tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78912033366881613202024-03-13T04:48:00.001-07:00Luehrs Line --------------------This blog exists to declare His greatness and faithfulness in my life; in the flesh, on paper and in this cyber blog world. It is my desire to share what I have learned (and am still learning) through over-coming cancer and to offer hope and encouragement to others.
Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.comBlogger142125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-5759771545288296802022-12-24T16:00:00.007-08:002022-12-25T07:43:12.597-08:00It's About Time<p><span style="font-family: "Cedarville Cursive", cursive; font-size: 18pt; font-weight: 700; white-space: pre-wrap;">Christmas 2022</span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-3103bec1-7fff-c8ba-9da0-c361476872b0"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Cedarville Cursive", cursive; font-size: 18pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Luehrs Family</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02GI74YO5udetR644nxy1FJzuNy8R_XQwjCfQNZLmRibvdpIarURBsSfnV9DxrdRqy0CYPKGwNpDIcwEYcyknakdM7j9i_5_CqkR13fMyNQfxopl4IFvS5MRwH0_FpUsv5KivlHWwAqbYyq-wYK1P3iC57fD2Yn2WUvtZO9F3AjztLGOX7001g7DkjA/s4032/IMG-8965.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02GI74YO5udetR644nxy1FJzuNy8R_XQwjCfQNZLmRibvdpIarURBsSfnV9DxrdRqy0CYPKGwNpDIcwEYcyknakdM7j9i_5_CqkR13fMyNQfxopl4IFvS5MRwH0_FpUsv5KivlHWwAqbYyq-wYK1P3iC57fD2Yn2WUvtZO9F3AjztLGOX7001g7DkjA/s320/IMG-8965.JPG" width="240" /></a></div></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This past year has been filled with many planned activities and some of them were a surprise. Once again our family walked the road of a cancer diagnosis. The waiting, hoping, and praying through the facts and feelings of the weight of cancer is hard to describe. We are so grateful for our family and friends that supported us with prayers, food, and donations. We were determined to not let doctor appointments, surgeries, and cancer treatments hinder our summer plans for baseball. Both Dustin (17, Junior in HS), and Zac (9, Third Grade) played travel baseball this summer. It was a blast getting to watch them play, make new friends, and improve their skills. We traveled to five states including Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, and Texas. Lots of time in the truck driving! You can’t put a price tag on time spent together as a family doing something everyone loves. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Daniel</span><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> spends most of his time working on our cattle ranch at home. He has a great group of guys at church that he teaches for Sunday School. The vet clinic work is seasonal and flexible. He enjoys helping the boys with their baseball activities and is thankful his schedule allows him to attend. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz2gTwU3M90pRXZnZ7DXlQARlX4_H80-RvodkaMxEfLyT_1z_KlpHEc4btzbGMZMeT_PxgXHdR0l77OKkfbqY2vWOmQpqey3ZEXve1pd2PTKhpmZ4ojLSQ0w9ME-qrrN604mM6b5OIV7rzHPa-YRQX5RDcQ9DPnGWVJX4_wPX46CQgN51pTQarRgYjmA/s4032/IMG-7964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz2gTwU3M90pRXZnZ7DXlQARlX4_H80-RvodkaMxEfLyT_1z_KlpHEc4btzbGMZMeT_PxgXHdR0l77OKkfbqY2vWOmQpqey3ZEXve1pd2PTKhpmZ4ojLSQ0w9ME-qrrN604mM6b5OIV7rzHPa-YRQX5RDcQ9DPnGWVJX4_wPX46CQgN51pTQarRgYjmA/s320/IMG-7964.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Anna</span><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is in her second year of teaching eighth-grade science at Liberty Middle School. Anna’s Mom (Janis) was able to come to Missouri this summer for a visit. Anna is recovering well from multiple surgeries this past year for breast cancer. Her energy and health are looking bright for the upcoming year. She hopes to return to coaching basketball soon.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dustin</span><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is enjoying his Junior year taking VO TECH auto mechanic class. This past summer Dustin worked as a lifeguard at the Willow Springs City Pool. He enjoys woodworking, playing video games, and of course baseball. He is working hard at perfecting his pitching. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFAL1TZ_XQqDhhiCUV1xl9l7KyaO6foUBOW_aFr5B4TBjkkNP5ozMb1l91pZo0YI65DmKQAtVCcpBmPU2a28-Vx2VHRUqu_som6knc4R7nHNzIWybmiwKpkB-FBSwuJtvPjNqcNEtfQTpWbUvDigCa-hyoOQwtwtn1NKntcbGxtGq1OR8THl_GYnLNQ/s4032/IMG-8427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFAL1TZ_XQqDhhiCUV1xl9l7KyaO6foUBOW_aFr5B4TBjkkNP5ozMb1l91pZo0YI65DmKQAtVCcpBmPU2a28-Vx2VHRUqu_som6knc4R7nHNzIWybmiwKpkB-FBSwuJtvPjNqcNEtfQTpWbUvDigCa-hyoOQwtwtn1NKntcbGxtGq1OR8THl_GYnLNQ/s320/IMG-8427.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Zac</span><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is in third grade and loves everything about baseball. His favorite player is Julio Rodriguez from the Seattle Mariners. Zac plays any position, but especially likes outfield, pitcher, and catcher. Always full of energy and very competitive no matter the activity. His 9U baseball team won 2nd place in the MO State World Series.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHp5ThYUnTF2Dfpe_nIdQ3Q0NP4wh0y9Dt3Vr7NuO1j_mlEY9cTElg_-b8ZiGn_kyqOH1AD1dUHhvjLVS7aC4WIHh_vIuypxso-_94gY4exSxW3y6HQGYKkJS7puNkx8ybwSxwP-vDlYRLC_JUKAtnosqVlVmqRw5PIzBcYJF7lXMsndOisJjM67R5w/s2048/IMG-8167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEHp5ThYUnTF2Dfpe_nIdQ3Q0NP4wh0y9Dt3Vr7NuO1j_mlEY9cTElg_-b8ZiGn_kyqOH1AD1dUHhvjLVS7aC4WIHh_vIuypxso-_94gY4exSxW3y6HQGYKkJS7puNkx8ybwSxwP-vDlYRLC_JUKAtnosqVlVmqRw5PIzBcYJF7lXMsndOisJjM67R5w/s320/IMG-8167.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In life, we don’t have control over how long we get to live. We are given today, maybe tomorrow. We are told to not worry. It seems that this past year has caused us to treasure the time, make the most of every opportunity, and be thankful. Our hearts are full of gratitude to God our Father who gives us time. May we continue to keep Him first every day. The greatest gift of all TIME came in the form of a baby, wrapped in swaddling cloth, laid in a manger. Christmas is a great reminder to each of us to spend time with those we love and to remember the ones who have gone home to heaven. May you be blessed this season, spend time with family and friends, and thank God for the time.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM68IuoU1DB3UsIXjWGb1D7EMQCJznalX1w6qPbaGkDhTdWZNkYFmG6EBfsMNXew82w0fHJqcJfFAM-aVgbECxUu8a8AmEhPrLTKcT4gIbGFxeDL_R2V_5yLoTyIT1DRIWBAOfk55MbTVHUB6_igTpddbcRW8xpxFqLSFizEEfrel3I2Td7-ZwGyxvYg/s1175/IMG-8545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="867" data-original-width="1175" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM68IuoU1DB3UsIXjWGb1D7EMQCJznalX1w6qPbaGkDhTdWZNkYFmG6EBfsMNXew82w0fHJqcJfFAM-aVgbECxUu8a8AmEhPrLTKcT4gIbGFxeDL_R2V_5yLoTyIT1DRIWBAOfk55MbTVHUB6_igTpddbcRW8xpxFqLSFizEEfrel3I2Td7-ZwGyxvYg/s320/IMG-8545.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12</span></p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things.” Matthew 6:33-34</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #0e101a; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Scan to listen to a song by Kevin Quinn, It’s About Time: </span><a href="http://bit.ly/3WeK11Y" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">http://bit.ly/3WeK11Y</span></a></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 152px; overflow: hidden; width: 151px;"><img height="152" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/wM1PwE29lTEwsIfKE4NjYI1BbqPOmUgE7UguAcuQnd3xImS9WyWI-CRKut68TmxQ_yhDqmFZ8vp9jeCVFGLnCdw95C33As24D71YaQy6x6PT8TY0nFaEW-9JxHEiqAtJe2g4S8hOBiCU10tXOmWwfTn583kTLpwvHo1smGI-uJat_siUcWFKOIsQg19WEQ" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="151" /></span></span></p><div class="xaAUmb" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 16px 0px;"><div jsname="WbKHeb"><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">LYRICS</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">What you're breathin' for?</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">What's your bettin' all your seconds on?</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">What you're gonna wish</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">That you could undo when it's all said and done?</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Waste tick-tocks on the clock</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Are you gonna wound back when it stops?</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, we here right now (right now)</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">But we're never gonna be gone</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, life's too short</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To live like it's gonna be long</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about time and how we spend it</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Every hour, every minute</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about knowing that we're chasing</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">All the beautiful things that make it</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Worth the ride</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To the other side</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about time we started livin'</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Like tomorrow ain't ever a given</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Every moment is a surrender</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To the One who holds forever</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Starting now</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">What it's all about</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, it's about time</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's not about us</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Not about getting what we deserve</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about showin' up (showin' up)</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">With Your love like who can we serve</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Open hearts, broken parts and all (oh)</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about time and how we spend it</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Every hour, every minute</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about knowing that we're chasing</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">All the beautiful things that make it</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Worth the ride</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To the other side</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about time we started livin'</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Like tomorrow ain't ever a given</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Every moment is a surrender</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To the One who holds forever</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Starting now</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">What it's all about</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, it's about time</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, we here right now (right now)</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">But we're never gonna be gone (never gonna be gone)</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, life's too short (oh, life's too short)</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To live like it's gonna be long</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, we here right now (right now)</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">But we're never gonna be gone (never gonna be gone)</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, life's too short (oh, life's too short)</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To live like it's gonna be long</span></div><div class="ujudUb" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 12px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about time and how we spend it</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Every hour, every minute</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about knowing that we're chasing</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">All the beautiful things that make it</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Worth the ride</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To the other side</span></div><div class="ujudUb WRZytc" jsname="U8S5sf" style="margin-bottom: 0px;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">It's about time we started livin'</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Like tomorrow ain't ever a given</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Every moment is a surrender</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">To the One who holds forever</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Starting now</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">What it's all about</span><br aria-hidden="true" /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Yeah, it's about time</span></div></div></div><div class="f41I7 ai4HXb j04ED" style="background-color: white; color: #70757a; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; margin: 16px 0px;">Source: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwj5w8vLhpX8AhWEJjQIHRiSDYEQ5s4FegQIJxAC" href="https://www.musixmatch.com/" ping="/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.musixmatch.com/&ved=2ahUKEwj5w8vLhpX8AhWEJjQIHRiSDYEQ5s4FegQIJxAC" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); color: #70757a; outline: 0px;">Musixmatch</a></div><div class="f41I7 ai4HXb" data-ved="2ahUKEwj5w8vLhpX8AhWEJjQIHRiSDYEQycMBKAB6BAgnEAM" style="background-color: white; color: #202124; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 16px 0px;"><div class="auw0zb" style="color: #70757a; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; margin-top: 13px;">Songwriters: Kevin Quinn / Jordan Sapp / Walker Hayes / Paul Duncan</div><div class="auw0zb" style="color: #70757a; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; margin-top: 13px;">It's About Time lyrics © Capitol Cmg Paragon, Capitol Cmg Genesis, Songs Of Smack, Spark In Your Pocket, Songs By Jsap</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6SXMNL-JtbKEZd0-pDFtKTf3OkZ5dFM0SToN4cxevP1IWjZiTyq7rF6fR5aCw7RksfkQGFbPyqkcxAySHvPzaKlPRs9urSETPfNHnuezBv4YmRhCTcO1RqET_kiPX73tPo3Dr2voZJNNPv1UVBYBx-QBqmYpalyXPCoJWrQjNJzlcx0omzbpFdKBkw/s2080/IMG-9164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2080" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6SXMNL-JtbKEZd0-pDFtKTf3OkZ5dFM0SToN4cxevP1IWjZiTyq7rF6fR5aCw7RksfkQGFbPyqkcxAySHvPzaKlPRs9urSETPfNHnuezBv4YmRhCTcO1RqET_kiPX73tPo3Dr2voZJNNPv1UVBYBx-QBqmYpalyXPCoJWrQjNJzlcx0omzbpFdKBkw/s320/IMG-9164.JPG" width="148" /></a></div><br /><div class="auw0zb" style="color: #70757a; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; margin-top: 13px;"><br /></div></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 192px; overflow: hidden; width: 192px;"><img height="192" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/PTwpZJjtMomrwnkulVu8-mn6qLrC_EMp5AkYg8VC_awbVnSu4iCD4Krd5uKbZ9vjFucosJ_LljIfeb7zoC69M-WfgpEsCemFOvbYLMPhx6hhELVE0fef-GbBpJ438m7gtVgxxc8fKln39bliVbLepOPzmh25PJs-CEoS6KBSkVCS_EwT9Heb08vOxSULcw" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="192" /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 192px; overflow: hidden; width: 192px;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 192px; overflow: hidden; width: 192px;"><br /></span></p><br />Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-49424620508776662732022-11-19T14:21:00.000-08:002022-11-19T14:21:34.010-08:00Potential Faith<p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGunXniK-EDJ-tqbkgkUTZsiOLFTuES1xHm14mBTExvLH24KfzcGNugJLott34eLEH5ZRjFRlWAZ8k2QXlHq2-g1jblwiS68nM_UN4IWVwVsPXPcQ7sDt5yV3LIBgM2QOncWJgOLkrThGq016l5ThzxbrHn6cUPSJxtCoQYyO0fv1CgqLjPWjCHGs-Tg/s318/Pendulum%20Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="159" data-original-width="318" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGunXniK-EDJ-tqbkgkUTZsiOLFTuES1xHm14mBTExvLH24KfzcGNugJLott34eLEH5ZRjFRlWAZ8k2QXlHq2-g1jblwiS68nM_UN4IWVwVsPXPcQ7sDt5yV3LIBgM2QOncWJgOLkrThGq016l5ThzxbrHn6cUPSJxtCoQYyO0fv1CgqLjPWjCHGs-Tg/s1600/Pendulum%20Image.