tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73610585705081637662024-03-13T14:01:25.839-07:00Heart To HeartJeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-35479201065972632022020-12-14T12:25:00.000-08:002020-12-14T12:25:18.401-08:00One tip...<iframe width="480" height="270" src="https://youtube.com/embed/b8XOocJPo4k" frameborder="0"></iframe>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-18127686973713009992020-11-16T08:25:00.007-08:002020-11-17T11:38:33.689-08:00Let's....<div><div> <span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b>Let's laugh</b>...</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">My jeans have side effects from 2020....my thighs wore out the material with their friction when I WALK. So....I looked in my sewing box (yes I own one - 43 years old!)...and found some denim iron-on patches! I inherited them from someone, so I was pleasantly surprised. Maybe I'll get some more wear out of these jeans. Seems simple, right? Cut a patch, iron it on, and the magic happens. How long does one iron a patch for? Well, I guess I go by smell. lolol. (Evidently I sew like I cook! "What's that smell? Oops - over done!" lololol.) I bet no one will notice the iron shaped brown design between my legs. Whatever. 🤷🏻♀️</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b>Let's sing</b>...</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oFizRY8w0-I" width="480"></iframe><div><br /></div><div><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b>Let's pray</b>...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Father, </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Thank You that we belong to You! Thank You that You are powerful and loving and merciful AND righteous. Thank You that You are our provider and healer and deliverer and joy-bringer. Thank You that we can lean into, rest in and trust - - - You. You bring clarity. You bind up the brokenhearted. Help us stay in the wonder of You.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b>Let's meditate.</b>..</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Ps 62 - I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from Him.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b>Let's bless</b>...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;">Take a moment to let the Holy Spirit nudge you to encourage someone with a text, phone call, note...something that says, "Surprise! YOU are seen and not forgotten!"</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><b>Let's</b>....not be anxious</span></p></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-89881007046733715292020-10-03T14:37:00.004-07:002020-10-03T14:48:16.031-07:00What to Grab in an Emergency Evacuation<p> I have learned a couple of things from the recent, unprecedented wild fires that surrounded our valley - as well as a great deal of the west coast. </p><p>Here's an official list of things to focus on...</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hDMGz9IwcwQ/X3jmYHdXLrI/AAAAAAAASV8/7pASKdooQJQSpJq8nuvtJucIENyMppQ8gCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/8AD6F362-EDE2-4265-9596-38994EB4A00C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="811" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hDMGz9IwcwQ/X3jmYHdXLrI/AAAAAAAASV8/7pASKdooQJQSpJq8nuvtJucIENyMppQ8gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/8AD6F362-EDE2-4265-9596-38994EB4A00C.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><p>But, besides this "get you started" list of things to think about, I found a couple of surprises as we sheltered evacuees last month.</p><p>Maybe keep an extra pair of underwear in your car. People who left with just the clothes on their back talked about this dilemma (after about 3 days!). And, when you are donating underwear, new is super appreciated! Imagine having all that you own destroyed, and looking through donated items (not all, but much of which were things the donor would never wear in a million years). The feeling of "this is good enough for you cuz you don't have anything" is not a nurturing, encouraging feeling. The look in one women's eyes when we found a package of new underwear - just her size - was really, really great! And, then we found new, cute socks! Oh my stars! So fun!</p><p>A pillow. People missed their pillows. Having a new pillow, or at least a clean, close to new pillow seemed comforting...with a new pillowcase. I would not of thought of that.</p><p>Because of COVID regulations, so much of what we needed had to be new - which complicated some things, especially that first day. But, now I'm not sure that it wasn't a good thing in the long run. </p><p>Faces flash before my mind as I write this blog. People that had such great attitudes. A novice team of volunteers who served (many, many hours) with joy. Evacuees who were grateful and pleasant, even in their time of uncertainty and loss. Love and provision received gratefully (for the most part). No division. No decisions based on politics or worthiness or color or..... </p><p> People who appreciated news updates, grass, air conditioning, a shower, information as to how to proceed next, a listening ear, day and night security, snacks and meals and water, dog and cat food, open temporary homes provided by strangers.</p><p><u>Don't forget to grab </u>and hold onto a graceful, grateful attitude. That is an amazing gift you can give - wherever you are, in all situations.</p>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-8247287297443402712020-07-09T16:19:00.013-07:002020-07-09T16:54:36.639-07:00Who Am I Under the Hair Dye?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XG67ILjP3sA/Xweskr5TeDI/AAAAAAAASMc/100-qs55YJAICJn8SvxmDC-EhK4Use8ngCNcBGAsYHQ/s500/56DC207B-FD40-4469-9633-DFD1013A93CA_4_5005_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="500" height="142" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XG67ILjP3sA/Xweskr5TeDI/AAAAAAAASMc/100-qs55YJAICJn8SvxmDC-EhK4Use8ngCNcBGAsYHQ/w205-h142/56DC207B-FD40-4469-9633-DFD1013A93CA_4_5005_c.jpeg" width="205" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Part of my heritage is early on-set of grey-white hair. My dad was grey by 19. My sister was white in her 20's. She had always been blond, so it was an easy fix for her when she preferred blond. My mom stopped dying her hair at 88, I think. </div><div><br /></div><div>I started covering my grey in my 20's, which was a looooong time ago. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have a list of really committed friends who promised to come in and cover my roots with a sharpie if I was ever in a coma for any length of time. </div><div><br /></div><div>White hair is hard to cover, and is seen easily when it's not regularly maintained. </div><div><br /></div><div>(I wonder how many people are still reading this blog entry at this point...)</div><div><br /></div><div>Enter COVID19 quarantine......and today.....</div><div><br /></div><div>Today I begin the process of growing out my white hair. The real me will become very, very evident.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ashley (my heart friend and hair stylist) did her thing...this first step....we washed and toweled dried and she turned me around and .... I cried.</div><div><br /></div><div>I cried at not seeing my roots covered any longer. I cried at the vulnerability of being old-----er. I cried for the many times that the 'real me' wasn't/isn't perfect enough....and now it's on the outside as well as the inside. I cried at the process of humility that comes with growing from one thing to another (when that growing stage is awkward).</div><div><br /></div><div>I know, such a 1st world problem.</div><div><br /></div><div>And, by now, you know that this is not <b>really </b>just about not having brown hair anymore, right?</div><div><br /></div><div>It's about change. It's about seasons. It's about being ok with the me that's "under the hair dye". </div><div><br /></div><div>So, what do I come back to? I was made ON purpose, FOR a purpose...just the way I am.</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div>Look at this part of Psalm 139 in the Passion Translation -</div><div><br /></div><div><font face="verdana"><i>Lord, You know everything there is to know about me. You perceive every movement of my heart and soul, and you understand my every thought before it even enters my mind. You are so intimately aware of me, Lord. You read my heart like an open book and You know all the words I'm about to speak before I even start a sentence! </i></font></div><div><i><font face="verdana">You know every step I will take before my journey even begins. </font></i></div><div><i><font face="verdana">You've gone into my future to prepare the way, and in kindness you follow behind me to spare me from the harm of my past.</font></i></div><div><i><font face="verdana">With Your hand of love upon my life, You impart a blessing to me. This is just too wonderful, deep and incomprehensible! <b>Your understanding of me brings me wonder and strength.</b></font></i></div><div><i><font face="verdana"><b><br /></b></font></i></div><div><i><b><font face="inherit">Peace on, and in you, my friend!</font></b></i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-77310653730385183392020-05-08T17:53:00.000-07:002020-05-08T17:53:36.486-07:00Weird Blessings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Did you know that blessings come in all shapes and forms and ways? -Yep</div>
