tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33558350150818021422024-03-14T04:25:02.923-05:00Mannings on the MoveAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.comBlogger231125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-76161955419844651492016-04-22T11:10:00.000-05:002016-04-22T11:10:17.238-05:00From the Church to the Community<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEqNyBq5M_k-PD70c92NZrYhyxOKS-nbw0VDbTwrkG7ZJAKe8owC-l87N5JdTKVpZ_Cqzr7_HMmOfWTk21o3G5YfI2JbQnwLslqn4W5N_x6Bz3oxOWugdMRsFc6yUFS_tTf5sZpB1a6jNw/s1600/20160406_150547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEqNyBq5M_k-PD70c92NZrYhyxOKS-nbw0VDbTwrkG7ZJAKe8owC-l87N5JdTKVpZ_Cqzr7_HMmOfWTk21o3G5YfI2JbQnwLslqn4W5N_x6Bz3oxOWugdMRsFc6yUFS_tTf5sZpB1a6jNw/s400/20160406_150547.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bethlehem Church with Ms. Lily and her new roof</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This past month God has continued to stretch our dependence and faith in Him. With the work wrapping up at the church, we are praying and praying for God to guide us to the families He wants us to serve out in the community. Let's just say we have seen God answer our prayers in amazing ways! He continues to lead us to family after family who continually ask us "How did you find us?" We're so happy to respond with "It's all God. He led us to you." <br />
<br />
We have a team coming from PA next week to serve a homeowner who had flooding in her home. Even though the flooding was 2-3 inches in her home, mold is now covering every part of her home including walls, ceilings, and cabinets. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVrKwvege0jCbJvk0yTGu1U8nCAIF2bI5Yqmwe3J1BCcdBgFhMvSk0A1Z5spdDoaFlJ9-8d_thFkkDZLUJNUOqHeIXbIFRoFt1722e1X32CAdgx6sVLNS-ZXFXwUKtJNOL_NylUpOIHghY/s1600/IMG_3654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVrKwvege0jCbJvk0yTGu1U8nCAIF2bI5Yqmwe3J1BCcdBgFhMvSk0A1Z5spdDoaFlJ9-8d_thFkkDZLUJNUOqHeIXbIFRoFt1722e1X32CAdgx6sVLNS-ZXFXwUKtJNOL_NylUpOIHghY/s400/IMG_3654.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home half gutted with mold, now needs completely gutted</td></tr>
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Here is part of an email we received from the homeowner mentioned above:<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span></b><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Thank
you does not even begin to express my gratitude. Because of you, for the
first time in six months I finally can begin to believe I may actually get
back in my home. Having met with so many obstacles, you are a ray of
sunshine in an otherwise bleak situation.</span></b></blockquote>
Will you consider serving with us and joining us as a ray of sonshine here in Columbia? We have available dates this summer
when we need volunteers to continue the rebuilding of homes and
relationships. You can email me at <a href="mailto:katie.manning@efca.org" target="_blank">katie.manning@efca.org</a> for more info.<br />
<br />
We are excited to start the process of restoring this home, and to now have a continual presence in this
neighborhood. We get to build relationships with the family, neighbors,
and cover this neighborhood in prayer. We don't know exactly how God
will use us but He's the one that led us here and we can trust Him.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtaBt4N5dtoZBOgDDftnkgLHykv4nbxI00cCstYw857aHj6GlizHBlBXvFUQQ9g0zYXCT-sZqiFJQqH_VNPgr0DmlTy8AF-JmCOZfl9HKfyZ4xOE4s4McX94-h4QIzORCNdh5uQUvlbv2/s1600/IMG_3651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtaBt4N5dtoZBOgDDftnkgLHykv4nbxI00cCstYw857aHj6GlizHBlBXvFUQQ9g0zYXCT-sZqiFJQqH_VNPgr0DmlTy8AF-JmCOZfl9HKfyZ4xOE4s4McX94-h4QIzORCNdh5uQUvlbv2/s400/IMG_3651.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The volunteers with our staff and homeowners</td></tr>
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<a href="https://go.efca.org/opportunities/ways-serve/south-carolina-flood-response" target="_blank">Our website</a> for more infoAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-80947531253195939862016-03-03T18:38:00.001-06:002016-03-03T18:38:07.847-06:00Does God care about basements?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxmvkftJUvM8q0-Q8rK7SrutN0XLJlp4lAkpMJQHSyXtA5dm2yQ7u2UcZ4qCeFAzv0fOhUXwBDHbO001A2sMucUCypjcWAXvhG7Svhx_F4zwxkXS7-kyof8rrKBdmwZABROF3WR595-Zu/s1600/IMG_3195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxmvkftJUvM8q0-Q8rK7SrutN0XLJlp4lAkpMJQHSyXtA5dm2yQ7u2UcZ4qCeFAzv0fOhUXwBDHbO001A2sMucUCypjcWAXvhG7Svhx_F4zwxkXS7-kyof8rrKBdmwZABROF3WR595-Zu/s400/IMG_3195.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave's cousin Dan taping the basement</td></tr>
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"Does God care about basements?" You know I don't know if I could find anywhere in the Bible that talks about God's heart for basements but after these past couple of months it's got me wondering. The transformation that has taken place over the last 5 months in the basement of <a href="http://riversidecommunitychurch.org/" target="_blank">Riverside Community Church</a> has been INCREDIBLE! The number of times God has proven Himself faithful and trustworthy in the provisions He has supplied is beyond measure.<br />
<br />
Just to name a few:<br />
<ul>
<li>licensed contractor who pulled the permit for us to start the work on the basement</li>
<li>licensed electrician who pulled the permit which allowed us to bring in our own electricians</li>
<li>churches who continue to give of their time and resources to see its restoration</li>
<li>perfect timing of volunteers to install insulation, hang sheetrock, mud & tape sheetrock, paint, install drop ceiling, and start the punch list of hanging doors and putting up trim. </li>
</ul>
<br />
So does God care about basements? Well, I'm starting to think He does but not just for the basement's sake, but for my faith and for yours. I know for me, throughout these past couple of months of being an eyewitness to His constant provision, my faith has grown and my trust in Him continues to increase. I pray that through the restoration of a church basement that the Body
of Christ is encouraged to see that God does care for us, He loves us,
and He wants us to depend on Him.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0P0WKnSrn9C3B4vWUNsFt8E1slz1xXt7BxuAnS3tO7AoSCxrcXRdbNx2oszYjz7hl0EcfhC1-uoJWGScoQMg13HNynrZmxCcqJeDG5iDxtL5T-qPCXZ9BCeW2f9gBZeQGA5iGmk8lcgFZ/s400/lakewood+team+SC.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lakewood EFC from MN</td></tr>
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I pray too that everyone sees that if God can transform a church's basement, He can certainly transform the basements of our hearts that are in desperate need of His presence, love, and power. He is our maker who knows our hearts and through His Son Jesus Christ reconciles our hearts to Him. May God continue to receive glory, honor, and praise for how He is orchestrating the restoration of a church's basement that it may lead to the transformation of hearts everywhere.<br />
<br />
"<i>For it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him </i>[Christ]<i>, <span class="reftext"></span></i><span class="highl"><i>and through Him <b>to reconcile all things to Himself,</b> having made peace through the blood of His cross</i>.." Colossians 1:19-20a</span> <br />
<br />
“<i>And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with
a whole heart and with a willing mind,<b> for the LORD searches all hearts</b>
and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be
found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever</i>.<span class="p">" 1 Chronicles 28:9</span><br />
<br />
<span class="p">"<i>Finally, brothers, rejoice. <b>Aim for restoration</b>, comfort one another,
agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace
will be with you</i>." 2 Corinthians 13:11</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWG4oFl8n4IYl-WqlhnoZMgFnueuIGgFiaj7Veg5sx-jWyinLv-H2l2ExWN0KVnxqX9Fogg9dy30uigHDTiP4XzVn7Rug6dYk4WTWOCAq-__CM7xAQvkAJ02BQ9DYidmdEMj6ZTht4s6oh/s1600/IMG_3036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWG4oFl8n4IYl-WqlhnoZMgFnueuIGgFiaj7Veg5sx-jWyinLv-H2l2ExWN0KVnxqX9Fogg9dy30uigHDTiP4XzVn7Rug6dYk4WTWOCAq-__CM7xAQvkAJ02BQ9DYidmdEMj6ZTht4s6oh/s400/IMG_3036.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stained Concrete</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfU12TStceUt5IBWZ2-K4DaUaFvXsdVhbXjhQNAAIRvn4WkIcNxF_Jb6imAADAAygzS4IawxAuVCqrIXbrH60fn4H7XcxByT8DFrZytYGsjlfzwBP-vo26EwF0hRNf2E2fVWe2Ndu1kmQD/s400/IMG_2831.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Framing started <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVqbQ5-bM12J7Ct8Bh40R0zq-Lv5pCnzkxu91rip_fCyNOsSirQqtC2I5eJUuy8_XuqMGSlx5UKDIB6cULzr0NByWBDgT_kLj8hWIsClPWfpImppZKwnrXlo3RUb-jMQVJ-xDaRU87PK51/s1600/IMG_3095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVqbQ5-bM12J7Ct8Bh40R0zq-Lv5pCnzkxu91rip_fCyNOsSirQqtC2I5eJUuy8_XuqMGSlx5UKDIB6cULzr0NByWBDgT_kLj8hWIsClPWfpImppZKwnrXlo3RUb-jMQVJ-xDaRU87PK51/s400/IMG_3095.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Electrians start!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbLb9CEEAvfcuEXaP9KeLZqAxMtiyUdyzDavauELNUR6OYoKuclUYPIR3FTq0gsDUhGET-iFZWo2nzZecFRCUBlBvdnV6dblWAI0SklGEqiRMfORQ-yOp34xhEDZHC3Bnks5uOoFYtZOkH/s1600/IMG_3117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbLb9CEEAvfcuEXaP9KeLZqAxMtiyUdyzDavauELNUR6OYoKuclUYPIR3FTq0gsDUhGET-iFZWo2nzZecFRCUBlBvdnV6dblWAI0SklGEqiRMfORQ-yOp34xhEDZHC3Bnks5uOoFYtZOkH/s400/IMG_3117.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insulation installed</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmIU5u58lqWWjFa6FnUSmG5sSo1EyWSub2ygk8T2mXnt-vDUYaEReMytPnuIH7pZAWvPbU1zMq18gUVFsjudgBwi2billAe65ATz4eVyEce3UAC2QmkRMCivxyk_Jo4s95XVSbLuPfIww/s1600/WP_20160203_11_34_36_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmIU5u58lqWWjFa6FnUSmG5sSo1EyWSub2ygk8T2mXnt-vDUYaEReMytPnuIH7pZAWvPbU1zMq18gUVFsjudgBwi2billAe65ATz4eVyEce3UAC2QmkRMCivxyk_Jo4s95XVSbLuPfIww/s400/WP_20160203_11_34_36_Pro.jpg" width="223" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">drywall installed </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNn0-uB3URfPjPv3e-Zmc25_KDJkEp6KoOfw8IYngdqJMbZ0Ahk3hr0SPIgyRfzQH4g-lZFlbt9kxE-DRHqBrRTSpTbm61-F7_pDG5hRCiLuRKazh1yHc9amyLkXSaDW8Gg-k33xKFQBb/s1600/IMG_3215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNn0-uB3URfPjPv3e-Zmc25_KDJkEp6KoOfw8IYngdqJMbZ0Ahk3hr0SPIgyRfzQH4g-lZFlbt9kxE-DRHqBrRTSpTbm61-F7_pDG5hRCiLuRKazh1yHc9amyLkXSaDW8Gg-k33xKFQBb/s400/IMG_3215.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mudded, taped, painted</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBac_JAGgOssPi34Sb2io35jzNmWLmSE_IpTnr7_P5m-1HSRQsdKboYjCAxX_88sq2vxtvcSNukaV6OjlDd9TeLMut6XNUbrC8_6AmIuml6R7OEdLqasbNj8S9mqVS3xwXZTRK7XE-YpK/s1600/IMG_3382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBac_JAGgOssPi34Sb2io35jzNmWLmSE_IpTnr7_P5m-1HSRQsdKboYjCAxX_88sq2vxtvcSNukaV6OjlDd9TeLMut6XNUbrC8_6AmIuml6R7OEdLqasbNj8S9mqVS3xwXZTRK7XE-YpK/s400/IMG_3382.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">windows, doors, drop ceiling installed</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuusr-uL8W_W6TASjbSL3RoUziPR8uREUhzfgS6i-8FCt0SRRVPvPEh3GwdysGpLuq-p2gc9_OK1x2YswpqbDnTRcPuVCE_2049zHBdfkHkP0heIEqv23XJ_VGIH1olbz0V21j1e1XKdRI/s1600/IMG_0250.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuusr-uL8W_W6TASjbSL3RoUziPR8uREUhzfgS6i-8FCt0SRRVPvPEh3GwdysGpLuq-p2gc9_OK1x2YswpqbDnTRcPuVCE_2049zHBdfkHkP0heIEqv23XJ_VGIH1olbz0V21j1e1XKdRI/s640/IMG_0250.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pathway Church from Beaver Falls PA</td></tr>
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<span class="p"><span class="p"></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-59221443403313637262015-11-11T08:59:00.000-06:002015-11-11T08:59:16.241-06:00What happens when you say "Let's stop and talk to the first person we see."<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Four days after the flood, October 9th, Katie, Frank(a member of Riverside), and I were driving through a neighborhood rumored to be heavily impacted by the flooding. As we were driving, we could see homes that had been impacted, but we were unable to make contact with any of the homeowners. We decided that the next person we saw outside we would stop and talk to them. As we continued through the neighborhood, we saw a lady coming out of her front door carrying a box so we backed up and stopped. As I hopped out of the car, I could tell Lisa was not happy to see us. We soon learned though that there had been numerous gawkers driving through the neighborhood.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7grybBmxfv5v8YHa6nKpDlVeTJ2fm2_ylO3WzoIpNB2TbNK7Bl2JixT4XEgGBSYbI6QZVrWlr1aE5xibgxdcZhQysdiBLAu4K5dxSs9Tx8Yj2lMENdgKgdGfCaOOhrLqCEZR0EbaDDng/s1600/IMG_2488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7grybBmxfv5v8YHa6nKpDlVeTJ2fm2_ylO3WzoIpNB2TbNK7Bl2JixT4XEgGBSYbI6QZVrWlr1aE5xibgxdcZhQysdiBLAu4K5dxSs9Tx8Yj2lMENdgKgdGfCaOOhrLqCEZR0EbaDDng/s400/IMG_2488.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Al and Lisa's home being dried out after the belongings were removed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After introducing ourselves and sharing a little about <span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.riversidecommunitychurch.org/" target="_blank">Riverside Community Church</a></span>, the church we are partnering with, we asked if they needed any help. Lisa explained that the Congaree River that runs right behind her house rose all the way up into their finished basement. The water level reached nearly a foot in the basement. Frank, Katie, and I decided to go back to the church to recruit some more help for removing the contents of Al and Lisa's home.<br />
