tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64978208546054836852024-03-05T03:01:56.516-05:00Joanna's Journey (El Viaje de Joanna)...with God all things are possible (Matt. 19:26).
...para Dios todo es posible (Mateo 19:26).Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.comBlogger412125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-37782847501352135622024-02-28T13:21:00.001-05:002024-03-02T13:25:52.858-05:00Today Is A Good Day<p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">I don’t know about you, but life has been rough for me lately. It’s easy to get bogged down in all the hard things and lose perspective. So today I wanted to share a little piece of flash fiction (a very short story) with you. It’s based on the experience of a friend of mine. I wrote this story years ago, but it still reminds me how a small change in perspective can make a big difference. Whatever you’re going through right now, I hope this story encourages you too.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">A Good Day <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Gunshot wounds, poison ivy, broken arms…talk about a rough day. Six hours into my shift, I finally had five minutes to gulp down a cup of coffee. EMT training was tougher than I expected, especially the required ER duty. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">I threw away the Styrofoam cup and hustled back to the ER just in time for the next emergency. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“Nineteen-year old male, stab wound in the back, unresponsive.” The EMT quickly relayed pertinent information to the doctor as they wheeled the patient down the hall and into a room. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“Chest compressions – go!” The ER doctor shoved me into place beside the gurney while nurses bustled around us hooking the patient up to various equipment.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">I focused on the man’s chest, continuing CPR. After several minutes, I noticed a scalpel appear in the space between my hands. The doctor made a quick incision and the patient’s chest fell open. I stepped back as blood spurted everywhere. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“Clamp!” yelled the doctor. With the bleeding stopped, he reached into the chest cavity and lifted the heart so he could hold it. Gently he began to massage the man’s heart. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Seconds ticked by…turning into minutes.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Then, a thunderous “beep” sounded from the machine beside me.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“We’ve got a heartbeat!” called the nurse. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">The doctor placed the man’s heart back in its place. “Get him into surgery.” <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">I steered clear as the nurses quickly rolled the patient away. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">The rest of my shift went by in a blur. Finally, it was time to head home. In a fog of fatigue, I wandered through the parking lot toward my car.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">A horn blared; tires squealed. My heart stopped. Then started racing. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“Watch it!” A man yelled from the blue ford that had just missed me. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">I stepped to the side and leaned on a pickup as the guy drove away. My heartbeat slowly returned to normal.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">My heart! Still beating.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"> <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">I sighed. It was a good day. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“...all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">-Psalm 139:16 (NIV)<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“This is the day the LORD has made; let's rejoice and be glad in it.” </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">-Psalm 118:24 (CSB)<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-54930532879734236762024-02-24T19:54:00.001-05:002024-02-27T19:57:49.865-05:00 February Book Recommendations<p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Here is this month’s post with some of my favorite book recommendations. I hope you’ll enjoy reading them too! Feel free to post comments with some of your favorites as well.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Fiction – <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i>In Good Company</i> by Jen Turano<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">I love Jen Turano’s books, and this is one of my favorites! This fun story is set in the gilded age of New York society (1890s). The main character is a lovable young lady earning her way as a nanny. She has a unique view on life and tries to improve herself by expanding her vocabulary (which provides a lot of humor). The hero is a rather clueless young man newly saddled with three young children whose parents died. As the main characters navigate childish disasters, snooty society people, aggressive peacocks, and an unknown enemy out to get them, they learn about who God made them to be and what their purpose is in life. This is a great read! I hope you’ll give it a try. =) <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Non-Fiction – <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i>Living in Love</i> by James and Betty Robison<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Since February is the month we think about love, I thought this book was fitting. Even though I’m single, I enjoyed and was blessed by this book. Both James and Betty share from their perspective about how to build a strong, godly marriage. They have great wisdom, practical insight, and relatable stories. A great read for anyone wanting to improve communication and live in a loving way toward their spouse (or in general as well). <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Devotional – <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i>Becoming a Woman Who Walks with God</i> by Cynthia Heald (KU)<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">This month-long devotional is full of encouraging truths for women. Cynthia’s godly wisdom and love for people comes through in her writing. If you want to grow deeper in your relationship with Jesus, this book will be a blessing. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">(KU – available in Kindle Unlimited)<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-45796197423515122872024-01-27T19:56:00.001-05:002024-01-27T19:56:00.221-05:00 January Book Recommendations <p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">I’ve always been a bookworm, and I love sharing with others about good books I’ve read. So I thought it’d be fun to do a post each month with some book recommendations. I hope you’ll find these helpful. And feel free to post comments with some of your favorite book recommendations as well! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Most of the books I’ll recommend can be found in your local library (paperback, ebook, or audio editions). Many of them are also available in Kindle Unlimited, if you have a subscription to that. (I’ll include a (KU) notation by those ones.) </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Fiction – </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i>Gaal the Conqueror </i>by John White<i><o:p></o:p></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">This book might be harder to find, but it’s one of my favorites. I’ve read it several times through the years. Written for children, it's the 4<sup>th</sup> book in a series similar to the Narnia books. It’s full of spiritual truths and encouraging wisdom for readers of any age. If you have kids, it might be fun to read it with them. Otherwise, you can also enjoy the world of Anthropos, meet Gaal the Shepherd, and be reminded of life-giving truths.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Non-Fiction – <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i>Encountering Our Wild God</i> by Kim Meeder (KU)<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">This book is so powerful! It’s well-written, with a compelling personal story in each chapter. Kim does a great job reminding us who our God is and encouraging us to draw near and experience Him every day. I absolutely love this book and have already given away copies to others. I hope you’ll be blessed by it as well! <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Devotional – <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i>What Your Mind Needs for Anxious Moments</i> by Holley Gerth<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">I really appreciated both the spiritual wisdom and practical suggestions in this book for dealing with anxiety and growing in God's peace. I love Holley’s books. She’s personable, real, encouraging, and upbeat. This book made a great daily devotional. I highly recommend it! <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p>Happy reading! </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p><br /></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-91174864786723709122024-01-17T18:06:00.001-05:002024-01-17T18:06:00.133-05:00 Hope, Somedays, and New Year’s Vision<p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">I think I’m finally ready. It’s only taken me 26 years…. 26 years of waiting for “someday. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">“Someday, I’ll have a horse again…” or, “Someday, I’ll be ready to let go.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Well, “someday” finally came, and I’m ready to let go. I’m ready to sell my saddle – the one tangible connection left to the horse I loved and lost. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Grief is a strange thing. I’ve lost several loved ones in my lifetime, but with each of them I grieved with hope. I knew they were now with Jesus. They were healed and living in a perfect eternity. And I know I will see them again, in just the blink of an eye. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">With my horse, I don’t have the same confidence. I sure hope she is in heaven, galloping around, spreading joy. I hope the day I arrive and give my signature whistle, she’ll come running up to meet me like she always did. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">I know Jesus created her. I believe He loved her and delighted in her even more than I did. I know He gave her to me for the time I needed her. He didn’t just give me a horse – He gave me a sweet, sassy, smart, loyal friend, in a season when I didn’t have any friends. He knew that horse would trot into my heart and never leave, even when she died. I still can’t think about her without tears, even though I also can’t help but smile whenever I remember her. She was special. My God-given equine kindred spirit. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">Maybe she’s romping around heaven, I hope so…but I don’t know for sure. And that’s what makes it so hard. That’s probably why I’ve held on to her saddle all these years.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;">As my mom and I prepare to clean out closets and get rid of some things, I’ve been thinking about this idea of “someday.” I have several large tupperwares full of things that are waiting for “someday.” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“Someday I’ll host dinners and use those nice dishes.”</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“Someday I’ll scrapbook 20 years worth of photos.” <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">“Someday I’ll read all the books I’ve collected through the years.” <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">You know what I’m talking about. I’m sure you have your own stash of “someday” stuff. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">So here I am, much older than I thought I’d be, and I still haven’t reached many of the “somedays” I’d hoped to. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing. God has taken me on adventures and blessed me with experiences I never planned or expected. I’ve also faced challenges and suffering that I didn’t want, but I ended up grateful for the good Jesus brought from them. I know He is writing the best story for me through it all. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">At this point in my life, my prayer has become, “Lord, help me know which ‘somedays’ to keep praying and believing for. And help me know which ones to let go.” </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">It’s a simple prayer. It’s a painful process. But as I’ve learned, living each day by faith is the only way for me to live. I want to keep trusting God’s plan for me and following one step at a time. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">God has already answered this simple prayer in one way – by helping me to finally let go of my “someday” saddle. By helping me to see how good He was to give me such a special horse when I needed her. By giving me hope that some other girl might use my saddle and experience countless hours of joy with her equine kindred spirit. I certainly hope so. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">As we begin a new year, we have our list of “somedays.” We have big dreams. We want circumstances to get better, even while knowing they may get worse. We face many unknowns. How do we move forward with confident vision?</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">God gave me the following poem as I thought about this new year. It’s the hope-filled vision I want to keep, whatever comes. I hope it encourages you as well. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">New Year’s Vision<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">New year – same Savior.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Old challenges – fresh grace.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">New needs – more faith.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Still sorrow – same comfort.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">New joys – more praise.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Same friends – sure love.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">New trials – more miracles.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">A lost world – same truth.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">New experiences – more growth.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Whatever comes – His peace.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Hallelujah – Amen. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">May God give us wisdom with each of our “somedays” – knowing when to hold on and when to let go. And may we remember daily who He is and that He is our Hope. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;">Blessed new year! <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-47285327720761918042023-12-23T16:37:00.000-05:002023-12-23T16:37:02.434-05:00God Gave the Best<p><span style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son….” -John 3:16 </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">We don’t often think of this well-known verse at Christmas, but this year I’ve been reminded of these basic truths again - </span></p><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">God LOVES us!</div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">God gave us His Son. </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">One of my favorite ways to celebrate Christmas is to give gifts to others. It brings me great joy to give something, whether small or significant, to a loved one. It’s a way to communicate to them that I care, that I’m thinking of them, that I delight in them. </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">I can only imagine how much greater God’s heart is than my human heart. He gave us a tangible gift so we would always know that He loves us, that He’s always thinking of us, that He delights in us. </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">Not only that, but God didn’t just give us a “little” gift or a small token...He gave us the BEST He had. He gave us His beloved Son. </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">Pause and consider that for a moment. </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">Anytime I start to doubt God’s love or wonder what He’s doing in my life, I go back to this passage in Romans 8: </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">"If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all--how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" -Romans 8:31b-32</div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">God Almighty already gave me the very best He could ever give - Jesus! There is nothing greater than this gift! And along with Jesus, God gives us countless other blessings and gifts. </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">So when it feels like life is too hard, the suffering is too much, or something I’ve prayed about for years isn’t happening…I think once again about Christmas, about the gift of a Savior—Emmanuel, and about the heart of my heavenly Father. And the doubts recede and my soul is filled with awe. </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">This is our God - the Giver of all good gifts, especially the best gift ever: Jesus! </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;">Merry Christmas my friends! </div><div style="font-family: Geneva; font-size: 15px;"><br /></div>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-42288611848122137182023-08-23T18:51:00.003-04:002023-08-24T18:55:42.628-04:00Stories of Our God & New Book Release<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Psalm 107:2 says, “Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story…” Sometimes it’s difficult to tell our stories. Sometimes we don’t know how to put it into words. Perhaps we’re afraid other people won’t understand or may judge us. Yet ultimately, telling our stories is telling about who God is and how He is at work in our lives. And that is powerful. It’s encouraging for us to remember as we share, and it’s encouraging for others to hear.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I’m very grateful that my new book was released this month!