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Did you know that you have a choice whether or not to accept something as a "blessing" or not? -Yep</div>
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Did you know that grief is not one size fits all, but the process is needed and necessary? - Yep</div>
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So, here's a weird thing. It's been a little over a month since my sister died and I have the feeling that I should be over it by now, passed it, processed through it already, for Pete's sake. I would never ask that of someone else, but because of all the strangeness of our lives with Covid19, I seem to be asking that of myself. For heaven's sake, she's so much happier and freer and painfree and free to laugh without oxygen now......get over the grief. </div>
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But, on the other hand...grief is evidence of loss, of love, of life. </div>
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My weird blessings...</div>
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Getting to fly with no one sitting next to me on all the flights it took to get me to Cincinnati and back to Medford. (All the first class seats were occupied, but coach was social distanced!) Sitting alone, with 3 seats to myself felt like flying while sitting on a small couch. Sweet.</div>
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Getting to Cincinnati in time to see that my sister was still aware enough to know I was there. A very small turn of her head, and opening of her eyes toward me - but it happened once and never again. Blessing.</div>
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Having my ear to her oxygen mask as she let her last breath go. Blessing.</div>
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Getting to spend a week with my sister's son and his family. Every moment a blessing. </div>
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Seeing how my past work experience in a funeral home would help navigate final arrangements in a strange town during a Covid19 shut down. Blessing.</div>
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Having strength enough to clean out her apartment with TeamMilton. Blessing.</div>
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Having friends and family who prayed so profoundly and faithfully that it carried me through such intense days. Blessing blessing blessing</div>
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Life is weird. Everyone was talking about never wanting to get on a cruise ship ever in their lives, and I was saying that I didn't want to fly in a plane with the unseen virus. Then I flew. By myself. And didn't get sick. Blessing.</div>
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The week before Joyce died, she called me, and then called her sons to say that she was done. She was too tired to fight for it anymore. A week and a half later she really was done. For her - - - blessing. </div>
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The reality of me writing all this down is....I needed to. Maybe no one needs to read it, but I needed to write it. I choose to recognize blessings. I choose to give myself grace, like I would to a dear friend whom I love. </div>
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Do you need to choose to define some things (in the middle of a life storm) as blessings?</div>
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Do you need to give yourself a herkin' break (grace) like you would give to someone else?</div>
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If we're hard on ourselves right now, we WILL be hard on other people. Crazy, huh? But true. </div>
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<i>Matthew 12:20</i></div>
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<i>A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not snuff out till He has brought justice through to victory</i></div>
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<i>I Thessalonians 4:13</i></div>
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<i>But we do not want you to be uniformed about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.</i></div>
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Blessing....</div>
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Joyce Milton</div>
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TeamMilton</div>
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Philip, Lucy, *Me, Rory, Kellie</div>
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Blessing</div>
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Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-84637973462653913872020-02-25T16:19:00.002-08:002020-02-25T16:19:59.265-08:0020/202020 - the year I honestly thought we'd be living like the Jetsons. Flying around in our space cars. Having our meals happen instantly. Every house having a robot maid named Rosie. No one is overweight or has bad hair days.<br />
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Meet George Jetson - His boy, Elroy </div>
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- daughter, Judy, Jane - his wife</div>
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(theme song is running through my head)</div>
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Their dog's name is Astro</div>
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BUT, I'm still washing floors and scrubbing toilets and riding in a car with wheels on the ground and trying to figure out what to make for dinner with no help from "Rosie"<br />
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Instead - 2020 started out with head lice (which Dennis really enjoyed being a part of. He takes that little metal comb very seriously). And, then - a series of infections in and around my eyes, a reaction to the antibiotic drops.... I can go into more detail if you want, but you don't, so I won't.<br />
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Expectations. They have two sides.<br />
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"Without a vision, the people parish" - Prov 29:18<br />
One side is the need for expectation and vision and standing on Promises. And ultimately, as Jesus Followers, our expectations are anchored in the Eternal.<br />
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The other side is - unfulfilled expectations. Unfulfilled expectations (not dealt with) can lead to anger and depression and a constant sense of 'waiting for the other shoe to drop' - which is a yucky place to live. <br />
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Expectations not built on Truth - expectations that indicate that we think we're in control - expectations of people that are reflective of our own brokenness - those expectations will suck the joy & hope right out of you and I.<br />
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One of my fav 'expectation' scriptures...<br />
"Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us! " ~Ephesians 3:20<br />
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(That is my 'expectation' scripture for today...the day I had another eye surgery.)<br />
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<i>Father, help us to look and listen for Your voice with expectation. Help us to expect the Holy Spirit to be powerful - in, through and around us...everyday. I know that I can trust You, and am sure that You are able to safely guard all that I have given You until the day of Your return. (2 Tim 1:12).</i><br />
<i>Thank You that my hope and expectation is in You. In Jesus Name I am honored to pray. Amen.</i><br />
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P.S. Please help me decide what to make for dinner. Amen. :-)<br />