<br />
When we returned an hour later with over half a dozen people, we got to meet Lisa's husband, Al. Al shared that before we showed up he felt hopeless and unsure of where to begin. As we hauled their belongings to the curb, he continued to thank us for helping them. I just kept praising God that He had allowed Lisa to be outside just as we were driving by. After a couple of hours of hauling things to the curb, we were able to get everything out. As we wrapped up for the day, we spent a few minutes praying for Al and Lisa and thanking God for His perfect timing. Al and Lisa both were choked up as they thanked us and told us how we had given them hope again.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbWW_HsFL7ke5e9x8yboT7ANJewdQiXzeOssT6VPSreWF0HkPaTLi0Iw9FSrzXczjdH8BkecA9QQWtHfSlCBtK5RxZJLfdxHjeB4etf2W7rGWEkBBefLid28_wHuxN4xmXxdrKqJNu2iHM/s1600/IMG_2490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbWW_HsFL7ke5e9x8yboT7ANJewdQiXzeOssT6VPSreWF0HkPaTLi0Iw9FSrzXczjdH8BkecA9QQWtHfSlCBtK5RxZJLfdxHjeB4etf2W7rGWEkBBefLid28_wHuxN4xmXxdrKqJNu2iHM/s400/IMG_2490.JPG" width="400" /></a>As I reflected on the afternoon later that day, I was struck by what Al had said about giving them hope and how that's exactly what God did for us. We were in a hopeless condition because of our sin; we deserved death. "<span class="text Eph-2-4" id="en-NIV-29234">But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy,</span><sup> </sup><span class="text Eph-2-5" id="en-NIV-29235"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved." (Eph 2:4-5) Thank you Lord for paying the price for our sins and giving us an eternal hope. </span><br />
<span class="text Eph-2-5" id="en-NIV-29235"><br /></span>
<span class="text Eph-2-5" id="en-NIV-29235"><br /></span>
<span class="text Eph-2-5" id="en-NIV-29235">You can <a href="mailto:katie.manning@efca.org" target="_blank">contact us</a> for more info on how you, your family, and your church can be involved in the flood recovery efforts here in SC. You can also <a href="http://go.efca.org/resources/announcement/south-carolina-flood-response" target="_blank">visit our website</a> to find out how you can donate funds towards this response. We hope to see yall here in SC!</span><br />
<span class="text Eph-2-5" id="en-NIV-29235"><br /></span>
<span class="text Eph-2-5" id="en-NIV-29235"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="text Eph-2-5" id="en-NIV-29235">**The story continues: During the first week of November, we were able to send a team from Utah to help install the new sheetrock. Al and Lisa were blown away by God's provision and we were thankful to get to serve them in the wake of the floods.</span><br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-48446549568840143492015-06-25T16:09:00.000-05:002015-06-25T16:09:20.685-05:00LEADing according to Katie<br />
I<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> wanted to share my definition of "LEAD" according to Katie. I try to run through this definition on a weekly (if not daily) basis and gauge how I'm doing in these areas. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>L - LOVE God (heart)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Loving God with all of my heart is crucial for being the leader He wants me to be. </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"> My desire is that my heart always stays devoted and connected to God so that I can lead the way that pleases Him.</span>. I wrote about this part in my last newsletter which you can find <a href="http://eepurl.com/bpFenH">here </a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>E - Example Setter (in words and actions)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As a leader and person of influence, I set the example in my words and actions. Trust me, whatever I do, there are people watching and listening, with the potential of copying my behavior. I am called to follow the example of Christ who washed His disciples feet (John 13:14-15). I am called to serve, not to be served. Is my example something I want someone else to copy?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>A - Attitude of Christ (motives and emotions)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There are times when I can set the example, but my attitude is totally wrong. Mark and I joke about "not earning any jewels for that." But I know if my attitude is humble, kind, denying of self, servant-like. Is my attitude pleasing to God as I lead those in my care? Who am I trying to promote, myself or Christ? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>D - Developer of Others (disciple-maker)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When I lead, it's not just for the sake of leading. I want to see every person I lead grow and succeed in whatever God has called them to. It's not about ME! It's not about them. It's about God! It's about bringing Him glory by being faithful "to admonish and teach everyone with all wisdom SO THAT we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all His energy, which so powerfully works in me." Am I giving others the opportunity to grow and succeed? Am I encouraging them to be a developer of others?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When I look back over my life before ministry, I was NEVER the
leader. I was typically the supportive role that served the leader and
was happy to keep the team united towards our common goal. Since
joining this ministry, God has stretched me in the roles He has placed
me in. I led the volunteer teams for two years and for the last five
years I've led our internship program. I've learned TONS throughout my
years here and I know I have more to learn. I'm thankful for the ReachGlobal Leadership Cohort that will help me lead the way God has designed for me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This
summer, I'm leading through two lead interns as they lead the
remaining six interns. This has stretched me already as my
responsibility wants to kick in and be in charge. However, praise God
He has given me a desire to see others grow and I want the lead interns
to grow by giving away some of my responsibilities. I couldn't be more
excited for what God has in store for this summer. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">"<i>And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God.</i>" </span><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Philippians 1:9-11</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-53665851623718516602015-05-05T16:28:00.000-05:002015-05-05T16:28:00.413-05:00and I'm loved by You, it's who I am...After an amazing two weeks in the northeast, Mark and I arrived home late Friday night. We were tired but mostly happy that we get to spend a whole week in Louisiana (we leave Saturday for Denver and Estes Park). It has been such a blessing to reconnect with friends and be back in our neighborhood. Sunday at church, we sang a song I had not heard before but the lyrics touched my heart. Before you read my thoughts, take time to listen to the song yourself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<b>Lyric 1: <i>You tell me that you're pleased and that I'm never alone</i>. </b><br />
God is pleased with me! I needed that reminder as I continually fall short of His glory and struggle to keep Him #1 in my heart and life. He is pleased with me....thank you Lord! God is always with me. I also seem to think that He's not there with me when I'm going through tough times or need to decide something, but HE IS! He wants me to rely on Him<br />
<br />
<b>Lyric 2: </b><br />
<b><i>You're a Good, Good Father</i></b><br />
<b><i>It's who you are, It's who you are, It's who you are</i></b><br />
<b><i>and I'm loved by you</i></b><br />
<b><i>It's who I am, It's who I am, It's who I am</i></b><br />
<br />
God is a good good Father! It is who He is. In Him, there is NO darkness, NO sin, NO evil. He is my good Father who knows what is best for me. HE LOVES ME and that is WHO I AM. I am loved by God. He loves me with an everlasting love and being loved by God is who I am. <b>My identity isn't found in my occupation or in my relationship status or in my successes or in my failures. Being loved by God is who I am and that never changes. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
When Jesus was baptized, God spoke not words of an agenda or ministry plan but words of a powerful reminder of His identity. He is God's Son and God is well pleased with Him.<b> </b>This jump started Jesus' ministry and for so many of us, we need this constant reminder of our identity. We are God's children, loved by God, and He is pleased with us.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="text Mark-1-9">In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.</span><span class="text Mark-1-10" id="en-ESV-24222"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>And
when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being
torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.</span> <span class="text Mark-1-11" id="en-ESV-24223">And a voice came from heaven,</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span class="text Mark-1-11" id="en-ESV-24223"> “You are my beloved Son;<sup> </sup>with you I am well pleased. </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mark 1:9-11</div>
<br />
<b>Lyric 3: <i>You [God] are perfect in all of your ways to us</i>.</b><br />
Yes God is perfect. His ways are perfect. His timing is perfect. His responses to our prayers are perfect. He is always trustworthy and always true.<br />
<br />
<b>Lyric 4: <i>As you call me deeper still</i></b><br />
God is calling me and all of us to a deeper, closer walk with Him. Our relationship with God is the most important relationship. He wants us to continue to go deeper in our walk with Him and discover more of His character and heart. He wants us to multiply our talents and go deep in our walks. <br />
<br />
I praise God for the chance to worship at our church on Sunday and to hear this song that I've continued to sing everyday since. Feel free to comment or share what stands out to you from this song. Thanks!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-42237733826260988782015-04-06T14:17:00.000-05:002015-04-06T14:17:30.671-05:00The Prayer of Faith<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The team with Ms. Bonnie and her grandchildren</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was a overcast Tuesday morning, and the clouds looked as though they could unload their burden anytime. The team from Allen, TX, made up of high school students and a couple leading the group, piled out of the van at Ms. Bonnie's home. It was our second day at the job site and there was energy and excitement in the group for another day serving Ms. Bonnie and praying in the community.<br />
<br />
<br />
Due to the threatening weather, we decided to go on a prayer walk first thing. After saying a word of prayer as a group, we split up into three groups to canvas the neighborhood. On prayer walks, we walk around the neighborhood praying for the area and with anyone we come across. My group prayed with a couple people and after about 20 minutes we made our way back to Ms. Bonnie's. We were the first group back so we spent a few minutes praying for the other groups and then started working.<br />
<br />
About five minutes later, another group made it back, so I encouraged them to continue to pray for the last group while they started working. About thirty minutes later, the leader came up to me and said "Let me know when I should be concerned that the other group isn't back yet." I encouraged him that normally when groups are gone for this long, it means they're having a conversation with someone so let's keep praying for them. Another half an hour passed so we went out on the front porch to look for them, then we caught glimpse of the bright green volunteer shirts. A collective "praise the Lord" was uttered and we ran out to meet them.<br />
<br />
It was obvious from the huge smiles on their faces that something great had happened. They went on to share with us that for the first twenty minutes of their prayer walk they hadn't talked or prayed with anyone so they stopped on a street corner and asked the Lord for someone to interact with. No more than two minutes later they ran into someone right in front of a convenience store and they prayed with him. He then connected them to the owner of the store, John*, and they talked with him. He began asking them questions and discussing differences in their beliefs.<br />
<br />
John was open to discussion and hearing more about the gospel so the group, right in the middle of the store, clearly shared the good news of Jesus Christ with him and all those around. "It was so amazing, God is so good" shared one team member. As the group finished telling the story, the rain cut loose and started pouring on us. We retreated to the porch where we thanked God for the amazing prayer walk and prayed that He would continue to work in John's life. Please join us in praying for him.<br />
<br />
What a challenging reminder that I need to pray with expectancy; not just hoping God will answer, but believing He will according the promises in His word. Mark 11:24 "<i>Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours</i>." <br />
<br />
<br />