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><i style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Crazy, Hard, Beautiful Journey</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">is a book of stories from my life – stories that tell about who God is and what He has done. It was a very long, difficult process to write this book, but it was also healing and encouraging for me. I pray it will be a blessing and encouragement to many people, especially those going through difficult circumstances </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">(If you know someone who might need this book of encouraging stories, it’s available on amazon, and it’s in kindle unlimited.)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Here is one chapter from the book. I hope it encourages you today.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Excerpt from <i>Crazy, Hard, Beautiful, Journey – Stories of God’s Unfailing Grace, Goodness, and Divine Purpose</i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Chapter 12<o:p></o:p></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Trustworthy<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">2017<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer….” –1 Peter 3:12</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The new year didn’t start well for me. I was very sick for the last two weeks of December and the first two weeks of January. It did give me a lot of time to reflect and pray, which was good. I had planned a trip to Texas for a conference, but I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to make it. Thankfully by the middle of January I was up to traveling again, so I kept my plans and went.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I ended up having another amazing trip to Texas! God not only provided for every detail along the way, He also gave me some special and unexpected blessings. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">During the ten days I was there, I felt a growing sense that I was supposed to move to Texas. Even though I’d been somewhat “homeless” and moved around for much of 2016, the idea of officially moving to Texas felt like a huge step for me.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">When I got back to Florida, I kept praying about it. I told God I needed three big things if I was going to move. I needed a part-time job in Texas. I needed a place to stay. And I needed a vehicle.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Would you believe that in less than three weeks God had provided all three?</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">First, I shared my thoughts about moving with my mom and asked for her prayers. A couple of days later she said she’d been praying about it, and she wanted me to use her minivan as long as I needed it!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Second, a friend from Texas came to Florida in February for a conference, and I was able to visit with her. As we were talking, I said something like, “I think you need to hire me to help you. What do you think?” The next day she hired me, and I started working that week! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Third, two different friends called and offered me temporary housing in Texas! I ended up choosing the place closer to my job, which worked out great. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">By early March I was packing and preparing to move my life to another state.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I was in awe of how God had done the three miracles I asked Him for so quickly and easily! It reminded me that He is God after all! He can do anything. Nothing is too hard for Him. Nothing is too small or too big for Him to do. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sometimes it may seem like certain things are too hard for God…but that’s actually because He is choosing not to do them. I’ve seen Him do too many miracles to ever question His power or ability. At times, though, I question His wisdom or His heart. If He can do anything, why doesn’t He do the things I keep asking for? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Why doesn’t He ease suffering when we’ve prayed for years?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Why doesn’t He provide what seems so desperately needed?<br />Why doesn’t He fulfill the dream that’s been waiting so long?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">If I could answer all of these questions easily, then God probably wouldn’t be God. The fact that we can’t understand all His ways reminds us that He is greater than we are. He sees everything, while we only see a small portion. He is working for the good of <i>all</i>, not just for our ease or comfort in the moment. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">There is, and always will be while we’re on this earth, an element of mystery to God. We know He can do anything and everything with ease. We also know at times He chooses not to do the things we ask.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I often wish God would answer my prayers the way He did in this situation. I wish every prayer was answered with a quick miracle, provision, and open door. In reality, I can’t imagine how different my life would be if God always did that – or more importantly, how different my relationship with Him would be. If He always gave a quick, easy answer to my prayers, would I have the same trust in Him? Would I have the same intimacy and fellowship with Him? I don’t think so. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I think we need both experiences in our lives and our relationship with God – the quick, miraculous answers to prayer, and the waiting, wondering, praying-by-faith seasons. The miracles remind us how awesome and able God is. The waiting and wondering reminds us how wise, patient, and present He is. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No matter what we need or how God answers our prayers, the eternal truth is that He is trustworthy. However He chooses to work in our lives, He is good. He is perfect in wisdom. He loves us! And He is working out His mysterious and perfect purposes for us and for His glory. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“The LORD is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does.” –Psalm 145:13b<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">For Reflection –<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">How has your relationship with God deepened from both His miraculous answers to prayer and seasons of waiting on Him? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">What helps you to remember and believe that God is always trustworthy?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-46903828626120588152023-04-26T13:28:00.001-04:002023-06-13T13:08:52.905-04:00A Merry Heart<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“A merry heart does good, like medicine….” –Proverbs 17:22 (NKJV)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">When life is hard, heavy, frustrating, complicated, painful…it’s important to remember this verse. Jesus has given us ways to have a merry heart even when circumstances are anything but.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">In addition to all our spiritual blessings, today I’m thinking about some of the random things that make me smile, laugh, feel happy or joyful. There are actually a lot of them…here are a few: </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Children’s laughter – so precious!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Giraffes, hedgehogs, and dolphins – God certainly displays His sense of humor, tender heart, and joy through these animals He created.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Christmas music – never fails to lift my spirits.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Reading funny children’s books – the classics never get old.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The opening of “The Lone Ranger” tv show, with the William Tell overture playing and the Lone Ranger racing along on his white steed – always makes me smile. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Waterfalls – looking at pictures or experiencing them brings delight!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Snoopy cartoons, gifs, or memes – can’t help but love the little pup.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Chocolate, ice cream, watermelon (and other tasty foods) – they taste good and bring happy memories to mind.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Watching squirrels chase each other around the yard – highly entertaining.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Quoting silly movie lines with family or friends – can’t do it without laughing!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Rocking in a rocking chair – one of life’s simple pleasures.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">What are some things that make you smile, laugh, or bring you joy? </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Ultimately, knowing Jesus is what gives me joy and happiness in the core of my being. I can’t help but feel joyful when I spend time with Him. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul.” –Psalm 31:7</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-79730219588207081742023-03-22T15:37:00.004-04:002023-05-18T15:40:34.868-04:00Don’t Forget to Dance<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing.” –Luke 15:22-25</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>This passage is found in the familiar story of the prodigal son. It gives a vivid picture not only of what our salvation is like – the best of everything when we deserve nothing – but also of the Father’s heart, and of the Father’s house.</span><span> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>When was the last time you remembered that there is music, dancing, and celebration in the Father’s house?</span><span> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>We are not yet dwelling in the Father’s house that He is preparing for us (heaven), but we have His Spirit dwelling in us. Because of Jesus, we have every reason to celebrate – even in the midst of trials, suffering, and pain. Because of Him, we have only celebration, joy, worship, wonder, music, and dancing to look forward to.</span><span> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>I believe this heavenly reality is something we can carry in our hearts no matter our circumstances. Here’s a poem I wrote that helps remind me to do that. I hope it blesses you today.</span><span> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Dance of Faith<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When joy overflows,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When loved ones are near,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When God answers prayer, <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When faith triumphs over fear,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When sorrow overflows,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When loneliness weighs,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When pain inhabits your days,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">When discouragement stays, <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance with your feet,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance in your heart.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance with a song,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance in the silence. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance with joy,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance in tears.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance by faith,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Your offering of praise. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance with Him,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">For He is holding you.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dance for life,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Eternity will soon be here. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;">(Copyright Joanna K. Harris) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-9312668184926777522023-02-22T19:22:00.001-05:002023-05-06T19:24:13.438-04:00Something to Think About<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">As I read various books, I like to collect my favorite quotes from them. Then I can go back later and reread them, think about them further, and remember to apply them once again. I thought I’d share some of my recent favorites with you today.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> From John Maxwell: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“It’s not over until you’ve learned from it.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Failure is inevitable; learning is optional.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Our perspective is not determined by what we see. It’s determined by how we see, and that comes from who we are.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Who we are inside is much more important than how others see us.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">From Amy Carmichael:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“He who begins, finishes. He who leads us on, follows behind to deal in love with our poor attempts…He gathers up the things that we have dropped—our fallen resolutions, our mistakes…He makes His blessed pardon to flow over our sins till they are utterly washed away. And He turns to fight the Enemy, who would pursue after us, to destroy us from behind.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“All the day long there is the pressure of life, and perhaps some inner strain to the spirit known only to God. But all the day long, too, there is the lovingkindness of God. And so all the day long the peace that passes all understanding…The peace of Jesus stood every sort of test, every strain, and it never broke. It is this, His very own peace, which He says, ‘I give’.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br />From Holley Gerth:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“We’re not supposed to have enough. We’re supposed to bring what we have, our clearly not enough, to Jesus and ask Him to meet us where we are.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“You’re not called to pursue goals. You’re called to pursue a Person. That’s what dreams are really all about—going with God.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Every dream or desire you have that comes from God is an invitation for more intimacy with him.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“And there’s nothing ordinary about us or our lives because we have an extraordinary God inhabiting our hearts.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">From George MacDonald:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Thy will be done. I yield up everything.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">‘The life is more than meat’—then more than health;<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">‘The body more than raiment’—then than wealth;<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The hairs I made not, thou art numbering.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Thou art my life—I the brook, thou the spring.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Because thine eyes are open, I can see;<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Because thou art thyself, ‘tis therefore I am me.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">From Jay & Katherine Wolf:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Celebration can be an act of worship and an act of hope and perhaps, in a way, an act of joyful rebellion against fear.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“As much as we recoil from suffering, it has the potential to show us who we are and who God is in ways that dramatically alter the way we live our lives. We can gain precious wisdom and deeper appreciation for the lives we’ve been given as we learn to suffer well—not as victims, but as overcomers…each of us has the opportunity to thrive in situations we never dreamed we’d have to experience.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">These are good words to ponder. I hope they are thought-provoking, encouraging, and a blessing to you today.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“…the tongue of the wise brings healing…Walk with the wise and become wise…” –Proverbs 12:18, 13:20 <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-18748910594654910702023-01-25T20:55:00.001-05:002023-01-26T20:56:23.730-05:00What will you read and listen to this year?<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">While I’m not someone who makes new year’s resolutions, I do think the new year is a good time to consider what I’d like to do differently or accomplish this year. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">For me, a big part of that happens through reading. Books can be informative, entertaining, encouraging, and transformative. My goal last year was to read four non-fiction books each month. I didn’t quite meet that goal, but I did read a lot of good books. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I’m happy to recommend some of the books that were my favorites last year. And feel free to leave a comment with some of your favorites as well!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Nonfiction: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“The Magnolia Story” by Joanna and Chip Gaines<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Shaken” by Tim Tebow <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Suffer Strong” by Jay & Katherine Wolf<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“The ‘Do What You Can’ Plan” by Holley Gerth <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> “Entreleadership” by Dave Ramsey <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Fiction: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“The Lady Emily Capers” series by Regina Scott – lighthearted, Regency mystery<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The “Poppy Creek” series by Rachel Bloome – clean, modern-day fiction<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The “Paige Alder” series by Erynn Mangun – clean, funny, relatable Christian fiction<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The “Class of Their Own” series by Jen Turano – lighthearted fiction set in the gilded age in New York<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The “Hearts on the Heath” series by Kristi Ann Hunter – Regency fiction (includes race horses!) =)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">If books aren’t your favorite media, perhaps podcasts are. I found several podcasts last year that I’ve enjoyed. Feel free to share some of your favorites in the comments as well. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Podcasts: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Your Move podcast with Andy Stanley – biblical wisdom and practical spiritual truths<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Novel Marketing podcast with Thomas Umstattd Jr – great for authors!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Equip & Empower podcast with Christine Caine – spiritual encouragement <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The Alli Worthington Show podcast – interviews with different guests on various topics <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Joseph Prince podcast – messages from the pastor of New Creation Church <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I’m so thankful for the easy access we have to wonderful resources these days! These are some I’ve enjoyed, and I hope one of these recommendations will bless you as well. Let me know what resources you recommend for this new year. =) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-44365050917257169142022-12-23T19:19:00.004-05:002023-01-04T19:21:43.165-05:00 Why did He come?<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I love Christmas! Sometimes I wish we still did things like they did in England long ago, where the celebration continues through Twelfth Night. There is so much we can celebrate as we remember Jesus coming to earth as a baby.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">This Christmas I was reminded again of the question: Why did He come? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">John 3:16 says that God gave His Son because of His great love for the world of sinners. But why did Jesus choose to come? He actually answered that question Himself in John 10:</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” -John 10:10b (NIV)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.” -John 10:10b (NASB) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Jesus came so that we could have eternal life, and I am soooo grateful for that! But He also said in this verse that He came to give us abundant life, or life to the full. I’ve contemplated this verse for years, and continually asked, what is life to the full?</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">A lot of people today think a full life means fulfilling, productive, having more than we need, seeing our dreams come true…but I don’t think that’s what Jesus meant. I still don’t have a complete answer, or a learned theologian’s answer…but lately I have sensed Jesus whispering truth to my spirit that has helped me understand this idea of abundant life a little bit better.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I think Jesus came to give us life to the full – <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">full of peace<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">full of joy<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">full of hope<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">full of courage<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">full of grace<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">full of love…<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">full of all the things that only come from Jesus! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">That’s the kind of life I long for in the here in the now – in the midst of trials and suffering, of injustice and tears, of weakness, doubts and fears…. Because Jesus came, I don’t have to live under the oppression of those things. Yes, they still exist and are still part of life on earth, but in Jesus I have something greater! I have fullness…I have an unending supply of peace, joy, hope, courage, grace, love...and everything I need. Even if my dreams aren’t coming true, if my life doesn’t feel productive, if trials never seem to end…I still have a life full of beauty that only Jesus can give. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Jesus came both to give us eternal life and to give us fullness of life while we’re on earth. What better gifts could there possibly be?</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">This Christmas and every day, may we remember that we are eternally and daily blessed, because He came!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-78178489952478739802022-11-23T13:30:00.001-05:002022-11-23T13:30:00.183-05:00The Gift of Forgetfulness <p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I know November is usually focused on thankfulness, but I’ve realized that one thing I’m very thankful for is forgetfulness. If you don’t already, I have a feeling you’ll soon agree with me. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">For example, let’s have some fun…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Remember that awful season in junior high when there was so much insecurity, relational stress, and piles of homework? You don’t remember? Oh good. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Remember that year you had the flu so bad you weren’t sure you would make it, and frankly you reached the point where you didn’t care anymore? Remember how you felt? Oh, it’s coming back to you vaguely now? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Remember when you were so stressed out and worried about that one situation, that you lost sleep, you couldn’t focus, and then it all worked out in the end? Oh, you only remember that it worked out well? Yeah, I understand. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Ok, I’m being a little silly, but the reality is that as humans we have the ability to forget. Most of the time we complain about this – forgetting the keys, forgetting someone’s birthday, forgetting where we’re going tomorrow…. But there’s also a time where forgetfulness is the blessing we need. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">We all go through hardship, trials, pain, suffering, and grief. If we remembered every painful moment, every unkind word, every fearful emotion…it would be so awful! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">That’s not to say we forget all of the bad things that happen to us. But time has a way of softening so much of the difficult, stressful or painful things we go through. Even better than time, is God’s healing touch. Whatever we bring to Him, He can heal. Then, even if we remember the circumstance, the painful emotions are no longer there. He’s done that for me many times. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">In recent years I’ve learned to pray, “Lord, help me to remember what you want me to from this situation/trial/experience. And help me to forget the rest.” He has answered that prayer, for which I’m very grateful!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">And as my friend Kati says, when you’re in the middle of a new trial, just tell yourself, “I can’t wait til I’ve forgotten about this.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-21920702640447071252022-10-26T15:04:00.002-04:002022-10-26T15:04:00.197-04:00 Whose voice are you listening to?<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I confess, I enjoy watching Hallmark movies. Even if you don’t enjoy sappy, predictable, happily-ever-after movies, I bet you’ve seen enough other kinds of movies to agree with my next statement.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The main character always seems to struggle with listening to the wrong person. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Have you noticed that? For example, the brave heroine, for some reason, listens to the gossip/slander/lies of the “mean girl” who’s trying to get the hero or beat the heroine somehow. Or the noble hero makes progress on his quest until he listens to the lies of his rival/negative friend/critical parent. As a result, he makes a bad choice and has even more difficulties to overcome. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">As outside observers of the characters, you and I feel compelled to say, “Stop being an idiot! Don’t listen to that person!” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Why listen to someone who has proven they are untrustworthy? And yet, how many of us have done the same thing? How many times have we listened to someone and acted according to their words, even though we knew they weren’t trustworthy? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">In this crazy, mixed-up, sinful world, it’s vital that we listen to the right voices – the voices of those we know we can trust. And there’s one voice we can trust 100% of the time. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">When Jesus declared, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6), He gave us a solid foundation to build upon. Jesus is the Truth. He always speaks the truth. He is always trustworthy. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">When I look at it logically, I’m astounded at how easily we doubt God and believe other people’s lies. Doesn’t that seem crazy to you when you think about it?</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The reality is that our lives are also full of emotions, not just logic. It’s the emotions that often cloud our perspective. In the movie example, there’s always a strong emotion involved that causes the character to listen to the wrong person and believe the lies. I think it’s similar for us as well. The difference for us is that while with people, it’s hard at times to tell who is trustworthy and who isn’t, we already know God is trustworthy – no matter what. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">For me, this reflection isn’t as much about which people I should be listening to, as it is a reminder that God’s voice is the one I can always trust. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Unfortunately, the enemy will always be whispering his lies to us – through friends or enemies, family or strangers, media or circumstances…he never quits trying to intimidate, discourage or deceive us. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">But the good news is we have a constant source of truth! The Holy Spirit, called the Spirit of truth, lives in us. The Bible is available to us, so that every day we can fill our minds with what is true and compare what we hear to unchanging truth. And God always provides people in our life who are trustworthy and will speak His truth to us in love. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Yes, it’s a battle. No, it’s not fun. But we do have a choice. And we have a trustworthy God. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">So the question remains – whose voice will we listen to? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“The LORD is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does.” –Psalm 145:13b </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” –John 8:32 </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-48929996324925196842022-09-21T22:26:00.001-04:002022-10-14T22:29:59.314-04:00Thankful For “Messiology”<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Several years ago, someone loaned me a little book called “Messiology” by George Verwer. The subtitle of the book is long but interesting: “The Mystery of How God Works Even When it doesn’t Make Sense to Us.” I had been noticing more often how God was at work in my life, even when I messed up, so I was intrigued by this subtitle. I started reading the book, and I discovered a profound truth put so clearly into everyday words. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Put simply, messiology is the idea that God in His patience, mercy, and passion to bring men and women to Himself often does great things in the midst of a mess…I sometimes refer to it his as ‘radical grace.’…no matter how filled we are with the Holy Spirit, we are still human. Our humanness has its beautiful side and its messy side.” (George Verwer) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I used to see life choices as mostly good or bad, right or wrong, God’s will or not God’s will. And I was afraid of making a wrong choice, of not following God’s will. Looking back, I think it was an unhealthy fear. Yes, I still want to do what is right. But somehow the fear of doing anything wrong actually kept me from trusting God and seeing Him more clearly. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Ironically, after I had lived through a season of my life being a mess (and after reading this book), I saw so clearly that “messiology” is a beautiful truth that frees us in many ways. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">*When I know God will be faithful to work all things for my good, even my sin and mistakes, then I can let go of guilt and regret.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">*When I see God as always at work, even in my utter mess, I can have peace knowing that nothing is wasted. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">*When I have confidence that God’s grace, sovereignty, and power is greater than my own human frailty and failings, then I don’t have to fear failure or be paralyzed by not wanting to make a wrong choice. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">*When I believe God is working out His greater purposes no matter what, then I can forgive others and trust Him when I don’t like what’s happening. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">*When stop pressuring myself and others to always “get it right,” then I can both receive and give grace, as I walk this journey with others and Jesus. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Is any of this resonating with you? I hope it is! I wish I could go back 15 years and live with this beautiful understanding. It would have saved me so much stress, anxiety, fear, guilt, grief, etc. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Life is hard. We are imperfect humans. That’s the reality. But at the same time, God is greater! He is always at work. He keeps His promises, and He remains who He is, regardless of what we do or what happens to us. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Yet one more reason why He is so worthy of our praise! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” –Jeremiah 32:27 </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of His glory.” –Ephesians 1:11-12</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-69498107566054196212022-07-27T17:58:00.001-04:002022-07-27T17:58:53.163-04:00A Tribute<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Several years ago, I “met” a fellow missionary through some mutual friends. We never actually met in person, but through sharing emails and messages, it was easy to see she was a kindred spirit. She was a missionary to her home country and people of Colombia, the same country I had grown to love as a teenager when my family lived there as missionaries. And while my Spanish wasn’t great, Martha’s English was quite good, and we were able to communicate and build a sweet friendship.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Martha had been blessed by reading my blog, and one day she offered to translate my blog posts into Spanish, so that more people could read them and be encouraged. I was so happy and grateful for her kindness and willingness to do this! She happily gave her time and energy to translate all my posts after that.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Then a few years ago, Martha had a severe stroke, and we didn’t know if she would make it. So many people were praying for her, and miraculously God brought her through! However, she had months of intensive therapy, and never regained full function. Even after all of that, she told me she wanted to keep translating my blog posts, that it was a privilege for her. So I started sending them to her again, and she kept on translating them faithfully and joyfully...until recently.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Earlier this month Martha went to be with Jesus. While I knew she was still dealing with complications from the stroke, it was surprising news to hear she was no longer fighting the earthly battle. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I’m no stranger to grief. And yet, somehow it takes me by surprise every time. I thought Martha and I still had plenty of time to encourage and cheer each other on. Now she is Home, and I’m processing the loss of her presence on this earth.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I rejoice that she is with Jesus, and she is completely healed and whole! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I miss her already, and wish we could have one more text conversation, full of her faith-filled words and cheerful encouragement. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I’m sad that her translated words will no longer grace future blog posts. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I’m so grateful for all the posts she did translate, which will hopefully continue to encourage Spanish-speaking readers for many years to come. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I pray that her friends and family will find comfort in knowing she ran her race well and is now enjoying eternity with her Savior. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I know her life’s impact will continue to bear fruit and bring glory to God. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I honor her for a life well-lived, for letting Jesus shine through her so brightly, and for being a blessing in the lives of so many!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I wish had more eloquent words to give tribute to my friend, my sister in Christ, this beautiful daughter of the King…but since I’m feeling at a loss today, I’ll just say this – </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Martha, you are missed. You are loved. You made a beautiful difference in this world and for eternity. Until we meet again my friend, enjoy the glorious life you have graduated to…and give Jesus a hug for me!