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>Potential. This word has been hitting me hard lately. I know it's been a while since I have written. Days have been full of balancing family activities/responsibilities with teaching eighth grade. Not to mention doing my best to heal from the past six months. At the end of June, I decided to move forward with chemotherapy. That plan didn't sail so smoothly. I ended with one round of Chemotherapy and about four weeks of summer left before school started. My energy hasn't been at its best, but I have preserved and have had a great start to my second year of teaching eight grade science. I am in my element, poised with the potential to continue to do great things. I'm learning a lot about the craft of teaching in general and enjoy the challenges that come with the job. I'm so thankful for a supportive school district and the time to attend professional development events. The photo below is of a group from MVBT who traveled to Colombia, Missouri to hear the speaker and author <a href="https://rutherfordlg.com/">Mike Rutherford</a>. Mr. Rutherford is a gifted speaker who shared some of his research in regard to the craft of teaching.<p></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAOSzUTFDudL_Pl3ybS95ET-iRN8Yo0rLK4GBwoCvmPQCfwxCOon01ER0IDj4cP9UXynqTlqAYHX9k2Kq63OTGND3sNUoMg87rmobgIoL6SNBgdqfHPLdOIFCOBn283vwZJSa_8kN9Lu17rIVpZR2v3Tbbf7hAUhE0vM48sk5xP7vaeofpLg1-9lbLLg/s750/IMG-9029.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="693" data-original-width="750" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAOSzUTFDudL_Pl3ybS95ET-iRN8Yo0rLK4GBwoCvmPQCfwxCOon01ER0IDj4cP9UXynqTlqAYHX9k2Kq63OTGND3sNUoMg87rmobgIoL6SNBgdqfHPLdOIFCOBn283vwZJSa_8kN9Lu17rIVpZR2v3Tbbf7hAUhE0vM48sk5xP7vaeofpLg1-9lbLLg/s320/IMG-9029.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Columbia, MO BTAP Conference MVBT </td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUS_75LTwj_FRLpUDXrncWgVYi7Lb87dSgwp4JwpjYTc0vqIEgm2Ua_pVlKA2RDzq2BHlpYjV7uRx4mcjGYvZi4zEEfSyFK1iAkA_JjZuwfb4rXo9ePUqp8s6pXushj6Ph11ozkF93qBCxwWEDi-WSj0kwrI5enpTwqaDs8qT6u9pIrVQBPwRUCFU5Q/s4032/IMG-9015.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUS_75LTwj_FRLpUDXrncWgVYi7Lb87dSgwp4JwpjYTc0vqIEgm2Ua_pVlKA2RDzq2BHlpYjV7uRx4mcjGYvZi4zEEfSyFK1iAkA_JjZuwfb4rXo9ePUqp8s6pXushj6Ph11ozkF93qBCxwWEDi-WSj0kwrI5enpTwqaDs8qT6u9pIrVQBPwRUCFU5Q/s320/IMG-9015.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to LMS on Veteran's Day 2022</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Preparing daily to teach takes several types of energy. There is the physical side of being equipped with notes, handouts, slides, and visual aids all ready to go. There is a mental side to really knowing the subject material you are to present and convey concepts for others to grasp and take hold of. There is an emotional side to being fully present, engaged, and invested in the people (students and co-workers). Each type of energy is equally important in order to be an effective teacher. I'm learning it is a continual learning process that truly isn't meant to have an endpoint. Teaching is one of those quirky professions I believe you never quite arrive and know it all. It is an evolving, exhausting, and extremely rewarding calling. I refer to it as a calling because if you disagree with what I just said you either have never been a teacher or you are one of those teachers that have stopped tapping into your potential. Yep, I just said that. We all have the potential to do something grand with our lives. Something worthy of leaving a legacy. I believe teaching and being in the classroom is where I am finding my potential and I want to share it with others. </p><p>I have wanted to be a school teacher since my college days. It hasn't been a typical road to get to the classroom for me. It's taken a lot of time and life to prepare me for the role of teacher. I had almost given up on the idea of pursuing it. This is where my faith and the path of teaching intersect. When you delight yourself in the Lord he gives you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4). Life has thrown me some curve balls that have challenged my faith over and over. Not just one battle with cancer, but two! After the first diagnosis in 2011 of colon cancer, I really did some soul-searching. This led to our family making some changes and eventually moved us from Idaho to Missouri. I really didn't know what Missouri would hold as far as ministry opportunities. When I left Idaho, my husband and I were helping to plant a church and serving in our home church as the Children's Ministry Director. Talk about potential. God was on the move to build something new and to build upon my foundation of faith. Through many circumstances, God led us to move here to Southern Missouri to run a small family cattle ranch. The potential to build new relationships, watch our boys grow up in a small community, and live out our dream to live the lifestyle of a cattle rancher. Shortly after being in Missouri, I stepped into substitute teaching. This led to the opportunity to coach basketball and become a certified teacher. God interrupted my first year of teaching with the second battle of cancer, with a diagnosis of breast cancer in February of 2022. In April of 2022, I underwent a double mastectomy for breast cancer. It has been one of the hardest parts of my faith journey so far. </p><p>There are many people along the path that have been a part of helping me become the person I am today. These are the real teachers who teach by example. The ones who live out their potential with a faith life clothed in love, service, and gratitude. I had no idea I'd be teaching science in Missouri. God did. God has used many life lessons to bring me to where I am today. Lately, it seems that grief and sadness are clouding my vision. This year I have been faced with family members and close friends who have suddenly passed away. My own Dad went home to be with the Lord in April. I think about him often. A good friend of ours, <a href="https://youtu.be/FmqF4oGt30U">Levi Woodhouse</a> passed away suddenly at the end of October. If you want a true-life example of what a friend, teacher, a pastor looks like take a look at his celebration of life services. Levi's legacy of love will continue. It has been once again an opportunity to use some of that potential faith of mine. Our time here on Earth is short. We must take every opportunity to share Christ.</p><p>I have found the quote by Gary Blair, former girls' basketball Coach at Texas A &M to be true, "There is never going to be a day that won't require dedication, discipline, perseverance, and personal integrity." If you didn't know this all ready here is your warning: life is hard. We all have struggles. How dedicated are you to the life you are living? I don't always feel like doing what is required of me. Shocking right? I still do it because I am dedicated to my calling. There are hard conversations that happen on a daily basis. Confrontation, when conducted in love, can offer constructive criticism or words of affirmation to encourage a student to keep working hard, or maybe a phone call home. Tricky as it may be, finding the right words to say isn't as hard as how you say them. I have a phrase I use in my classroom and it goes like this: Say what you mean, mean what you say, don't say it mean. I stole that from a sweet mentor friend (you know who you are!) Having discipline means you do the daily grind and then some, all the time, every day. I know what it means to persevere. I'm a fighter, a survivor. Pushing hard even when my physical body or emotions fight against me. On the outside, it may look like I have it all together. I don't want to pretend like that is true. I do struggle more than I want to admit. These past few months have been tough. I have been through a lot of physical and emotional changes. My emotions have been acting like a pendulum swinging from side to side over and over again. So much potential energy is wasted on anxious thoughts and unanswerable what-ifs. Who am I when no one is around? What thoughts do I think? What music do I listen to? Am I being careful with my words? Personal integrity is a huge non-negotiable for me. It really is about your core values and beliefs. Why do you believe the way you believe? Can you defend it? Who am I?</p><p>Life tends to jade a person. One can choose to squash all the potential faith by heading down that downward spiral of self-pity, depression, and discouragement. Remember faith over fear. I will be having surgery on <u>Monday, November 21, 2022</u>. This is the final procedure in completing my breast reconstruction and plastic surgery from the double mastectomy. The surgery will be in St. Louis at Barnes-Jewish Hospital/ Washington University. Recovery should not be as long as the last time. I plan to return to the classroom quickly. My faith is strong and I am eager to finish this part of my journey with cancer. Surviving cancer has really impacted my faith and caused me to analyze my motives and purposes. I hope you can look at some of the hard things in your life and come to the same conclusion. We may not understand all the why's and timing of it all but we can trust in a God who does.</p><p><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;">"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 </span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></p><p>Remember</p><p>Promises </p><p>Everything Will Be All Right. </p><p>Give Me Faith </p><p>Fear is Not My Future </p><p>In Jesus' Name </p><p>God Only Knows</p><p>Battle Belongs</p><p>Because He Lives</p><p>God is With Us</p><p>Believe For it</p><p>You're Going to be Okay</p><p>Too Good Not to Believe</p><p>God, Turn it Around</p><p>Speak to the Mountains</p><p>You Are Not Alone</p><p>Fighting for Me</p><p>Praise You in this Storm</p><p>Warrior</p><p>Youtube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbZI1V-LJy5GHFMaCYhSbzbZAwT56sstS">Playlist </a>of the above songs.</p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: large;"><i>"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9</i></span></p><p>I will be posting more updates once the surgery is completed.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-6495340080035043792022-07-26T21:01:00.000-07:002022-07-26T21:01:54.185-07:00Faith Over Fear -- Fear is Not My Future<p><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlY4FwkRwn3W8rx4VReinedNMaPnrKVLj5yjdxooMhcJdCCKN7cqezQ-AAePpHgymB65w-yEqhxy9izianMlnzqoIZecqLAGEtl3PhYMAZvXKnrKiq4xpsKkhmkc9doouV_pwa4qbLYezrsylwST6L_qkIkNFIXhsSucLxl4tscUcZVNZbbnPrJjcHw/s225/faith%20over%20fear%20pink%20ribbon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlY4FwkRwn3W8rx4VReinedNMaPnrKVLj5yjdxooMhcJdCCKN7cqezQ-AAePpHgymB65w-yEqhxy9izianMlnzqoIZecqLAGEtl3PhYMAZvXKnrKiq4xpsKkhmkc9doouV_pwa4qbLYezrsylwST6L_qkIkNFIXhsSucLxl4tscUcZVNZbbnPrJjcHw/s1600/faith%20over%20fear%20pink%20ribbon.jpg" width="225" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />I feel like a stow-away on the boat with the disciples heading to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. The storm has been raging. No clear answer on how to get off this boat ride. The wind is howling, the waves crashing, and then the ghost appears. Waiting, hoping, praying, God save me. Have you ever felt this way? Fear so grand you are paralyzed. Fear so tight against your chest you can not breathe. Fear so intoxicating it infiltrates every thought you have. Yes, I have experienced these modes of fear, and many others like it. I have gone to battle against the source of fear. Fear is a liar. Fear is the Devil himself. Fear robs you of so many things. <i>"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7</i> Thankfully the one controlling the storm comes to the rescue and calms the storm by speaking these simple words: <i>"Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid!" Mark 6:50 </i>Once spoken Jesus got in the boat and immediately the storm ceased.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I have been doing a lot of soul searching, sitting in quiet places, waiting for God to speak. I have read highlighted lines of well-read pages of scripture:</span></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"Don't be afraid! I am with you." Isiah 43:5</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you that hope in the Lord." Psalm 31:24</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints." 1 Corinthians 14:33</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord." Psalm 27:14</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." Isiah 40:31</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"I waited patiently for the Lord, and He inclined to me, and heard my cry." Psalm 40:1</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: medium;">"Do not be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7</span></i></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">This isn't microwaved faith. Or even instant-pot faith. It's more like slow-cooker faith.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3aG6Fe4ZMCgwUbRCc12cUhsRvr542o2fnNnooy5BDVwL9W_yMlYKTsEU4ob9zUKFNz2NZjzgXkPv8mK2yLDWtvM8z7JxHpzNJQot1NklOMMDRm4g-hxpF2aTyMFzGvLRxrvQ6K8mmh_LOBwS6HEUZypL9GFk1yXfQVqFJX7HSIgOCuPP3DBiOhqf-Wg/s225/faith%20over%20fear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3aG6Fe4ZMCgwUbRCc12cUhsRvr542o2fnNnooy5BDVwL9W_yMlYKTsEU4ob9zUKFNz2NZjzgXkPv8mK2yLDWtvM8z7JxHpzNJQot1NklOMMDRm4g-hxpF2aTyMFzGvLRxrvQ6K8mmh_LOBwS6HEUZypL9GFk1yXfQVqFJX7HSIgOCuPP3DBiOhqf-Wg/s1600/faith%20over%20fear.jpg" width="225" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I have decided not to do any more chemotherapy. My body is telling me enough. The outward expression of side effects is obvious. It's the unseen effects that concern me. The decision to even go forward with doing chemotherapy was borderline. The possible long-term damaging effects of chemotherapy trump the benefits of killing any other rogue cells in my body, The effects of one round are visible. I'm confident the job was done and it's time to move on. I will be meeting with my oncology team later this week to plan my next steps in treatment and recovery. I'm feeling better and stronger every day. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Thank you for keeping me lifted up in prayer. This has not been an easy decision. Playing with numbers and asking the what-if questions is exhausting. There is no human that holds the answers to my questions of reoccurrence. Statistics are meant to be good predictors of the future. I know that there is only One who holds my days in His hands. In this time of praying, seeking, asking, and waiting -- He has made it known that is not for me to worry about. It is in His hands. Once I released myself from searching for answers and trust the One who is the answer, the storm ceased. Immediate peace. Perfect peace. Just like when Jesus stepped into the boat and the wind and waves stopped. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">I'm putting the lyrics to this song that has been a lifeline for me. You can also watch the music video here. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ulFGXnASE4Q" width="320" youtube-src-id="ulFGXnASE4Q"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u><b>Fear is Not My Future</b></u> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">By: Maverick City </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Let Him turn it in your favor</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Watch Him work it for your good</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">He’s not done with what He’s started</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">He’s not done until it’s good</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">So let Him turn it in your favor</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Watch Him work it for your good</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">He’s not done with what He’s started</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">He’s not done until it’s good</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Peace</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Joy</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Love</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Strength</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Hope</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">It’s a new horizon</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">If you’re ready for a breakthrough</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Just open up and just receive</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Cause what He’s pouring out is nothing</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">You’ve ever seen</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Fear is not my future</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">You are, You are</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Sickness is not my story</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">You are, You are</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Heartbreak’s not my home</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">You are, You are</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Death is not the end</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">You are, You are</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Peace</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Joy</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Love</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Strength</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Hello Hope</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">It’s a new horizon</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Goodbye fear</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Goodbye guilt</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Goodbye shame</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Goodbye pain</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Goodbye grave</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">It’s a new horizon</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> Let the Light on in</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> Let the Light on in</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> It’s a new horizon</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Another time the disciples we in the boat crossing to the other side and a great windstorm arose. This time Jesus was asleep in the boat. The boat was filling with water. Yet Jesus kept fast asleep. So the disciples awoke him. Jesus spoke to the wind -- rebuking it and then to the sea he said, <i>"Peace, be still!"