*name changedAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-27717141048440852162015-02-16T10:25:00.003-06:002015-02-16T11:03:16.486-06:00Celebrating One Year of Wedded Blessings!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="endnote text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="table of authorities"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="macro"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="toa heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4tXE9rF408c44dgWp5h5RQw0tI2QGkGlFUJ4zGo1lMYcAx_x4sCxKpMb4lZRkuQdwhADxAZac6iLtgfsTqwtepeERl1XNYbeiATZITYGwFWKMWbMoki9n3ZKEyApJlxjsq94iJGPmAUo/s1600/one+year+anni.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4tXE9rF408c44dgWp5h5RQw0tI2QGkGlFUJ4zGo1lMYcAx_x4sCxKpMb4lZRkuQdwhADxAZac6iLtgfsTqwtepeERl1XNYbeiATZITYGwFWKMWbMoki9n3ZKEyApJlxjsq94iJGPmAUo/s1600/one+year+anni.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a>I'm so thankful to God for this first year of marriage. Mark and I had the unique opportunity to celebrate our one-year anniversary
trapped inside due to heavy snowfall in Indiana. As you can see from the picture, we won't forget this day easily. Mark and I have had a wonderful first year of marriage and we know it's because Christ remains at the center of it!<br />
<br />
Granted, it wasn't all bliss. Whenever you put two selfish, sinful people together, there will be conflict. We both have had to learn a lot about serving one another even when it's not convenient or easy. We are continuing to learn how to listen when our spouse is upset without responding defensively. We are challenged to make sure we keep dating each other. We have had to share our Saturdays because Mark likes to make a to-do list and Katie likes to-do nothing! <br />
<br />
I'm not exactly sure what our second year of marriage will look like but I can only imagine there will be more learning! We are praying that soon we'll both be full-time with the ministry to serve God and what He has called us to. We are currently at 67% of recurring giving (check out the "Ways to Partner With Us" tab to learn more). This season of ministry partnership development has taught us about how we're wired and how we can begin to think we are self-sufficient. We are reminded daily that God is the one we are called to rely on and He is our provider. <br />
<br />
Leading up to our anniversary, we spent 10 days sharing about our call to ministry with friends and family
from Mark's home church along with a 3-day visit to Chicago to recruit interns
at Trinity International University. It was such a blessing to meet more of Mark's home church family and to thank them for their Godly influence into Mark's life. <br />
<br />
Mark and I were blessed in so many
ways by our time up north and here are some of the highlights:<br />
<br />
1) spending lots of time with our nephew Clark and niece Chloe<br />
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2) sharing about intern opportunities at Trinity<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZI62kRmZ-j5fgxq47UxmzbrE2uzG6BUVsr9Iw0ZDr9a810HvwQS_V-_ukN9v_Fn91nB7z7uYbEFIf9SLbfNy0wQLSPfbtMFgK87CE6lBY2jQYmw8_-B9aKYF8NBU8dIBB9n5GGqBIkTcs/s1600/trinity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZI62kRmZ-j5fgxq47UxmzbrE2uzG6BUVsr9Iw0ZDr9a810HvwQS_V-_ukN9v_Fn91nB7z7uYbEFIf9SLbfNy0wQLSPfbtMFgK87CE6lBY2jQYmw8_-B9aKYF8NBU8dIBB9n5GGqBIkTcs/s1600/trinity.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
3) having opportunities to share with Mark's mission board and families from
his home church about our call to missions<br />
4) introducing the game Pandemic to anyone who would play with us. It's so good! <br />
5) being blessed with free places to stay every single night including two
nights in a hotel! Thanks to everyone who housed us and fed us!<br />
<br />
Thanks for taking the time to read our blog!<br />
God bless,<br />
Katie :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-60854838036195865522015-01-14T12:17:00.000-06:002015-01-14T12:20:02.982-06:00Who am I trying to please?<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-6" id="en-NIV-25153"><sup class="versenum"> </sup></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158"> It was January 2nd and I had decided I didn't care about New Years Resolutions. It wasn't that I was already giving up on the ones I made, I just didn't really care about setting any. But as I was doing my devotions and I came across this passage, Luke 6:6-10: </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158"> "</span></span><i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-6" id="en-NIV-25153">On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was shriveled.</span> <span class="text Luke-6-7" id="en-NIV-25154">The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath.</span> <span class="text Luke-6-8" id="en-NIV-25155">But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, <span class="woj">“Get up and stand in front of everyone.”</span> So he got up and stood there.</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-9" id="en-NIV-25156"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>Then Jesus said to them, <span class="woj">“I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?”</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-10" id="en-NIV-25157"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, <span class="woj">“Stretch out your hand.”</span> He did so, and his hand was completely restored.</span><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus."</span></span></i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158">The Lord started stirring in my heart something I had been thinking about for awhile: my tendency to be a people-pleaser. My motivation, decision making, my work ethic as well as other things are often dictated by my desire to please others, or gain their approval. As I read this passage, the part that stood out to me was that Jesus had the man stand up in front of everyone. If it was me, I would've healed his hand discretely, not to cause a scene or upset the Pharisees. I would've whispered to him "meet me in the back in 20 minutes" or something sneaky like that, but instead Jesus takes him upfront and uses the healing to confront the </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158">Pharisees and me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158"> As I was thinking about it, I realized how sinful this mentality of people pleasing is. My motivation needs to be to please God and to bring His name glory at all times. I started exploring more of this theme in scripture and I came across Galatians 1:10 "</span><span class="text Gal-1-10" id="en-NIV-29068"><i>Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, <b>I would not be a servant of Christ</b>.</i>" "Whoa, hold on, I'm not that bad" my flesh tried to argue, but I knew this is what I had to grow in this year. So please pray for me, pray that I will be a God-pleaser rather than a people-pleaser. That the Holy Spirit will continue to convict me when my thought process and decision making is not focused on bringing God glory! I know it will be an ongoing journey, but I thank God for convicting me and for all of your prayers!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text Gal-1-10" id="en-NIV-29068"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="text Gal-1-10" id="en-NIV-29068">-Mark</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158"></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-6720070843066474082014-12-15T18:08:00.001-06:002014-12-15T18:08:35.683-06:00Lessons from the swing set<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This past Thursday, Katie and I had the chance to build a swing set for a family that I had worked for this summer. To only call it a swing set would be an understatement, we spent about 10 hours putting the play fortress together. We even had to break out the work lights so we could get it finished. At the end of the day, it was awesome seeing the huge smiles on the kids' faces as they played on the new swing set. We had a great time working together and learned a lot in the process.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After Katie and I were accepted as long term missionaries, we entered a phase of ministry partnership development (MPD). This involves contacting and sharing with churches, friends, family, and anyone who will listen, about our ministry and calling as well as how they can partner with us. I think we both expected that as we started doing MPD everything would just fall into place and we would be a well oiled machine. However, we soon discovered that this is not quite the case, it has been challenging learning how to work together in this. We both had some expectations of how it would go and who would do what. By God's grace, we were making some progress, but it all seemed rather disjointed. This brings me back to the swing set.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sometimes ya need a little success! Driving home Thursday night, there was some new life in the car. We were both worn out, but there was a feeling of accomplishment, of look what we can do when we work together. As we talked about what made it so easy for us to work together, this is what we came up with:</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Manuals are awesome!</u> Without the manual for putting the swing set together, we would've been lost and unsure of where to start and how each piece fit together. I think this has been one of the harder things about MPD, there really isn't a set manual, step-by-step instructions for going about this. Even though Katie has been doing it for years, we still had to figure out how the Mannings were going to do it. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>We had clarity on our roles and we're confident in those roles</u>. I had studied the manual before we even began. So I knew how we would go about the day and what would be most helpful for getting the job done. I was confident in screwing all the pieces together and Katie was confident in being one step ahead, pulling the pieces and hardware out for the next phase so once I was finished, I could move right into the next phase. In MPD, we're still trying to figure out what there is to do, much less who can do what, which leads to some unmet expectations and feelings of paralysis. We want to work together well so we need to continue to extend grace to each other especially since we've only been married 10 months and both full-time missionaries for 3 months.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>We also learned that it is FUN to work together</u>, something we had started to question. It was great getting to see each other in their areas of giftedness and encourage each other with the different tasks we were doing. It's fun to labor together with your spouse in the work that God has for us. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'd love to tell you that now things are going awesome and we're making tremendous progress on our ministry partnership development, but the reality is the whole thing is a journey. Each day we continue on and God is using this journey to refine us. When you think about it, the same is true for each one of us, even though sometimes we don't see it, or we want to fight it. Praise the Lord that He is sovereign and has the perfect plan. Katie and I thank God for the refreshment He gave us in the form of a disassembled swing set and for all He taught us through it.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Psalm 66:10-12<span class="versetext" id="ps66-10" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>
"For you, O God, tested<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="1"></a> us; you refined us like silver.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="2"></a> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="versetext" id="ps66-11" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>You brought us into prison<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="3"></a> and laid burdens<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="4"></a> on our backs. </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="versetext" id="ps66-12" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>
You let men ride over our heads;<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="5"></a> we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance."<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="6"></a></span></span></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-17763117486670254162014-10-29T12:18:00.002-05:002014-10-29T12:22:53.048-05:00Insider look at the typical travel habits for the Mannings<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1FjizuDbxc1O9Eokw55mgENfxKc4x407qd3p2k_hIBL2e-05xQjs0L4tqNOi4FUzIuKIMLboTMXov-gyslFss_6Fhl5lngsxC6znMA0-HM6IY2Yp1E9zViKl2ugV7HV4YudDoZROds1m/s1600/Nov+2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1FjizuDbxc1O9Eokw55mgENfxKc4x407qd3p2k_hIBL2e-05xQjs0L4tqNOi4FUzIuKIMLboTMXov-gyslFss_6Fhl5lngsxC6znMA0-HM6IY2Yp1E9zViKl2ugV7HV4YudDoZROds1m/s1600/Nov+2014.JPG" height="275" width="400" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is a map of our next road trip starting Thursday Oct 30th. Please pray for us as we travel.</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is a detailed list of our travels on the "Where in the World are the Mannings?" tab</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1FjizuDbxc1O9Eokw55mgENfxKc4x407qd3p2k_hIBL2e-05xQjs0L4tqNOi4FUzIuKIMLboTMXov-gyslFss_6Fhl5lngsxC6znMA0-HM6IY2Yp1E9zViKl2ugV7HV4YudDoZROds1m/s1600/Nov+2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></a></td></tr>
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In case you were wondering what happens when the Mannings travel, here's a list of what usually unfolds:<br />