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-44519358656489154652022-02-23T18:48:00.002-05:002022-06-07T21:49:29.833-04:00Something To Look Forward To (Algo que esperar con anhelo)<p><span style="font-family: georgia;">When I was in college, I helped with childcare during Wednesday night church. One of those nights, a little boy asked me how old I was. I told him I was 21. He looked shocked, shook his head and said, “No way, you’re not 21!” I laughed at his response and assured him that I was indeed older than I looked. This little 8 or 9-year old boy then paused with a very thoughtful look on his face. Finally, he said, “That means when you’re 82, you’ll only look like you’re 72!” His insight surprised me more than my age had surprised him. I just chuckled and said, “That’s something to look forward to I guess.”</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The irony is that I think we do need something to look forward to, even something as silly as that. When life is only difficulty, pain, and suffering, it’s hard to keep getting out of bed each day. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’ve been through more than one season in my life when I wondered if I’d ever have anything to look forward to again. Maybe you can relate. Thankfully Jesus has once again refreshed my perspective to encourage me in my current trials. He has reminded me of a few very important things that I can always look forward to…</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><span>I can look forward to Jesus keeping all His promises to me</span></b><span>. No matter how awful my circumstances, Jesus will never leave me; I can look forward to His presence with me every moment. I can watch with anticipation to see how He will work all things in my life for good, even the awful things. Suffering can’t stop Jesus from being true to His Word. That’s something I can look forward to. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><span>I can look forward to experiencing Jesus’ grace every day.</span></b><span> God’s grace is not only sufficient, it is super-abounding! It never runs out. It never stops. It never fails. And in weakness, hardship, heartache, etc. His grace pours over me, whether I recognize it or not. It’s something I can not only look forward to, but look for and rejoice in every day. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><span>I can look forward to seeing Jesus do miracles.</span></b><span> Maybe they’ll be “small” miracles, like helping me get out of bed when I think I can’t. Or maybe they’ll be “big” miracles like seeing a friend I’ve prayed for finally believe in Jesus. Since God is always working, I can look forward to seeing Him at work in miraculous ways, both in my life and others. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>These are only a few of the things that we can look forward to, regardless of circumstances. The beautiful reality is that everything that is true about God, is something we can look forward to in the future – because He doesn’t change. He will still be with us, still be loving us, still be pouring grace over us, still answering our prayers, still delighting in us, still singing over us…every day from now until we see Him face to face.</span><span> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>And I wouldn’t be surprised if He threw in a few delightful surprises for us along the way as well. Even in the hardest trial, He still has ways to give us sweet gifts.</span><span> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>I hope these thoughts have encouraged you today and given you something precious to look forward to.</span><span> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.” -Romans 8:28-30</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Algo que esperar con anhelo </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Cuando estaba en la universidad, ayudaba con el cuidado de los niños durante las reuniones de iglesia los miércoles por la noche. Una de esas noches, un niño pequeño me preguntó cuántos años tenía. Le dije que tenía 21. Pareció sorprendido, sacudió la cabeza y dijo: “¡De ninguna manera, no tienes 21!” Me reí de su respuesta y le aseguré que, en efecto, era mayor de lo que parecía. Este niño de 8 o 9 años se detuvo con una mirada muy pensativa en su rostro. Finalmente, dijo: “¡Eso significa que cuando tengas 82 años, sólo lucirás como si tuvieras 72!” Su perspicacia me sorprendió más de lo que le había sorprendido a él mi edad. Me reí y dije: "Eso es algo que esperar, supongo."</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">La ironía es que creo que necesitamos algo que anhelar, incluso algo tan tonto como eso. Cuando la vida es solo dificultad, dolor y sufrimiento, es difícil seguir levantándose de la cama todos los días.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">He pasado por más de una temporada en mi vida en la que me preguntaba si alguna vez volvería a tener algo que esperar. Tal vez puedas relacionarte. Afortunadamente, Jesús una vez más ha refrescado mi perspectiva para animarme en mis pruebas actuales. Me ha recordado algunas cosas muy importantes que siempre puedo esperar…</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><span lang="ES">Puedo esperar que Jesús cumpla todas sus promesas para mí</span></b><span lang="ES">. No importa cuán terribles sean mis circunstancias, Jesús nunca me dejará; Puedo esperar Su presencia conmigo en todo momento. Puedo mirar con anticipación para ver cómo Él obrará todas las cosas en mi vida para bien, incluso las cosas terribles. El sufrimiento no puede impedir que Jesús sea fiel a Su Palabra. Eso es algo que puedo esperar.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><span lang="ES">Puedo esperar experimentar la gracia de Jesús todos los días. </span></b><span lang="ES">La gracia de Dios no solo es suficiente, ¡es sobreabundante! Nunca se agota. Nunca se detiene. nunca falla. Y en la debilidad, la dificultad, la angustia, etc. Su gracia se derrama sobre mí, lo reconozca o no. Es algo que no solo puedo esperar, sino buscar y regocijarme todos los días.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><b><span lang="ES">Puedo esperar ver a Jesús hacer milagros.</span></b><span lang="ES"> Tal vez sean “pequeños” milagros, como ayudarme a levantarme de la cama cuando creo que no puedo. O tal vez serán milagros “grandes”, como ver a un amigo por el que he orado finalmente creer en Jesús. Dado que Dios siempre está trabajando, puedo esperar verlo obrar de manera milagrosa, tanto en mi vida como en la de otros.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Estas son solo algunas de las cosas que podemos esperar, independientemente de las circunstancias. La hermosa realidad es que todo lo que es verdad acerca de Dios es algo que podemos esperar en el futuro, porque Él no cambia. Él seguirá estando con nosotros, amándonos, derramando su gracia sobre nosotros, respondiendo nuestras oraciones, deleitándose en nosotros, cantando sobre nosotros… todos los días desde ahora hasta que lo veamos cara a cara. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Y no me sorprendería si también nos arrojara algunas sorpresas agradables en el camino. Incluso en las pruebas más difíciles Él todavía tiene formas de darnos dulces regalos.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Espero que estos pensamientos te hayan animado hoy y te hayan dado algo precioso en que esperar.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;">“Y sabemos que a los que aman a Dios, todas las cosas les ayudan a bien, esto es, a los que conforme a su propósito son llamados.</span> <span style="background-color: white;">Porque a los que antes conoció, también los predestinó para que fuesen hechos conformes a la imagen de su Hijo, para que él sea el primogénito entre muchos hermanos.</span> <span style="background-color: white;">Y a los que predestinó, a éstos también llamó; y a los que llamó, a éstos también justificó; y a los que justificó, a éstos también glorificó.” Ro. 8:28-30</span></span><span style="font-family: Geneva, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-63810919859385243432022-01-26T17:32:00.002-05:002022-02-25T21:09:59.950-05:00A Prayer for a New Year Filled with Healing (Una Oración por un Año Nuevo Lleno de Sanación )<p>I<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">t’s astounding to me how many people are in need of healing right now. Daily I see prayer requests from friends about themselves or someone in their family who is dealing with sickness, accidents, hospitalizations, etc. It feels overwhelming at times. Thankfully, I’ve also been hearing many reports about how God is answering prayers – bringing healing in so many situations, and giving supernatural comfort in others.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Now that so many people are focused on asking for healing, it makes me wonder if more of us will realize God is interested in so much more than physical healing. Our heavenly Father’s heart longs to bring healing to our souls as well. This is often a harder need to recognize, share, or ask for prayer about. I think too many of us keep the wounds of our souls to ourselves, and we don’t ask for or receive the prayers for healing we so desperately need. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I’ve been on a rather epic healing journey for over 25 years. I’ve experienced numerous physical and soul challenges, wounds, and pain. Thankfully, I’ve also experienced God’s touch in both physical healing and soul healing. The irony is that it seems no matter how much God heals, there is always more to be healed…there is another layer inside to heal, or a new physical challenge, or more painful circumstances we didn’t expect….<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">After everything I’ve been through, I can only say that there is an unexpected blessing in coming to know Jesus more deeply as my Healer. As much as I long for the day when I see Him face to face and everything is healed, I can appreciate the fellowship with Hiim that comes in the midst of the pain and heartache. I think that’s why Psalm 34:18 says “The LORD is close to the broken-hearted….” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Asking for healing means acknowledging that we need help beyond ourselves. And in that place, we are ready to receive grace. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Grace strengthens us when there isn’t relief of physical pain.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Grace carries us when we’re too weak to care.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Grace comforts us when there are no tears left. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Grace heals things we never expected to be freed from.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Grace touches places deep inside us, breathing new life, peace, and hope into us. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">All this comes through our humble Savior – who completely understands our pain, who loves us unconditionally. In His presence, we find healing in ways we didn’t know we needed or ever believed possible. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">So, as we start this new year, I have a challenge for us. Let us continue praying for physical healing for our friends and loved ones. But let us also pray for soul healing for others and for ourselves. Let us bravely ask trusted friends to pray for our soul healing as well. Let us discover more of who Jesus is as our Healer. Let us encourage others with our stories of healing. Let us demonstrate with our prayers and our testimonies that the gospel is true and God is still doing miracles among His people. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Will you join me?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Jesus, <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I thank you that you are our Healer. I praise you for all the ways you have worked healing in my life and those I love. Yet Lord, we are so needy. We need your presence, your grace, and your love. As we begin a new year, we ask you to give us courage to keep praying for healing. Help us see beyond the physical to the soul healing you wish to give. Draw us near to know you better in our pain. And fill us with praise to you, as you do more than we can ask or imagine! We love you, Lord. Amen. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br />Una Oración por un Año Nuevo Lleno de Sanación </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Me sorprende cuántas personas necesitan curación en este momento. Diariamente veo peticiones de oración de amigos acerca de ellos mismos o de alguien de su familia que está lidiando con enfermedades, accidentes, hospitalizaciones, etc. A veces se siente abrumador. Afortunadamente, también he estado escuchando muchos informes sobre cómo Dios está respondiendo las oraciones, trayendo sanidad en tantas situaciones y brindando consuelo sobrenatural en otras. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Ahora que tantas personas se enfocan en pedir sanidad, me pregunto si más de nosotros nos daremos cuenta de que Dios está interesado en mucho más que la sanidad física. El corazón de nuestro Padre celestial anhela traer sanidad a nuestras almas también. Esta es a menudo una necesidad más difícil de reconocer, compartir o pedir oración. Creo que muchos de nosotros guardamos las heridas de nuestras almas para nosotros mismos, y no pedimos ni recibimos las oraciones de sanación que tan desesperadamente necesitamos. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">He estado en un viaje de curación bastante épico durante más de 25 años. He experimentado numerosos desafíos físicos y anímicos, heridas y dolor. Afortunadamente, también he experimentado el toque de Dios tanto en la curación física como en del alma. La ironía es que parece que no importa cuánto sane Dios, siempre hay más por sanar... hay otra capa interior que sanar, o un nuevo desafío físico, o circunstancias más dolorosas que no esperábamos....</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Después de todo lo que he pasado, solo puedo decir que hay una bendición inesperada al llegar a conocer a Jesús más profundamente como mi Sanador. Por mucho que anhele el día en que lo vea cara a cara y todo se sane, puedo apreciar la comunión con Él que surge en medio del dolor y la angustia. Creo que es por eso que el Salmo 34:18 dice “</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;">Cercano está Jehová a los quebrantados de corazón;</span><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">…”</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Pedir sanación significa reconocer que necesitamos ayuda más allá de nosotros mismos. Y en ese lugar, estamos listos para recibir la gracia. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">La gracia nos fortalece cuando no hay alivio del dolor físico. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">La gracia nos lleva cuando somos demasiado débiles para que nos importe. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">La gracia nos consuela cuando ya no quedan lágrimas. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">La gracia cura cosas de las que nunca esperamos ser liberados. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">La gracia toca lugares muy profundos dentro de nosotros, infundiéndonos nueva vida, paz y esperanza.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Todo esto viene a través de nuestro humilde Salvador, quien comprende completamente nuestro dolor, quien nos ama incondicionalmente. En Su presencia, encontramos sanidad en formas que no sabíamos que necesitábamos o que nunca creímos posibles. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Entonces, al comenzar este nuevo año, tengo un desafío para nosotros. Sigamos orando por la sanidad física de nuestros amigos y seres queridos. Pero oremos también por la curación del alma de los demás y de nosotros mismos. Pidámosle valientemente a nuestros amigos de confianza que también oren por la sanación de nuestra alma. Descubramos más de quién es Jesús como nuestro Sanador. Animemos a otros con nuestras historias de sanación. Demostremos con nuestras oraciones y nuestros testimonios que el evangelio es verdadero y que Dios todavía está haciendo milagros entre Su pueblo.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¿Me acompañarás? </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Jesús, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Te agradezco que seas nuestro Sanador. Te alabo por todas las formas en que has trabajado en la sanación de mi vida y la de aquellos a quienes amo. Sin embargo, Señor, estamos tan necesitados. Necesitamos tu presencia, tu gracia y tu amor. Al comenzar un nuevo año, te pedimos que nos des valor para seguir orando por sanidad. Ayúdanos a ver más allá de lo físico hacia la curación del alma que deseas brindar. Acércanos para conocerte mejor en nuestro dolor. ¡Y llénanos de alabanzas a ti, ya que haces más de lo que podemos pedir o imaginar! Te amamos, Señor. Amén.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-43951452631962069432021-12-29T19:30:00.002-05:002022-02-25T21:11:06.433-05:00Lead On, Our Emmanuel (Sigue adelante, nuestro Emmanuel )<p><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Somehow 2021 felt like it lasted more than five years…I hardly know how to put into words all I experienced, let alone what so many of my friends and loved ones went through. At the end, my main thought was to thank God that I survived! Yet, there were also blessings in the midst of it all, for which I’m thankful.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Who knows what a new year will hold…only Jesus. And I’m so thankful I know Him! How grateful I am that He came to earth 2000 years ago, so that today I could know Him and walk with Him. He is, and always will be, the greatest gift. Without Him I wouldn’t be able to face a new year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Today I thought I’d share something I wrote many years ago, but it feels even more appropriate now. How grateful I am for Emmanuel, God with us. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Lead On</span></b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">A special day to mark the years.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Looking back I feel the tears<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Welling up from loss and pain.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Will I see happiness again?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Looking up I see Your face,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Full of love, full of grace.