</i> The wind stopped and the seas were calm. Jesus asked a question -- <i>Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith? Mark 4:35-41</i></span></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Stop living in fear</span></b></i></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Faith brings peace</span></b></i></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Faith over fear</span></b></i></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Fear is not my future</span></b></i></p><p><i><b><span style="font-size: medium;">You are Jesus</span></b></i></p><p><br /></p>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-69532176020562824642022-07-22T16:53:00.000-07:002022-07-22T16:53:03.397-07:00The Brick Wall<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Remember we are on that Bear Hunt? You know the one where we have to go through the tall grass, the river, the mud, and eventually the cave where the home of the bear is at. The journey of cancer. I’m still on that trek. Maybe at a detour now. I’ve hit a brick wall along the journey. I’m staring at this path before me </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhLb6_JFzdZrjZVAlu9pWKW72r1haTH5oIge8rw1qL6WpVa74RFJHKHnSblsXbiROPZ5k0Jv7nv7-q_PkTtAx3OHTGVYGGSR3tWGlGw2GJeBG_VffOJ0fuEBhvXKsahVymysMeFx0Yv43zNL4fsdgDbl9K1-cqN2698FokFzKECz842xE-3y1gs58BTw/s4032/D5752233-6F87-475E-81A7-5A84AEC12E07.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhLb6_JFzdZrjZVAlu9pWKW72r1haTH5oIge8rw1qL6WpVa74RFJHKHnSblsXbiROPZ5k0Jv7nv7-q_PkTtAx3OHTGVYGGSR3tWGlGw2GJeBG_VffOJ0fuEBhvXKsahVymysMeFx0Yv43zNL4fsdgDbl9K1-cqN2698FokFzKECz842xE-3y1gs58BTw/s320/D5752233-6F87-475E-81A7-5A84AEC12E07.jpeg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />of poison laden chemotherapy treatments and possible allergic reactions that carry short and long term side effects. This is no joking matter. These decisions are so hard. No decision is still a decision. But I’m at a stand still, deadlock, brick wall. </span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My first round of chemotherapy didn’t go as smoothly as I had hoped. I had an allergic reaction to one of the drugs called Doxataxcel. This resulted in a rash on my chest, neck, and face. I have also discovered I’m sensitive to taking the steroid medication that is supposed to help prevent/ lesson reactions for chemotherapy. A very common side effect is having elevated glucose levels. With all this information it is concerning to me as to what might happen on the next treatment. There is no way to predict what will happen. I can only take the information I have and try to make a decision based on previous experiences. This is why I’m at a brick wall. Do the benefits of chemotherapy outweigh the risks? </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Will the rash happen again? Will it be more widespread? Will it go away over time? What about the steroids and the stress it puts on the endocrine system? Lots of questions with no clear immediate answers. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_bsp7GLJMGn-DBxxyY768lgoEl6tMM66tpr4DQ8LpI9L_DgRgFFzczX_TcLnDTNJyIgvDj215ZKs_dJS6AFWB_OVxDWKUMg2eAESIAkpNbI4swgIK_f35saZ6ItSc6jP7zO63-syLe3qssb8a7HDhxgk8qg_-weHNKkyrsmMzhELT2QMyhHGHTbZ_Q/s4032/FAF84BDD-1238-46AA-B38C-A115A35142FB.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_bsp7GLJMGn-DBxxyY768lgoEl6tMM66tpr4DQ8LpI9L_DgRgFFzczX_TcLnDTNJyIgvDj215ZKs_dJS6AFWB_OVxDWKUMg2eAESIAkpNbI4swgIK_f35saZ6ItSc6jP7zO63-syLe3qssb8a7HDhxgk8qg_-weHNKkyrsmMzhELT2QMyhHGHTbZ_Q/s320/FAF84BDD-1238-46AA-B38C-A115A35142FB.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’m reminded what a good friend once told me about decision making. She said put the facts on the table, leave your emotions in your heart. This is easier said than done. I’m going to do like the King of Judah, Hezekiah did in the Old Testament when King Sennacherib sent his spokesman to mock the God of the Israelites. Verbally this spokesperson bashed their God by insulting His ability to be faithful. This spokesperson who doesn’t even have a name used words to intimidate the people and King Hezekiah. Isn’t this how the enemy works? Subtly placing doubts in our minds about how great our God is. </span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Will you be rescued?</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Where is this God?</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Don’t rely on him.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">You will be handed over</span></li><li><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.666666984558105px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Did he really promise?</span></li></ul><p></p>Not only did King Sennacherib send the spokesperson he also sent a letter with all this written out. So how did Hezekiah respond? Like the advice from my friend —he laid the facts out on the table— literally. Don’t miss this. He took the letter, read it, and immediately went to the house of the Lord and laid it before God. Then he started praying. Hard core, specific and simple words. <div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Listen </li><li>Hear</li><li>Open your eyes</li><li>See</li><li>Save us</li></ul></div><div>Ultimately Hezekiah’s prayer was to bring glory to God. He knew that God was able to rescue them from the mighty army of the Assyrian’s. Bigger than that was that all these nations needed to see that the Israelites God was God alone. </div><div><br /></div><div>Regardless of my decision to move forward with another round of chemotherapy or not, my hope is that God is glorified in me and through my actions. I’m laying it all down before Him. Praying. Praying. Praying. </div><div><br /></div><div>Do you know how the story ends for Hezekiah and the Israelites? Of course they win the battle. But it’s in the way they won that clearly demonstrates Gods power and ability to o do what He wants and how He wants. God sent an Angel at night that struck down 185,000 dead. King Sennacherib packed up and went home. No questions as to who did what— God alone. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to read more about this story in the Bible you can find it in 2 Kings 18 & 19. </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaf_Og459ObWwzHx16H-O6AIpE-jfB1pW4GftHmLwKGMX9sFF1L9TanJNT9Pk-mP7HgWSrKsYff4232Q699cZB9G2bvY_vjvw846RzfUbJpL5DG6QopsoWsVAs1WgGYvIc7jRIpa8NSFAhGnxBJoky0_mRFtipW2H4jUZzYvW8066-MjOqaD7BDxIQZQ/s3088/A3088E0F-5E47-498C-8F72-1A28F7D9F52E.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaf_Og459ObWwzHx16H-O6AIpE-jfB1pW4GftHmLwKGMX9sFF1L9TanJNT9Pk-mP7HgWSrKsYff4232Q699cZB9G2bvY_vjvw846RzfUbJpL5DG6QopsoWsVAs1WgGYvIc7jRIpa8NSFAhGnxBJoky0_mRFtipW2H4jUZzYvW8066-MjOqaD7BDxIQZQ/s320/A3088E0F-5E47-498C-8F72-1A28F7D9F52E.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No hair and I don’t care!</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>I’ve pushed back my second round of chemotherapy to Wednesday, July 27. Needing a clear answer and peace with the decision. I have to decide by Monday July, 25 in order to have pre-meds on hand. So once again I’m laying the facts on the table before the Lord and trying to keep my emotions tucked away in my heart. <i>Solo Gloria</i>. </div>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-13649527140781297492022-06-26T06:57:00.000-07:002022-06-26T06:57:05.591-07:00 Going Through the Storm<p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; white-space: pre-wrap;">What do you do when the only option is to go through the storm? Have you ever been driving along and a storm pops up? You are stuck either on the side of the road or you choose to go through the storm. The dark black clouds loom low to the ground and the rain starts to fall obstructing your vision in front of you. You keep moving because you don't want a car from behind you to run into you, but you are cautious as you move forward not knowing what lies ahead. As you pass through the storm everything around you fades into shades of gray, a big blur, and loud pounding on the windshield and roof of your vehicle. Will it end soon? Thunderstorms typically don't last that long and are moving rapidly. Just like the storms of life that last mere moments or seasons. I'm learning that some storms in life you don't get to choose to go through, they choose you.</span></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswTsT0jN8Fi_8twNwWnpBz-bID7Tn2lYx_FLm23Gz3MtL8cpWBGCONFG9Zo2a2mQHIwMK8xl6w70WLeSPQ8OBtlAM8ueNZWeXD2KRmrFD8iGQV-DKftJZuvdPVDz8b3mx1Zd9SVgBoRvSUegL0TUkOuRVL10IRIUVn8H4NYjeJCkjw0VWAevfZzKbrA/s627/Attach1%20(1).jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="506" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswTsT0jN8Fi_8twNwWnpBz-bID7Tn2lYx_FLm23Gz3MtL8cpWBGCONFG9Zo2a2mQHIwMK8xl6w70WLeSPQ8OBtlAM8ueNZWeXD2KRmrFD8iGQV-DKftJZuvdPVDz8b3mx1Zd9SVgBoRvSUegL0TUkOuRVL10IRIUVn8H4NYjeJCkjw0VWAevfZzKbrA/s320/Attach1%20(1).jpg" width="258" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Photo By: Stacey Beam</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4v8SdTPwPCnkzBwIrFYsT6m-reJyGPWRumU0fVqzROFakCKf_ArVECA0EsAPpnr6khBTM5SJiTU_tDn89NEk3N7lE129V5rcN7sPBdihZEmhCfZVTHlXDzMjFTtYZ5zfBEKG0YOnZvzDhUxYIPwNaPj_ugVwsViPLgkfSu5VkStxwVtekpxQ5HaQTw/s1728/Attach1.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="1296" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4v8SdTPwPCnkzBwIrFYsT6m-reJyGPWRumU0fVqzROFakCKf_ArVECA0EsAPpnr6khBTM5SJiTU_tDn89NEk3N7lE129V5rcN7sPBdihZEmhCfZVTHlXDzMjFTtYZ5zfBEKG0YOnZvzDhUxYIPwNaPj_ugVwsViPLgkfSu5VkStxwVtekpxQ5HaQTw/s320/Attach1.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Photo By: Stacey Beam</span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><span id="docs-internal-guid-cca9a00d-7fff-d3bf-0d65-0d08e2f0863a" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Have you ever been on a bear hunt? Maybe a deer or turkey hunt? Hunting is one of those tricky outdoor hobbies that require a bit of skill and luck to bring home the trophy prize. My experiences with hunting are somewhat limited. I’m a beginner and have only lived here in Missouri for almost five years. I’m learning about how to hunt the wildlife in the Ozarks. I enjoy being out in the woods, breathing the forest air, and observing the flora, fauna, and wildlife around me. It is a peaceful time of sitting in silence from human noise, absorbing the surroundings, and tuning into the sounds of nature. It can be physically demanding to find the perfect location due to terrain and weather conditions. The time of year typically is in the fall and sometimes it is warm or downright freezing cold. The wind can be your friend or foe. There is great anticipation built up to the hunt itself. So much preparation goes into sacking the big one. </span></p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsagX8rPtMo6E3F9mFhS3BKXmL12QWEVo4Dzng4_EwHCDSKJp3Wo4zhPn_Zm7Prk6JAUY6kGL0Al1S9HtoG0UDyHoqnM7qeS-9csz5JseaH3ypWEw9iIivJeEu1v-vSYmVzJ7vAo-Y_RGzn7y0RmNptWlkRxd3a43Fcrw4UDK5_7A4oPcyuZOSHPfww/s612/whitetaildeer.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="612" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsagX8rPtMo6E3F9mFhS3BKXmL12QWEVo4Dzng4_EwHCDSKJp3Wo4zhPn_Zm7Prk6JAUY6kGL0Al1S9HtoG0UDyHoqnM7qeS-9csz5JseaH3ypWEw9iIivJeEu1v-vSYmVzJ7vAo-Y_RGzn7y0RmNptWlkRxd3a43Fcrw4UDK5_7A4oPcyuZOSHPfww/s320/whitetaildeer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’m reminded of a pre-school song “I’m Going on a Bear Hunt, Gonna Catch a Big One.” You may be familiar with the catchy tune. If not check out my <a href="https://youtu.be/5_ShP3fiEhU">link </a>to the song. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’m going on a bear hunt of my own. Well not for a real bear. The bear of cancer. Defeating the big, scary bear. I keep repeating the line from the song, "I’m not afraid!” Mentally repeating the phrase and replacing it with scripture.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Philippians 4:4-8 "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable --if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy -- dwell on these things." </i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Romans 8:18 " For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us."</i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>John 16:33 " I have told you these things so that in me you have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world."</i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>2 Timothy 1:7 "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound mind."</i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Exodus 14:14 "The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace."</i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Isaiah 43:2 " I will be with you when you pass through the waters, and when you pass through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. You will not be scorched when you walk through the fire, and the flame will not burn."</i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i>Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through him who strengthens me."</i></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the song, "Going on a Bear Hunt" there are several obstacles encountered before arriving at the cave of the bear. For me, I feel like there have been many obstacles along this journey with breast cancer. Most of which are completely out of my control. The thing I keep repeating to myself is to keep perspective, keep calm, keep hoping, and keep fighting. I don't have understanding or answers, but I know the One who does. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u><b>Obstacle one – the grass</b></u></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you ever find yourself looking at what other people have that you don't have? Maybe it seems like the grass might be greener on the other side of the fence? I'm talking about playing that comparison game. You know the one where you scroll through social media, stopping at the pictures of friends on these vacations, or the perfectly posed family photos like Joanna & Chip Gaines? Yeah, I want to be like that, but deep down I'm not. This constant comparison is exhausting. It robs you of joy and replaces your feelings of security with doubts and what-if questions. It is dangerous. When you walk through tall grass or brush in the woods it is very important to watch your step. Hidden in the path may be snakes. Sounds a bit like how the devil wants to trip us up in our thinking--yep the grass sure is green over there. Don't fall for this lie. The devil is keen and cutting. He is crouched like a lion ready to pounce on the prey moving in the tall grass. If the devil can get to us by using mind games to get us thinking we don't compare and measure up against others he wins. We have to win the game in our minds and take control of the negative and degrading self-talk we often partake in. It tends to be in the realm of social media where it runs rampant. Check yourself -- make sure the grass is kept short around you. Remove those distractions, know your boundaries, and call out for help if you get lost in the tall grass. We may look at those pictures and think, wow they have it together. The real reality is those pictures don't say it all. True they may be on vacation once again this summer but you don't know the full story. You are assuming the information you don't have. It may look like life is going along just fine. But under the air-brushed photos and piles of unpaid bills and sleepless nights of loneliness are other Moms wishing their life was like yours. Really we don't want to trade places with anyone. But sometimes we want to because life just seems unfair. My summer certainly isn't going the way I had planned. I'm making the most of it, regardless of a cancer diagnosis and needing chemotherapy. I'm not hiding out in the tall grass wishing I was someone else. This is my path and the enemy better move along. </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SWISH. SWISH. SWISH. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u><b>Obstacle two – the river</b></u></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Water can be very deceiving. The river may look calm and slow-moving on the surface, but underneath it is swiftly moving with currents. Sometimes in life, it seems like we are drowning in a river of regrets. We made bad choices or worse someone we love made a bad choice and now life is messed up. I see it over and over again. The brokenness of families ruins confidence and confuses young children as to what true love is. We end up drowning in a sea of broken promises, confusion, anger, depression, and bitterness. The river for me seems to be this constant battle with my health. Maybe for you, it is finances or relationship woes. It really doesn't matter what the issue is we can all relate to this feeling of water rising to the point of sucking us down. We are trapped and figuratively drowning. Feeling like you are in over your head? Join the club! Rest assured the Father knows what we need even before we ask. Call to the one who can speak a Word to calm the seas in an instant. You might get wet in the process of getting out of the boat. Be okay with that. Life is hard. The struggle is real. SPLASH. SPLASH. SPLASH. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u><b>Obstacle three – the mud</b></u></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Mud is messy. Life can be a real mess. It's not always easy and it certainly doesn't go the way I want it to go every time. Maybe you have never thought of mud as a medium for transformation. Certain types of soil produce clay. Wet clay is very sticky and rolls like plasticine. It is easy to mold and shape into the desired object. When it dries it is able to keep the shape of the object. Usually, the clay is put in a kiln and heated to very hot temperatures around 1,800 to 2,400 degrees Fahrenheit. Does anyone else feel like it is hot in the trial? Like you are going to burn up or out? This is part of the process. Clay has to be molded. Whose job is that? The Bible gives the analogy of the Father being the Potter and we are the clay. In <i>Isiah 64:8 "But now O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and we are the work of your hand."</i> So all this mud and clay is the work of the Father. He is making us like Him as we go through the hardships in life. He is molding, shaping, breaking, creating, over and over again in each of us a perfectly unique you and me. Just like Peter wrote, <i>"Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try to you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy." 1 Peter 4:12-13 </i>The mud may be messy but God is making something beautiful out of it. SQUISH. SQUISH. SQUISH.</p></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">We can't go over it</span><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">We can't go around it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">We can't go over it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">We must go through it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">That is what Jesus wants us to do -- go through the grass, river, and mud -- He is with us every step.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u><b>HEALTH UPDATE</b></u></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Monday, June, 27 I will be having outpatient surgery to place the power port for chemotherapy. This will be done in West Plains. On Tuesday I have a planned visit up in St. Louis along with a bone density scan. On Wednesday I begin my treatments for chemotherapy. We are coordinating the chemotherapy with my oncologist here in West plains to make travel trips less. I am very thankful we have that option. All of my 4 chemotherapy treatments will be done locally here in West Plains. I am very eager to get this going. The quicker we can start the quicker I can be done! Please pray that my labs are all "normal" and comply with the protocols for receiving chemotherapy. I will try to update as I can. I know that while receiving chemotherapy you feel rather groggy due to all of the medications you are receiving. Praying no major side effects and allergic reactions occur. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">I have had several reach out and want to know how they can help my family. If you can get ahold of anyone at New Hope Baptist Church that would be a great place to start. You can always message me and I can relay the message. Thank you again for text messages, calls, Facebook messages, and cards. You are all so amazing and I'm blessed to have a wonderful support family.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mC-zw0zCCtg" width="320" youtube-src-id="mC-zw0zCCtg"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MkI-UTQD2-c" width="320" youtube-src-id="MkI-UTQD2-c"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-85281310680873565032022-06-14T04:30:00.001-07:002022-06-14T04:30:00.153-07:00Facing the Tough Decisions<p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Indecision. Feeling stuck. Fork in the road. Right or left. Up or down. Choosing to not make a decision is paralyzing, agonizing, and plain exhausting. I have spent some time in this camp lately. Gathering all my information to build a case for or against chemotherapy has been the hardest decision I have had to make. Ultimately it comes down to faith. Do I trust in the God of the universe who created the heavens and earth and holds my life in His hands, or do I trust in myself to pick what is best? I have been wrestling this out between the voices in my head and the dozens of pieces of papers from the doctor's office, google search tabs of breast cancer articles, notecards filled with scripture verses, and an abundance of cards/notes from friends and family. I've heard from many of you offering prayers and words of encouragement. I can't tell you how important each one of you is to me. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuV-nU9EY5Z59wNqu9EZeJpsH9A3lRLBhbi_5yP5L-UaDUrXVXoTZSRdO3Z5JlZNWjjnc5dOEY4NhFOR3qzrI6hSM98mithWD3bYhczpij36X7sowZbL-hcdQM8TcYZ_P_8jQxHOt42swZVPI2dzKGJhPRD5FHswZ6KckYY9u8wxNIYwD6Nk9ZbRfyHA/s4032/IMG-7712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuV-nU9EY5Z59wNqu9EZeJpsH9A3lRLBhbi_5yP5L-UaDUrXVXoTZSRdO3Z5JlZNWjjnc5dOEY4NhFOR3qzrI6hSM98mithWD3bYhczpij36X7sowZbL-hcdQM8TcYZ_P_8jQxHOt42swZVPI2dzKGJhPRD5FHswZ6KckYY9u8wxNIYwD6Nk9ZbRfyHA/s320/IMG-7712.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">I have prayed for clarity, wisdom, and direction. My prayers were confirmed Wednesday evening. I was tying to justly a 2-3% in my favor or against my favor. On Wednesday night I went to bed with my decision made: No chemotherapy. I had weighed my options. Reasoned the pros and cons of partaking in the poison cocktail club and firmly announced to myself, nope not going to happen this time. I was ok with this. I honestly thought the side effects and potential risks involved outweighed the benefits of doing the treatments. But God had other plans...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">On Friday afternoon my oncologist doctor called. There was a clerical error in the final pathology report she wanted to clarify and have corrected. I agreed. It was regarding how many lymph nodes were taken and tested. There were 3, and all 3 tested negative for cancer. This is good news and didn't change anything we knew. She wanted to repeat a previously completed study using a piece of tissue that had not been used for another testing. She was wanting to confirm the hormone status of my type of cancer as well and just ordered a repeat on that. It is not as common to have lobular carcinoma in situ with only estrogen positive. Typically you would see both estrogen and progesterone positive and she wanted to confirm my data. She also wanted run the Ki-67 test once again. This test is commonly used to measure the cellular proliferation (how fast cells are dividing) of the breast cancer tissue.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><u><b>SCIENCE CONTENT WARNING (I know I love this stuff, maybe you do too!)</b></u></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Ki-67 assessment is probably the best known. A monoclonal antibody is used for IHC (immunohistological) staining of the proliferation-association nuclear protein Ki-67 in tumor cells to determine the percentage of Ki-67 positive cells among the total population of tumor cells in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded sections contained from a core-cut biopsy sample, this is the Ki-67 index.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Tumors are classified as having a high or low Ki-67 index based on a prespecified cutoff. Tumors with a high Ki-67 index have a larger number of proliferating cells and are therefore likely to grow more quickly. A score of greater than 30% of tumor cells showing staining compared to malignant cells is considered high. Breast cancers that are ER-positive (estrogen receptor) can be classified into two molecular subtype groups: Luminal A and Luminal B. Typically Luminal A tumors have a lower rate of proliferation than Luminal B tumors. This means Luminal B tumors are more aggressive types of cancer. <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">About 85 percent of breast cancers are ductal carcinomas, while 11.4 percent are lobular carcinomas,</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"> </span><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6926136/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #00a9e0; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">according to a study published in the <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">Annals of Medicine and Surgery</em></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">. More than three-quarters of lobular carcinomas fall into the luminal A and triple-negative tumor category.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">The results came back confirming what we previously knew -- ER-positive only. But the Ki-67 test confirmed again with a high index value greater than 30% of cells stained were present. She also mentioned that the subtypes were present and that indication "heightens" the aggressiveness of my lobular carcinoma breast cancer. She went on to say that she is changing her suggestion of adjuvant chemotherapy to recommending I really need to do this. Big sigh. Deep breathe. You got this! Ok, so what you are saying is even though...</span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">3 out of 3 lymph nodes negative</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Stage 1</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Clear Margins from DBMX</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Grade 3</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">ER + / PR -</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Oncotype score 18</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Ki-67 <30%</span></li><li><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)</span></li></ul><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">So we need to partake in chemotherapy? Yes, I'm so sorry. So my decision became clear. I am to do chemotherapy. The data doesn't lie. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">The plan now is to coordinate doing chemotherapy here in West Plains for the sanity of myself and my husband. Driving to St. Louis is a long drive and the price of fuel is not helping! I am so glad that Siteman will work with my local oncology doctor here in West Plains. I will have more information soon as to when all of this will begin. I will do 4 treatments, 3 weeks apart. We will be placing a power port to receive chemotherapy IV directly. When this begins will depend on scheduling and getting insurance lined out. I have every intention to continue working each day for as long as possible. I know that some days that just may not happen. I am so grateful for wonderful teacher friends and administration who are willing to support me and give me time to take care of myself. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezeIlRpiUjkvRTGuqejR4DuD0mDYsTOSrECoQ272F0EzIKOHB_QszHVhIK6_LwO29I_ccSt9Z_7LSHVTkSC0NVbheiV2AGLJmtFR7A6hMG9YaRjoRo6ixg_chlKac45Nh7_6w_CgM0A_AhuQ70IQep8VIa9pn3-TamNUOK2nBGZOTPrk1ulNWuA-kZg/s4032/IMG-7648.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjezeIlRpiUjkvRTGuqejR4DuD0mDYsTOSrECoQ272F0EzIKOHB_QszHVhIK6_LwO29I_ccSt9Z_7LSHVTkSC0NVbheiV2AGLJmtFR7A6hMG9YaRjoRo6ixg_chlKac45Nh7_6w_CgM0A_AhuQ70IQep8VIa9pn3-TamNUOK2nBGZOTPrk1ulNWuA-kZg/s320/IMG-7648.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">On Saturday my church family rallied together to support me with a benefit event. Everyone went all out. I am so grateful for the kindness and generosity of my friends at New Hope Baptist Church and the many local businesses that donated </span><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">items to help raise money. You all know who you are and I love you!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusrb2-iNPuDV2eBB_b-mOsfyV7_klxTt7CkxQh0BCXRsNjwHUbFehPfl482dntSI5RJcobr3wN8mOLE8rc9gGvPcm6ogsQaZDiz7MR19neqiw_HkHQc6CjQH1TtQROH8sJ97XV27oy-mY_nALH-ZTVHv444uCus_wkaxEDMV7vq2JTw9nIB3lLjyG7g/s2715/IMG-7647.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1739" data-original-width="2715" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhusrb2-iNPuDV2eBB_b-mOsfyV7_klxTt7CkxQh0BCXRsNjwHUbFehPfl482dntSI5RJcobr3wN8mOLE8rc9gGvPcm6ogsQaZDiz7MR19neqiw_HkHQc6CjQH1TtQROH8sJ97XV27oy-mY_nALH-ZTVHv444uCus_wkaxEDMV7vq2JTw9nIB3lLjyG7g/s320/IMG-7647.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Now I will begin to prepare myself for the battle ahead. So how do you tackle the monster you are dreading? </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: georgia;">P</span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: georgia;">ut one foot in front of the other — and walk toward the impossible water.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;"> </span><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: georgia;">Drench yourself in Hope. Get out of the boat and walk on the water.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia;">The only way forward is to step into your sea — because you’ll drown in despair if you don’t follow Hope Himself forward. The road may look uncertain. I know who goes with me. I will be brave. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi06h3XGTwdg1foi4xm7Vvjr2kc5_hEpG_un_DrqpKMWevx5uo9EbjPBaQ3UC_tH-GFzh-MJtOPEIZfOcYbT8GwRlZWD2rFMMuNL5FxLj4fHYDLG5gS97eCt2otmb7I5wl7bz82mSL34SAMhiBSYXvQsPNCom3OsjZ6xls14R0wXpNMEw507MXDElpv4A/s4032/IMG-7664.