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1) Mark usually always drives...and I'm A-Okay with that! <br />
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2) I struggle with falling asleep for two reasons: One reason is, I feel bad if I sleep because I know he won't get to. The other reason is because if I fall asleep, this usually happens...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvaqZ4u7Om_04ANtRXVWjCxWpC_qwngG5T_GOi2FzLbtP0PMraEUche6TzzLC5BtiKDFO5v61hyphenhyphenlEch5I1JN3FA7ThBnQhdMrqvJG7mlKolBo8lyswL3_iTdIy2BgCphmHR6WXhA8-aFb/s1600/sleeping.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvaqZ4u7Om_04ANtRXVWjCxWpC_qwngG5T_GOi2FzLbtP0PMraEUche6TzzLC5BtiKDFO5v61hyphenhyphenlEch5I1JN3FA7ThBnQhdMrqvJG7mlKolBo8lyswL3_iTdIy2BgCphmHR6WXhA8-aFb/s1600/sleeping.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I know, isn't this attractive?</span></td></tr>
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3) We pack food and only stop for gas and emergency bathroom breaks. (I'm getting better at making pb&j on my lap.)<br />
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4) We pray together for at least part of the road trip (so feel free to send us prayer requests).<br />
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5) If we're flying, I am normally the anxious one up until I get to the gate. Mark stays cool, calm, and collected.<br />
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6) Neither of us can read as we tend to get motion sickness (so if you have leftover audio books, feel free to send them our way).<br />
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7) Mark always honks the horn when we enter a new state. (yes we're that car!)<br />
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8) If flying, Mark always talks to whoever is beside us. <br />
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9) When driving up north, I test the outside temperature by putting my hand on the window. If I jerk it back right away, it means I'm gonna freeze!<br />
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10) We pray at the start of our trip for safety and we praise God at the end when we've arrived. (a Momma Hooks tradition)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTiNwWXoDpAdjApEKICo8xVLf8IpYX24UgbxE0buHoYczxyEOTftRgfG3dudXxzO2dCIK0iGvKed209krOG4TOdcAAoD7rIrQru4ya2H92GIx6m61jv1snDYaax2QeG97h4PRsQ6H0KdW/s1600/van.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTiNwWXoDpAdjApEKICo8xVLf8IpYX24UgbxE0buHoYczxyEOTftRgfG3dudXxzO2dCIK0iGvKed209krOG4TOdcAAoD7rIrQru4ya2H92GIx6m61jv1snDYaax2QeG97h4PRsQ6H0KdW/s1600/van.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Thank you to the Wigleys for letting us borrow their 12-pass van while in MD!</span></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-46859553215074798252014-10-02T15:12:00.000-05:002014-10-02T15:13:45.208-05:00Prepare my heart Lord<div style="text-align: center;">
"Wherever you are, be all there." Jim Elliot</div>
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This quote periodically presents itself in my mind and usually it's in <b>BIG</b> <b><span style="color: red;">bright</span></b> letters so I can't miss it. As Mark and I begin to make decisions about traveling for the next several months, I'm reminded of this simple short phrase. It helps take away the sad feelings about leaving our house, neighborhood, city, friends, etc. It reminds me that while I'm in New Orleans, I need to treasure the time I have here (and not mope about the time we'll be gone). <br />
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It reminds me that wherever Mark and I go this fall, that <b>I GET to be in those places because God has made it possible</b>. So I want to value the time I spend traveling and keep my eyes open for where God is at work and praise Him for it. I do look forward to seeing friends and family and sharing about the vision God has given Mark and I for ministry. I'm excited to see how God will shape our hearts and the hearts of those we get to visit.<br />
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So I wrote up a list (with photos) of how thankful I am to have spent this last month in Louisiana:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGi9EA-izsjiXUrJPsIUgbLF-kqCLAtXVe_dufc5w-1dqOOKKJzJNSmsZpM_dvMKPw8_Zm2-r-S_RjHGp5ttaUXBDWzvK3otNMomQRtyUzU_bW8zerC7_I1__V4dAKWdfn_997Pya7dUi/s1600/IMG_9481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGi9EA-izsjiXUrJPsIUgbLF-kqCLAtXVe_dufc5w-1dqOOKKJzJNSmsZpM_dvMKPw8_Zm2-r-S_RjHGp5ttaUXBDWzvK3otNMomQRtyUzU_bW8zerC7_I1__V4dAKWdfn_997Pya7dUi/s1600/IMG_9481.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Spending quality time with my ReachGlobal Crisis Response staff (this was taken at our annual ministry planning meetings)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylLHmcMpY3dH2mfZ10N86ra-8ACFXX0YzRoFdu7FyGQhmroFNOfRrjigadvUcB0MI8UNhOsLexSfBc7wducoe4dyHfUjASq1jrdTu2mGzUy6MgEwkQz_cFcjuasGve10JCDIpIc_bK1JV/s1600/IMG_9490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylLHmcMpY3dH2mfZ10N86ra-8ACFXX0YzRoFdu7FyGQhmroFNOfRrjigadvUcB0MI8UNhOsLexSfBc7wducoe4dyHfUjASq1jrdTu2mGzUy6MgEwkQz_cFcjuasGve10JCDIpIc_bK1JV/s1600/IMG_9490.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Getting to visit this local Louisiana museum. We've also got to bike around the city several times (city park is a fav destination)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4ebiAgcufrX4e6K9tJ2oMlu7ngXVf1LuOGEcH0PEql3vjdIyYhFdjk8TkFZl1i220dbIP_8uGgYrF5id4f-4xmcEWj5T7AvE2MGRBg6rkQ0piGVim5kyzu4mXFiB3sGByOmKT5RW0hNQ/s1600/IMG_9509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4ebiAgcufrX4e6K9tJ2oMlu7ngXVf1LuOGEcH0PEql3vjdIyYhFdjk8TkFZl1i220dbIP_8uGgYrF5id4f-4xmcEWj5T7AvE2MGRBg6rkQ0piGVim5kyzu4mXFiB3sGByOmKT5RW0hNQ/s1600/IMG_9509.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My friend Haley and I helping out our friend Kim at her school's body walk for the elementary kids. I got to share about the heart; she was the lungs!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxIevb4TtOYqppwlvDoaTFie8QkSmhCXML7j0ULYQkfIWbD3jdm5nFFH6OS7oh7DB44v-uaarUv9PV3sfXmUo6cJSbUFzkYVDa6lEJGfog39wvz4HvqUa_99ku_2NDfBiofTLlpNJy-8v/s1600/IMG_9513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxIevb4TtOYqppwlvDoaTFie8QkSmhCXML7j0ULYQkfIWbD3jdm5nFFH6OS7oh7DB44v-uaarUv9PV3sfXmUo6cJSbUFzkYVDa6lEJGfog39wvz4HvqUa_99ku_2NDfBiofTLlpNJy-8v/s1600/IMG_9513.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Getting to celebrate birthdays. This is my friend Cortney who leads our womens' accountability group. Love her</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguG3Epc5y4kUycUvYQ3BmiuWc9aKlY__QXqb0Tbz-FtknVh9xw_-_JRffwkD-PMvvAd3lgttjstiyqsUevaWjt5kThWgxDVIrWTPTxAye8nmevxSppJwRJyUpQf8YValDRcd8BWF6q5qu-/s1600/IMG_9514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguG3Epc5y4kUycUvYQ3BmiuWc9aKlY__QXqb0Tbz-FtknVh9xw_-_JRffwkD-PMvvAd3lgttjstiyqsUevaWjt5kThWgxDVIrWTPTxAye8nmevxSppJwRJyUpQf8YValDRcd8BWF6q5qu-/s1600/IMG_9514.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Getting to have a PRD (personal retreat day) at starbucks! </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHjYzy0iqE15O-iTbLoF65I-QXKfj-LPc_SuqIAbgUWbd6Go2XvyQ4T_JB9NZkECgITqaH_75X6S2KE7Ohm2LShp4Hr7UcsATx6LpeNj0xTOOG9U9NFPNWqTJKF3P5N1JfJX_AniVJ3g1/s1600/IMG_9522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHjYzy0iqE15O-iTbLoF65I-QXKfj-LPc_SuqIAbgUWbd6Go2XvyQ4T_JB9NZkECgITqaH_75X6S2KE7Ohm2LShp4Hr7UcsATx6LpeNj0xTOOG9U9NFPNWqTJKF3P5N1JfJX_AniVJ3g1/s1600/IMG_9522.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Going on date nights with my hubby! (Yes we are creative.)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUb26UKU761CZgCq5sCexVJelN1dZmNBvqgGo0xQ45c9emHpGmQOgIIXfbMgLAvoPiGMNse3PcwtEzN1FZ66ecTNm5HMiSf4BNs_O-IeXWiIAfMgmdKMAQJrqeQkDcS9S6ASZcXSwtK-G/s1600/IMG_9530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUb26UKU761CZgCq5sCexVJelN1dZmNBvqgGo0xQ45c9emHpGmQOgIIXfbMgLAvoPiGMNse3PcwtEzN1FZ66ecTNm5HMiSf4BNs_O-IeXWiIAfMgmdKMAQJrqeQkDcS9S6ASZcXSwtK-G/s1600/IMG_9530.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mark and I babysitting baby Benjamin!! He's adorable!</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibn8AVcakaxJ1zyoKBiSRIP35dNZYP8RBlD79CCedTyNPsEKEn82uH8ryRefboKuhjxXCrSyLzLFpeIJzKiaipb6vhIBFy2GSPl7q0kve5DIerjAOYB2HL1wXBv0fig0VtW3b9ayfb7EZJ/s1600/IMG_9534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibn8AVcakaxJ1zyoKBiSRIP35dNZYP8RBlD79CCedTyNPsEKEn82uH8ryRefboKuhjxXCrSyLzLFpeIJzKiaipb6vhIBFy2GSPl7q0kve5DIerjAOYB2HL1wXBv0fig0VtW3b9ayfb7EZJ/s1600/IMG_9534.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUTBMIjylF7k4pYQf_kYC7W4BPK5uuZ-9IMJbMWZYWHtsquMLX6gvG8tsZ1kH9_fKlVJ6czAjbo6TUj81NGoCCWw1yHfWH4B7ydGAdnMy0e5XWkI1AeNjy1Q7H2Gn66N892F4y7IAq0fPh/s1600/IMG_9539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUTBMIjylF7k4pYQf_kYC7W4BPK5uuZ-9IMJbMWZYWHtsquMLX6gvG8tsZ1kH9_fKlVJ6czAjbo6TUj81NGoCCWw1yHfWH4B7ydGAdnMy0e5XWkI1AeNjy1Q7H2Gn66N892F4y7IAq0fPh/s1600/IMG_9539.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Getting to spend time on the N. shore! Mark was kind enough to let me make a video for our newsletter. (here's the <a href="http://eepurl.com/4ASML" target="_blank">link</a>)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit81pgwQEYElyiJIhE8-gUexr1kXW9ANtQ7uYlinxvzIX5msnbq7tpOo85ZGbzIvpedlx6x0lpOokTqre9WkTRyN7zIRQB-XG2sbDXzG2BTciMIWU8tf0ZCVuH-uOu-4IXpn3DXyt0xts6/s1600/IMG_9545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit81pgwQEYElyiJIhE8-gUexr1kXW9ANtQ7uYlinxvzIX5msnbq7tpOo85ZGbzIvpedlx6x0lpOokTqre9WkTRyN7zIRQB-XG2sbDXzG2BTciMIWU8tf0ZCVuH-uOu-4IXpn3DXyt0xts6/s1600/IMG_9545.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mark made me a heart pancake to celebrate our EIGHT monthiverisary! Isn't he the sweetest!</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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I am thankful to God for the time He has allowed us to be here in Louisiana. It's been encouraging to see friends often and attend our church Castle Rock on a regular basis. We'll have one more week here before our travels kick off (<span style="background-color: #3d85c6;">look out North Carolina, you first!</span>). I am praying for God to grow our dependence on Him and that He will provide in ways that only He can. I am praying for God to prepare my heart for whatever He has in store.<br />
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<i><span class="text Phil-4-10"><sup>"</sup>I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.</span> <span class="text Phil-4-11" id="en-ESV-29437"><sup class="versenum">11 </sup>Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.</span> <span class="text Phil-4-12" id="en-ESV-29438"><sup class="versenum">12 </sup>I
know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every
circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.</span> </i><span class="text Phil-4-13" id="en-ESV-29439"><i><sup class="versenum">13 </sup>I can do all things through him who strengthens me</i>." Philippians 4:10-13</span><br />
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<span class="text Phil-4-13" id="en-ESV-29439"><span class="text Matt-13-44"><span class="woj">“<i>The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then <b>in his joy</b> he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field</i>." Matthew 13:44 (bold added)</span></span></span><br />
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<span class="text Phil-4-13" id="en-ESV-29439"><i><span class="text Matt-13-44"><span class="woj"><span class="text Ps-57-7" id="en-ESV-14776">My heart is steadfast, O God,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-57-7">my heart is steadfast!</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-57-7">I will sing and make melody!</span> </span></span></i></span><br />
<span class="text Phil-4-13" id="en-ESV-29439"><span class="text Matt-13-44"><span class="woj">Psalm 57:7 </span></span> </span><br />
<span class="text Phil-4-13" id="en-ESV-29439"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-87511692025402451652014-09-25T16:20:00.002-05:002014-09-25T16:26:31.451-05:00The Beauty of Multiplication<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOgFctUK8UjQD5vu9pceVI1uyqwA9nWoEGBLOMeOb8BQ1FoTxFnFzwuNB9-98AS4ldK3fAJ0XQWS-aJHYuYQispvZl4Q1JmW0P-vcOnZ2iw8qOwpHCfeVph7MQFzgJ9hBPmpVH90WtGeU/s1600/malloryrep.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOgFctUK8UjQD5vu9pceVI1uyqwA9nWoEGBLOMeOb8BQ1FoTxFnFzwuNB9-98AS4ldK3fAJ0XQWS-aJHYuYQispvZl4Q1JmW0P-vcOnZ2iw8qOwpHCfeVph7MQFzgJ9hBPmpVH90WtGeU/s1600/malloryrep.JPG" height="300" width="400" /> </a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mallory representing Crisis Response wearing her blue staff shirt!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mallory, my summer intern, was asked to represent Crisis Response at her college fair day. Mallory is a senior at Greenville College. Usually I visit colleges to represent our ministry but thankfully, Mallory said yes, multiplying me from having to go. I asked Mallory how she felt before, during, and after the day. This is what she said:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Well before hand, I
was a little nervous because I felt that we were throwing everything together
last minute but that turned out great. During the afternoon talking to people I was excited, it was almost like
re-living the work I did this past summer and reminded me how I have grown
through just one summer (2 1/2 months) and how God really showed himself to me
through crisis response. I loved explaining what the volunteers do and what the
interns do as well. After everything was finished I felt accomplished.