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Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-76387642439375334172020-01-21T10:51:00.000-08:002020-01-21T10:53:43.693-08:00Mercy<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial";"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 19.5px;"><i>His mercy flows in wave after wave on those who are in awe before him. </i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial";"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 19.5px;">Luke 1:50</span></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: trebuchet, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. </b></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Mercy triumphs over judgment.</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial";"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><b>James 2:13</b></span></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: trebuchet, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">David said to Gad, “I am in deep distress. Let us fall into the hands of the LORD, for his mercy is great; but do not let me fall into human hands.”</b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial";"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><b>2 Samuel 24:14</b></span></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: trebuchet, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. </b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Luke 6:36</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><b>...He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><b>Titus 3:5</b></span></span><br />
<b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”</span></span></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">We live in a very entitled culture. Even in the Church I see some of this sense of entitlement. It's almost like God should feel lucky if we decide to live for Him. It breaks my heart for more than one reason. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff;">Without a clear sense of our need for the MERCY of God, we walk away from Him easily if He doesn't perform in the way we command Him. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff;">Without a clear sense of our need for the MERCY of God, we have a very difficult time extending mercy to others. We hold on to our rights and offenses as if they were treasures. We are willing to give up relationships and Kingdom victories because of our need to be right. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff;">Mercy is defined as...</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff;">compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff;">Mercy is deliverance from judgement.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #001320; font-family: "trebuchet" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: #fdfeff;"><i>Oh Father, help us to honor Your mercy towards us. Help us to be deeply, deeply grateful for Your mercy. Let Your mercy flow through us. Not wimpy mercy that comes when it's easy to forgive. Tough-time mercy that makes the enemy mad, and shows the world the heart of our God. Amen.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial"; font-size: 19.5px;"><br /></span>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-67310989383721986182019-12-17T12:26:00.002-08:002019-12-19T10:33:32.859-08:00HALT!!!!I can't honestly remember who I heard this bit of wisdom from originally, but the thought of it is so strongly in my mind I'm going to try to share it...<br />
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Know when you're vulnerable. Be aware of what makes your heart and mind wander - of what makes your texts or social media posts or conversations sound short, abrupt or snarky. <br />
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Know when you should not make huge decisions, or when the thoughts you are rehearsing in your mind are not TRUTH, even though they might make sense at the moment - or, feel very real.<br />
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The easy pattern that I'm thinking about right now is - H.A.L.T.<br />
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If you're feeling that snippy, snarky, stinky attitude creeping in, ask yourself...<br />
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~am I <u>H</u>ungry?<br />
~am I <u>A</u>ngry?<br />
~am I <u>L</u>onely?<br />
~am I <u>T</u>ired?<br />
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These are basic needs that your body, emotions and spirit will be effected by. <br />
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Of course, you know I'm going to say - "LOOK UP!" Lean into God, instead of leaning away from Him when you feel stinky. Let His heart fill your heart. <br />
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But, really - if you're hungry, please drink water and eat protein of some kind - see if that helps life look brighter. God won't do that for you - He trusts you to eat good stuff that fuels the physical.<br />
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If you're angry, write out you're unfulfilled expectations. Do what you can to bring resolution. After you write it all out - let it go. (It's ok if you have to do this over and over!)<br />
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What about loneliness...well, I find that doing something for someone else is an answer. Not expecting them to fill your loneliness, but really doing something for someone else (without strings attached) answers a cry in our heart. Listening, without having to fix or share our 'but, listen to this' story is such a gift to someone else. And it can fill us as well. <br />
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Weariness is a very vulnerable place. Taking moments in our day to stop and take deep breaths can be tiny gifts of rest. If life's circumstances just seem to steal your joy and add to your weariness, try handing your whole life...or a part of your life that you are so worried about...over to the loving hands of our God...just for a day or a week. Just say, "Ok, God, You hold this for me today. I'm taking a break from carrying this - just for today or just for this week." Could be the start of something big.<br />
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If you need sleep, then for Pete's sake, go to bed instead of binge watching Netflix! :-) I know it can be more complicated than that, but, we need to do what we CAN do to get more sleep, if sleep is lacking.<br />
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I offer you these thoughts as a friend on the journey we're doing together. I offer these thoughts because anyone that continually finds themselves in a drought in one or more of these four areas can easily lose hope. Hope, my friend, is the immune system of the soul. Without hope, all kinds of toxic stuff can move in. <br />
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So I pray....<i>Father, I thank you for the person who is reading this blog right now. I thank you that you show us practical answers, wise changes. I thank you that you are Truth. Please help us, by the power of the Holy Spirit to walk in Truth - to find freedom in Truth. Bind up the brokenhearted, in the Name of Jesus. Bring sacred, refreshing, restoring rest to the weary. I pray the Your Presence will fill and give divine direction to the lonely. Thank you that you are huge. Please reveal your hugeness to us in a personal, tangible, unique way...today. Amen.</i><br />
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-39275188011220117462019-10-23T14:47:00.000-07:002019-10-23T14:47:22.969-07:00"Please, Sir. Please make something beautiful out of this horror."<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><b>"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace,</b></i></div>
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<i><b>that we may obtain mercy and find grace</b></i></div>
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<i><b>to help in time of need."</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Hebrews 4:16</b></i></div>
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Last night we had a set aside time for prayer at our church. Each time we meet it looks different. This time, the instruction was to pray alone (for the most part). If someone had a scripture, or particular word or prayer direction they were to go to a microphone and share what was on their heart.</div>
