess our sins,

He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins

and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

If we say that we have not sinned,

we make Him a liar,

and His word is not in us."

The Bible also says that "God is LOVE!" He loves us enough to help us get back to living in the LIGHT - if we are willing. Sometimes He must use tough love, although His ways are kind and full of mercy!

Below, you will find two videos that are ment to encourage you.

The first one is called GOD'S CHISEL... a little skit to get us to thinking.
The second one is to the music GO LIGHT YOUR WORLD. Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5, begins with Jesus describing THE BLESSED LIFE and it's rewards. Then, right afterwards Jesus says that people who lead this kind of life are both "salt" and "light" to a tasteless and dark world (my paraphrase). Friend, when we let Him live through us, we can lovingly light our world and know that GIGATTAATTGIG!!!!

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2009: MAY 3 TO MAY 16 - WONDERFULLY CREATED BY GOD AND LIVING IN HIS PRESENCE

2009-05-03T00:42:00.001-04:00

Honoring our God Who designed a humanity made in His image. Praising Him for making mothers and the whole conception and birth process. We are wonderfully made! GIGATTAATTGIG!
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2009: APRIL 26 TO MAY 2 - YOU ARE THE EVERLASTING GOD

2009-04-26T00:01:00.008-04:00

We know that Life is Hard, but God is Good, so we say, GIGATTAATTGIG!.

After you read this post and watch the video, join us with a comment about a time when you saw the goodness of our EVERLASTING GOD during a really hard time. We'll have a drawing on May 2 with the names of those of you who leave comments and the winner will get a framed print done in beautiful calligraphy by artist Cindy Grubb. This is what is taped above my computer screen as reminder:

Do you not know?

Have you not heard?

The Everlasting God,

the LORD,

the Creator of the ends of the earth

Does not become weary or tired.

His understanding is inscrutable.

He gives strength to the weary,

And to him who lacks might

He increases power.

Though youths grow weary and tired,

And vigorous young men stumble badly,

Yet those who wait for the LORD

Will gain new strength;

They will mount up with wings like eagles,

They will run and not get tired,

They will walk and not become weary.

Isaiah 40:28-31
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2009: APRIL 19 TO APRIL 25 - GOD THE CREATOR AND GOD THE SCIENTIST EXIST AS THE ONE GOD

2009-04-19T00:01:00.010-04:00

GIGATTAATTGIG...We are so grateful!
LET THE UNIVERSE PROCLAIM
THE LIGHT OF HIS GLORY!
God first created LIGHT: Genesis 1:2-5 says, "Then God said, "Let there be LIGHT"; and there was LIGHT. 4 And God saw that the LIGHT was good; and God separated the LIGHT from the darkness. 5 And God called the LIGHT day, and the darkness He called night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day."
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Then, God created the two great LIGHTS and the stars: Genesis 1:14-19 says, "Then God said, "Let there be LIGHTS in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night, and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days and years; 15 and let them be for LIGHTS in the expanse of the heavens to give LIGHT on the earth ";and it was so. 16 And God made the two great LIGHTS, the greater LIGHT to govern the day, and the lesser LIGHT to govern the night; He made the stars also. 17 And God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to give LIGHT on the earth, 18 and to govern the day and the night, and to separate the LIGHT from the darkness; and God saw that it was good. 19 And there was evening and there was morning, a fourth day."
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Jesus, came to the world to be the LIGHT: John 8:12-13
12 Again therefore Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the LIGHT of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the LIGHT of life."
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Jesus called His disciples The LIGHT of the World: Matthew 5:14-16 "You are the LIGHT of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 "Nor do men light a lamp, and put it under the peck-measure, but on the lampstand; and it gives LIGHT to all who are in the house. 16 "Let your LIGHT shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. "
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Astronomers have selected the top ten
most amazing pictures
taken by the Hubble Space Telescope
in the last 16 years.
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"... they illustrate that our universe
is not only deeply strange,
but also almost
impossibly beautiful."
Michael Hanlon, Daily Mail
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After correcting an initial problem with the lens, when the Hubble Space Telescope was first launched in 1990, the floating astro-observatory began to relay back to Earth, incredible snapshots of the "final frontier" it was perusing.
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1.
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The Sombrero Galaxy
(28 million light years from Earth)
was voted best picture taken by
the Hubble telescope.
The dimensions of the galaxy,
officially called M104,
are as spectacular as its appearance.
It has 800 billion suns
and is 50,000 LIGHT years across.
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The Ant Nebula,

a cloud of dust and gas whose name is Mz3,

resembles an ant when observed

using ground- based telescopes.