<u><b>Accomplished not because there were a lot of people signed up, but because I
felt that it was God's way of telling me to share what I've learned</b></u>. </span></span></blockquote>
I'm so thankful Mallory took this chance to share with others about her summer because it reminded her that there were lessons God taught her. Having to retell her story over and over only reinforced those lessons more. <u>It reminded me of the beauty of stepping back and letting others step up. I'm not the only person God can use and that's a good thing.</u> Mallory had a chance to reflect through this opportunity and encourage others to step out in faith to see how God can use them on the mission field. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikz9ipK3_L6RJhyphenhyphenZsycOjc80lIyOdlEY-1ws2NlgFaNM7XwlkHLqLGekg9wjd4-DeRJ79V1ajvg9c9Ru4V3Dj5yvwdqvylefNaPQTmUP8IOjvskkiLL2SWmnSL294xr8ReSTyR3FnYJT2n/s1600/greenvillerep.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikz9ipK3_L6RJhyphenhyphenZsycOjc80lIyOdlEY-1ws2NlgFaNM7XwlkHLqLGekg9wjd4-DeRJ79V1ajvg9c9Ru4V3Dj5yvwdqvylefNaPQTmUP8IOjvskkiLL2SWmnSL294xr8ReSTyR3FnYJT2n/s1600/greenvillerep.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Professor Watterson and Jordan (former volunteers) joined Mallory in the recruiting efforts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Usually, I spend my fall months traveling to different colleges and
promoting Crisis Response internships. However, this fall is going to
look different as Mark and I travel not just to colleges, but to visit
friends and churches to pursue ministry partners for our long term work
with ReachGlobal. <u>Not sure how I was going to get the word out about
internships, God had it all worked out</u>. Praise be to God who knows our needs! <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkValP2R5pbEB_hhg8Wj1-8wkymkjB7hk2k5aj_QY5-hbVMMIN8tNliMobrQ8PqKnp99CJRHxQ7jf7VZs4mxHvbNRwo5gpNwEWi7OCo_GsebPVRvGdMRqfZGy91C2MOiJ_X_8_Wqw2g1j/s1600/malloryrep2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkValP2R5pbEB_hhg8Wj1-8wkymkjB7hk2k5aj_QY5-hbVMMIN8tNliMobrQ8PqKnp99CJRHxQ7jf7VZs4mxHvbNRwo5gpNwEWi7OCo_GsebPVRvGdMRqfZGy91C2MOiJ_X_8_Wqw2g1j/s1600/malloryrep2.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you would like more info on how you can be involved, feel free to contact me! <b>The beauty of multiplication is that it's the BODY of Christ at work, each in their own way, using the gifts and skills God has given them, and sharing from their hearts what the Lord has done! and that's beautiful </b>:)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-64859013734636441432014-08-22T14:27:00.002-05:002014-08-22T14:27:37.770-05:00Debrief: a series of questions about a completed mission or undertakingThis week I have the opportunity to type up the notes from my debriefing appointments with Emily, Mallory, and Jamie. Each debriefing took a good chunk of time but in all honesty, it should have. These young ladies didn't just give up one week of their lives to serve with ReachGlobal Crisis Response; they gave up two to 2.5 months (not to mention the time they put into the application process and support raising prior to arrival). I can only imagine how long their debriefing would've been if they had stayed for longer! <br />
<br />
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<br />
Each debriefing is geared to allow time to reflect on the internship. We ask questions like what did God teach you, what would you want us to change, what should we continue to do, etc. Then we take time to prepare them for their transition to the next phase of their lives. We talk about what a Biblical re-entry looks like and the potential roadblocks that will arise when they return home. We want to prepare them as best we can so they take a defensive stance and are ready for whatever could be thrown at them.<br />
<br />
I would hope and pray that the interns return home excited and willing to share everything about their time with us. If you are near someone who just returned home from a mission experience, please take the time to ask them about their experience. They want to share and they want someone to listen! I would also hope they would share how they grew in their walk with the Lord and where they saw God at work this summer. <br />
<br />
I pray the interns return home and experience:<br />
-seeking God's will for their life with new intensity<br />
-excited about finding new ways (or recommitting themselves) to reach out and/or use newly discovered abilities<br />
-assessing their gifts and passions<br />
-excited about new spiritual disciplines - prayer, Bible reading, fasting, new worship styles...<br />
<br />
Lord, please be with the interns who just returned home from serving you in ministry this summer. Lord please continue to fan into flame their love for you and their love for others. Give them a hunger and thirst for you and your Word. Keep them safe from the enemy who wants to pull them back into their old routines that didn't glorify you and who wants to take the lessons you taught them this summer. Keep their eyes fixed on You Lord and how they can be the light to those around them. Please provide Godly friendships and a local body of believers for them to learn, serve and grow with. I know I can't be there in person but Lord you are with them always! You have their backs! As much as I want to be with them in this next phase of their life journeys, I cannot, but I can always trust You with them. Lord, give them wisdom about decisions they need to make, give them peace about whatever uncertainties lie ahead, give them your comfort during hard times, and give them a desire to set the example for the next generation of Christ followers. In Jesus's name I pray, AMEN! <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-64127404373865160342014-08-05T16:25:00.001-05:002014-08-05T17:17:21.380-05:00The Best Thing For Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKtaetIwJk-hjSDRufpnGHjZ8nNadifW4wjuchfHEF2TDAXNSrhn4edVkDwwnkB2kVMumcq6BayFg4tP7xFcqaAAYcvWtB8i3zGCtVc8hIlfHprpzk2rIlVwZolXG8DWbLTm9LOanTW9Y/s640/blogger-image--1819854767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKtaetIwJk-hjSDRufpnGHjZ8nNadifW4wjuchfHEF2TDAXNSrhn4edVkDwwnkB2kVMumcq6BayFg4tP7xFcqaAAYcvWtB8i3zGCtVc8hIlfHprpzk2rIlVwZolXG8DWbLTm9LOanTW9Y/s640/blogger-image--1819854767.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Well that's it. Last week ended and it's now a new week. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Jamie and Mallory are off to school and Emily leaves tomorrow for Staten Island. How is it that the summers go faster every year? </span><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRlUNafz36yGDNKs9jQ4ktMml-2y0Clf7CRcTBYRGEJYMzHVfFR8uSyBkerGfrrvHT7uUy_Lds97nEirPPJO_5AAvYQacqWpGycbKBbvQK2diivvEiZ0Gj5mnMimIs_mE6v3CGc8wkWY_/s640/blogger-image-1074966438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRlUNafz36yGDNKs9jQ4ktMml-2y0Clf7CRcTBYRGEJYMzHVfFR8uSyBkerGfrrvHT7uUy_Lds97nEirPPJO_5AAvYQacqWpGycbKBbvQK2diivvEiZ0Gj5mnMimIs_mE6v3CGc8wkWY_/s640/blogger-image-1074966438.jpg"></a></div></font><div><br></div><div>I praise God for how He has moved in the lives of these young ladies. Through them, I was reminded that if you're willing to <i><b>step out in faith</b></i>, God can do things, move things, reveal things, and give you things you were never expecting. I have to stop looking at circumstances with my two little eyes and start trusting God that He knows what He's doing even when I don't know what the outcome will be. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoC3OsnnQy1wYXQMIsyfZOVBhz9NiyhinvIYKqI0ebHfeuFPFhHthNA_549RAsXBn6DMxdGKE337FYD71ZoHgHCLKweBzEb622iFuIuYZ9kbzxAraSpKp0nribJOGvQdeuF7gKT-T-F-h/s640/blogger-image--2099622769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoC3OsnnQy1wYXQMIsyfZOVBhz9NiyhinvIYKqI0ebHfeuFPFhHthNA_549RAsXBn6DMxdGKE337FYD71ZoHgHCLKweBzEb622iFuIuYZ9kbzxAraSpKp0nribJOGvQdeuF7gKT-T-F-h/s640/blogger-image--2099622769.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>I was reminded of <b><i>DIVINE ENERGY!</i></b> Too often I rely too much on myself (wow if that's not the understatement of the century). The girls and I had to persevere through some hard, long, tiring days and we knew it was only because of energy supplied from God that we made it through. I don't want to rely on myself but there's definitely the battle to try. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5OVtVEvBcHc94QQ6-UYLN4-EkrSYuJzN5sAyO_SrWyHS1W2JArxzo3Lv6I6tzg_F87ExSBobBr4AIDl6YZn9Wo7H4ws4PboeBckcI7X2tttbQ4jSI4SDA0-2hVHecS80kS-yYh5wjLCD/s640/blogger-image-1526385403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5OVtVEvBcHc94QQ6-UYLN4-EkrSYuJzN5sAyO_SrWyHS1W2JArxzo3Lv6I6tzg_F87ExSBobBr4AIDl6YZn9Wo7H4ws4PboeBckcI7X2tttbQ4jSI4SDA0-2hVHecS80kS-yYh5wjLCD/s640/blogger-image-1526385403.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>I like how these two reminders are connected. Stepping out in faith means you are doing something that isn't completely visible to you. So you have no idea what to expect and in order to stay faithful til the end, you need His divine energy. Praise God that He wants to supply us with energy! Praise God that He gives us opportunities to step out in faith. He doesn't reveal the whole plan, but He does want to lead us and guide us.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfhZZNEEwZlni4eZAAU_PQDRoNEtVjvfZw4V_CsstuHwz8nworkfMefeFmK99R-gWD2ydql1hWA6PbC0iRrTy8aB_vaC7GteQLrupTeUIvKsLKRWQEZKWpVoQgE0_3nr_QZD-06wbW-jti/s640/blogger-image-1378686313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfhZZNEEwZlni4eZAAU_PQDRoNEtVjvfZw4V_CsstuHwz8nworkfMefeFmK99R-gWD2ydql1hWA6PbC0iRrTy8aB_vaC7GteQLrupTeUIvKsLKRWQEZKWpVoQgE0_3nr_QZD-06wbW-jti/s640/blogger-image-1378686313.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>I prayed at the beginning of this summer that God "<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><em>reminds me <u>every day</u> that the most important thing I can do as a leader today is to <u>keep seeking God</u> in depths of my own soul - <u>no matter what it costs</u></em>." Granted I can't say it happened everyday but most days I knew the <i>best thing for me</i> and the girls was for me to keep seeking the Lord. He met me in ways I didn't expect that spoke straight to my soul and for that I thank God for this summer. Thank you Jamie, Mallory, and Emily for pushing me closer to Christ! Love y'all and praying y'all rely on His divine energy as you step out in faith! </span></div></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28yefWo7OxBmscqrpBX1olq6c-oi7ghP28ezk0Pf4keLuI1SUT4eqJwPTyR_2zyUKssrHkJKXTHjdzPXFoIzx_7-FGeKtiL9uAtoGxTO295y4JzCaxi8nXCKRIPKvHMlS17XyokV6pVdr/s640/blogger-image-1977388702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28yefWo7OxBmscqrpBX1olq6c-oi7ghP28ezk0Pf4keLuI1SUT4eqJwPTyR_2zyUKssrHkJKXTHjdzPXFoIzx_7-FGeKtiL9uAtoGxTO295y4JzCaxi8nXCKRIPKvHMlS17XyokV6pVdr/s640/blogger-image-1977388702.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-46135641824752953522014-07-27T22:51:00.000-05:002014-07-27T22:51:45.369-05:00One More WeekThis week is the "One More Week" week.<br />
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It's one more week of volunteer teams in New Orleans for the summer. I praise God for the volunteers that have come to serve here this summer. It's been 9 years since Katrina so I know it's because of God's provision and answer to prayers that we still have teams coming. I'm excited to serve alongside Grace Community Church who I've known since 2008! <br />
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On the flipside, please pray for the homeowners whose homes will still sit unfinished because this is indeed, the last week of teams for a while. Please pray God's peace over them and they continue to trust God with His perfect timing. I ask you to join us in praying for more workers for this harvest field and consider coming down to help!<br />
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It's one more week for all three interns to be all together in one place. Jamie and Mallory leave this weekend. Emily will leave next Wednesday for Staten Island to finish out her internship. I praise God for bringing these ladies here this summer. My heart is happy to see how much God has grown them and how they have strived to serve each other and love each other as Christ does. God is doing an amazing work in their lives. I can't wait to watch their interviews again just to remind myself of why it is I do what I do. I got to hear phrases like: "I grew in my relationship with Christ," "the staff became like family," and "ministering to others actually ministered to me." <br />
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Please pray for the interns as they finish out their internship and pray for them as they transition to what God has in store for them next.<br />
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It's also one more week until I see my BFF Allie B!! I can't wait to see her! <br />
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And last but not least, it's one more week until Mark and I celebrate our SIX MONTHIVERSARY!!! I praise God for six months of marriage! I'm so thankful to have such an amazing husband who loves the Lord and loves me too.<br />