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">The years I've lost <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">You will replace.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Lead on, O gracious God.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Lead on.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Another year has come and gone,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Not the picture I'd have drawn.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I asked again for health restored.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">You answered "no" but gave me more.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">More of You, more sweet release<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">From burdens and from striving cease.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Through the pain I trust Your heart.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">You are my strength, my peace.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Lead on, O faithful Friend.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Lead on.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">A new year today begins,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Its contents framed by Your lens.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Through fire or flood, storm or sun,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I'll walk with You, the Holy One.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">All my weakness You understand,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Give grace sufficient for each demand,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sharing Your life and happiness,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">As You hold tightly to my hand.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Lead on, O loving Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Lead on.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sigue adelante, nuestro Emmanuel </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">De alguna manera, sentí que 2021 duró más de cinco años... Apenas sé cómo expresar con palabras todo lo que experimenté, y mucho menos lo que pasaron muchos de mis amigos y seres queridos. ¡Al final, mi pensamiento principal fue agradecer a Dios porque sobreviví! Sin embargo, también hubo bendiciones en medio de todo, por lo que estoy agradecida. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Quién sabe lo que deparará un nuevo año... sólo Jesús. ¡Y estoy tan agradecida de conocerlo! Cuán agradecida estoy de que Él vino a la tierra hace 2000 años, para que hoy pudiera conocerlo y caminar con Él. Él es, y siempre será, el regalo más grande. Sin Él no sería capaz de afrontar un nuevo año. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Hoy pensé en compartir algo que escribí hace muchos años, pero ahora se siente aún más apropiado. Qué agradecida estoy por Emmanuel, Dios con nosotros. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Dirígeme </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Un día especial para conmemorar los años. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Mirando hacia atrás siento las lágrimas </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">brotando por la pérdida y el dolor. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¿Volveré a ver la felicidad? </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Mirando hacia arriba veo tu rostro </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">lleno de amor, lleno de gracia. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Los años que he perdido </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">reemplazarás. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Conduce, oh Dios misericordioso. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Dirige.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Otro año que viene y se va, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No es la imagen que yo habría dibujado. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Pregunté de nuevo por salud restaurada. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Respondiste "no" pero me diste más. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Más de ti, más dulce liberación </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">de las cargas y de los esfuerzos cesan. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">A través del dolor confío en Tu corazón. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Eres mi fuerza, mi paz. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Guíame, oh fiel amigo. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Dirígeme. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Hoy comienza un nuevo año, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Su contenido enmarcado por Tu lente. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">A través del fuego o la inundación, la tormenta o el sol, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">caminaré contigo, el Santo. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Toda mi debilidad Tú entiendes, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Das gracia suficiente para cada demanda, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">compartiendo tu vida y felicidad, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">mientras sostienes con fuerza mi mano. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Conduce, oh amoroso Señor. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Dirígeme.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-51623169091026026802021-11-24T19:27:00.003-05:002022-02-25T21:13:51.544-05:00Thankful for the “Nots” (Agradecida por los “No” )<p>I<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">t is true that even in hard times, we have so much to be thankful for! I have been keeping a running gratitude list for the last year, and it’s funny at times to read back through it. Once I start looking for things to be grateful for, they are everywhere…from rocking chairs to chocolate, peaceful sleep to mountain vistas, funny stories and encouragement from friends...when I list out specific things, it’s amazing how many there are.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">However, I realized recently that I’m thankful for more than these good things. I’m thankful for the “nots.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">What are the “nots”? Well, I started noticing them throughout the Bible, and I quickly realized how precious they are! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Not abandoned<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Not forsaken<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Not condemned<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Not separated<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Not crushed<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Not defeated<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Not destroyed<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">These are promises God has made to us. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“…he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” -Psalm 103:10-12<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” -Romans 8:1<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” -Romans 8:37-38<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” -2 Corinthians 4:7-9<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No matter what we go through, how unexpected, difficult, or painful…these truths remain. We are not abandoned, forsaken, or condemned. Even in suffering we are not separated from God’s love or crushed, because He holds us up. Against the fiercest attacks of the enemy, we are not defeated or destroyed…because we belong to Jesus! And He has given us these precious, irrevocable gifts. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">I hope you feel as grateful for these as I do! And there are more to be found in the Bible as well. I pray that whenever the struggle feels overwhelming, we’ll remember God’s promises and thank Him for the “nots.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Do you have a “not” to add to this list? Please share it with us in the comments. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-family: Georgia, serif; padding: 0in;">Agradecida por los “No” </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-family: Georgia, serif; padding: 0in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¡Es cierto que incluso en tiempos difíciles, tenemos mucho que agradecer! He estado manteniendo una lista de gratitud durante el último año, y es divertido leerla de nuevo. Una vez que empiezo a buscar cosas por las que estar agradecida, están en todas partes... desde mecedoras hasta chocolate, un sueño tranquilo hasta vistas a la montaña, historias divertidas y el aliento de amigos... cuando enumero cosas específicas, es sorprendente cuántas hay. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sin embargo, recientemente me di cuenta de que estoy agradecida por más que estas cosas buenas. Estoy agradecida por los "no."</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¿Qué son los "no"? Bueno, comencé a notarlos a lo largo de la Biblia, ¡y rápidamente me di cuenta de lo preciosos que son! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no abandonada </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no desamparada </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no condenada </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no separados </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no triturada </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no derrotada </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no destruida</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Estas son promesas que Dios nos ha hecho.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;">“No ha hecho con nosotros conforme a nuestras iniquidades, ni nos ha pagado conforme a nuestros pecados.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">Porque como la altura de los cielos sobre la tierra, engrandeció su misericordia sobre los que le temen.Cuanto está lejos el oriente del occidente, hizo alejar de nosotros nuestras rebeliones.” -Salmo 103:10-12</span> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; font-family: Georgia, serif; padding: 0in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Ahora, pues, ninguna condenación hay para los que están en Cristo Jesús, los que no andan conforme a la carne, sino conforme al Espíritu.” -Ro. 8:1</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Por lo cual estoy seguro de que ni la muerte, ni la vida, ni ángeles, ni principados, ni potestades, ni lo presente, ni lo por venir,</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">ni lo alto, ni lo profundo, ni ninguna otra cosa creada nos podrá separar del amor de Dios, que es en Cristo Jesús Señor nuestro.” -Ro. 8:38-39 </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><sup><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></sup></b><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Pero tenemos este tesoro en vasos de barro, para que la excelencia del poder sea de Dios, y no de nosotros,</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">que estamos atribulados en todo, mas no angustiados; en apuros, mas no “desesperados;</span> <span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">perseguidos, mas no desamparados; derribados, pero no destruidos;” -2 Co. 4:7-9 </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No importa por lo que atravesemos, cuán inesperado, difícil o doloroso... estas verdades permanecen. No estamos abandonados, desamparados o condenados. Incluso en el sufrimiento no somos separados del amor de Dios ni aplastados, porque Él nos sostiene. Contra los ataques más feroces del enemigo, no somos derrotados ni destruidos… ¡porque somos de Jesús! Y Él nos ha dado estos regalos preciosos e irrevocables. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¡Espero que te sientas tan agradecido por esto como yo! Y hay más que también se encuentran en la Biblia. Oro para que cada vez que la lucha se sienta abrumadora, recordemos las promesas de Dios y le agradezcamos por los “no.” </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¿Tienes un “no” para agregar a esta lista? Por favor compártelo con nosotros en los comentarios. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-16266581587057333572021-10-27T18:05:00.002-04:002022-02-25T21:15:20.491-05:00 Kindness, Acceptance, Grace (Bondad, Aceptación, Gracia )<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">What a difficult, painful year it’s been for me. And I know I’m not the only one.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I was recently blessed to spend a few days with some friends who were just present with me – listening, accepting, being. I shared much of my long, complicated, hard to understand story with them. And they didn’t try to categorize, label, or judge my experiences, character, or choices. They graciously listened, showed kindness, and gave me the gift of being seen, heard, accepted, and loved.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">In this crazy, mixed-up world we live in, I think too often we want to categorize and label everything out of desperation to make sense of things. And I’m not against having clear distinctions of right from wrong and good from evil. Praise God that He has given us the truth we need to recognize such things. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">But there are some things in life that can’t be easily classified as “right” or “wrong”…some things are neutral, or complicated, or a mix of both right and wrong. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">So, what do we do with those? What do we do with people who share stories we can’t relate to or understand? How do we respond when their experience isn’t something we can categorize or label? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Oh, how I hope we do not give in to the temptation to judge! …though I’m sad to say I have done so on too many occasions. And I’ve been on the receiving end of unjust judgement from others too many times as well. Both things make me feel sad. Because that is not God’s heart! His heart is one of kindness, acceptance, and grace. His heart is one of unconditional love and never-failing affection for His precious children – no matter our circumstances, experiences, or choices. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />We are His beloved ones. Always. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">When we’re tempted to judge someone or something we can’t understand, I pray we’ll remember the following words from God’s heart, through the Apostle Paul, who also experienced both sides of unjust judgement. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand.” –Romans 14:4<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“You then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgement seat…so then each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” –Romans 14:10, 12<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” –Romans 14:19<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” –Romans 15:7<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">God is the only one with the right, wisdom, and perfection to judge accurately every single time. As limited human beings, we must be more cautious in how and what we judge. Now is definitely a time for us to take a stand against evil, lies, and deception. But I hope in the process that we do not misjudge people, for each one is loved and was died for by Jesus. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">And for those who are our brothers and sisters in Christ? I pray we’ll remember that God has already judged each of us as righteous because of Jesus. He is our Master. Before Him we will all stand. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">If you’ve been on the receiving end of unjust criticism, labeling, or judgement from others, I’m so sorry! I wish, as God’s children, that we could always show kindness, acceptance, and grace to each other. Alas, none of us are perfect, and we still mess up at times. But I hope you can know and remember God’s heart toward you. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">His heart is one of – <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">complete understanding – you don’t have to explain yourself to Him, <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">perfect love – you can’t do anything to make Him love you less,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">unending grace – He will never stop showing you kindness,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">and so much more!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">And those people in our lives who may judge too quickly or unjustly…they also need kindness, acceptance, and grace. Even if they never recognize when we’re giving it to them. Many of them have good motives, they just don’t understand. Others are responding out of their own hurt, insecurities, or fears. They need us to demonstrate God’s grace to them as much as we wish they’d show it to us. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">What a beautiful Savior we have! I’m so thankful for Jesus’ perfect love and grace. May He keep working in each of us the healing we need, so that we can receive more of His grace and extend more of it to one another. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Perspective<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They don’t understand – <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">how could they?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They weren’t there,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">they didn’t see, hear, feel <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">what it was like. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They can’t compare what they know<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">to what they don’t know. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They don’t understand –<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">and I’m thankful<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">that they don’t know, <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">that they haven’t suffered<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">like I have. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They can’t imagine what it’s like,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">and that’s a good thing.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They don’t understand – <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">but they do care.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They want to help,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">they try to make things better,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">even when they can’t.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They may hurt instead of help,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">but their hearts are true.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">They don’t understand – <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">and it’s ok.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’m not alone,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">my Savior knows, sees, understands<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">every single thing.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">He gives grace to me, to them,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">and that’s enough for me. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Bondad, Aceptación, Gracia </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Qué año tan difícil y doloroso ha sido para mí. Y sé que no soy la única. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Recientemente tuve la suerte de pasar unos días con algunas amigas que estaban presentes conmigo, escuchando, aceptando, estando. Compartí gran parte de mi larga, complicada y difícil historia con ellas. Y no intentaron categorizar, etiquetar o juzgar mis experiencias, carácter o elecciones. Ellas escucharon atentamente, mostraron amabilidad y me dieron el don de ser vista, escuchada, aceptada y amada. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">En este mundo loco y confuso en el que vivimos, creo que con demasiada frecuencia queremos categorizar y etiquetar todo por desesperación por dar sentido a las cosas. Y no estoy en contra de tener una clara distinción entre lo bueno y lo malo y el bien del mal. Alabado sea Dios porque nos ha dado la verdad que necesitamos para reconocer tales cosas. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Pero hay algunas cosas en la vida que no se pueden clasificar fácilmente como “correctas” o “incorrectas” ... algunas son neutrales o complicadas, o una mezcla de bien y mal. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Entonces, ¿qué hacemos con ellas? ¿Qué hacemos con las personas que comparten historias con las que no podemos relacionarnos o comprender? ¿Cómo respondemos cuando su experiencia no es algo que podamos categorizar o etiquetar?</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¡Oh, cuánto espero que no cedamos a la tentación de juzgar! ... aunque me entristece decir que lo he hecho en demasiadas ocasiones. Y también he estado recibiendo juicios injustos de otros, muchas veces. Ambas cosas me entristecen. ¡Porque ese no es el corazón de Dios! Su corazón es de bondad, aceptación y gracia. De amor incondicional y afecto constante por Sus preciosos hijos, sin importar nuestras circunstancias, experiencias o elecciones. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Somos sus amados. Siempre.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Cuando nos sentimos tentados a juzgar a alguien o algo que no podemos entender, oro para que recordemos las siguientes palabras del corazón de Dios, a través del apóstol Pablo, quien también experimentó ambos lados del juicio injusto.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;">“¿Tú quién eres, que juzgas al criado ajeno? Para su propio señor está en pie, o cae; pero estará firme, porque poderoso es el Señor para hacerle estar firme.” -Ro. 14:4 </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Pero tú, ¿por qué juzgas a tu hermano? O tú también, ¿por qué menosprecias a tu hermano? Porque todos compareceremos ante el tribunal de Cristo…De manera que cada uno de nosotros dará a Dios cuenta de sí.” -Ro. 10,12 </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Así que, sigamos lo que contribuye a la paz y a la mutua edificación.”-Ro. 14:19</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Por tanto, recibíos los unos a los otros, como también Cristo nos recibió, para gloria de Dios.” -Ro.15:7 <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Dios es el único que tiene el derecho, la sabiduría y la perfección para juzgar con precisión cada vez. Como seres humanos limitados, debemos ser más cautelosos en cómo y qué juzgamos. Definitivamente, ahora es el momento para que tomemos una posición contra el mal, la mentira y el engaño. Pero espero que en el proceso no juzguemos mal a las personas, porque cada uno es amado y por quien Jesús murió. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¿Y para aquellos que son nuestros hermanos y hermanas en Cristo? Oro para que recordemos que Dios ya nos ha juzgado a cada uno de nosotros como justos gracias a Jesús. Él es nuestro Maestro. Delante de Él todos compareceremos. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Si has estado recibiendo críticas injustas, te han etiquetado o juzgado, ¡lo siento mucho! Deseo, como hijos de Dios, que siempre podamos mostrar bondad, aceptación y gracia los unos a los otros. Por desgracia, ninguno de nosotros es perfecto y todavía nos equivocamos a veces. Pero espero que puedas conocer y recordar el corazón de Dios hacia ti. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Su corazón es uno de... </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">comprensión completa – no tienes que explicarte para Él, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">amor perfecto – no puedes hacer nada para que Él te ame menos, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">gracia infinita – Él nunca dejará de mostrarte bondad, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">y mucho más! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Y aquellas personas en nuestras vidas que pueden juzgar demasiado rápido o injustamente… también necesitan bondad, aceptación y gracia. Incluso si nunca reconocen cuando se las estamos dando. Muchos de ellos tienen buenos motivos, simplemente no entienden. Otros están respondiendo por su propio dolor, inseguridades o miedos. Necesitan que les demostremos la gracia de Dios tanto como deseamos que nos la muestren. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¡Qué hermoso Salvador tenemos! Estoy muy agradecida por el perfecto amor y la gracia de Jesús. Que Él siga obrando en cada uno de nosotros la curación que necesitamos, para que podamos recibir más de Su gracia y extenderla más unos a otros. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Perspectiva <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No entienden – </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¿cómo podrían? </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no estaban allí </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">no vieron, no escucharon, no sintieron </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">como fue. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No pueden comparar lo que saben </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">con lo que no saben. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No entienden – </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">y estoy agradecida </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">de que no saben, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">porque no han sufrido </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">como yo. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No pueden imaginarse cómo es </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">y eso es bueno. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No entienden – </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">pero les importa. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Quieren ayudar </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">intentan mejorar las cosas, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">incluso cuando no pueden. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Pueden lastimar en lugar de ayudar, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">pero sus corazones son sinceros. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No entienden – </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">y está bien. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No estoy sola, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">mi Salvador sabe, ve y comprende </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">cada cosa. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Él me da gracia a mí, a ellos, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">y eso es suficiente para mí.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-46570155499321784972021-09-29T14:10:00.001-04:002021-11-09T18:08:14.408-05:00My Current Favorite Word (Mis palabras favoritas actualmente)<p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>In the midst of some pretty intense trials lately, God brought to mind some different verses I’ve often clung to. And I began to notice a common word…and it’s now my current favorite word.</span><span> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here are some of the Scriptures I’ve been contemplating. Want to guess which word is my current favorite? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span><br />“Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The LORD works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.” -Psalm</span><span> </span><span>103:2-6</span><span> (</span><span>NIV)</span><span><br /><br />“The LORD is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does.” -Psalm</span><span> </span><span>145:13</span><span>b (NIV)</span><span><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span><br />“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” -Romans</span><span> </span><span>8:28</span><span> </span><span>(</span><span>NIV)</span><span><br /><br />“He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” -Romans</span><span> </span><span>8:32</span><span> </span><span>(</span><span>NIV)</span><span><br /><br />“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” -Romans</span><span> </span><span>8:37</span><span>(</span><span>NIV)</span><span><br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span>“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” -Ephesians</span><span> </span><span>3:20-21</span><span> (</span><span>NIV)</span><span><br /><br />“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” -Philippians</span><span> </span><span>4:13</span><span> </span><span>(</span><span>NASB)</span><span><br /><br />“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians</span><span> </span><span>4:19</span><span> (</span><span>NIV)</span><span><br /><br />Did you find it? <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">There are many more verses I could include. Once I started thinking about it, I realized how often the word ALL appears in God’s Word. And I realized how often I’ve overlooked it. It’s a tiny word, easily missed if we aren’t paying attention. Yet it packs a huge punch. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">All – every single thing; no exceptions; no “ifs,” “ands” or “buts;” inclusive in every way.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I don’t think I’ve been living like I believe this word means what it means. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I know that our God does not exaggerate. He doesn’t say something unless He means it. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">So…</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">He is trustworthy in ALL things.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">He is faithful in ALL things.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">He works ALL things for good.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">He can do more than ALL we can possibly imagine.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">He gives us power to do ALL things.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">He provides for ALL our needs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">…and so much more!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’m still meditating on these truths, hoping they will sink deeper into my heart and mind. There’s a lot I don’t know or understand right now, but these truths don’t change. I can count on God ALL the time, without exception, no matter what…and so can you. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Mis palabras favoritas actualmente </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">En medio de algunas pruebas bastante intensas últimamente, Dios me recordó algunos versículos a los que a menudo me he aferrado. Y comencé a notar unas palabras comunes...y ahora son mis palabras favoritas actuales. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Estas son algunas de las Escrituras que he estado contemplando. ¿Quieres adivinar qué palabras son mis favoritas actualmente? </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Alaba, alma mía, al SEÑOR, y no olvides ninguno de sus beneficios. Él perdona todos tus pecados y sana todas tus dolencias; él rescata tu vida del sepulcro y te cubre de amor y compasión; él colma de bienes tu vida y te rejuvenece como a las águilas. El SEÑOR hace justicia y defiende a todos los oprimidos.” -Salmo 103:2-6 (NVI) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Fiel es el SEÑOR a su palabra y bondadoso en todas sus obras.” -Salmo 145:13b (NVI) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Ahora bien, sabemos que Dios dispone todas las cosas para el bien de quienes lo aman, los que han sido llamados de acuerdo con su propósito.” -Ro. 8:28 (NVI) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;">“El que no escatimó ni a su propio Hijo, sino que lo entregó por todos nosotros, ¿cómo no habrá de darnos generosamente, junto con él, todas las cosas?” -Ro. 8:32 (NVI) </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;">“Sin embargo, en todo esto somos más que vencedores por medio de aquel que nos amó.” -Ro. 8:37 (NVI) </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Al que puede hacer muchísimo más que todo lo que podamos imaginarnos o pedir, por el poder que obra eficazmente en nosotros, ¡a él sea la gloria en la iglesia y en Cristo Jesús por todas las generaciones, por los siglos de los siglos! Amén.” -Ef. 3:21-22<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Todo lo puedo en Cristo que me fortalece.” -Fi. 4:13 (LBLA) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">“Así que mi Dios les proveerá de todo lo que necesiten, conforme a las gloriosas riquezas que tiene en Cristo Jesús.” -Fi. 4:19 (NVI) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">¿Las encontraste? </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Hay muchos más versículos que podría incluir. Cuando comencé a pensar en ello, me di cuenta de la frecuencia con la que aparecen las palabras TODO, TODA, TODAS y TODOS en la Palabra de Dios. Y me di cuenta de la frecuencia con la que las he pasado por alto. Son unas palabras diminutas que se pierden fácilmente si no prestamos atención. Sin embargo, tienen un gran impacto. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Todo, toda, todas, todos, cada una de las cosas; sin excepciones; Sin dudas, quejas o peros; son palabras inclusivas en todas las maneras. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES"><span style="font-family: georgia;">No creo que haya estado viviendo como que creo que estas palabras significan lo que significan. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Sé que nuestro Dios no exagera. No dice algo a menos que lo diga en serio. Entonces…</span> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Él es digno de confianza en TODAS las cosas. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Él es fiel en TODAS las cosas. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Él obra TODAS las cosas para bien. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Él puede hacer más de TODO lo que podamos imaginar. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Él nos da poder para hacer TODAS las cosas. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Él provee para TODAS nuestras necesidades. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">…¡y mucho más! </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span lang="ES">Todavía estoy meditando sobre estas verdades, esperando que se hundan más profundamente en mi corazón y mi mente. Hay muchas cosas que no sé o no entiendo en este momento, pero estas verdades no cambian. Puedo contar con Dios TODO el tiempo, sin excepción, pase lo que pase...y tú también.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-34320389449981015942021-08-25T20:11:00.002-04:002021-08-27T19:23:11.027-04:00Good Books (Buenos libros)<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’ve always loved to read. As a kid I sped through every book series I could get my hands on…Black Stallion books, Mandie books, Nancy Drew books, etc. It’s interesting to me that I can still tell you certain details about those books that stuck with me.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Obviously I believe in the power of written words. I’m a writer, after all. And it gives me great joy whenever any words I write touch someone else’s life. Sadly, for the last few years it’s been hard for me to read other books consistently. And I’ve missed it.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Lately I’ve been reading again, and I can’t express how much my life has been impacted! It’s reminded me just how important it is for us to read good books.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">We need to read about God’s faithfulness in the lives of others. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">We need to hear the wisdom they have learned and share through their words. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">We need to know we’re not the only ones going through particular struggles. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">We need to have our thinking and beliefs challenged, so we seek the truth we need. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">We need to let someone else ask us questions we never thought of. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I know not everyone enjoys reading, and that it’s hard for some people. Thankfully there are audio books available now, or podcasts, or video blogs. I’m grateful for all these ways that people can share their stories, wisdom, and journeys. For me, reading is still the most meaningful way my life feels impacted and changed. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">If you also enjoy reading, I’d love to hear what books have significantly impacted you this year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">My current favorite author is Erwin McManus. His book “The Way of the Warrior” was life-changing for me. And I recently finished “The Artisan Soul,” which I’m still recovering from (in a good way). These books moved me and changed me on so many levels, I don’t know how to express it. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I remember during the years of chronic illness, when I was stuck in the house, I read and re-read Amy Carmichael’s book “Rose from Briar.” It helped me get through the suffering. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Another book that completely changed my perspective is “The Knowledge of the Holy” by A.W. Tozer. I think I’ve read it seven times, and it just kept getting better each time. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’ve read a lot of books about grace as well. I think “Transforming Grace” by Jerry Bridges is at the top of my list for books on that topic. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">And “The Power of Right Believing” by Joseph Prince was so meaningful for me. He wrote about truths I already knew, but in a way that I connected with them so much more personally than before. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">As for fiction, my life was impacted by Randy Alcorn’s novel “Safely Home” when I was in my early 20’s. And Bodie and Brock Thoene’s historical novel series set during Jesus’ days on earth significantly changed the way I read and interact with the gospels. I’ve also been impacted by Robin Jones Gunn’s books as she is amazing at sharing wisdom and deep spiritual truths through stories of “normal” people’s lives. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">To me, all the wonderful writers and books they create are another expression of God’s unlimited wisdom, character, creativity, etc. What a privilege it is to have access to so many incredible books! Reading good books is such a blessing to me in many ways. And it inspires me to keep writing, with the hope that my words will be a blessing to someone who needs them. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Well, that’s a short list of some really good books that have impacted my life. Don't forget to share some of yours! And now I better sign off now and get back to work on my latest project. =) </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Buenos libros </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Siempre me ha gustado leer. Cuando era niña, hojeaba rápidamente todas las series de libros que podía tener en mis manos...libros de Black Stallion, Mandie, Nancy Drew, etc. Es interesante para mí que todavía pueda contarles ciertos detalles sobre esos libros que se me quedaron grabados. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Obviamente creo en el poder de las palabras escritas. Después de todo soy escritora, y me da una gran alegría cada vez que alguna palabra que escribo toca la vida de otra persona. Lamentablemente, durante los últimos años me ha resultado difícil leer otros libros de manera constante. Y lo he extrañado. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Últimamente he estado leyendo de nuevo y no puedo expresar cuánto ha sido impactada mi vida. Me ha recordado lo importante que es para nosotros leer buenos libros.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Necesitamos leer sobre la fidelidad de Dios en la vida de los demás. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Necesitamos escuchar la sabiduría que han aprendido y compartido a través de sus palabras. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Necesitamos saber que no somos los únicos que estamos pasando por luchas particulares. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Necesitamos que nuestro pensamiento y nuestras creencias sean desafiados para buscar la verdad que necesitamos. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Necesitamos dejar que alguien más nos haga preguntas en las que nunca pensamos. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sé que no a todo el mundo le gusta leer y que a algunas personas les resulta difícil. Afortunadamente, ahora hay audiolibros disponibles, podcasts o blogs de video. Estoy agradecida por todas estas formas en que las personas pueden compartir sus historias, sabiduría y viajes. Para mí, la lectura sigue siendo la forma más significativa en la que mi vida se ve impactada y cambiada. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Si también te gusta leer, me encantaría saber qué libros te han impactado significativamente este año. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Actualmente mi autor favorito es Erwin McManus. Su libro “El camino del guerrero” me cambió la vida. Y recientemente terminé “El alma artesana” del que todavía me estoy recuperando (en el buen sentido). Estos libros me conmovieron y me cambiaron en tantos niveles que no sé cómo expresarlo.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=erwin+mcmanus+spanish&ref=nb_sb_noss_2 " target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/s?k=erwin+mcmanus+spanish&ref=nb_sb_noss_2 </a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Recuerdo que durante los años de enfermedad crónica, cuando estaba atrapada en la casa, leí y releí el libro de Amy Carmichael “Rose from Briar” (Rosa de brezo<i> Nota de la traductora</i>). Me ayudó a través del sufrimiento.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Otro libro que cambió por completo mi perspectiva es “The Knowledge of the Holy” (El conocimiento de lo santo <i>Nota de la traductora</i>) de A.W. Tozer. Creo que lo he leído siete veces y sencillamente me parece mejor cada vez.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">También he leído muchos libros sobre la gracia. Creo que “Transforming Grace” (Gracia Transformadora <i>Nota de la traductora</i>) de Jerry Bridges está en la parte superior de mi lista de libros sobre ese tema. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Y “The Power of Right Believing” (El poder de creer correctamente <i>Nota de la traductora</i>) de Joseph Prince fue muy significativo para mí. Escribió sobre verdades que yo ya conocía, pero de una manera que me conecté con ellas de modo mucho más personal que antes. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">En cuanto a la ficción, mi vida se vio impactada por la novela de Randy Alcorn “A salvo en casa” cuando tenía poco más de 20 años. Y la serie de novelas históricas de Bodie y Brock Thoene ambientada durante los días de Jesús en la tierra cambió significativamente la forma en que leo e interactúo con los evangelios. También me han impactado los libros de Robin Jones Gunn, ya que es increíble al compartir sabiduría y verdades espirituales profundas a través de historias de la vida de personas "normales."</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Para mí, todos los escritores y libros maravillosos que crean son otra expresión de la sabiduría, el carácter, la creatividad, etc. ilimitados de Dios. ¡Qué privilegio es tener acceso a tantos libros increíbles! Leer buenos libros es una bendición para mí en muchos sentidos. Y me inspira a seguir escribiendo, con la esperanza de que mis palabras sean una bendición para quien las necesite. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Bueno, esa es una breve lista de algunos libros realmente buenos que han impactado mi vida. ¡No olvides compartir algunos de los tuyos! Y ahora será mejor que cierre la sesión y vuelva a trabajar en mi último proyecto. =)</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-30710905887374408442021-07-28T22:21:00.003-04:002021-09-28T23:53:57.971-04:00Guest Post - Grief & Eternity (Mensaje de invitada - Duelo y eternidad)<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Today I’m grateful to share an article from a friend of mine. She’s been walking through a season of grief, as are many people these days. I hope her heart and perspective give you the gift of encouragement today.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">-Joanna<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Discomfort in Grief – Holding onto the Handle of Eternity <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">by Gene Dalais<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or<br />sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” –Revelation 21:4 (NLT)<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I met a new friend recently. Our kids were close in age. She mentioned that her parents and in-laws were such a support. I bit my lip and I listened. Before I knew it she had asked me where my parents live. How should I reply? I thought about it.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />“Um, both my parents have passed away,” I replied. Short and brief, digesting that this was my story. Others were listening in to our conversation which made it even more painful to speak. Heaviness cloaked the room. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">“What happened?” She asked. I commend her bravery for even asking. Most shut down at this point or change the subject.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />“My father passed of cancer in 2011,” I replied. I swallowed hard and hoped my voice would not crack with emotion. “My mom passed in 2020, cancer too.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Her eyes widened and with it, I received an emotional wallop.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />I said my kids never met their grandfather. I shared that my kids had some good years with their granny before she passed. My mom lived in our home, what a joy to have her with us. My kids loved and remember their granny Gogs. (Gogo is the Zulu word for Granny, we just shortened it.) I am forever grateful for those years. I too once had that surefire support; I knew the perks of it. They were gone.<br /><br />Where do I go when I am reminded that my parents no longer live on this earth? The anticipation of the age to come – eternity. Heaven is my hope. It is the only thing that sees me through my days of grief, or when the raw and sore surface again. I wish this was not my story. My kids are far too familiar with death in their little lives. We lost an immediate family member on my husband’s side to Covid-19. My children are resilient. They skip and dance and are full of life. They keep their joy despite the grief we have weathered.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />I have wondered at times why others have all their family members intact. Then I recall God numbers our days. I have also watched people not appreciate their parents. I have thought about how final it is to not have parents. Some of my friends have parents that swoop in for the weekend to care for their kids. This is not my lot. What I do have – friends, friends that are like family. God has provided friends I can trust my kids with. I thank God for that.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />I focus on what I do have and what I can thank God for. I have a God I can trust, a friend closer than a brother. I see this life as a huge tapestry, and when death and grief come, it seems like a big black knot of thread at the back of the tapestry with no purpose. I am too close to the tapestry to see the full picture. God can see that messy knotted thread. He knows what good can come out of it and be displayed on the other side of the tapestry of my life for his glory. He is the God who numbers our days. He walks alongside me in my pain.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />I am choosing to trust that once I cross over to the eternal side, I will see what the heartache was for. When I reunite with my parents in all their wholeness and fullness, there will be a deeper understanding of the purpose. Perhaps I have to walk this grief experience to have the depth and character to walk with others in their grief and process the death of a loved one. Either way, I hold the handle of hope – eternity with Christ. There are two sides of the door and the handle connects one side to the other, one side I see and the other I long for.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Mensaje de invitada - Duelo y eternidad </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Hoy estoy agradecida de compartir un artículo de una amiga mía. Ella ha estado atravesando una temporada de dolor, al igual que muchas personas en estos días. Espero que su corazón y su perspectiva te den el regalo de ánimo hoy. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Bendiciones </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">-Joanna </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Incomodidad en el dolor - Aferrándose al mango de la eternidad </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">por Gene Dalais </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif;">Enjugará Dios toda lágrima de los ojos de ellos; y ya no habrá muerte, ni habrá más llanto, ni clamor, ni dolor; porque las primeras cosas pasaron.” -Ap. 21:4</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Recientemente conocí a una nueva amiga. Nuestros hijos tenían una edad similar. Ella mencionó que sus padres y suegros fueron un gran apoyo. Me mordí el labio y escuché. Antes de darme cuenta, me preguntó dónde vivían mis padres. ¿Cómo debería responder? Pensé en ello. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Um, mis padres han fallecido,” respondí. Corto y breve, digiriendo que esta era mi historia. Otros estaban escuchando nuestra conversación, lo que hizo que hablar fuera aún más doloroso. La pesadez envolvió la habitación. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“¿Qué pasó?” preguntó. Admiro su valentía por siquiera preguntar. La mayoría se calla en este punto o cambia de tema. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">“Mi padre falleció de cáncer en 2011,” le respondí. Tragué saliva y esperaba que mi voz no se quebrara por la emoción. “Mi madre falleció en 2020, cáncer también.”</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sus ojos se abrieron y con eso, recibí un golpe emocional.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Dije que mis hijos nunca conocieron a su abuelo, que tuvieron buenos años con su abuela antes de que ella falleciera. Mi mamá vivía en nuestra casa, qué alegría tenerla con nosotros. A mis hijos les encantó y recuerdan a su abuela Gogs. (Gogo es la palabra zulú para la abuela, simplemente la abreviamos.) Siempre estaré agradecida por esos años. Yo también tuve una vez ese apoyo infalible; sabía las ventajas de eso. Ellos se fueron. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¿A dónde voy cuando me recuerdan que mis padres ya no viven en esta tierra? El anhelo de la era venidera: la eternidad. El cielo es mi esperanza. Es lo único que me ayuda a atravesar mis días de dolor, o cuando la carne viva y dolorida vuelve a salir a la superficie. Ojalá esta no fuera mi historia. Mis hijos están demasiado familiarizados con la muerte en sus pequeñas vidas. Perdimos a un familiar inmediato del lado de mi esposo por Covid-19. Mis hijos son resistentes. Saltan y bailan y están llenos de vida. Mantienen su alegría a pesar del dolor que hemos soportado.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">A veces me he preguntado por qué otros tienen a todos los miembros de su familia intactos. Entonces recuerdo que Dios cuenta nuestros días. También he visto a personas que no aprecian a sus padres. He pensado en lo definitivo que es no tener padres. Algunos de mis amigos tienen padres que pasan el fin de semana para cuidar a sus hijos. Este no es mi caso. Lo que sí tengo: amigos, amigos que son como familia. Dios me ha proporcionado amigos a los que puedo confiarles mis hijos. Doy gracias a Dios por eso. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Me concentro en lo que tengo y en lo que puedo agradecer a Dios. Tengo un Dios en el que puedo confiar, un amigo más cercano que un hermano. Veo esta vida como un enorme tapiz, y cuando llegan la muerte y el dolor, parece un gran nudo de hilo negro en la parte posterior del tapiz sin propósito. Estoy demasiado cerca del tapiz para ver la imagen completa. Dios puede ver ese desordenado hilo anudado. Él sabe lo bueno que puede salir de ése y mostrarse al otro lado del tapiz de mi vida para su gloria. Él es el Dios que cuenta nuestros días. Camina a mi lado en mi dolor.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Elijo confiar en que una vez que cruce al lado eterno, veré para qué fue la angustia. Cuando me reúna con mis padres en toda su integridad y plenitud, habrá una comprensión más profunda del propósito. Quizás tengo que caminar esta experiencia de duelo para tener la profundidad y el carácter para caminar con otros en su duelo y procesar la muerte de un ser querido. De cualquier manera, sostengo el mango de la esperanza: la eternidad con Cristo. Hay dos lados de la puerta y la manija conecta un lado con el otro, un lado veo y el otro anhelo.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-72584435980327703912021-06-30T21:40:00.002-04:002021-09-28T23:50:25.641-04:00 Birthdays, Dreams and New Frontiers (Cumpleaños, sueños y nuevas fronteras)<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Two years ago God blessed me with an epic 40</span><sup style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">birthday celebration! I still can hardly believe all the blessings He poured out on me over the weeks surrounding my birthday. In short, I not only traveled through part of Europe with my best friend for eight days and spent my birthday on top of a glacier in Switzerland, I also enjoyed three days in Paris – a dream come true! Sometimes God blesses us far beyond what we ever imagined or asked Him for!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Last year on my birthday, I was alone and stuck in the house (thanks Covid). I zoomed with a couple of friends and my mom, ate some ice cream, and that was it. It felt very anti-climatic after the year before, like turning 41 was hardly worth celebrating. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">This year, my birthday was closer to “normal” – neither epic nor empty. I spent my birthday with my mom, relaxing and laughing. The next day I got to ride a horse! And I hiked to a waterfall, enjoying the beauty of God’s creation. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Regardless of how I end up celebrating, there’s something about birthdays that makes me reflect. This year I’m in awe of how many dreams I’ve had that God has already fulfilled in my short life. Here are just a few of the big ones…<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I got to own a horse. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I got to be a missionary.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’ve written books and had them published. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’ve partnered with a friend to create greeting cards, calendars, magnets and other meaningful gifts. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’ve traveled to many places I dreamed of – Ireland, Scotland, Norway, Austria, Paris…not to mention all the places I got to visit that I never expected to – Slovenia, Slovakia, Italy, Spain, Germany, Sweden, Lichtenstein…talk about above and beyond! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’ve gotten certified as a life coach and a reflexologist. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’ve attended many amazing conferences – for missions, Christian media, writers, etc. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’ve been blessed to meet incredible people like Cynthia Heald, Beth Moore, Robin Jones Gun and many other heroes of the faith to me. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">…on and on.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Sometimes I feel like I’ve had so many dreams fulfilled that it’s not fair…I mean, does everyone get this many dreams fulfilled in their lifetime? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">At the same time, I remember that God isn’t done with me yet. He’s still writing His story for me. He still has more dreams yet to fulfill. And I believe He has new dreams He wants to plant in my heart that haven’t even occurred to me yet. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’m so grateful for all that God has done in my life in these 42 years! And I believe He has new frontiers for me still yet to come. Sometimes that feels scary…sometimes it inspires me. Either way, I feel in need of fresh courage from Him. Even when we live seeing our dreams fulfilled, this life is hard. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Birthdays remind me that life is short…that I have one life to live…and that I want to make the most of it…in spite of hardships, limitations, setbacks, suffering, and the unexpected. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">And that brings me back to grace and courage – for only with these gifts from Jesus can I live the life He dreamed for me. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">So as I begin a new year, I’m asking for new measures of grace and courage, of faith and joy, of strength and peace…so that my Father can bring me to new frontiers and new dreams – all for His glory. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">What about you? Have you taken time lately to reflect on the dreams God has already fulfilled in your life and to also consider the new frontiers He has in store for you? <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I’m praying extra grace and courage for you today my friend. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Cumpleaños, sueños y nuevas fronteras </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¡Hace dos años, Dios me bendijo con una celebración épica de mi cumpleaños número 40! Todavía no puedo creer todas las bendiciones que Él derramó sobre mí durante las semanas que rodearon mi cumpleaños. En resumen, no solo viajé por parte de Europa con mi mejor amiga durante ocho días y pasé mi cumpleaños en la cima de un glaciar en Suiza, también disfruté de tres días en París, ¡un sueño hecho realidad! ¡A veces Dios nos bendice más allá de lo que jamás imaginamos o le pedimos! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">El año pasado, en mi cumpleaños, estaba sola y atrapada en la casa (gracias Covid). Chatee por zoom con un par de amigos y mi mamá, comí un helado y eso fue todo. Se sintió muy decepcionante después del año anterior, como si cumplir 41 años no valiera la pena celebrarlo. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Este año, mi cumpleaños estuvo más cerca de lo “normal,” ni épico ni vacío. Lo pasé con mi mamá, relajándome y riendo. ¡Al día siguiente pude montar a caballo! Y caminé hasta una cascada, disfrutando de la belleza de la creación de Dios. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Independientemente de cómo termine celebrando, hay algo en los cumpleaños que me hace reflexionar. Este año me asombra la cantidad de sueños que he tenido y que Dios ya ha cumplido en mi corta vida. Éstos son sólo algunos de los más importantes. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Compré un caballo. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Pude ser misionera. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">He escrito libros y me los han publicado. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Me he asociado con una amiga para crear tarjetas de felicitación, calendarios, imanes y otros obsequios significativos. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">He viajado a muchos lugares con los que soñé: Irlanda, Escocia, Noruega, Austria, París...sin mencionar todos los lugares que visité y que nunca esperé: Eslovenia, Eslovaquia, Italia, España, Alemania, Suecia, Liechtenstein...hablemos de mucho más allá!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Me he certificado como tutora de vida y reflexóloga. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">He asistido a muchas conferencias increíbles, para misiones, medios cristianos, escritores, etc. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">He tenido la suerte de conocer a personas increíbles como Cynthia Heald, Beth Moore, Robin Jones Gunn y muchos otros héroes de la fe para mí. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">…constantemente. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">A veces siento que he tenido tantos sueños cumplidos que no es justo...quiero decir, ¿todos logran cumplir tantos sueños en su vida? </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Al mismo tiempo, recuerdo que Dios aún no ha terminado conmigo. Todavía está escribiendo Su historia para mí. Aún le quedan más sueños por cumplir. Y creo que tiene nuevos sueños que quiere plantar en mi corazón que aún no se me han ocurrido. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¡Estoy tan agradecida por todo lo que Dios ha hecho en mi vida en estos 42 años! Y creo que Él tiene nuevas fronteras para mí aún por llegar. A veces eso me da miedo ... a veces me inspira. De cualquier manera, siento la necesidad de que Él me dé un nuevo valor. Incluso cuando vivimos viendo nuestros sueños cumplidos, esta vida es dura. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Los cumpleaños me recuerdan que la vida es corta...que tengo una vida para vivir...y que quiero aprovecharla al máximo...a pesar de las dificultades, las limitaciones, los contratiempos, el sufrimiento y lo inesperado. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Y eso me devuelve la gracia y el valor, porque solo con estos dones de Jesús puedo vivir la vida que Él soñó para mí. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Entonces, al comenzar un nuevo año, pido nuevas medidas de gracia y coraje, de fe y gozo, de fuerza y </span><span lang="ES" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">paz...para que mi Padre pueda llevarme a nuevas fronteras y nuevos sueños, todo para Su gloria.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">¿Y tú? ¿Te has tomado un tiempo últimamente para reflexionar sobre los sueños que Dios ya ha cumplido en tu vida y también para considerar las nuevas fronteras que tiene reservadas para ti? </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Estoy orando por más gracia y coraje para ti hoy, mi amigo.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6497820854605483685.post-75536658243888120902021-05-26T19:10:00.002-04:002021-08-27T19:09:53.669-04:00How to Help the Hurting (Cómo ayudar a los que sufren)<p><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">We’ve all been through seasons of pain, heartache, crisis, and/or suffering. What we learn in those seasons can help us when we meet others who are also hurting. Here are some of the things I’ve learned, and I hope they’ll be helpful reminders as you reach out to those around you who are suffering.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Keep reminding the person of who they truly are – brave, loved, extraordinary, full of faith…the things that cannot be removed by pain or hardship...the truths about who God says they are. Suffering can engulf their world until it’s all they see. Help them remember who God sees when He looks at them. <br /><br />Ask them if what you’re saying and doing is actually helpful for them. If it’s not, please apologize sincerely. Then ask them what you can do and say that would be helpful and encouraging for them. Humility and a servant heart go a long way in demonstrating how much you care. <br /><br />Don’t take things personally or be easily offended. When people are in pain they aren’t their normal selves. Often they aren’t thinking clearly, and everything they experience is filtered through the pain, affecting their normal responses or actions. Give them the benefit of the doubt – they probably didn’t mean to say that, or didn’t realize the tone of voice that came out, or just didn’t realize it might come across as offensive. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Be patient, be kind, be gentle, be gracious. Always. <br /><br />Don’t say you understand unless you really, truly do understand. If you don’t understand, then acknowledge it and affirm their courage and faith in a situation that you can’t imagine being in. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Try not to assume – that you know what they’re thinking, how they feel, or why they’re doing what they do. It could be they are reacting out of instinct, or they could be acting from a very long, deliberate thought process, or anywhere in between. Don’t make assumptions…except for assuming that they’re doing the best they can. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Listen to them. Let them share as much or as little as they need to. Say, “I hear you. I love you.” For them to feel heard and accepted no matter what is one of the best gifts you can give them. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Adjust your expectations. They most likely cannot do what they were doing before. They might not even be quite the same person they were when they weren’t suffering or in pain. Don’t make them feel like they have to measure up to the same expectations placed on them in “normal” circumstances. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Don’t give advice unless it’s asked for, and then offer it with an attitude of, “If this is helpful then please use it, and if it’s not helpful please disregard it.” No pressure, no stress, and no strong emotions attached to the advice. Respect the fact that they are ones living with the pain, and they have to make the best choices for them. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br />(As appropriate) Give them a hug, hold their hand, put your arm around their shoulders...use physical expressions to show you care, you’re there, and you support them no matter what. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Smile at them. Cry with them. Make them laugh, if you can. </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Don’t give up on them. Sometimes suffering lasts longer than any of us can fathom. Sometimes it seems like the person is constantly in crisis, and we don’t understand why. But regardless of how long or why the suffering continues, the person needs to know God will never give up on them, and He will never stop loving them. We are His hands, feet and voice on this earth. Let’s not become weary in being expressions of His heart. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Grace, grace, grace. At some point, we all run out of grace. We are finite. But Jesus is infinite, and His grace is infinite. As long as He wants us to keep showing grace to that person, He will supply all the grace we need. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">I hope this list is helpful. If you have anything to add, please share it with us in the comments! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">It is a special privilege to be an expression of God’s love and grace to someone who is hurting. I'm so thankful for all the people who have been expressions of God's grace in my life! </span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">May we rely on His power, not our own, to continue being His hands, feet, and heart to those around us. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Cómo ayudar a los que sufren </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Todos hemos pasado por temporadas de dolor, angustia, crisis y / o sufrimiento. Lo que aprendemos en esas temporadas puede ayudarnos cuando conocemos a otros que también están sufriendo. Estas son algunas de las cosas que he aprendido y espero que sean útiles recordatorios a medida que te acercas a quienes están sufriendo a tu alrededor. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sigue recordándoles a las personas quiénes son realmente: valientes, amados, extraordinarios, llenos de fe...las cosas que el dolor o las dificultades no pueden eliminar...las verdades sobre quiénes Dios dice que son. El sufrimiento puede envolver su mundo hasta que es todo lo que ven. Ayúdales a recordar a quién ve Dios cuando los mira. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Pregúntales si lo que estás diciendo y haciendo es realmente útil para ellos. Si no es así, discúlpate sinceramente. Luego pregúntales qué puedes hacer y decir que podría serles útil y alentador. La humildad y el corazón de siervo contribuyen en gran medida a demostrar cuánto te preocupas. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No te tomes las cosas personalmente ni te ofendas fácilmente. Cuando la gente siente dolor, no es su yo normal. A menudo, no piensan con claridad y todo lo que experimentan se filtra a través del dolor, lo que afecta sus respuestas o acciones normales. Bríndales el beneficio de la duda: probablemente no quisieron decir eso, o no se dieron cuenta del tono de voz que salió, o simplemente no se dieron cuenta de que podría parecer ofensivo. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sé paciente, amable, gentil, tierno. Siempre. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No digas que entiendes a menos que realmente entiendas. Si no lo entiendes, reconócelo y reafirma su valentía y fe en una situación en la que no puedes imaginarte estar. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Trata de no asumir que sabes lo que piensan, cómo se sienten o por qué hacen lo que hacen. Podría ser que estén reaccionando por instinto, o podrían estar actuando a partir de un proceso de pensamiento deliberado y muy largo, o en cualquier punto intermedio. No hagas suposiciones...excepto para asumir que están haciendo lo mejor que pueden.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Escúchalos. Permíteles compartir tanto o tan poco como necesiten. Di: “Te escucho. Te quiero.” Que se sientan escuchados y aceptados sin importar cuál es uno de los mejores regalos que les puedes dar. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Ajusta tus expectativas. Lo más probable es que no puedan hacer lo que estaban haciendo antes. Es posible que ni siquiera sean la misma persona que eran cuando no estaban sufriendo o con dolor. No les hagas sentir que tienen que estar a la altura de las mismas expectativas que se les imponen en circunstancias “normales.”</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No des consejos a menos que te los pidan, y luego ofrécelos con una actitud de “Si esto es útil, utilízalo, y si no, ignóralo.” Sin presión, sin estrés y sin emociones fuertes adjuntas al consejo. Respeta el hecho de que ellos son los que viven con el dolor y tienen que tomar las mejores decisiones para ellos. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">(Según corresponda) Dales un abrazo, sostén su mano, pon tu brazo alrededor de sus hombros...usa expresiones físicas para demostrar que te preocupas, que estás ahí y que los apoyas sin importar qué.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Sonríeles. Llora con ellos. Hazlos reír, si puedes. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">No te rindas con ellos. A veces, el sufrimiento dura más de lo que cualquiera de nosotros puede imaginar. A veces parece que la persona está constantemente en crisis y no entendemos por qué. Pero independientemente de cuánto tiempo o por qué continúe el sufrimiento, la persona necesita saber que Dios nunca se rendirá con ellos y que nunca dejará de amarlos. Somos Sus manos, pies y voz en esta tierra. No nos cansemos de ser expresiones de Su corazón. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Gracia, gracia, gracia. En algún momento, todos nos quedamos sin gracia. Somos finitos. Pero Jesús es infinito y Su gracia es infinita. Mientras Él quiera que sigamos mostrando gracia a esa persona, Él proveerá toda la gracia que necesitemos.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Espero que esta lista sea de ayuda. Si tienes algo que agregar, ¡compártelo con nosotros en los comentarios! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span lang="ES" style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Es un privilegio especial ser una expresión del amor y la gracia de Dios para alguien que está sufriendo. ¡Estoy muy agradecida por todas las personas que han sido expresiones de la gracia de Dios en mi vida! Confiemos en Su poder, no en el nuestro, para seguir siendo Sus manos, pies y corazón para quienes nos rodean.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: #f8f9fa; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><br /></span></p>Joanna K. Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14121080105891078565noreply@blogger.com0