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After about 30 minutes I found myself walking up to mic. I could hear the words (in my heart), 'come boldly to the throne' - but it felt like I was standing in front of a judge. Pleading for friends and family that so need healing in various areas of life. Immense needs. Needs only a HUGE God can speak Life into. </div>
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And then...I heard myself praying out loud for the young lady (pedestrian) that I hit with my car three weeks ago. She was cited. She was injured. The police say I could not have avoided her.....but......it is an experience I would not wish on my worst enemy. I heard my self begging God to bring beauty out of ashes - super church-y words - but I don't know any other way to say it. And I felt at the moment that I was standing before a Judge. "Please, Sir. Please make something beautiful out of this horror."</div>
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I heard no answer. I felt no relief. I went back and sat down.</div>
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My pride was embarrassed by my deep (public) cry for help. I know so many better pray-ers than me. They pray with strong faith and confidence and all the right words. They pray FROM victory not just FOR victory. I was simply obeying a gentle nudge that I thought said, 'come boldly to the throne'. </div>
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I googled that phrase because I couldn't remember where to find it in scripture and was reminded that that throne is the throne of <b>grace</b>. A place to find mercy. A place to find what is needed in a time of need. Not a judgement of failed performance. A huge throne of GRACE. </div>
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So, today I stand or kneel or even lie down in front of that throne of grace - waiting, asking, anticipating merciful answers for my friends and family that I love so much...and for myself and a group of street kids I would have never been connected with had it not been for this really yucky accident. </div>
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<i>2 Corinthians 12:9</i></div>
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<i>But He said to me, </i></div>
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<i>"My grace is sufficient for you, </i></div>
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<i>for My power is made perfect in weakness."</i></div>
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<b>2 Corinthians 1:2</b></div>
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<b>"May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ </b></div>
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<b>give you grace and peace."</b></div>
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-31756035893485778782019-01-03T13:21:00.000-08:002019-01-03T13:48:39.891-08:00What I Have Learned...What I have learned - by...Jeanette Webber<br />
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Always read an entire recipe before beginning to cook<br />
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Always moisturize before waxing<br />
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Don't be shocked that your fat doesn't go away, it just changes positions<br />
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There's a distinct possibility that you have inherited your grandmothers chin/lip hair, but cannot see it without outside help<br />
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My dream of becoming a professional synchronized swimmer is probably not going to happen<br />
(That's a joke - I'm a terrible swimmer. But some sports just fascinate me - like synchronized swimming & team kite flying & the olympic sport that involves sweeping the ice and maintaining a lunge position in special shoes that aren't ice skates .... for so long...)<br />
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Not everyone wears pajamas<br />
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Skinny jeans (and leggings used as pants) are not complimentary on every body type<br />
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Always make sure your car is in neutral when you are at a drive through car wash. When you 'drive through', people look at you weird and your car DOES NOT get very clean<br />
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Some words are easy to confuse, but can not be used interchangeably- - - especially in public<br />
Tracheotomy and episiotomy (meant the first one - said the second one)<br />
Projectile and ejaculatory (meant the first one - said the second one - was band (or banned) by Dennis to try to use medical terms from then on)<br />
Zumba and roomba (meant the first one, said the second one, but now own the second one and will never try the first one again)<br />
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What happens when I go to a new yoga class and try to lay on my back and pull my toes to my nose...another medical term....flatulence...didn't go back to that class either....a wall of mirrors....I looked at myself through my knees out, toes to the nose pose and could not stop laughing...(toot/laugh/toot/laugh...) I'm sure they were grateful for my decision to try a different class<br />
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Segue<br />
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There are some medical things I've learned to do, and learned information about, that I didn't picture myself doing...ever. These aren't funny - these are times of victory. Choosing to learn to serve those I love<br />
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I've learned that Jer 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - comes in the chapter that the people He's talking to find out they will be in the wilderness for 70 years. How have I missed that context before?<br />
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I am learning to hang on to hope<br />
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I am learning to ask for help<br />
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I am learning to lean in instead of leaning away from God when I'm disappointed or wounded<br />
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I am learning that grief and joy CAN co-exist in my heart<br />
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<i>Philippians 4:12...I have learned to be content...</i><br />
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Still learning...</div>
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-89903445497906576782018-07-22T18:31:00.000-07:002018-07-22T18:31:20.698-07:00StunningI had what I call a 'stunning' experience this morning during our church service.<br />
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I've been navigating life with a fractured elbow and some craziness in my wrist. This morning I had difficulty with really yucky pain striking like lightening from my elbow through my fingers if I tried to hold almost anything. It was a discouraging situation. <br />
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As we began to sing together (in church) I reminded myself (and God) that I had promised to worship Him with whatever strength and ability I have. I lifted one hand and sang as loud as I could because....that's who I want to be...a worshiper out of abundance or sacrifice. <br />
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We have a special friend in our church family who has a kind of dementia that impacts children. This friend is large and strong and losing most of what she has learned in her short (teenage) life.<br />
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She came up and stood by me as we sang. Then she came over and put her arm around me (gently) and asked what happened to me. She said that she felt sad for me. She stood there - with one arm gently around me and the other gently circling my other arm. Then she asked where my family is (she has now forgotten who Dennis is). I pointed to where Dennis was standing and she (gently) pulled me to him and him to me. She looked at him and said that he needed to pray for me. She pulled us both close as Dennis began to pray. <br />
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She then went and got a bottle of anointing oil and gave it to Dennis and pointed to me. He anointed me and prayed again. She returned the little bottle, nodded, and went and sat down by her mom.<br />
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Stunning.<br />