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi06h3XGTwdg1foi4xm7Vvjr2kc5_hEpG_un_DrqpKMWevx5uo9EbjPBaQ3UC_tH-GFzh-MJtOPEIZfOcYbT8GwRlZWD2rFMMuNL5FxLj4fHYDLG5gS97eCt2otmb7I5wl7bz82mSL34SAMhiBSYXvQsPNCom3OsjZ6xls14R0wXpNMEw507MXDElpv4A/s320/IMG-7664.JPG" width="240" /></a></div></span></span><p></p><div class="kp-header" data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4Q3z4oAHoECAIQAQ" lang="en-US" style="background-color: white; color: #202124;"><div class="kp-hc" style="display: inline-block; margin-bottom: 0px; padding-bottom: 12px; padding-top: 12px; position: relative; width: 650px;"><div class="Hhmu2e wDYxhc NFQFxe viOShc LKPcQc" data-hveid="CAMQAA" data-md="16" data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4Qhyh6BAgDEAA" lang="en-US" style="border-radius: 8px; clear: none; overflow: inherit; padding-top: 0px;"><div class="Ftghae iirjIb" style="margin-top: 0px; padding-left: 16px; padding-right: 16px; position: relative;"><div class="SPZz6b"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><h2 class="qrShPb kno-ecr-pt PZPZlf q8U8x" data-attrid="title" data-local-attribute="d3bn" data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4Q3B0oAHoECAMQAQ" style="display: inline; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.2; margin: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; position: relative; transform-origin: left top;">You Make Me Brave</h2><div class="wwUB2c PZPZlf" data-attrid="subtitle" style="color: #70757a; margin: 4px 0px; overflow: hidden;"><span data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4Q2kooAXoECAMQAg"><a data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4QMXoECAMQAw" href="https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALiCzsbgwJfMcHveC9uPoCl-ESiHRWH0vQ:1655006093588&q=Bethel+Music&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgVuLSz9U3yMsorygzXcTK45RakpGao-BbWpyZDADDlTZJHQAAAA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4QMXoECAMQAw&cshid=1655006192398899" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); color: #1a0dab; outline: 0px; text-decoration-line: none;">Bethel Music</a>, <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4QMXoECAMQBA" href="https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALiCzsbgwJfMcHveC9uPoCl-ESiHRWH0vQ:1655006093588&q=Amanda+Lindsey+Cook&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgVuLUz9U3SLc0Mc9bxCrsmJuYl5Ko4JOZl1KcWqngnJ-fDQC2ld1OIwAAAA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4QMXoECAMQBA&cshid=1655006192398899" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); color: #1a0dab; outline: 0px; text-decoration-line: none;">Amanda Cook<br /></a></span></div></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="SALvLe farUxc mJ2Mod" style="background-color: white; border-top: 1px solid rgb(235, 235, 235); color: #202124; margin-top: 12px;"><div class="i4J0ge"><div class="yp1CPe wDYxhc NFQFxe" data-attrid="kc:/music/recording_cluster:lyrics" data-md="113" lang="en-US" style="border-radius: 8px; clear: none; padding-bottom: 16px; padding-top: 0px;"><div data-hveid="CAQQAA" data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4QsEx6BAgEEAA"><div class="uHNKed" style="margin-top: 12px;"><div class="Oh5wg" style="margin: 0px 16px;"><div class="PZPZlf" data-lyricid="Lyricfind002-1131005"><div class="bbVIQb" jsname="Vinbg"></div><div class="bbVIQb" jsname="WbKHeb"><div class="ujudUb u7wWjf" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">I stand before You now</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">The greatness of your renown</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I have heard of the majesty and wonder of you</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">King of Heaven, in humility, I bow</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">As Your love, in wave after wave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Crashes over me, crashes over me</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">For You are for us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You are not against us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Champion of Heaven</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You made a way for all to enter in</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">I have heard You calling my name</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">I have heard the song of love that You sing</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">So I will let You draw me out beyond the shore</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Into Your grace</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Your grace</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">As Your love, in wave after wave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Crashes over me, crashes over me</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">For You are for us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You are not against us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Champion of Heaven</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You made a way for all to enter into</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">Your love, in wave after wave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Crashes over me, crashes over me</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">For You are for us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You are not against us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Champion of Heaven</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You made a way for all to enter in</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">'Cause you make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You call me out beyond the shore into the waves</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">No fear can hinder now the love that made a way</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You call me out beyond the shore into the waves</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">No fear can hinder now the promises you made</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You call me out beyond the shore into the waves</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">No fear can hinder now the promises you made</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You call me out beyond the shore into the waves</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You make me brave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">No fear can hinder now the promises you made</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 12px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">As Your love, in wave after wave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Crashes over me, crashes over me</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">For You are for us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You are not against us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Champion of Heaven</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You made a way for all to enter in</span></span></div><div class="ujudUb WRZytc xpdxpnd" data-mh="-1" jsname="U8S5sf" style="line-height: 1.58; margin-bottom: 0px; max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><span jsname="YS01Ge">As Your love, in wave after wave</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Crashes over me, crashes over me</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">For You are for us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You are not against us</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">Champion of Heaven</span><br /><span jsname="YS01Ge">You made a way for all to enter in</span></span></div></div></div><div class="j04ED" style="color: #70757a; line-height: 16px; margin-top: 13px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Source: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4Q5s4FKAB6BAgEEAE" href="https://www.lyricfind.com/" ping="/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.lyricfind.com/&ved=2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4Q5s4FKAB6BAgEEAE&cshid=1655006192398899" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.1); color: #70757a; outline: 0px;">LyricFind</a></span></div><div class="xpdxpnd PZPZlf" data-lyricid="Lyricfind002-1131005" data-mh="-1" data-ved="2ahUKEwjou7eSgqf4AhVrnI4IHSZHDv4QycMBKAF6BAgEEAI" style="max-height: none; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease 0s;"><div class="auw0zb" style="color: #70757a; line-height: 16px; margin-top: 13px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">Songwriters: Amanda Cook</span></div><div class="auw0zb" style="color: #70757a; line-height: 16px; margin-top: 13px;"><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;">You Make Me Brave lyrics © Bethel Music Publishing</span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-62405553715891623622022-06-07T20:34:00.000-07:002022-06-07T20:34:39.327-07:00When All You Want in Life is the Easy Button<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQI6F39E2gdqbxpyF2IyUEyhpKWoSKNO_dAYgkR20EA9erSf_CgncrXYvUF7xgwMWi4BEqURhm7-3q-OPqDzv7CrROaMAKADyz3O8j9ml2r9VkVSX2lJhAo7YqrLqu1yw3ddoUztZMBCkh0bcVry3sDaWkiv5z-YdSF_IqzRO4-UxrN36U8KjYj-vDQ/s225/Easy%20Button.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQI6F39E2gdqbxpyF2IyUEyhpKWoSKNO_dAYgkR20EA9erSf_CgncrXYvUF7xgwMWi4BEqURhm7-3q-OPqDzv7CrROaMAKADyz3O8j9ml2r9VkVSX2lJhAo7YqrLqu1yw3ddoUztZMBCkh0bcVry3sDaWkiv5z-YdSF_IqzRO4-UxrN36U8KjYj-vDQ/s320/Easy%20Button.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
It has been a while since I last posted. This journey has been rough, to say the least. The waiting is long and even when a test result comes back, it is not definitive. It just seems like the information keeps coming. It's a case of probabilities that may or may not be in my favor. It is hard. All my heart wants is to press the big fat red easy button and for it to all be over with. Get my life back to "normal." The problem is there is no such thing. There is no such button you or I can push to alleviate the hard in life. We all have hard. It just might come in different packages for each of us. I want to be in control. It is a reminder that I am not, and frankly, I really don't want to be. I just don't want the hard stuff. There is a purpose in the hard. Without the hard in life, we would have no need for faith, no need for a savior. Jesus said, "In this world, you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33
We are given a promise from the very lips of Jesus: you will have hard things in life (trials). Did you catch that? Not if you have trials, but you will have trials. Notice the preposition: BUT. The good news is followed right after that little word: but. It's a direct order, a command to "be" meaning to take action (verb) with something we can control within each of us. It is your attitude. Be of good cheer means having a good attitude, having self-control, choose joy in the midst of a hard circumstance or situation. Then we get the reminder that Jesus has a plan and in the end, He wins. I have a poster in my classroom I made. It reads, "Two things you can control, 1) attitude, 2) effort." I am constantly telling my students in the classroom that they are responsible in life for their attitudes about someone or something. They are also responsible for how much effort they want to apply themselves to complete tasks. This covers literally all issues we teachers face in the classroom today. I personally like to reward students who demonstrate excellent attitudes and give measurable effort despite a poor grade. I have found that an optimistic/positive attitude is directly related to the effort level. Guess what, it works every time. If attitude can be "coached" and a student is willing to make some mental changes and try harder to apply himself or herself the sky is the limit. I have witnessed some students do amazing things they didn't think were possible of achieving. I'm trying to listen to my own words and give myself a pep talk.<div><br /></div><div>I am pondering some hard decisions regarding my future treatments. I haven't reported much lately because I really don't know what to say. At first, I thought with the stage of 1 Breast cancer and clear margins and no lymph nodes positive meant I was in the clear -- no chemotherapy necessary. More test results have shown strong indications that chemotherapy would be advantageous for my type of cancer. I have a very aggressive form of breast cancer (LCIS with ICS). They did catch it in its early stage. When you combine all laboratory pathology, genetic testing, and future predicting breast cancer testing all the numbers point to adjuvant chemotherapy along with hormone therapy for lower reoccurrence rates. When combined together the numbers significantly go down as far as the likelihood of reoccurrence over the next 9 years. The hardest part is the doctor is just giving me all this information and wants me to decide what I would like to do. I can just do the hormone therapy alone, or I can do both chemotherapy and hormone therapy. The easiest way to explain it is like this: Based on a huge study (TailorX) the data can be applied to my situation like this, out of 100 women 12 are more likely to have a reoccurrence. So 88% chance it is not coming back. If I add in the hormone therapy it increases that percentage to about 94%. If I add in the chemotherapy regiment, it adds another 2-3%, at about 96%. This is a prediction. Not a guarantee. I could do nothing more and take my chances that I am not one of the twelve. I could do all of the above and still have something come back in the next few years. The choice is mine. No pressure. Now you see why I want an easy button. I've been here before. Having to face chemotherapy before is not something anyone wants to undergo. I have had conversations with God about this all ready being on the "not to do ever again bucket list," and here we are again on the doorstep of staring at the beast of chemotherapy. This is not on my bucket list, again! So the decision has to be made on what direction to go for treatment. I choose to seek medical treatment at the Siteman Cancer Center because it is one of the best cancer treatment facilities in the US and maybe the world. I wanted expert minds to review and advise what is best in my situation. I have prayed. I have waited and waited. I am wrestling with my scientific self who says, yeah do the chemotherapy for that extra 2-3% decrease in reoccurrence over the next 9 years. But my heart is just not in it. Is it worth the stress my body will have to endure? Is it worth the rearrangement of my schedule? My husband's schedule? My kid's schedule? What about the side effects both short-term and long-term? It is well known that some chemotherapy drugs do in fact cause or lead to other types of cancer. We all know that the purpose of undergoing chemotherapy is to kill cancer cells. The problem is the chemo drugs can't distinguish which cells are possibly cancerous and which ones are healthy.</div><div><br /></div><div> My oncologist doctor is recommending Cylcophoshamide, trade name Cytoxan, and Docetaxel, trade name Taxotere. This would require 4 treatments over a 12-week period. It is an aggressive dose in a short amount of time. </div><div><u><b>Technical Information (From Chemocare.com):</b></u> </div><div>Cancerous tumors are characterized by cell division, which is no longer controlled as it is in normal tissue. "Normal" cells stop dividing when they come into contact with like cells, a mechanism known as contact inhibition. Cancerous cells lose this ability. Cancer cells no longer have the normal checks and balances in place that control and limit cell division. The process of cell division, whether normal or cancerous cells, is through the cell cycle. The cell cycle goes from the resting phase, through active growing phases, and then to mitosis (division).
The ability of chemotherapy to kill cancer cells depends on its ability to halt cell division. Usually, the drugs work by damaging the RNA or DNA that tells the cell how to copy itself in the division. If the cells are unable to divide, they die. The faster the cells are dividing, the more likely it is that chemotherapy will kill the cells, causing the tumor to shrink. They also induce cell suicide (self-death or apoptosis). Chemotherapy drugs that affect cells only when they are dividing are called cell-cycle specific. Chemotherapy drugs that affect cells when they are at rest are called cell-cycle non-specific. The scheduling of chemotherapy is set based on the type of cells, the rate at which they divide, and the time at which a given drug is likely to be effective. This is why chemotherapy is typically given in cycles. Unfortunately, chemotherapy does not know the difference between cancerous cells and normal cells. Chemotherapy will kill all cells that are rapidly dividing. The "normal" cells most commonly affected by chemotherapy are the blood cells, the cells in the mouth, stomach and bowel, are the hair follicles; resulting in low blood counts, mouth sores, nausea, diarrhea, and/or hair loss. Different drugs may affect different parts of the body. Cyclophosphamide is classified as an alkylating agent. Alkylating agents are most active in the resting phase of the cell. These drugs are cell-cycle non-specific. There are several types of alkylating agents.
Docetaxel belongs to a class of chemotherapy drugs called plant alkaloids. Plant alkaloids are made from plants. The vinca alkaloids are made from the periwinkle plant (catharanthus rosea). The taxanes are made from the bark of the Pacific Yew tree (taxus). The vinca alkaloids and taxanes are also known as antimicrotubule agents. The podophyllotoxins are derived from the May apple plant. Camptothecan analogs are derived from the Asian "Happy Tree" (Camptotheca acuminata). Podophyllotoxins and camptothecan analogs are also known as topoisomerase inhibitors. The plant alkaloids are cell-cycle specific. This means they attack the cells during various phases of division. Antimicrotubule agents (such as docetaxel), inhibit the microtubule structures within the cell. Microtubules are part of the cell's apparatus for dividing and replicating itself. Inhibition of these structures ultimately results in cell death.