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Praising God for this "one more week." I hope you enjoy this week too!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-4831757269784995912014-07-01T09:13:00.000-05:002014-07-01T09:14:15.864-05:00Marrying a Manning Means...I was thinking the other day about how marriage has changed my life. I was your typical single gal who led by the LORD went throughout her day doing whatever was on her list of things for that day. Have coffee with this person, go for a run, send out that email, return those phone calls, schedule that meeting, travel to this state this week, another country another week, and so on. I didn't have to think about another person and his schedule.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEptYOQ9UxU2QhztlBav9dZqx4yrsBLEmamYJ81q61vqLQXIb1NU2Z40yVa-5jxYxyO-8QsUcprz9a8NcmQazs62PaGJSl9GA2zNooMWxTOPTkYMrLeUag08clo7IjHTBC6zOHISAL-3H/s1600/Mark+Kt+house+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEptYOQ9UxU2QhztlBav9dZqx4yrsBLEmamYJ81q61vqLQXIb1NU2Z40yVa-5jxYxyO-8QsUcprz9a8NcmQazs62PaGJSl9GA2zNooMWxTOPTkYMrLeUag08clo7IjHTBC6zOHISAL-3H/s1600/Mark+Kt+house+2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
I think one of the biggest things that has changed for me is that when Mark gets home from work at the end of the day, I stop working. If you don't know, I have the luxury of working from home when I'm not traveling and when I was single, I could keep working through my take-out dinner and into the wee hours of the night (okay or 10pm because I'm old and can't stay up late anymore). And when interns are around, I can hang out with them all day and all night!<br />
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Mark for me has been my physical presence of putting aside my work and focusing on something else, my husband! I'm not at all upset about this just so you know. I LOVE when Mark gets home! Yes we are still in the newlywed stage, celebrating 5 months today of married bliss.<br />
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For me, marrying a Manning means I now have better boundaries. Whatever doesn't get done before he gets home can wait until tomorrow. It's really okay to stop. I'm not saying that working long hours is wrong, but for me, I could see how if I'm not careful with putting aside work, I could neglect my husband which would NOT be good. I'm even seeing that now with having interns here. I'm asking God for wisdom on how to have a healthy balance between spending time with interns and spending time with my husband.<br />
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Marrying Mark has shown me that my life doesn't revolve around my work anyway. <b>My life should and always revolve around Christ.</b> The verse in Colossians says: "When Christ, who is your life appears..." So yes, Christ is my life and He has given me Mark to remind me that work is not what defines me, Christ is EVERYTHING and I need to keep Christ at the center of my life, my work, and my marriage!<br />
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So if you're reading this and your single, thinking that someday when you're married you'll put boundaries on work, just be careful. Creating the habit now to put work aside, focus on the people around you, and <u>find your identity in your relationship with Christ</u> will help you 1000000x to keep Christ the priority and prepare you for marriage.<br />
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<i><span class="text Col-3-1">"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.</span> <span class="text Col-3-2" id="en-ESV-29503">Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.</span> <span class="text Col-3-3" id="en-ESV-29504">For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.</span> </i><span class="text Col-3-4" id="en-ESV-29505"><i><b>When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory</b>." </i>Colossians 3:1-4</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-46931217608475877872014-06-21T14:25:00.001-05:002014-06-21T14:25:04.597-05:00I don't want to be the same when I leave...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMlnkdDXjBOVMyd9c7YHSGBPoWQJyvE2pCNkYYxFwY3iZEFL6DHlUskP86j5SDOvB2v5MZkgNFn8PnfhFwfc9YmWQAe3AdaRZ7AJgZTHboC-snbKkc7cFn9vApAPDvVPXzqNIx0eKLfUT/s1600/intern+photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMlnkdDXjBOVMyd9c7YHSGBPoWQJyvE2pCNkYYxFwY3iZEFL6DHlUskP86j5SDOvB2v5MZkgNFn8PnfhFwfc9YmWQAe3AdaRZ7AJgZTHboC-snbKkc7cFn9vApAPDvVPXzqNIx0eKLfUT/s1600/intern+photo.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jamie, Emily, and Mallory working at Ms. Dorothy's</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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One of the many blessings of my role with the ministry is getting to walk alongside and mentor the interns who give up their time, move to Louisiana, and serve with us!<br />
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This summer I have the privilege of being surrounded by three young women who are seeking the LORD and desiring to serve Him. Their names are Emily, Mallory, and Jamie. <br />
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When I asked them the question "Where do you see yourself at the end of the summer?" The general consensus was: <b>"I don't want to be the same when I leave..." </b> What did they mean by that? They want to strengthen their personal walk with the LORD, they want to be stretched out of their comfort zone, they want to experience God in new ways, and they want to show the love of Christ to those in need. They want to be forever changed by this summer experience that when they go back home, people see a noticeable difference.<br />
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<u>Please join me in praying for them</u>. We have taken time to get to know each other, explore our strengths and wiring so we understand each other better, and served as a team on Ms. Dorothy's home. We were able to move Ms. Dorothy into her bedroom after sleeping on a couch for a year and a half. Praise the LORD. They have been able to meet two of the local church planters and hear how God called them into ministry. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7mH8RMS8sjCTyPOxeFOIAS6XIwIWndfoeg33LkNb11YBJhCYm-2AdFzWt5YiVuYvGnBqvwe5P0x1g-At8N9mBpsUq3xxoi09D3LUEZLgkAAKzz5uNZmazavNR2tj9mEFewmS17YaIv-G/s1600/gator+intern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7mH8RMS8sjCTyPOxeFOIAS6XIwIWndfoeg33LkNb11YBJhCYm-2AdFzWt5YiVuYvGnBqvwe5P0x1g-At8N9mBpsUq3xxoi09D3LUEZLgkAAKzz5uNZmazavNR2tj9mEFewmS17YaIv-G/s1600/gator+intern.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Me, Mallory, Jamie, and Emily experiencing a Louisiana swamp tour</span></td></tr>
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Another God praise: The girls have found a weekly church sand volleyball league where they have made friends with other young adults. This week we have volunteers so they will be immersed in meeting volunteers and seeing how the ministry focuses on transforming volunteers while they serve. God is doing great things and we have to give Him all the glory, honor, and praise for what He will do this summer!<br />
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<span class="p">Our memory verse:</span><br />
<br /><i>"The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed
me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the
brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from
darkness for the prisoners..."</i><span class="p"> Isaiah 61:1</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-16809924855185169172014-05-26T16:47:00.000-05:002014-05-26T16:47:05.544-05:00SacrificesFirst off, I want to thank all the men and women of the US Military who have served or are serving and have sacrificed so much, even their lives, for the freedoms we enjoy in this country. Thank you for your dedication and sacrifice! <br />
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I was reading a lecture today where the author wrote how he had been offered a less paying job but it would be writing for the political party he was so passionate about. He took the job; however, with getting paid less, he realized he couldn't support his cigarette addiction anymore and gave up smoking. He wrote, "that sort of sacrifice which the party demanded of me was perfectly normal, and it seemed perfectly normal of me to accept it."<br />
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It got me thinking about the sacrifices I've made to be where I am today. Granted I didn't have to give up a cigarette addiction but I had sacrifices. I don't live close to my family. I live in a cultural that I'm not used to. I travel quite a bit (or used to before marriage). I have a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry and would be getting paid more if I used that degree. However, I have peace about where God has me today!<br />
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The sort of sacrifices which God demands of me is perfectly normal and I can honestly say, it seemed perfectly normal of me to accept it. God gave us His Son Jesus! Jesus sacrificed his place in heaven to come to earth, to be born in a manger, to show and share His love to a crowd that would eventually betray Him, and then ultimately, He sacrificed His life so that we could be set free from sins and restored into a right relationship with God. After that kind of sacrifice, I think it's only normal for me to sacrifice my plans for my life and surrender my life, walking in obedience to the plans God has for me. I hope you see it as normal as I do.<br />
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<span class="text Heb-10-19">"<i>Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place <b>by the blood of Jesus</b>,</i></span><i> <span class="text Heb-10-20" id="en-NIV-30154">by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body,</span><span class="text Heb-10-21" id="en-NIV-30155"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>and since we have a great priest over the house of God,</span> <span class="text Heb-10-22" id="en-NIV-30156">let us <b>draw near to God</b> with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.</span><span class="text Heb-10-23" id="en-NIV-30157"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.</span><span class="text Heb-10-24" id="en-NIV-30158"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,</span><sup> </sup><span class="text Heb-10-25" id="en-NIV-30159">not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.</span>"</i> Hebrews 10:19-25<br />
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"God's grace operates in the same fashion today--not just for salvation but for all of life. He offers the inconceivable to the unworthy and withholds the expected from the deserving. Faith is not a system of proving our worthiness to Him, but the unadorned reception of what He offers focusing not on the strength of the receiver, but on the character of the giver." Stokes, <i>Grace Under Pressure</i>, p.14Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-26522855678419971162014-05-15T10:58:00.000-05:002014-05-15T10:58:06.267-05:00Keeping My Eyes Open!One thing I have been reflecting on since our trip up north is that when we were there, we saw God at work everywhere, even in the tiny details! We saw Him in the people we met, the conversations we had, the places He put us, God was in it all! We saw people's eyes opened to the Gospel and we had a willingness to step out of our comfort zones to talk to people we had never met.<br />
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So coming back home to New Orleans, I was wondering, is God at work here? I know He is at work but it's harder to see here on my home turf. Maybe it's because I'm back to my normal routine, working, seeing friends, going to church, getting groceries, and I'm not looking for Him to be in those places. But again, I know He's here. He's everywhere and He's intentional with His plans so I know He's working around me to see those plans come to fruition. <br />
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Maybe you know what I'm talking about. When we go on a mission trip, we're expecting God to be there, to use us, to work in amazing ways and yet, we don't have that same expectation of the same God when we're at home in our day to day lives. I'm definitely feeling convicted about this and that I should have these expectations everywhere I am and especially here in my city. <br />
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I have been challenged to look for God right where I am. And sure enough, God provided a framing job for Mark the week we got back from our trip. And even though his car is broke down, God has provided the vehicles he's needed for the job and for us to get around. We're continuing to build relationships with our neighbors even though they don't sit out on their front porches like most of New Orleans neighbors. I'm thankful every time I catch a neighbor outside (oh yes I'm serious). But I know God is doing more and even though I can't see it, I have to trust that He is at work. I need to expect God to work and keep my eyes open to seeing Him at work. I know I can't see everything He's up to with my two little eyes but I have to keep looking.<br />