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I'm not sure what exactly happened during this experience. At this moment there is still some pain, but it doesn't really make any difference. Such a sense of holiness happened - I hope I am never able to think of this day without a sense of awe. (Tears are making it hard to see the computer screen and I am very aware that I am not expressing adequately the hug - the touch of heaven that I received today.)<br />
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A sacred moment can come from very unexpected sources. <br />
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<i><b>Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger. Ps. 8:2</b></i><br />
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<i><b> Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matt. 19:14</b></i><br />
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Two things stand out to me...<br />
One was that it was important that I just showed up today. The pain was intense. I was super discouraged. I <u>REALLY</u> wanted to stay home. I did not come to church today because I'm the pastor's wife. I came because I'm a Jesus follower, and Jesus said to gather with other Jesus followers. Sometimes just showing up is a big step. (I am NOT talking legalism here - I'm talking obedience - and that is very different.)<br />
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The second thought that stands out is the simplicity of believing Jesus. The simplicity of obedience that might not make sense but has profound effect in the life of someone else. The simplicity of being okay with not always understanding, but always believing in the goodness and mercy and love and unbelievably beautiful gift of being His. <br />
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<i>Father, I pray for a sacred moment for my friend reading this right now. I pray for a Divine Embrace that covers and comforts and heals and speaks Life and clarity and encouragement where there is discouragement or fog or pain. Thank you that we are Yours. Help us to never lose the wonder of You. </i><br />
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<i>In the Name of Jesus of Nazareth I pray,</i><br />
<i>Amen</i><br />
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<i><br /></i>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-83369823186541920942018-06-11T15:13:00.001-07:002018-07-22T17:23:02.139-07:00He RESTORES....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Biblical meaning of the word "restoration" is to receive back more than has been lost to the point where the final state is greater than the original condition. The main point is that someone or something is improved beyond measure.*<br />
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How I love that. Really, really love that He<b> restores</b>.<br />
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I've been praying for a boatload of wonderful people with broken hearts, broken bodies, broken dreams and promises ... brokenness. It is incredibly encouraging to me to remember that when the Master heals brokenness, that place of healing is stronger, STRONGER than it ever was before. The place you and I let Him heal - restore - is STRONGER - not forever vulnerable like we tend to live.<br />
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Yes, there is a process. Dennis' mom recently had her knee replaced. Her wholeness not only depended on the surgeon's precision but her cooperation. She protected the incession for awhile, started exercising and stretching whether it felt good or not. Sooner than one might think, she needed to use her knee in it's restored condition. Her mind and muscles wanted to still protect what had been hurt, and walk with a limp. She had to decide to use those muscles anyway and trust that that was the way to wholeness. <br />
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Trust His process as He restores your soul.<br />
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Is. 61:7 - 7 Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.<br />
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1 Peter 5:10 - And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself <b>restore</b> you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.<br />
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Ps. 51:12 - <b>Restore</b> to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. <br />
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(*Reference.com) Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-57851025931381800122018-04-16T20:35:00.001-07:002018-04-16T20:35:46.780-07:00Happy Birthday....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In going through my parents belongings, I found this picture. (My sister added color - that's what she does to everyone and everything - she makes it beautiful with color and creativity.)<br />
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This is still me! I am a 'jeans (that are generally too long - and cute, comfy sweaters - and fun shoes - and 'what is my hair doing? ' - and "look at those mountains... I want to run there" mindset. <br />
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I know I have frustrated my more together friends with my love of comfy jeans, my love of lipgloss and too little makeup, my tattoo, and my love of cute shoes. But this little girl is still me.<br />
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I heard people tell my parents I had a belly laugh, and I still do. I have embarrassed my friends in restaurants and stores and even once in a funeral when I tried to contain a belly laugh but it came out anyway - kind of through my nose. Oops.<br />
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This year (for my birthday) I had this deep urge to write notes to all those who have been such gifts in my life; I started to write...ok - I wrote... one. But, in my head (Jim Gaffigan style) I felt like it sounded more like a reminder to give me a present because my birthday was coming. You know, like the people who start their birthday countdown on FaceBook a couple weeks before the actual date.<br />
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But honestly, I'm so grateful for so much - and so many...<br />
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Andrew, Maggie and Jack</div>
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Jeremy, Oscar, Tilly and Danita</div>
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Tilly styling Grandpa's hair</div>
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I'm grateful for miracle babies, and eyesight, friends (both lifers and newbies), and seeing what God has, is and will <b>be</b> in my life. </div>
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This year has held some good surprises, and some difficult surprises - I am grateful for both. They both strengthen me in different ways. (Doesn't that sound mature? :-) )</div>
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Birthday days are...interesting, right? Kind of a "YAY", and "Oh brother, let's not talk about this"!</div>
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Today, DW took me to Wildlife Safari and I got to feed an elephant, and pet an elephant and have her paint a picture for me. Her name is Valerie. I am a big elephant fan. He scored huge points.</div>
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(Yes, the painting looks just like me! Ha!)</div>
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Today I am wearing jeans and a sweatshirt and cute shoes and socks that DW bought me that say, "Yes, I do have to pee....again." :-)</div>
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Yep, this is a random birthday thoughts blog. You figured that out by now! </div>
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Here's my birthday encouragement...</div>
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Ps. 37:23-24</div>
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The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand.</div>
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No Place I Would Rather Be (Set a Fire in My Soul)</div>
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Love and encouragement and joy and clarity and a big outpouring of HIS love on you today. That's what I want for my birthday - besides the whole elephant experience! :-) <br />
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~Jeanette<br />
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-24379579315200082702018-01-03T14:10:00.000-08:002018-01-03T14:10:49.617-08:00Old Dog - New Tricks<br />