During chemotherapy, the idea is to rid the body of the cancer cells and try to keep you going. It is horrible. The chemotherapy cocktail is specific for each cancer patient. There are medications given to help alleviate and make unpleasant symptoms milder and easier to manage. I remember it like yesterday. Every time I brush my teeth it reminds me of chemotherapy. I had a big issue personally with how my mouth tasted during chemo last time. I wanted to brush my teeth all the time. The only problem was it made me gag. I know maybe that is TMI! But seriously the struggle was real, daily. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQ9kiUKayNNY7KjW8zABpc0TiGUX6m30yvdYbAkTIe1rQkpoMnPOXlZ0AbTyEKf1amLfKtaG-7IX_5Mcwmt8s1Wn4ip3YBrnVrB5riHW5p7gUB0eIIp37MJQTUs5wEhwIRyP9ca1lPGGasRQ5V-2QsqR7M7TIM0juQbfR0ZdmstQBrjb_RyELdzb14A/s1297/IMG-7566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1297" data-original-width="1169" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQ9kiUKayNNY7KjW8zABpc0TiGUX6m30yvdYbAkTIe1rQkpoMnPOXlZ0AbTyEKf1amLfKtaG-7IX_5Mcwmt8s1Wn4ip3YBrnVrB5riHW5p7gUB0eIIp37MJQTUs5wEhwIRyP9ca1lPGGasRQ5V-2QsqR7M7TIM0juQbfR0ZdmstQBrjb_RyELdzb14A/s320/IMG-7566.jpg" width="288" /></a></div><div>I'm going for a walk again. Time to get to the bottom of this and make a decision. I appreciate your prayers and words of encouragement. I know this was a lot of information. It is for my brain and my heart. I have cried a lot. I am so torn. I do not have peace in my heart. I am asking God to give me clarity, wisdom, and the courage to walk boldly in the direction I am to go. I will continue to wrestle this out like Jacob. All through the night, Jacob wrestled a man. He wouldn't let the man go. He wanted a blessing. He wanted to know His name. He knew enough to give the man a name himself after not being able to win the battle all night long. Peniel-meaning I have seen God face to face. And the man touched Jacob's hip socket. This took Jacob's ability to run away, physically and literally. No more running. He changed Jacob's name to Israel. Meaning he contended with God. He went from Jacob, meaning laughter to fighter or contender. I want in on what Jacob learned that night. God is in the business of not letting go. He wants to bless us. I'm a fighter a contender. What about you? Nothing easy about it.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXY_eWdRHWJFFgUVKVnZ8YmCZdsF8f_qMgQiAuN2hS2PX2sPznIiZXKY248QDyCM1mhBfC7U6Dwr9xJwThefDlvZZ7pkvfZdjM_tsU8tX94d3nJPcKCX7r9GZplkwyhS9Sul92vX2eSr9hJ_o7n5enVl8uq2vOOOnfC7HfsJ34hz2SGOTjVm6UcOk6Q/s1440/IMG-7567.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1440" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdXY_eWdRHWJFFgUVKVnZ8YmCZdsF8f_qMgQiAuN2hS2PX2sPznIiZXKY248QDyCM1mhBfC7U6Dwr9xJwThefDlvZZ7pkvfZdjM_tsU8tX94d3nJPcKCX7r9GZplkwyhS9Sul92vX2eSr9hJ_o7n5enVl8uq2vOOOnfC7HfsJ34hz2SGOTjVm6UcOk6Q/w400-h266/IMG-7567.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirslzxYj8TUBfNgHfXAQMQI4rdGoVQGee-_OppkPAQnFxQhjTdrgQl-4K86nNSs1ZnnMc9OYEWYfN8X81oHvLIZMrEJW8WCYjE6mQn8klim9iEAZM3IH4MoK3KibnNONgS3Tk8l4kaT2HdnjC1t5M0lhQB8EEsielT6_4l5gByLn53jFR6SRVqNUF6AQ/s4032/IMG-7530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirslzxYj8TUBfNgHfXAQMQI4rdGoVQGee-_OppkPAQnFxQhjTdrgQl-4K86nNSs1ZnnMc9OYEWYfN8X81oHvLIZMrEJW8WCYjE6mQn8klim9iEAZM3IH4MoK3KibnNONgS3Tk8l4kaT2HdnjC1t5M0lhQB8EEsielT6_4l5gByLn53jFR6SRVqNUF6AQ/w300-h400/IMG-7530.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tNk_xCa7zaQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="tNk_xCa7zaQ"></iframe></div><br />Kari Jobe with Elevation Worship -- The Blessing</div><div><br /></div><div>If you are local here in Missouri there will be a benefit event on my behalf on Saturday, June 11th at New Hope Baptist Church in Peace Valley (7908 CR 1790 WP 65775). It is from 3 pm to 7 pm. There will be food and a silent auction. If you are unable to attend and want to help out privately message me and I'll get you the information.</div>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-72172943140869617042022-05-13T21:27:00.003-07:002022-05-13T21:30:45.001-07:00Eleven Years Ago Today<p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwexItbPUruHa_GSZcGMYaSE4qS_r7rmercDNA6PvglfhblIUa_p5ffl8oPTHGi-SN1-Ycz3AmGy0oaXOhNtiVyR7K_NUy7Am9lZuGvQs3eiJbvgUrFgREjdn4hAzYg5LEaVBoyRjAtALS8FiebwXCGUXFwjsf4p9kvPN0z6EHuNhUmEcW3zoVPZzw3g/s960/11406845_10206976803328972_2103723594456346430_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwexItbPUruHa_GSZcGMYaSE4qS_r7rmercDNA6PvglfhblIUa_p5ffl8oPTHGi-SN1-Ycz3AmGy0oaXOhNtiVyR7K_NUy7Am9lZuGvQs3eiJbvgUrFgREjdn4hAzYg5LEaVBoyRjAtALS8FiebwXCGUXFwjsf4p9kvPN0z6EHuNhUmEcW3zoVPZzw3g/w142-h200/11406845_10206976803328972_2103723594456346430_n.jpg" width="142" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VBS at CCB 2012</td></tr></tbody></table>Eleven years ago my life was forever changed by the diagnosis of colon cancer. It was Friday, May 13th. Just like today only eleven years later, Friday, May 13th. The last eleven years have been jam-packed with purposeful living. Most of you know my story but in case you don't check out some of my previous year's blog posts. I have tried to look at life differently since knowing my colon cancer was stage 3. I beat it. Eleven years colon cancer-free! So many highlights and stories to share of God's faithfulness to me personally and my family. I was told that there would be a slim chance I could get pregnant once doing chemotherapy treatments. They were wrong. Two years after treatments our prayers were answered with a little boy, Zachariah Josiah born in June of 2013 He is a joy! Our family farmed and ranched in Idaho for almost 13 years. We bought land, and equipment, and built barns. We were putting our roots down. We bought an old farmhouse and began fixing it up. Daniel had a very successful veterinary clinic that kept him busier than he wanted most days. We were committed and involved in ministry at Calvary Chapel Buhl. God was using our love for kids in big ways. Children's Ministry had been my passion for close to eleven years. Daniel began teaching Sunday School and serving as a church Elder. We were homeschooling at the time and days were filled with constant learning activities. Life was grand. God had other plans.<br /></p><p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJaNxXpVmEIslWYBFSN-THAG82sSWSSuHAmQhK26SixI2SYebj3hKfRU47e3w1cBk58qbTpr5eq6mDS7vgvowV7i4ehOxDAI3ggE5lfIWzrVrz7NLYtMORg9iEGUHLW-vNExy0bpVYPJSqaJ-etH2hh575gMcVpbtXnqfQqeJRPt-s13KWO_3yKojxw/s960/181763729_10226016709674731_8505288914215700372_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJaNxXpVmEIslWYBFSN-THAG82sSWSSuHAmQhK26SixI2SYebj3hKfRU47e3w1cBk58qbTpr5eq6mDS7vgvowV7i4ehOxDAI3ggE5lfIWzrVrz7NLYtMORg9iEGUHLW-vNExy0bpVYPJSqaJ-etH2hh575gMcVpbtXnqfQqeJRPt-s13KWO_3yKojxw/w240-h320/181763729_10226016709674731_8505288914215700372_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JH Girls A Team Conference Champs</td></tr></tbody></table>We began to sense God was preparing us to move. To make some life changes. In August of 2017, we made the move to Missouri. It wasn't easy. There is a lot to moving home, farm, clinic, cows, dogs, horses, etc. We arrived in Peace Valley full of expectations, yet not knowing exactly what our future lives would look like. The bank account was depleted, and we weren't sure how we would make it the first year waiting for Spring when calves would be born and then waiting until the Fall to make a profit. It's a good thing money really does grow on trees around here! We learned about logging and how some trees on our property could be harvested. We found a church home and slowly got to know a few neighbors. By the Fall of 2018, we were figuring out where to go shopping, how to drive on the roads, and how to fish for bass, croppie, and catfish. I decided to get back into substitute teaching and the boys went to public school in the Fall of 2018. Daniel was busy on our place building or mending fences. He did reluctantly get his veterinary license for the state of Missouri. Since we arrived there has been a steady need for his large animal services. In 2019 Anna took a full-time position as a paraprofessional in SPED at Junction Hill and also agreed to coach girls basketball and cross country. It was great being at the same school with the boys each day. It was a great fit for our family. </p><p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9DW3e_4XiLGBo3sVJDnGHwoyd-T_dwqp1l3H16mDveJi5E9FmvGnd_Co8vRuOsZptD3h0NN9xjFzPozmbQo1UfhUqcKeasl3YmY9OgywEgQCG0rPdNuErRwbBkV6Wys5EGEt_knvGdPOal6SJDX38_QtHXMQ7AFW93juf8Kh-2C4Agr6-zbLUcYiGSA/s960/23032921_10214628876426017_739127016746833921_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9DW3e_4XiLGBo3sVJDnGHwoyd-T_dwqp1l3H16mDveJi5E9FmvGnd_Co8vRuOsZptD3h0NN9xjFzPozmbQo1UfhUqcKeasl3YmY9OgywEgQCG0rPdNuErRwbBkV6Wys5EGEt_knvGdPOal6SJDX38_QtHXMQ7AFW93juf8Kh-2C4Agr6-zbLUcYiGSA/s320/23032921_10214628876426017_739127016746833921_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dustin & Zac on a 45 year old tree</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I decided to finish my teaching credentials when COVID-19 set in. I started the ABCTE program in the Spring of 2020. It was one of those things that I told myself I really wanted to do but came up with every excuse not to do it. I graduated from college in 1999 with the intention of teaching. Again God had other plans and moved Daniel and me as newlyweds to Ames, IA for Daniel to attend Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. In the late Spring of 2021, I passed all the exams and became a fully credentialed teacher in the state of Missouri! In the Fall of 2021, I started my dream job as an 8th-grade science teacher at Liberty Middle School. This school year has gone by so fast. I have learned so much about teaching, myself, and about students! It has come also with its challenges. In late February I received news once again that I had cancer. This time it was breast cancer. </p><p><br /></p><p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlHLwEAdyrdNaH_rUya5bpXAIxt5MB9zR3mh_SpE3iRvfo9RrCk2XU7hAiq6tVO1_ZSLqMdINxmc7YUaWy-eewCujbiRTp1lmXKffq_iSPdn37C-8GinI6QCwbVImcjY5VFstOPbLOq84sv5qSSaSkCplu-bJNB3qq26LKbT3MBaZ8FARN7ENQU1DUw/s960/122878247_10224554397277835_5994733642824901400_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlHLwEAdyrdNaH_rUya5bpXAIxt5MB9zR3mh_SpE3iRvfo9RrCk2XU7hAiq6tVO1_ZSLqMdINxmc7YUaWy-eewCujbiRTp1lmXKffq_iSPdn37C-8GinI6QCwbVImcjY5VFstOPbLOq84sv5qSSaSkCplu-bJNB3qq26LKbT3MBaZ8FARN7ENQU1DUw/s320/122878247_10224554397277835_5994733642824901400_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working calves with Zac</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Today I am 25 days post-double mastectomy surgery and recovering. Never would I have imagined another difficult road of battling cancer once again. But God had other plans. The prognosis is good so far. My official diagnosis is Breast Cancer stage 1 DCIS. I'm in that waiting period of recovery, healing, and more waiting. Maybe this is easier the second time around? I've told God many times, that this was not on the bucket list to do again. God has a funny sense of humor. I don't want to waste what I have learned over the last eleven years. I have changed. I have grown stronger, bolder, and yeah a little wiser (thanks to my gray hairs). My faith has sustained me. My husband has been with me every step of this crazy journey we call marriage. Sickness and in health takes on a whole new meaning when you choose to love despite health woes. I can say this, it has all been worth it. I wouldn't trade any part of my story. It's a beautiful mess for sure. It's a work in progress. Trials come and trials go, God remains the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. I've lived it. I am living it. I will live it. God isn't finished with me yet. It's not too late to accomplish the dream regardless of what obstacles are in your way. I did it, I'm doing it. I will continue to do it! This is why I do what I do.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcEXlRfdQPTeRs5XMb1jWJbfpyd1Ee2etgZswIP3PBYUY2--kZGy7cEd98MtCPHs4NaackE1Ep38UK7seFyZMURU9QXlhU3iqPsOWz6K0Lh2cfQI_EF1VrYO6IH59dkd0ZtVSXW0hzf1lq9aix0Ap9tzeTtcAXPD1QCVWbi9xIHbRv2Vf6GnaFY6eqQ/s960/240112224_10226750396136434_5268089060472090024_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcEXlRfdQPTeRs5XMb1jWJbfpyd1Ee2etgZswIP3PBYUY2--kZGy7cEd98MtCPHs4NaackE1Ep38UK7seFyZMURU9QXlhU3iqPsOWz6K0Lh2cfQI_EF1VrYO6IH59dkd0ZtVSXW0hzf1lq9aix0Ap9tzeTtcAXPD1QCVWbi9xIHbRv2Vf6GnaFY6eqQ/s320/240112224_10226750396136434_5268089060472090024_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Day as a Teacher</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p>Some inspiration to me eleven years ago came to mind today. Hope you find this encouraging regardless of what you may be facing today.</p><p> <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/taste-see-articles/dont-waste-your-cancer#.Tqll1xSPL68.blogger">Don't Waste Your Cancer</a> Read this link or below: John Piper is one of my favorite authors...hope you enjoy this read. It is a confirmation in my spirit during this season with cancer once again.</p><header class="page_title col_12" role="banner"><div class="col_9 in"><h1 lang="en">Don't Waste Your Cancer</h1><p class="byline"><a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/date-index/2006" lang="en">February 15, 2006</a> <i class="pipe">|</i> <em>by</em> <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/author-index/john-piper" lang="en">John Piper</a> <i class="pipe">|</i> <em>Topic:</em> <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/topic-index/disease-sickness" lang="en">Disease & Sickness</a></p></div><aside class="col_3 out"><div id="subscribe"><a class="button rss Smylers" href="http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/taste-see-articles/dont-waste-your-cancer#" id="subscribe_btn" title="Subscribe to Resources">Subscribe to...<span class="icon"></span><span class="arrow"></span></a></div></aside></header><p>[Editor's Note: Our friend, David Powlison, of the <a href="http://ccef.org/">Christian Counseling and Education Foundation</a>, who also was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer, has added some helpful expansions to John Piper’s ten points. Indented paragraphs beginning with "<strong>DP:</strong>" are written by David Powlison.]</p><p>I write this on the eve of prostate surgery. I believe in God’s power to heal—by miracle and by medicine. I believe it is right and good to pray for both kinds of healing. Cancer is not wasted when it is healed by God. He gets the glory and that is why cancer exists. So not to pray for healing may waste your cancer. But healing is not God’s plan for everyone. And there are many other ways to waste your cancer. I am praying for myself and for you that we will not waste this pain.</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> I (David Powlison) add these reflections on John Piper’s words the morning after receiving news that I have been diagnosed with prostate cancer (March 3, 2006). The ten main points and first paragraphs are his; the second paragraphs are mine.<em></em></p></blockquote><h4>1. You will waste your cancer if you do not believe it is designed for you by God.</h4><p>It will not do to say that God only <em>uses</em> our cancer but does not design it. What God permits, he permits for a reason. And that reason is his design. If God foresees molecular developments becoming cancer, he can stop it or not. If he does not, he has a purpose. Since he is infinitely wise, it is right to call this purpose a design. Satan is real and causes many pleasures and pains. But he is not ultimate. So when he strikes Job with boils (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Job%202.7" reference="Job 2.7" target="_blank" version="ESV">Job 2:7</a>), Job attributes it ultimately to God (2:10) and the inspired writer agrees: “They . . . comforted him for all the evil that the Lord had brought upon him” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Job%2042.11" reference="Job 42.11" target="_blank" version="ESV">Job 42:11</a>). If you don’t believe your cancer is designed for you by God, you will waste it.</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> Recognizing his designing hand does not make you stoic or dishonest or artificially buoyant. Instead, the reality of God’s design elicits and channels your honest outcry to your one true Savior. God’s design invites honest speech, rather than silencing us into resignation. Consider the honesty of the Psalms, of King Hezekiah (Isaiah 38), of Habakkuk 3. These people are bluntly, believingly honest <em>because</em> they know that God is God and set their hopes in him. Psalm 28 teaches you passionate, direct prayer to God. He must hear you. He will hear you. He will continue to work in you and your situation. This outcry comes from your sense of need for help (28:1-2). Then name your particular troubles to God (28:3-5). You are free to personalize with your own particulars. Often in life’s ‘various trials’ (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%201.2" reference="James 1.2" target="_blank" version="ESV">James 1:2</a>), what you face does not exactly map on to the particulars that David or Jesus faced – but the dynamic of faith is the same. Having cast your cares on him who cares for you, then voice your joy (28:6-7): the God-given peace that is beyond understanding. Finally, because faith always works out into love, your personal need and joy will branch out into loving concern for others (28:8-9). Illness can sharpen your awareness of how thoroughly God has already and always been at work in every detail of your life.