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Seeing God at work, catching Him in the tiny details, turns into adoration and praise to God. It reminds me that my day to day life is not about me but all about HIM! It reminds me that God is bigger than me and He has a plan!<br />
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<i><span class="text Acts-17-26" id="en-NIV-27550">"and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.</span> </i><span class="text Acts-17-27" id="en-NIV-27551"><i>God did this so that <b>they would seek him</b> and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us."</i> </span></div>
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<span class="text Acts-17-27" id="en-NIV-27551">Acts 17:26b-27</span></div>
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<span class="text Acts-17-27" id="en-NIV-27551"></span><i><span class="text Isa-55-8" id="en-NIV-18749">“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Isa-55-8">neither are your ways my ways,”</span></span><br /><span class="right"><span class="text Isa-55-8">declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>.</span></span><span class="text Isa-55-9" id="en-NIV-18750"></span></i></div>
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<i><span class="text Isa-55-9" id="en-NIV-18750">"As the heavens are higher than the earth,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Isa-55-9">so are my ways higher than your ways</span></span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Isa-55-9">and my thoughts than your thoughts."</span></span></i></div>
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<span class="indent-1"><span class="text Isa-55-9">Isaiah 55:8-9</span></span><i><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Isa-55-9"> </span></span></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-52389300990198985392014-05-06T16:26:00.000-05:002014-05-06T16:26:01.702-05:00A Story To TellSo much happened over our first mission/vision trip that I don't know where to start. We were blessed with safe travels, places to sleep, food to eat, car to drive, and work to join. More importantly, God allowed us to hear stories of how He has transformed lives. Here are a few examples of God at work in the lives of people in the mission field that follows crisis.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEW JERSEY UPDATE</b></span><br />
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<b>HOMEOWNER</b><br />
The team served at Ms. Rosie's home which was completely devastated by Sandy (pic below). Rosie shared her story of the storm and her life since then. Through these difficult trials, she has recently started attending Beacon Church and learning more about God and the hope of Christ. The team's presence at Ms. Rosie's home encouraged her that she was not forgotten and that someday she'd be restored to her home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiBpwLbjOX8kS-2DyKMI07F_qHFcPdrK45rcprbMwy5XBxnUyKFmxDJQwayLvKTujCc4jJJj-cqBnnrGSk6ZYHRbCTjNytxXgEOgYJhwFRvqVV99dPiSyBgeBCmwwc_YnVxaNIcuai2UA/s1600/rosieteam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiBpwLbjOX8kS-2DyKMI07F_qHFcPdrK45rcprbMwy5XBxnUyKFmxDJQwayLvKTujCc4jJJj-cqBnnrGSk6ZYHRbCTjNytxXgEOgYJhwFRvqVV99dPiSyBgeBCmwwc_YnVxaNIcuai2UA/s1600/rosieteam.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>VOLUNTEER</b><br />
Mark and I also had the pleasure of hearing the testimony of one of the volunteers serving in NJ. He told us how he had come to point of crisis in his own life due to drugs, alcohol, etc. He said he literally heard the voice of God calling out to him and he had to find out who was speaking to Him. Thankfully God had put believers in his life who pointed him to Jesus and to the cross. He surrendered his life only a few years ago to the Lord and is fired up to share his new addiction of Jesus Christ to anyone he meets! <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEW YORK UPDATE</b></span><br />
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<b>HOMEOWNER</b><br />
In New York, we had a team come from Utah and immediately they formed friendships with their homeowners, Ms. Anna and Ms. Lily (pic below). After an all day rain on Wednesday, Anna's basement had flooded and Ms. Lily was sure that her basement had flooded as well. Turns out Lily's basement didn't flood which inspired her to go out and help those who were. Lily was no longer just a recipient of help but now she was a giver too!<br />
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<b>VOLUNTEER</b><br />
Mark and I also had the chance to share the love of Christ with a volunteer who came to serve in New York who was there but didn't know why. She wasn't a believer but felt this was something she needed to do. After spending a week serving alongside our staff and volunteers, God began to open her eyes to His truth and love. This past Sunday, she committed her life to following Jesus Christ. She has told me that "The whole trip was such an amazing experience. God wanted me there for a reason and now I know why." PRAISE THE LORD!!<br />
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<b>COMMUNITY MEMBER</b><br />
We had the chance to meet a man
named Aiman who has started a relief center where his house once stood.
He started where he was with what he had! Praise the LORD for his
obedience! You can read more of his story on our <a href="http://reachglobalcrisisresponse.wordpress.com/2014/05/05/a-half-table-response/" target="_blank">Crisis Response Blog</a>!<br />
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I hope these stories encourage your hearts and remind you that God is at work everywhere! He's in the huge life changing moments and in the small day-to-day moments! Take some time this week to see where He's at work and praise Him for it!<br />
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"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, </div>
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The name of the LORD is to be praised."</div>
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Psalm 113:3 </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-41752577767501062482014-04-21T10:56:00.000-05:002014-04-21T10:56:52.712-05:00The Mannings First Mission & Vision Trip Mark and I will be headed up to New Jersey and New York starting this Wednesday April 24th and will return Saturday May 3rd to serve in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Yes two years later, there are still homeowners waiting to get back in their homes.<br />
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I'm calling this the Mannings first mission & vision trip for a number of reasons: <br />
<br />
1) We will be<b> serving alongside <a href="http://go.efca.org/ministries/reachglobal/crisis-response" target="_blank">Crisis Response</a></b> who is partnering with <a href="http://go.efca.org/opportunities/ways-serve/hurricane-sandy-response-nj" target="_blank">Beacon EFC of NJ</a> and <a href="http://go.efca.org/opportunities/ways-serve/hurricane-sandy-response-ny" target="_blank">Salem EFC of Staten Island</a>; Mark as a jobsite supervisor to the volunteer teams and I will be serving the volunteer coordinators, Jen & Kat, as their assistant and helping anyway I can.<br />
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2) This will be a <b>cross-cultural experience</b> for Mark and I as he's a midwest country boy and I'm a southern city girl. We're looking forward to seeing how big God is and how He is at work in these places.<br />
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3) Mark and I have decided to <b>pursue the long term application process</b> with <a href="http://go.efca.org/ministries/reachglobal" target="_blank">ReachGlobal</a>! This trip up to the northeast will<b> </b>continue to give us vision for how Mark and I can serve as a married couple with ReachGlobal Crisis Response.<br />
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4) Mark and I will <b>get to share with <a href="http://www.bethlehemchurch.org/" target="_blank">Bethlehem Church</a></b> in NJ on Sunday April 27th. Please pray for us as we share in both services, with the mission council, and with the youth group how God is at work in the ministry and in our lives. Please pray that God would speak through us to encourage this church body of how their partnership has been vital to furthering God's Kingdom purposes.<br />
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You can stay tuned on how things are going on the blog. If you are in the area, give us a call or email! We'd love to see you! <br />
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God bless yall!<br />
Mark & Katie :)<br />
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PRAY. GIVE. GO. NEWSLETTER.<br />
Thank you for praying for us as we head out on this pioneer trip! Click <a href="https://my.efca.org/NetCommunity/SSLPage.aspx?pid=359&des=Katie%20Manning%201762" target="_blank">give</a> if you'd like to give towards our travel expenses. Click <a href="http://go.efca.org/ministries/reachglobal/crisis-response" target="_blank">go</a> if you'd like more info on how you and your church can come serve with Crisis Response. Click <a href="http://touchglobal.us2.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=09a92aa0f0cdc1e3a2763bac1&id=9f6547ae3e" target="_blank">newsletter</a> to sign up for our newsletter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi706zOdTh74XH9p_INPZFDSuK6sd2vCJPfSL765tOYJiLm78iQgOwH-06t15uCAJaRxytQWDNVeOaR0kMhuLzdewhpmPh0WVMsTij46Al6bYyUEkH76nfrCr9hmbP9pUGTTumQZOF8UyLr/s1600/easter+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi706zOdTh74XH9p_INPZFDSuK6sd2vCJPfSL765tOYJiLm78iQgOwH-06t15uCAJaRxytQWDNVeOaR0kMhuLzdewhpmPh0WVMsTij46Al6bYyUEkH76nfrCr9hmbP9pUGTTumQZOF8UyLr/s1600/easter+photo.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Happy Resurrection Sunday from Mark & Katie Manning!</span></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-34074748984127128332014-04-01T15:36:00.001-05:002014-04-01T15:36:20.509-05:00Spring Break..well that went fast!Well we have had our two weeks of college spring break teams and I must say, that went by FAST! Thank you to all the students who came to serve from Greenville College, Dordt College, University of Northwestern - St Paul, Southwest Baptist University, and John Brown University. We praise God for you and we are now praying for you as you continue to grow in your walk back on campus!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwBZ7tWkkEzYDL6Firhid8Q8gn73OmAMe2xquNa_-6NUBXu-Egin8OWFx0KIAmlWCWeTsQAQG92_-lHNJ6SdxQbWxA46h3-2XRm4Imgfc8N596bkilCCsveKuS3bErdQM2hD2jjvQSQn7/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwBZ7tWkkEzYDL6Firhid8Q8gn73OmAMe2xquNa_-6NUBXu-Egin8OWFx0KIAmlWCWeTsQAQG92_-lHNJ6SdxQbWxA46h3-2XRm4Imgfc8N596bkilCCsveKuS3bErdQM2hD2jjvQSQn7/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southwest Baptist and John Brown University (notice the 3 jumping in the back! haha!)</td></tr>
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<u><b>Here are some praises and prayer requests from the month of March:</b></u><br />
<br />
<b>Praise:</b> Getting to work alongside some awesome students who wanted to serve God and serve the community<br />
<br />
<b>Prayer: </b>For these students back at home and in school to still LIVE ON MISSION for God no matter where they are<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnMyG291JEgpZMuGAKbKnTuC6rdpkP8UmD7bn-RjG53Jdom_ELWrLPaKOTTjnmSJXfbN8ZVvE6lsgTVKyAGT1tYDCnh61TvM24DUck1o8qBDgBqWzfjPThBMJvyGOMf-69b71bB3ug5ZUe/s1600/sarahabbie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnMyG291JEgpZMuGAKbKnTuC6rdpkP8UmD7bn-RjG53Jdom_ELWrLPaKOTTjnmSJXfbN8ZVvE6lsgTVKyAGT1tYDCnh61TvM24DUck1o8qBDgBqWzfjPThBMJvyGOMf-69b71bB3ug5ZUe/s1600/sarahabbie.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abbie and Sarah used to serve with their youth group now they are serving in college! Love them!</td></tr>
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<b>Praise</b>: Being reunited with college students who have come before. My girl Stacie has come every spring break since she was a freshman and now she's a senior! They sure do grow up fast!<br />
<br />
<b>Prayer:</b> For all the graduating seniors as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. Pray for God's direction and guidance as they step out into the "real world."<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4QzkctsT_G76WXgItt03AfS7y4qHnWJmTmOwhObHkPj81bdzAWKrly60LX9xAIE56dSVUrO452X3jXABSv_PT3Kj6nHtxYNULlZ81i8CoqZcojLeWg7LLVsmLR8TuwsjKORkvMdYSutqy/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4QzkctsT_G76WXgItt03AfS7y4qHnWJmTmOwhObHkPj81bdzAWKrly60LX9xAIE56dSVUrO452X3jXABSv_PT3Kj6nHtxYNULlZ81i8CoqZcojLeWg7LLVsmLR8TuwsjKORkvMdYSutqy/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erica and Stacie have been here before! Stacie is graduating this year! We pray our paths cross again soon!</td></tr>
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<b>Praise</b>: We have two new summer interns accepted into the program! Please welcome Andy and Jamie!! There are also two guys Nathan and Jordan who will serve with us for part of the summer! Praise the LORD!<br />
<br />
<b>Prayer</b>: For the interns who are now in the support raising phase. Please pray that God would raise up their ministry partners!<br />
<br />