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We have a dog. Her name is Noel, and we've had her for about 5 years. She's a great dog, honestly she is - but lately her level of anxiety (when left alone) has gone through the roof. It appears she has doggie panic attacks that are very destructive. It's only been happening during the last few months. <br />
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We have a friend who is a professional animal trainer who came over to observe and offer suggestions. She worked with Noel and gave me some instruction. It seems that I need re-training more than Noel does. Noel's thought processing needs to be changed, and Jena assures me it will change - if I'm consistent with our new strategy. I wondered if Noel's age would hinder the process, but Jena insists it won't.<br />
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Sound at all familiar? Things you've gone through in the past seem to effect how you respond to the present. You hear words that weren't actually said. Or, you make words that were said have meaning that is a long way from the intent of that person's heart. You experience fear which is not based on truth, and ignore things that would help - because change is hard.</div>
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Romans 12:2 - Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but <b>let God transform you</b> into a new person by <b><i>changing the way you think</i></b>. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is <u>good</u> and <u>pleasing</u> and <u>perfect</u>.</div>
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I love this verse. Read it over five times or fifty times. And then use it as a prayer.</div>
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I'm so glad that an old dog (like me) can keep changing and learning. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-83418811863694614132017-10-15T19:07:00.000-07:002017-10-15T19:07:44.327-07:00Walking in the Dark<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Psalm 139:11 & 12</b></div>
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<b>If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me</b></div>
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<b>and the light become night around me,”</b></div>
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<b>even the darkness will not be dark to You;</b></div>
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<b>the night will shine like the day,</b></div>
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<b>for darkness is as light to You.</b></div>
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I have never been a fan of darkness or night. The cause of that is not the subject of this blog - I just want you to understand the depth that I love the Light of God, the Hand of God, the Presence of God that never gets blocked out by darkness.<br />
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Almost two weeks ago, I experienced invasive eye surgery. It was not elective. If I wanted to keep my eyesight I would need to trust someone to punch a couple of holes in my eye and do some work.<br />
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The surgery seemed to go well, but I've had a perfect storm of complications as I've tried to recovery. <br />
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I won't load your backpack with details - the thing I'm thinking about tonight is how weird it's been to spend the last two weeks with eyes that longed for dark. Little outside light, my first experience with a pirate patch, my first experience taping my eyelids shut. (Actually, a lot of "first experiences".)<br />
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I've been alone a lot. I haven't been able to read. My brain gets tired of listening to stuff I can't see. I'm super grateful that the massive headaches are gone now - the headaches made listening to stuff not such a treat.<br />
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I've never had such long days of literal darkness.<br />
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Because I'm a person who is not a fan of darkness, this has not been my favorite season. <br />
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But I know this...."<b>for darkness is as light to You</b>." There hasn't been darkness for God. I might bump into walls, but I know that He is leading me. He's holding on to me. He's holding on to you no matter how dark it feels around you. He's got you.<br />
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Psalm 16:8<br />
I have set the LORD continually before me; Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.<br />
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Psalm 63:8<br />
My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me.<br />
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Psalm 139:10<br />
Even there Your hand will lead me, And Your right hand will lay hold of me.<br />
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Isaiah 41:13<br />
"For I am the LORD your God, who upholds your right hand, Who says to you, 'Do not fear, I will help you.'<br />
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He's got you. And...He's got me. Ok. Let's all sing..."He's got the who-ole world - in His Hand..."<br />
Second verse..."He's got you and me, brother - in His hand...you and me, sister - in His hand..."<br />
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-32782115832471618922017-07-14T10:24:00.000-07:002017-07-14T10:24:49.343-07:00Firework Oreos?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ok - I'll admit it....I love Oreos. Yes, I hear some of you gag at the thought, and you're even thinking about 'unfriending' me because a person who likes Oreos can't possibly love Jesus. But - - - there it is. It might be because we had 0 to teeny bits of sugar and fat growing up in our home. I had hot lunch at school and no bagged lunch. (Oh to have experienced a Twinkie.)<br />
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I went decades (sigh) without an Oreo. Decades. <br />
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Then, one magical day a little over two years ago I ate an Oreo. Processed. Fake chocolate. Who knows what 'cream' filling. There's fake lemon that is so fun. There are thin Oreos and double stuffed Oreos. Birthday cake. Filling that tastes like Peeps (didn't try that one). <br />
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I generally can't have them in my home because they really aren't the kind of food I'm trying to eat these days, but...a friend gave me a package of open Firework Oreos because...we have grandkids. That did make me laugh. Like they'll last till the grands come over.<br />
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The hook on these Oreos is that they have pop rocks in the filling. Oooooooh ya. I had to experience Oreos with POP ROCKS. I had high hopes of Oreo fun exploding in my mouth - which just wasn't the case. I tried several just to make sure that I wasn't missing the explosion. Nothing.<br />
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Until one day.<br />
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I was eating slowly, trying to keep the cookie and filling ratio right. Trying to make each cookie last as long as possible - - - - and I felt it. Gentle popping in my mouth. I had to wait for it and pause and not swallow too fast. The popping was there but it was subtle. I had to take the time to notice.<br />
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One regret I have as I look back on life is that I don't feel I was "present" as much as I wish. I had goals - good goals, and responsibilities and expectations that I let steal the joy of the Moments. <br />
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In my zeal to read the whole Bible every year, my goal was checking off how many chapters I read each day - and missed the joy of saturating my heart with one verse that stood out. The goal was good, but I missed the Moment.<br />
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My need to be a good mom and my terror of not being a good mom over-ran many gentle pop-rock moments with our sons, I think. I thoroughly enjoyed them - but they felt the tension of me trying to be good at a lot of good things.<br />
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I think that's why we see the word "Selah" so often in the Psalms - 71 times. "Pause and think about it".<br />