</p></blockquote><h4>2. You will waste your cancer if you believe it is a curse and not a gift.</h4><p>“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Romans%208.1" reference="Romans 8.1" target="_blank" version="ESV">Romans 8:1</a>). “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Galatians%203.13" reference="Galatians 3.13" target="_blank" version="ESV">Galatians 3:13</a>). “There is no enchantment against Jacob, no divination against Israel” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Numbers%2023.23" reference="Numbers 23.23" target="_blank" version="ESV">Numbers 23:23</a>). “The Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Psalm%2084.11" reference="Psalm 84.11" target="_blank" version="ESV">Psalm 84:11</a>).</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> The blessing comes in what God does for us, with us, through us. He brings his great and merciful redemption onto the stage of the curse. Your cancer, in itself, is one of those 10,000 ‘shadows of death’ (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Psalm%2023.4" reference="Psalm 23.4" target="_blank" version="ESV">Psalm 23:4</a>) that come upon each of us: all the threats, losses, pains, incompletion, disappointment, evils. But in his beloved children, our Father works a most kind good through our most grievous losses: sometimes healing and restoring the body (temporarily, until the resurrection of the dead to eternal life), always sustaining and teaching us that we might know and love him more simply. In the testing ground of evils, your faith becomes deep and real, and your love becomes purposeful and wise: <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/James%201.2-5" reference="James 1.2-5" target="_blank" version="ESV">James 1:2-5</a>, <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Peter%201.3-9" reference="1 Peter 1.3-9" target="_blank" version="ESV">1 Peter 1:3-9</a>, <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Romans%205.1-5" reference="Romans 5.1-5" target="_blank" version="ESV">Romans 5:1-5</a>, <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Romans%208.18-39" reference="Romans 8.18-39" target="_blank" version="ESV">Romans 8:18-39</a>.</p></blockquote><h4>3. You will waste your cancer if you seek comfort from your odds rather than from God.</h4><p>The design of God in your cancer is not to train you in the rationalistic, human calculation of odds. The world gets comfort from their odds. Not Christians. Some count their chariots (percentages of survival) and some count their horses (side effects of treatment), but we trust in the name of the Lord our God (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Psalm%2020.7" reference="Psalm 20.7" target="_blank" version="ESV">Psalm 20:7</a>). God’s design is clear from <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Corinthians%201.9" reference="2 Corinthians 1.9" target="_blank" version="ESV">2 Corinthians 1:9</a>, “We felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.” The aim of God in your cancer (among a thousand other good things) is to knock props out from under our hearts so that we rely utterly on him.</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> God himself is your comfort. He gives himself. The hymn “Be Still My Soul” (by Katerina von Schlegel) reckons the odds the right way: we are 100% certain to suffer, and Christ is 100% certain to meet us, to come for us, comfort us, and restore love’s purest joys. The hymn “How Firm a Foundation” reckons the odds the same way: you are 100% certain to pass through grave distresses, and your Savior is 100% certain to “be with you, your troubles to bless, and sanctify to you your deepest distress.” With God, you aren’t playing percentages, but living within certainties.</p></blockquote><h4>4. You will waste your cancer if you refuse to think about death.</h4><p>We will all die, if Jesus postpones his return. Not to think about what it will be like to leave this life and meet God is folly. <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Ecclesiastes%207.2" reference="Ecclesiastes 7.2" target="_blank" version="ESV">Ecclesiastes 7:2</a> says, “It is better to go to the house of mourning [a funeral] than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart.” How can you lay it to heart if you won’t think about it? <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Psalm%2090.12" reference="Psalm 90.12" target="_blank" version="ESV">Psalm 90:12</a> says, “Teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” Numbering your days means thinking about how few there are and that they will end. How will you get a heart of wisdom if you refuse to think about this? What a waste, if we do not think about death.</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> Paul describes the Holy Spirit is the unseen, inner ‘downpayment’ on the certainty of <em>life</em>. By faith, the Lord gives a sweet taste of the face-to-face reality of eternal life in the presence of our God and Christ. We might also say that cancer is one ‘downpayment’ on inevitable <em>death</em>, giving one bad taste of the reality of of our mortality. Cancer is a signpost pointing to something far bigger: the last enemy that you must face. But Christ has defeated this last enemy: 1 Corinthians 15. Death is swallowed up in victory. Cancer is merely one of the enemy’s scouting parties, out on patrol. It has no final power if you are a child of the resurrection, so you can look it in the eye.</p></blockquote><h4>5. You will waste your cancer if you think that “beating” cancer means staying alive rather than cherishing Christ.</h4><p>Satan’s and God’s designs in your cancer are not the same. Satan designs to destroy your love for Christ. God designs to deepen your love for Christ. Cancer does not win if you die. It wins if you fail to cherish Christ. God’s design is to wean you off the breast of the world and feast you on the sufficiency of Christ. It is meant to help you say and feel, “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” And to know that therefore, “To live is Christ, and to die is gain” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Philippians%203.8" reference="Philippians 3.8" target="_blank" version="ESV">Philippians 3:8</a>; <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Philippians%201.21" reference="Philippians 1.21" target="_blank" version="ESV">1:21</a>).</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> Cherishing Christ expresses the two core activities of faith: dire need and utter joy. Many psalms cry out in a ‘minor key’: we cherish our Savior by needing him to save us from real troubles, real sins, real sufferings, real anguish. Many psalms sing out in a ‘major key’: we cherish our Savior by delighting in him, loving him, thanking him for all his benefits to us, rejoicing that his salvation is the weightiest thing in the world and that he gets last say. And many psalms start out in one key and end up in the other. Cherishing Christ is not monochromatic; you live the whole spectrum of human experience with him. To ‘beat’ cancer is to live knowing how your Father has compassion on his beloved child, because he knows your frame, that you are but dust. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. To live is to know him, whom to know is to love.</p></blockquote><h4>6. You will waste your cancer if you spend too much time reading about cancer and not enough time reading about God.</h4><p>It is not wrong to know about cancer. Ignorance is not a virtue. But the lure to know more and more and the lack of zeal to know God more and more is symptomatic of unbelief. Cancer is meant to waken us to the reality of God. It is meant to put feeling and force behind the command, “Let us know; let us press on to know the Lord” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Hosea%206.3" reference="Hosea 6.3" target="_blank" version="ESV">Hosea 6:3</a>). It is meant to waken us to the truth of <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Daniel%2011.32" reference="Daniel 11.32" target="_blank" version="ESV">Daniel 11:32</a>, “The people who know their God shall stand firm and take action.” It is meant to make unshakable, indestructible oak trees out of us: “His delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Psalm%201.2" reference="Psalm 1.2" target="_blank" version="ESV">Psalm 1:2</a>). What a waste of cancer if we read day and night about cancer and not about God.</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> What is so for your reading is also true for your conversations with others. Other people will often express their care and concern by inquiring about your health. That’s good, but the conversation easily gets stuck there. So tell them openly about your sickness, seeking their prayers and counsel, but then change the direction of the conversation by telling them what your God is doing to faithfully sustain you with 10,000 mercies. Robert Murray McCheyne wisely said, “For every one look at your sins, take ten looks at Christ.” He was countering our tendency to reverse that 10:1 ratio by brooding over our failings and forgetting the Lord of mercy. What McCheyne says about our sins we can also apply to our sufferings. For every one sentence you say to others about your cancer, say ten sentences about your God, and your hope, and what he is teaching you, and the small blessings of each day. For every hour you spend researching or discussing your cancer, spend 10 hours researching and discussing and serving your Lord. Relate all that you are learning about cancer back to him and his purposes, and you won’t become obsessed.</p></blockquote><h4>7. You will waste your cancer if you let it drive you into solitude instead of deepen your relationships with manifest affection.</h4><p>When Epaphroditus brought the gifts to Paul sent by the Philippian church he became ill and almost died. Paul tells the Philippians, “He has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Philippians%202.26-27" reference="Philippians 2.26-27" target="_blank" version="ESV">Philippians 2:26-27</a>). What an amazing response! It does not say <em>they</em> were distressed that he was ill, but that <em>he</em> was distressed because they <em>heard</em> he was ill. That is the kind of heart God is aiming to create with cancer: a deeply affectionate, caring heart for people. Don’t waste your cancer by retreating into yourself.</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> Our culture is terrified of facing death. It is obsessed with medicine. It idolizes youth, health and energy. It tries to hide any signs of weakness or imperfection. You will bring huge blessing to others by living openly, believingly and lovingly within your weaknesses. Paradoxically, moving out into relationships when you are hurting and weak will actually strengthen others. ‘One anothering’ is a two-way street of generous giving and grateful receiving. Your need gives others an opportunity to love. And since love is always God’s highest purpose in you, too, you will learn his finest and most joyous lessons as you find small ways to express concern for others even when you are most weak. A great, life-threatening weakness can prove amazingly freeing. Nothing is left for you to do except to be loved by God and others, and to love God and others.</p></blockquote><h4>8. You will waste your cancer if you grieve as those who have no hope.</h4><p>Paul used this phrase in relation to those whose loved ones had died: “We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/1%20Thessalonians%204.13" reference="1 Thessalonians 4.13" target="_blank" version="ESV">1 Thessalonians 4:13</a>). There is a grief at death. Even for the believer who dies, there is temporary loss—loss of body, and loss of loved ones here, and loss of earthly ministry. But the grief is different—it is permeated with hope. “We would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/2%20Corinthians%205.8" reference="2 Corinthians 5.8" target="_blank" version="ESV">2 Corinthians 5:8</a>). Don’t waste your cancer grieving as those who don’t have this hope.</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> Show the world this different way of grieving. Paul said that he would have had “grief upon grief” if his friend Epaphroditus had died. He had been grieving, feeling the painful weight of his friend’s illness. He would have doubly grieved if his friend had died. But this loving, honest, God-oriented grief coexisted with “rejoice always” and “the peace of God that passes understanding” and “showing a genuine concern for your welfare.” How on earth can heartache coexist with love, joy, peace, and an indestructible sense of life purpose? In the inner logic of faith, this makes perfect sense. In fact, because you have hope, you may feel the sufferings of this life <em>more</em> keenly: grief upon grief. In contrast, the grieving that has no hope often chooses denial or escape or busyness because it can’t face reality without becoming distraught. In Christ, you know what’s at stake, and so you keenly feel the wrong of this fallen world. You don’t take pain and death for granted. You love what is good, and hate what is evil. After all, you follow in the image of “a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief.” But this Jesus chose his cross willingly “for the joy set before him.” He lived and died in hopes that all come true. His pain was not muted by denial or medication, nor was it tainted with despair, fear, or thrashing about for any straw of hope that might change his circumstances. Jesus’ final promises overflow with the gladness of solid hope amid sorrows: “My joy will be in you, and your joy will be made full. Your grief will be turned to joy. No one will take your joy away from you. Ask, and you will receive, so that your joy will be made full. These things I speak in the world, so that they may have my joy made full in themselves” (selection from John 15-17).</p></blockquote><h4>9. You will waste your cancer if you treat sin as casually as before.</h4><p>Are your besetting sins as attractive as they were before you had cancer? If so you are wasting your cancer. Cancer is designed to destroy the appetite for sin. Pride, greed, lust, hatred, unforgiveness, impatience, laziness, procrastination—all these are the adversaries that cancer is meant to attack. Don’t just think of battling <em>against</em> cancer. Also think of battling <em>with</em> cancer. All these things are worse enemies than cancer. Don’t waste the power of cancer to crush these foes. Let the presence of eternity make the sins of time look as futile as they really are. “What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Luke%209.25" reference="Luke 9.25" target="_blank" version="ESV">Luke 9:25</a>).</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> Suffering really is meant to wean you from sin and strengthen your faith. If you are God-less, then suffering magnifies sin. Will you become more bitter, despairing, addictive, fearful, frenzied, avoidant, sentimental, godless in how you go about life? Will you pretend it’s business as usual? Will you come to terms with death, on your terms? But if you are God’s, then suffering in Christ’s hands will change you, always slowly, sometimes quickly. You come to terms with life and death on his terms. He will gentle you, purify you, cleanse you of vanities. He will make you need him and love him. He rearranges your priorities, so first things come first more often. He will walk with you. Of course you’ll fail at times, perhaps seized by irritability or brooding, escapism or fears. But he will always pick you up when you stumble. Your inner enemy – a moral cancer 10,000 times more deadly than your physical cancer – will be dying as you continue seeking and finding your Savior: “For your name’s sake, O Lord, pardon my iniquity, for it is very great. Who is the man who fears the Lord? He will instruct him in the way he should choose” (Psalm 25).</p></blockquote><h4>10. You will waste your cancer if you fail to use it as a means of witness to the truth and glory of Christ.</h4><p>Christians are never anywhere by divine accident. There are reasons for why we wind up where we do. Consider what Jesus said about painful, unplanned circumstances: “They will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake. This will be your opportunity to bear witness” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Luke%2021.12%20-13" reference="Luke 21.12 -13" target="_blank" version="ESV">Luke 21:12 -13</a>). So it is with cancer. This will be an opportunity to bear witness. Christ is infinitely worthy. Here is a golden opportunity to show that he is worth more than life. Don’t waste it.