<b>Praise</b>: Mark had a great time serving with the teams! He really enjoys working alongside them, training them how to do construction, going on prayer walks, and talking with homeowners!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBrtAR_eIUHsl6CpEmtzx1b2sD0qgzJw4zrylWyGcBSEaGM6VVFc5_W-wyoDpY8E74zFy_Dc8whjp5fRH74xuvfVE0t6Cq7pkDVyx5fWAYyF2b_xWuL8PPFPeYtF_GD8SxK7_HX07Aj2CL/s1600/univnwstp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBrtAR_eIUHsl6CpEmtzx1b2sD0qgzJw4zrylWyGcBSEaGM6VVFc5_W-wyoDpY8E74zFy_Dc8whjp5fRH74xuvfVE0t6Cq7pkDVyx5fWAYyF2b_xWuL8PPFPeYtF_GD8SxK7_HX07Aj2CL/s1600/univnwstp.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark and I with the Northwestern team! Yeah I think we all got along great! :)</td></tr>
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<b>Prayer:</b> For my Mark, as he seeks God's will for how to use his skills and gifts to serve the LORD! <br />
<br />
<b>Praise</b>: For the relationships built with the students who had never been here before. I love seeing "newbys" come and get a feel for the people of New Orleans and all that God is doing here! They are awesome!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCTYsxDaKTHrXixpEuxrBeM1H5PybhtMWMzasUY7Dyb7dCZqbbYB7G37TU4n2INGBI0kMg3JDPek-QeU9IqxC3Ju6az9InA9odO5dlSg7NMu_Z3SY-OT8N4fWAK-MDVXEUxqMGx6DoLA7s/s1600/dordtgreenville.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCTYsxDaKTHrXixpEuxrBeM1H5PybhtMWMzasUY7Dyb7dCZqbbYB7G37TU4n2INGBI0kMg3JDPek-QeU9IqxC3Ju6az9InA9odO5dlSg7NMu_Z3SY-OT8N4fWAK-MDVXEUxqMGx6DoLA7s/s1600/dordtgreenville.jpg" height="290" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greenville and Dordt colleges united after a week of serving together! Love the CommUNITY! :)</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>Prayer</b>: For me!! I now need to follow up with some of these interested interns to see if God is guiding them to serve with us in the future! <br />
<br />
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog! Thank you for taking the time to praise God for all He's done and all that He will do!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-32226404363101984922014-03-14T12:42:00.002-05:002014-03-14T12:42:48.931-05:00Why I like Share Time...Every Thursday night, we gather the teams together after dinner and we simply ask them to share with the group something they were encouraged by this week, reminded of, or challenged by. Being on staff with Crisis Response, it can be wearisome to see fewer houses being rebuilt, fewer people coming to Christ, and fewer volunteers coming than before. So for me personally, I like share time because it reminds me that God is ALWAYS at work and He has us here for a reason! It reminds me that we're still here serving because there is still a great need in this city for the Gospel to transform people's lives and for them to be physically restored to their homes. We're still here because God is continuing to use a storm to transform the lives of those coming to serve!<br />
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Here are a few examples of what was said last night in share time by our volunteers:<br />
<br />
1) thankfulness for the unity among the different volunteer teams. Everyone is from all over with different backgrounds and experiences and yet because of Christ we are one!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsYaFX26Z96SsbkuaF6BUlnCv35ggBYdfEr6jv3y9bI16g7zzd2w4aLNcOmippPFilSjifLJBwgDuxAwVkqoJxSSQNHIumO64iXIiAVP72R11F8X1I64bDiPOeZ9fXAkwpXBkDRBrYBQl/s1600/greenville_dordt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsYaFX26Z96SsbkuaF6BUlnCv35ggBYdfEr6jv3y9bI16g7zzd2w4aLNcOmippPFilSjifLJBwgDuxAwVkqoJxSSQNHIumO64iXIiAVP72R11F8X1I64bDiPOeZ9fXAkwpXBkDRBrYBQl/s1600/greenville_dordt.jpg" height="290" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greenville and Dordt Colleges united!</td></tr>
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2) thankfulness for team members and how they were able to be a family<br />
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3) reminded to be thankful for what they do have<br />
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4) enjoyed going on prayer walks because usually when I go on a walk, I'm only thinking about myself and my own problems...it was nice to go on a prayer walk where I was looking out for others and asking God what to pray for in the community<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtioTRMHVa2H1dvdYgMGThRYb-Mp1RMeI4I_sLe2-k2lrkGyhMzJhCVJ2V67infOQ7buMBkwbuhAPJNDKmd_LTqwe5ki3pjTiCuNyQZqDqObXGwYvRV_Isj3vECpHU7QPQw9z_wSIhZYPo/s1600/IMG_9022rot.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtioTRMHVa2H1dvdYgMGThRYb-Mp1RMeI4I_sLe2-k2lrkGyhMzJhCVJ2V67infOQ7buMBkwbuhAPJNDKmd_LTqwe5ki3pjTiCuNyQZqDqObXGwYvRV_Isj3vECpHU7QPQw9z_wSIhZYPo/s1600/IMG_9022rot.jpeg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">taking time to meet neighbors on a prayer walk with the Northwestern team</td></tr>
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5) hope when we reach George's age (love ya George) we are still humbly serving the Lord like he does!<br />
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6) It's amazing to see what God can do when we surrender our lives to Him<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfptgDFaPj47wHABiYYeY39qc1m2wRXFTLxHQHr_EIfwlpDfrordy1VFgbA0XTdtywqxLDy2aFpHPR6loCnEAykhc8qkZtQs9UbMxALmRTbjfQa4vp-vYCxxIYHuprEq16KjzqrwixVFT/s1600/team+time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfptgDFaPj47wHABiYYeY39qc1m2wRXFTLxHQHr_EIfwlpDfrordy1VFgbA0XTdtywqxLDy2aFpHPR6loCnEAykhc8qkZtQs9UbMxALmRTbjfQa4vp-vYCxxIYHuprEq16KjzqrwixVFT/s1600/team+time.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">team bonding with the Vine Church and Greenville College</td></tr>
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7) I'd never been a mission trip before so I had no idea what to expect. I've seen God work in so many different ways this week I'm just blown away!<br />
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I hope and pray we can all take time out each day to give thanks to the LORD for all He's done! A team member shared how on a prayer walk, a deacon shared with him how we're called not just to tithe our treasure but our time as well. He said 10% of our day is 2.4 hours and he hopes he can remember to always give not just his finances but his time as well to the LORD!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-66808989319854860832014-03-06T16:39:00.001-06:002014-03-06T16:39:52.244-06:00All the way from WashingtonMark and I were blessed by the "came the farthest" couple at our New Orleans Wedding Reception. Amanda and Kye were all the way from Seattle WA! What makes this couple great is not just that they came all the way from Washington state but that I hadn't seen Amanda since March 2008!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8g57Cn_pjm0abfjFx3t2g_yyEa7Eenoxtm-e_LQfy4qxFTscqL27ZQrMej8mCSBv7_kfTvBkJRaHlqUDKmli91JaQgKLTCTcAyqZoFztLJzz3EQNRPgsQAR5uBEsid-zNOJSfTrCLU0SW/s1600/DSC08300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8g57Cn_pjm0abfjFx3t2g_yyEa7Eenoxtm-e_LQfy4qxFTscqL27ZQrMej8mCSBv7_kfTvBkJRaHlqUDKmli91JaQgKLTCTcAyqZoFztLJzz3EQNRPgsQAR5uBEsid-zNOJSfTrCLU0SW/s1600/DSC08300.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a>I first met Amanda at Rock of Ages Missionary Baptist Church in New Orleans when our teams were partnered together during our one week mission trip in 2008. (Yes this is the trip where I felt God's call to come serve in New Orleans after graduating from college.) Amanda and I stayed in touch once returning from New Orleans that year and she has been a faithful supporter of God's work through me from day one! She told me how she prays for me every time she sends her monthly support! It just made me want to cry because I know without the generosity and prayers of God's people I couldn't be here and I'm SO THANKFUL for Amanda and her partnership with me in God's Kingdom work!<br />
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During her visit, we were able to show her Rock of Ages (from the outside at least) and show her various parts of New Orleans. Kye is from Texas so he saw the impacts of Katrina when everyone had to evacuate. It was great to share life with this couple and again, I'm completely amazed that God would allow Amanda and Kye to visit. His timing is always perfect! Amanda and Kye are recently engaged so we got to talk about all the fun wedding planning details too! I know God will continue to bless them as they seek Him and His will for their lives. <br />
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I want to thank all of my ministry partners who pray for me and give of their treasure so that I can live out my calling here in New Orleans! My heart is filled with gratitude and love for each one of you! Thank you for your partnership in seeing God's Kingdom expanded in the wake of crisis!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3355835015081802142.post-62319853656466948722014-02-25T12:11:00.000-06:002014-02-25T12:12:39.939-06:00Something Old, Something New, Something Good from Something Blue<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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One of the things Mark and I loved about our wedding day was how God brought a lot of our favorite people and put them in one room with us! There were 20 states and 3 countries represented at our wedding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t say this to brag but to point out a
very awesome fact about Mark and I’s wedding day.<br />
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The majority of these people who came from all over were
people Mark and I had met while serving in New Orleans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To name a few: the pastor who married us, the
couple who took our photos, 4 members of the bridal party, our cake baker, and
many guests!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it wasn’t for Hurricane
Katrina, Mark and I wouldn’t have met in New Orleans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it wasn’t for Hurricane Katrina, we
wouldn’t have met all of these amazing people and had the chance to celebrate with them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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The “Something Good from Something Blue,” I reference in my
title is that Mark and I’s union would not have happened without the devastation and sadness caused by Hurricane
Katrina and God putting it on our hearts to show the love of Christ to those in need.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We praise God that He can take the storms of
this life and make something good come out of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are so thankful that God would choose to use us to bring the hope of Christ to others in the wake of crisis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We pray that whatever storms we or others may face, we don’t forget that our God
is sovereign, He is in control, and He can turn them into good. <span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="versetext" id="ps107-29" style="display: inline;">"<i>He <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="1"></a><span class="strongs">caused</span> the <span class="strongs">storm</span> to be <span class="strongs">still</span>, so that the <span class="strongs">waves</span> <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="a"></a>of the sea were <span class="strongs">hushed</span>. </i></span><i><span class="versetext" id="ps107-30" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span>Then they were <span class="strongs">glad</span> <span class="strongs">because</span> they were <span class="strongs">quiet</span>, so He <span class="strongs">guided</span> them to their <span class="strongs">desired</span> <span class="strongs">haven</span>. </span><span class="versetext" id="ps107-31" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="2"></a>Let them <span class="strongs">give</span> <span class="strongs">thanks</span> to the <span class="strongs">LORD</span> for His <span class="strongs">lovingkindness</span>, and for His <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="b"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="3"></a><span class="strongs">wonders</span> to the <span class="strongs">sons</span> of <span class="strongs">men</span>! </span></i><span class="versetext" id="ps107-32" style="display: inline;"><i><span class="versenum"></span>Let them <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="4"></a><span class="strongs">extol</span> Him also <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="5"></a>in the <span class="strongs">congregation</span> of the <span class="strongs">people</span>, and <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="6"></a><span class="strongs">praise</span> Him at the <span class="strongs">seat</span> of the <span class="strongs">elders</span></i>." (Psalm 107:29-32)</span></span></div>
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="versetext" id="ps107-32" style="display: inline;"><span class="text Rom-8-28" id="en-NASB-28145">"<i>And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose</i>." (Romans 8:28)</span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04928115535689660724noreply@blogger.com2