The nebula lies within our galaxy

between 3,000 and 6,000

LIGHT years from Earth.

In third place is "Eskimo"

or Nebula NGC 2392.

It's face is surrounded by a furry hood.
The hood is, in fact, a ring of comet-shaped objects
flying away from a dying star.

Eskimo is 5,000 LIGHT years from Earth.

.4.

At four is the Cat's Eye Nebula.

The Hourglass Nebula,

8,000 LIGHT years away, has a
pinched-in-the-middle look because the winds that
shape it are weaker at the centre.

In sixth place is the Cone Nebula.

The part pictured here is 2.5 LIGHT years in length

(the equivalent of 23 million return trips to the Moon).

The Perfect Storm,

a small region in the Swan Nebula,
5,500 LIGHT years away,

described as "a bubbly ocean
of hydrogen and small amounts of oxygen,

sulphur and other elements."

Starry Night,

so named because it reminded astronomers
of the Van Gogh painting.

It is a halo of LIGHT around a
star in the Milky Way.

The glowering eyes from 114 million LIGHT

years away are the swirling cores of

two merging galaxies called
NGC 2207 and IC 2163

in the distant Canis Major constellation.

10.

The Trifid Nebula,

a 'stellar nursery',

9,000 LIGHT years
from here, where new stars are being born.

If you are convicted by the pictures of creation that you have seen here OR maybe you are new to this concept of believing that a loving, living CREATOR exists as your HEAVENLY FATHER please access the website DOES GOD EXIST? The site is authored by a friend of mine who is a former atheist. John Clayton became a christian years ago in the same church where my husband and I have previously ministered . John has spent his christian life as a scientist showing how GOD is THE SCIENTIST AND THE CREATOR of the universe, and how the BIBLE told many things about science years before science ever figured them out. Please check it out here at DOES GOD EXIST?

http://www.doesgodexist.com/Charts/CheckableBiblicalAccuracy.html

Thank You, GOD! GIGATTAATTGIG!

2009: APRIL 12 TO APRIL 18 - FRIDAY'S HERE! SUNDAY'S COMING! NEW LIFE!

2009-04-11T22:00:00.006-04:00

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On Thursday,
it hit me that I didn't have to walk very far
out my front door to realize God's creation was shouting...

NEW LIFE!

Just a few weeks previous,

most plants in our yard appeared dead.

Seeds and bulbs die

in order for plants and trees to live!

It's one of the many lessons

our good God gives us in nature:

SOMETHING DIES

FOR SOMETHING ELSE TO LIVE!

As I walked around my yard and took pictures,

I marveled at the different colors in the sky!

As the sun was going down,

I thought of our daughter-in-love

who was in labor

with our first grandchild in another state.

Another lesson from our good God:

NEW BIRTH COMES ABOUT

THROUGH SACRIFICE AND PAIN!

At 7:58 p.m. eastern time,

little Chloe was born!

Her birth had been a labor of love!

The evening sun had set in the western sky,

but because our good God is consistent,

we could expect the sun to rise

in the east on Friday morning.

This wouldn't be just any Friday morning.

It would be GOOD FRIDAY!

Good?

A day that celebrates

the horrible crucifixion

of the Son of God?

Good?

YES!

JESUS willingly and lovingly gave His life!

He knew the secret to new life!

1. SOMETHING DIES

FOR SOMETHING ELSE TO LIVE!

2. NEW BIRTH COMES ABOUT

THROUGH SACRIFICE AND PAIN!

On Friday, I meditated on the cross and what Jesus chose to do for me! I remembered the nine months, labor, and delivery that Jacqueline had gone through to give birth to Chloe. I was thankful for the phone calls, the emails, the facebook status that said, "She's here!"

I kept thinking and saying,

"Friday's here!

Sunday's coming!"