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During my mom's hardest days with dementia - when I wouldn't know if she'd think I was her mom or her daughter or someone in her room to steal stuff - I'd sit outside and pray each day to have the strength to be a good daughter. I felt this direction from Him one day as I prayed - "Look for what you can find joy in". I was to step away from the fear of the unknown and spend the time looking for the joy. The Moments.<br />
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<i>Oh Father - sometimes I really wish you would speak with a shout instead of a whisper, but You know my heart. You give us gentle pop rocks Moments every day. Please help us to not miss them. Thank you for beauty and laughter and breath. Help us to be grateful and aware of You in our Moments. I love you, Jesus, so much. Sincerely Yours, Jeanette</i><br />
<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-58293484303031191912017-06-19T16:13:00.000-07:002017-06-19T16:17:03.098-07:00Wonder Woman<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Confession time...I think (without knowing it) I've always thought I would grow up to be Wonder Women.<br />
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There would be a day when I'd have long flowing hair with just the right amount of wave to look great when the breeze blows while I'm sitting on the beach.<br />
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I would have a waist, and a core - and maybe not a six-pack but at least a belly that doesn't slide around.<br />
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My thighs wouldn't rub together when I walk - sometimes even making my shorts ride up. Really, there's no graceful way to pull shorts down once the inseam side has scrunched up. Brutal.<br />
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<i>(What is that yellow thing hanging from her side? Maybe a scarf she can wear 5 different ways so she doesn't need to carry luggage?)</i><br />
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It's an image in my head. I have not seen the movie or read her autobiography - I just have an image.<br />
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That <b>image</b> told me that someday (if I prayed long enough and tried hard enough) I could fix everything and everyone that had need. Always, ALWAYS with Jesus - always. But my part, I thought, would be stronger and braver and more at rest while at the same time more powerful in prayer and commitment and ... well, I guess ... everything. I would be Wonder Woman.<br />
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Well, guess what. Big revelation. I'm not now, nor will I ever be, Wonder Woman.<br />
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I exercise now to push back up what gravity seems to be pulling down.<br />
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And, I will let people down. A lot.<br />
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My face doesn't always look "right". (I was really sad last Sunday, and someone told me my face looked mean. In the past I've gotten in trouble for smiling too much.)<br />
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My prayers don't always produce the answers I so long for, or what I think the person I'm praying for so desires. <br />
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I've given my absolute best to being a Jesus follower, a good mom, a good wife, a good pastor's wife, a good worship leader, a good lover of people - even a good dog owner. But, I let people down.<br />
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So, I turn to my Father with my hands full of all I've just shared with you - arms outstretched - asking Him, "what do I do with all of this?" <br />
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He brings my focus back on Him...<br />
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Many, Lord my God,</div>
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are the wonders <u>you</u> have done,</div>
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the things <u>you</u> planned for us.</div>
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None can compare with <u>you</u>;</div>
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were I to speak and tell of <u>your</u> deeds,</div>
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they would be too many to declare. Ps. 40:5</div>
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Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, <u>who alone</u> works wonders. And blessed be His glorious name forever; and may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Psalm 72:18-19</div>
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Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him; for He Himself knows our frame; <u>He is mindful that we are but dust.</u><br />
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“Listen to this, Job <i>(Jeanette)</i>; <u>stop</u> and <u>consider God’s wonders</u>. Job 37:14</div>
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I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all <u>your</u> wonderful deeds. Ps 9:1<br />
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...we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, <u>his</u> power, and the wonders <u>he</u> has done. Ps. 78:4</div>
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He brings my attention off of my failures and back to His ... wonder. <br />
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<i>Father,</i><br />
<i>Thank you for Your grace... that place of undeserved favor. Thank you that you remind us that we are made of dust. Help us to breath in Your grace today, and fix our attention on You - not ourselves. Breath peace and provision and destiny into my brothers and sisters today, my God.</i><br />
<i>In the Name of Jesus of Nazareth I pray...</i><br />
<i>Amen</i><br />
<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-5315490005652022002017-04-30T17:09:00.000-07:002017-04-30T19:12:02.991-07:00You Are HeldAbout a million years ago, we tried to adopt a little two year old girl. Her momma dropped her off at the church office and said she didn't want her anymore, and that we could have her as long as we didn't dress her in pink(!)<br />
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She was very independent because her survival had depended on it. I remember walking up the stairs with her and trying to hold her hand but she wouldn't let me. She just kept saying, "ME do it, ME do it." She wanted to hold on to my finger. The challenge came when she slipped and let go to catch her self. She didn't see how my holding on to HER would be so much more secure then her holding on to my finger. <br />
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<i>(It was an emotional rollercoaster adoption attempt, as many are. It was complicated, with {addicted} relatives involved who took her and hid her. The good part is that she is a survivor of brain cancer [age four], and eventually was able to be adopted by a family where she had other sisters & is very loved. Yay.)</i><br />
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My message here is really a simple one...<br />
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He's got you.</div>
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He holds you.</div>
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He's not going to let go of you.</div>
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For those you love...</div>
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He's got them.</div>
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He holds them.</div>
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He's not going to let go of them.</div>
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I know. It's super simple. But, incredibly, incredibly, incredibly important. You can breath, because He's got you in the palm of His hand, or He's got the one you love in the palm of His hand. Secure.<br />
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<b>Is. 41:13 - For I hold you by your right hand--I, the LORD your God.</b></div>
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<b> And I say to you, 'Don't be afraid. I am here to help you.'</b></div>
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-21012314288265584162017-04-10T09:08:00.001-07:002017-04-10T09:08:40.846-07:00That's My King Dr. S.M. Lockridge - <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZKsN-AeqJP0" width="480"></iframe>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-1512568410845474542017-03-06T18:43:00.000-08:002017-03-06T18:43:00.381-08:00The Mystery BoxDo you ever wonder why?<br />