The apostles had been taught the concept of death, burial, and resurrection. Yet, it was hard when going through it. This video / song have been written as if from the perspective of Peter on that Sunday morning... Be blessed by the song and the video!
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He's Alive!
by Don Francisco
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The gates and doors were barred And all the windows fastened down
I spent the night in sleeplessness And rose at every sound
Half in hopeless sorrowAnd half in fear the day
Would find the soldiers breakin' through To drag us all away
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And just before the sunriseI heard something at the wall
The gate began to rattle And a voice began to call
I hurried to the window Looked down into the street
Expecting swords and torches And the sound of soldiers' feet
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But there was no one there but Mary So I went down to let her in
John stood there beside me As she told me where she'd been
She said they might have moved Him in the night And none of us knows where
The stone's been rolled away And now His body isn't there
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We both ran toward the garden Then John ran on ahead
We found the stone and empty tomb Just the way that Mary said
But the winding sheet they wrapped Him in Was just an empty shell
And how or where they'd taken Him Was more than I could tell
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Oh something strange had happened there Just what I did not know
John believed a miracle But I just turned to go
Circumstance and speculation Couldn't lift me very high
'Cause I'd seen them crucify Him Then I saw Him die
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Back inside the house again The guilt and anguish came
Everything I'd promised Him Just added to my shame
When at last it came to choices I denied I knew His name
And even if He was alive It wouldn't be the same
.
But suddenly the air was filled With a strange and sweet perfume
Light that came from everywhere Drove the shadows from the room
And Jesus stood before me With his arms held open wide
And I fell down on my knees And I just clung to Him and cried
.
Then He raised me to my feet And as I looked into His eyes
The love was shining out from Him Like sunlight from the skies
Guilt in my confusion Dissappeared in sweet release
And every fear I'd ever had Just melted into peace
.
He's alive!
Yes! He's alive!
Yes! He's alive!
And I'm forgiven!
Heaven's gates are open wide!
He's alive!
Yes! He's alive!
Oh! He's alive!
And I'm forgiven!
Heaven's gates are open wide!
He's alive!
yes He's alive!
Hallelujah! He's alive!
He's alive!
And I'm forgiven!
Heaven's gates are open wide!
He's alive!
He's alive!
He's alive!
I believe it!
He's alive!
Sweet Jesus!
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2009: APRIL 5 TO APRIL 11 - GOD IS LOVE... YET, IT'S ABOUT THE CROSS

2009-04-05T00:01:00.005-04:00

GIGATTAATTGIG:

IT'S ABOUT THE CROSS!

The entire story of God is tied up in the phrase:

"God is love!"

The ultimate love is to give one's life. When a person understands that Jesus was God and Jesus made a decision to give His life for us... then, we begin to understand the gospel story. Many in the world have heard "The Christmas Story". Others have heard the story of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus that is referred to by many as "The Easter Story". I submit to you a combination of these two stories via the video below. It may give you a fresh look at why God Is Good All The Time And All The Time God Is Good.

2009: MARCH 29 TO APRIL 4 - YOU ARE GOD ALONE...THE GREAT I AM

2009-03-29T17:21:00.017-04:00

GIGATTAATTGIG:

I AM WHO I AM

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You have probably come to this site because you want to believe that God Is Good All The Time. Thank you for stopping by!
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There is a phrase that I often hear, "It is what it is!" When I hear it, my mind goes back to a phrase that I fell in love with at a very early age: "I AM WHO I AM!" It's from the Bible, in Exodus 3:14-15:
.

"14 God said to Moses,

"I AM WHO I AM.

This is what you are to say to the Israelites:

'I AM has sent me to you.'"
God also said to Moses,

"Say to the Israelites,

'The LORD, the God of your fathers —

the God of Abraham,

the God of Isaac

and the God of Jacob —

has sent me to you.'

This is My name forever,

the name by which I am to be remembered

from generation to generation."

It gives me great comfort to know "It is what it is!" or better yet, He is Who He says He is...I AM!

HE IS GOD ALONE!

As the words to our song, this week, proclaim:

"Through good times and bad..."

Life is a journey!

Trust Him!

He has a hugely different perspective than you and I do...

He sees the big picture!
He sees the smallest details to minutest amoeba and tinier!
He wants us to live a blessed life!
He knows that we don't always make the best choices in that regard!
He knows that love is a decision!
He disciplines His children because He loves them!
He wants each of us to finish strong!

GIGATTAATTGIG!

Note: If you are one who has great difficulty with this concept, please come back each week as we spend time looking at all the different angles of our good God... yes, even, through the eyes of science! May this video be encouraging for this week's journey!

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GIGATTAATTGIG - Welcome!

2009-03-28T09:48:00.001-04:00

Thank you for stopping by!

You're invited back each week

as I share why I believe that

GIGATTAATTGIG!