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I do.<br />
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I thought when I got this ancient I wouldn't wonder anymore - I'd KNOW. But, I still wonder....why....what....why not...?<br />
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I've been in the middle of a lot of people with all kinds of pain, and I get stuck there sometimes.<br />
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Here's a couple of lighter "why" moments -<br />
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A tree in a storm blows down and takes our fence and electrical cords down with it. But, the tree next to it stands tall (until the tree guy comes and cuts it down, along with 3 other trees). One tree, among other trees, falls in the storm. <br />
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I'm ironing shirts. Noel thinks a shirt hanging on a door means that Dennis is coming home. She just sits there...for a long time...staring at the shirt...waiting for him to appear. Or, maybe she is just amazed that I actually ironed. </div>
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These are little "whys" compared to others I toss heavenward. </div>
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Last week I found a journal entry that I had written right after my mom died. I had expectations about her last days and her passing that just weren't realized. I wanted to be able to write an article in Christianity Today about the wonder and the peace and the resolution and the gift given. But that didn't happen. Really, really didn't happen. (Dementia is cruel sometimes.)</div>
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In the journal entry I found the description of a dream I had had. In the dream there was a jeweled box. (That's important.) Not just a brown cardboard box, a jeweled, beautiful box. God is keeping all my currently unanswerable questions in that jeweled box. They are a treasure - not a disappointment to Him.</div>
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Dennis and I went to Home Goods <i>(well, actually he went to the sporting goods store and I stayed too long in the Home Goods store so he came and found me). </i>We bought a small rug, and a jeweled box. This is not my usual style, but I needed something visual to see - to remind me that He holds my deepest questions - and someday I will understand. Someday I will see clearly. But today -- today I hand Him my deepest questions to hold. In a jeweled box. A mystery box to me - a treasure box to Him. </div>
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Rev 21:4 - He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”<br />
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I Cor. 13:12 -For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.<br />
<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-28368229183738422017-02-22T15:08:00.001-08:002017-02-22T15:08:43.425-08:00Zach Williams - Chain Breaker (Official Music Video)<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cd_xxmXdQz4" width="480"></iframe>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-86090077995930301572017-02-03T13:00:00.000-08:002017-02-03T13:00:18.202-08:00Satisfied<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-58091777064212025172017-01-04T16:26:00.000-08:002017-01-04T21:00:55.874-08:00Sticky StatementsSticky Statements are things I've heard or read that I want to stick with me. <br />
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Get ready for random...<br />
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"Pride begs us to believe it all depends on us."<br />
-A friend<br />
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"Gratefulness activates peace."<br />
-Some body<br />
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"My Grammie is so nice."<br />
-A song sung by our granddaughter while shopping for hot dogs (kosher)<br />
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"That was then and this is now."<br />
-My counselor (Then and Now don't HAVE to be connected)<br />
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The sentence, "You can pick up your bag of poop at our house now" is not the kind of sticky statement I should have sent to the wrong cell number. (It was REINDEER poop which is really, really good stuff that one of my friends makes and people fight over.)<br />
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"Worry is really an offspring of fear, and fear will paralyze our faith!"<br />
-Dr. Larry Hutton<br />
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"Resisting God's promises will make us forget God's presence."<br />
"Don't get so consumed by and focused on the mess - the feeling of rejection, hurt, and disillusionment - that you miss the miracle."<br />
-Lysa Terkeurst<br />
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"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding."<br />
-Solomon<br />
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"The work of God is this: to believe in the One He has sent."<br />
-Jesus<br />
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"Just keep swimming."<br />
-Dory<br />
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-4635101634936673392016-12-28T13:37:00.001-08:002016-12-28T13:37:03.628-08:00TIM TIMMONS - Everywhere I Go: Song Session<iframe width="480" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Fm43IfpOLCs" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen=""></iframe>Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7361058570508163766.post-50533815093425226992016-10-24T16:39:00.002-07:002016-10-24T16:39:33.491-07:00What I've learned from football...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">Football. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">I am truly trying to learn the rules and the teams and the standings and </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: left;">why it has such a powerful connection with people.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I am trying to not pray for every guy that gets tackled - or hurt - or is at the bottom of the pile - or gets hit hard enough that his helmet flies off. Oh my stars. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">So, basically, I think I'm not wired for football. I feel badly for the kicker that misses the point that could have won the game, or the receiver who doesn't catch the long pass thrown to where he's suppose to be. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But, here's what I HAVE learned...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">+Winning doesn't happen without practice, strength, being aware of the opposing team's strategy, and each person doing his part. "I've Got Your Back" is demonstrated in the playing of the game. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">+Who a person is rooting for can effect how they see a replay that will determine a penalty. Two people can watch a replay and interpret it completely differently. Hmmmm.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">+Encouraging fans will not guarantee the win, but it makes the game a lot more fun. It also seems to help with endurance when the game's been hard, the players are tired, and they need the extra something to finish strong.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hebrews 12:1 - - -</span></div>
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<i style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">1 Thessalonians 5:11 - - - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I might not get the intensity that football seems to thrive on, but life seems pretty intense these days. Put on your Armor, listen to our Coach, practice the opportunities for faith - both small and great, and cheer LOUDLY for those who are in the game with you. When they drop the ball, encourage them to keep going. When it looks like they are doing well, don't withhold your cheers of encouragement. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">While I may not understand the need to jump & belly bump when someone does well - I do appreciate a well timed text, hug, prayer or smile when I've scored or when I've fumbled.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Blessings on your heart and on your day....</span></div>
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<br />Jeanette Webberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15594713780815101729noreply@blogger.com0