</p><blockquote><p><strong>DP:</strong> Jesus is your life. He is the man before whom every knee will bow. He has defeated death once for all. He will finish what he has begun. Let your light so shine as you live in him, by him, through him, for him. One of the church’s ancient hymns puts it this way:</p><p>Christ be with me, Christ within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ in quiet, Christ in danger, Christ in hearts of all that love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger (from “I bind unto myself the name”).</p><p>In your cancer, you will need your brothers and sisters to witness to the truth and glory of Christ, to walk with you, to live out their faith beside you, to love you. And you can do same with them and with all others, becoming the heart that loves with the love of Christ, the mouth filled with hope to both friends and strangers.</p></blockquote><p>Remember you are not left alone. You will have the help you need. “My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/Philippians%204.19" reference="Philippians 4.19" target="_blank" version="ESV">Philippians 4:19</a>).</p><p>Pastor John</p><p><strong>Material is from <em>Don't Waste Your Cancer</em> by John Piper, copyright 2010.</strong></p><strong>Please include the following statement on any distributed copy:</strong> By John Piper. © Desiring God. Website: <a href="http://www.desiringgod.org/">desiringGod.org</a>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-76629612033279767872022-05-04T18:12:00.000-07:002022-05-04T18:12:14.902-07:00Best News (Possibly Ever!)<p> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9PZmFe8lwKRu56XEQp8-FUfO76i19wZZP3kHtMvObCprvoEuF-RVN_jqGk-3Cy6Q-xADrU27MM1HKGoaR1Vm-Zop3Sc3au_lSoUqCVJVG-4WpOmtnwtlikCtMcRspOdVozjrXdr-7bvEqoEejo-r8T_9sU7Xe5y3UBpU515glQ_yaSZMJxAxKSx0nQ/s5184/IMG_7561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9PZmFe8lwKRu56XEQp8-FUfO76i19wZZP3kHtMvObCprvoEuF-RVN_jqGk-3Cy6Q-xADrU27MM1HKGoaR1Vm-Zop3Sc3au_lSoUqCVJVG-4WpOmtnwtlikCtMcRspOdVozjrXdr-7bvEqoEejo-r8T_9sU7Xe5y3UBpU515glQ_yaSZMJxAxKSx0nQ/s320/IMG_7561.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>American Goldfinch pondering his next move</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br />After waiting for 15 days post-surgery I finally have my pathology results. The lymph nodes were all negative and the margins were clear. What this means right now is I don't have to do any radiation treatments. Most likely will not have to do chemotherapy, but I can't rule it out yet. Pathology confirmed the type of cancer being invasive lobular carcinoma (LCIS) with the greatest size being about 12 mm in the right breast. The official staging would then be called Stage 1 Breast Cancer. We will be following up with a medical oncology team in St. Louis with Washington University Physicians/Siteman Cancer Center. There is another test we are once again waiting on to help make that decision for or against chemotherapy. Determining if chemotherapy is necessary is a very complex and layered decision. Each case of cancer is treated specifically to patient needs, diagnostic test results, and the wisdom of a team of oncology doctors. Although the news I received today is excellent I still don't know what the future weeks and months may look like. We will also be exploring the possibility of hormone therapy. We did see the plastic surgeon doctor and everything is healing and moving along as expected. I was thankfully able to get the drain tubes out today. I'm still not driving and am very limited in my upper body movements. So for now, I'm home following the doctor's orders to rest and heal. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmrYR9QVapAWiRFdUq_Qk-lAPPCykN6kM6ekLP8reKM4-xFscEdYnYCVicsXb6_DF1Djh2S9BPXYy6PHHb056J0mYOOpjCLI-w6im7HyOS4gksKo6G6JeAMi7--110eGH3rWVMNjVQLbQGWzuVg45ht55z6kKooojDDkb_VDLANqVhOXHXcxoEagtGUA/s3396/IMG_7542%20(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="2169" data-original-width="3396" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmrYR9QVapAWiRFdUq_Qk-lAPPCykN6kM6ekLP8reKM4-xFscEdYnYCVicsXb6_DF1Djh2S9BPXYy6PHHb056J0mYOOpjCLI-w6im7HyOS4gksKo6G6JeAMi7--110eGH3rWVMNjVQLbQGWzuVg45ht55z6kKooojDDkb_VDLANqVhOXHXcxoEagtGUA/w400-h255/IMG_7542%20(2).JPG" width="400" /></i></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Northern Cardinal and a Rose Breasted Grossbeak search for seeds on the ground</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU2OK1_zZpQigq-OColasrHKdZq9pkdR9woERM30mu6ZIwQX-PQHNk3yF5wBSGcfl-2w9JrmkX2kal18gLCh8uSko1ABH0OsGwVYtVNBPBO5S9HboPgF5ZaczWUZd9m-4HRAJmqVHRXXvDe7LExWiUqDEDoHHeDtnzE4W4V4pGK4BT1FcJxEfRpSj5cg/s5184/IMG_7567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU2OK1_zZpQigq-OColasrHKdZq9pkdR9woERM30mu6ZIwQX-PQHNk3yF5wBSGcfl-2w9JrmkX2kal18gLCh8uSko1ABH0OsGwVYtVNBPBO5S9HboPgF5ZaczWUZd9m-4HRAJmqVHRXXvDe7LExWiUqDEDoHHeDtnzE4W4V4pGK4BT1FcJxEfRpSj5cg/s320/IMG_7567.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Red-Bellied Woodpecker</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>So I'm trying to focus on what I can do and not what I want to do. They are entirely two different things. I know it sounds crazy but I love to clean. For some reason, it gives me great satisfaction and joy to complete a cleaning job. As I have been home for 2 weeks now I see all the cleaning projects that need to be done. The thing is, I can't do them myself. Another day. So instead I'm trying to focus on what I can do. I do close my eyes a lot and that is okay also. I have fixed myself a corner seat by the window in my living room. Last weekend I got the boys to get me a new bird feeder. It is amazing how many birds have visited the feeder in just 4 days' time. They are spunky, fast, and beautiful creatures. So diverse in color, shape, and size. They are wild and free. Not a care in the world. There is an obvious pecking order around the feeder. The sounds of birds singing and chirping can be heard as the breeze blows through the newly outstretched leaves of the pin oak and redbud trees. Some of the seed falls to the ground and the birds swarm the grass below in search of a tasty morsel. It reminds me of the parable of the sower. Couldn't you spare to hear some good news? Let me tell you about the best Good News ever. </p><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981004" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; background-color: #fcfdfd; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0a0a0a; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-family: arial, helvetica, "sans serif"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" id="yui-gen35" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="4" id="yui-gen30" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;">One day Jesus told a story in the form of a parable to a large crowd that had gathered from many towns to hear him:</div></div></div><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981005" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; background-color: #fcfdfd; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0a0a0a; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-family: arial, helvetica, "sans serif"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981005" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981005" data-type="toolsHover" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981005" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981005" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981005" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/5/s_981005" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:5</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="5" id="yui-gen36" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen37" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">“A farmer went out to plant his seed. As he scattered it across his field, some seed fell on a footpath, where it was stepped on, and the birds ate it.</span></div></div></div><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981006" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; background-color: #fcfdfd; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0a0a0a; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-family: arial, helvetica, "sans serif"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981006" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981006" data-type="toolsHover" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981006" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981006" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981006" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/6/s_981006" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:6</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="6" id="yui-gen40" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen45" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Other seed fell among rocks. It began to grow, but the plant soon wilted and died for lack of moisture.</span></div></div></div><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981007" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; background-color: #fcfdfd; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0a0a0a; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-family: arial, helvetica, "sans serif"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981007" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981007" data-type="toolsHover" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981007" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981007" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981007" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/7/s_981007" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:7</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="7" id="yui-gen39" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen38" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Other seed fell among thorns that grew up with it and choked out the tender plants.</span></div></div></div><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981008" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; background-color: #fcfdfd; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0a0a0a; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-family: arial, helvetica, "sans serif"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981008" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981008" data-type="toolsHover" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981008" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981008" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981008" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/8/s_981008" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:8</a></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.9em;"><br /></span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 0.9em;">The parable explained:</span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981011" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" id="yui-gen42" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p id="yui-gen41" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981011" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981011" data-type="toolsHover" id="yui-gen55" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" id="yui-gen51" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p id="yui-gen43" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981011" id="yui-gen53" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981011" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981011" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/11/s_981011" id="yui-gen52" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:11</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><span class="pMarkers" id="yui-gen48" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #aaaaaa; float: left; margin: 5px 0px 0px -10px; padding: 0px;">¶</span><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="11" id="yui-gen50" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen49" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">“This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is God’s word.</span></div></div></div><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981012" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" id="yui-gen40" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981012" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981012" data-type="toolsHover" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981012" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981012" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981012" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/12/s_981012" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:12</a></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="12" id="yui-gen64" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen39" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">The seeds that fell on the footpath represent those who hear the message, only to have the devil come and take it away from their hearts and prevent them from believing and being saved.</span></div></div></div><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981013" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981013" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981013" data-type="toolsHover" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981013" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981013" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981013" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/13/s_981013" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:13</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" id="yui-gen33" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="13" id="yui-gen34" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen38" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">The seeds on the rocky soil represent those who hear the message and receive it with joy. But since they don’t have deep roots, they believe for a while, then they fall away when they face temptation.</span></div></div></div><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981014" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981014" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981014" data-type="toolsHover" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981014" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981014" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981014" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/14/s_981014" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:14</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="14" id="yui-gen35" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen56" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">The seeds that fell among the thorns represent those who hear the message, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the cares and riches and pleasures of this life. And so they never grow into maturity.</span></div></div></div><div class="tools row align-middle verseSelected" id="verse_981015" style="-webkit-box-align: stretch; -webkit-box-direction: normal; -webkit-box-orient: horizontal; align-items: stretch; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; display: flex; flex-flow: row wrap; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; max-width: none; padding: 6px 0px; width: 632px;"><div class="columns tablet-2 small-2 tablet-order-1 small-order-1 align-top" style="-webkit-box-align: start; -webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 2; align-items: flex-start; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px; max-width: 80px; min-width: 0px; order: 1; padding: 0px 10px; text-align: center; width: 80px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; margin: 5px 0px 0px; padding: 0px;"><a data-bible-id="981015" data-ev-action="Verse Row [TOOLS] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [TOOLS] Button BibleID: 981015" data-type="toolsHover" style="background-color: #627b9f; border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(32, 42, 57); box-sizing: border-box; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: inline-block; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 2px 4px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: top;">TOOLS</a></p></div><div class="columns tablet-2 tablet-order-2 show-for-tablet text-center" style="-webkit-box-flex: 0; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 3; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 0 0 16.6667%; float: left; font-size: 0.9em; margin: 0px; max-width: 105px; min-width: 0px; order: 2; padding: 0px 5px 0px 0px; width: 105px;"><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><img alt="Unchecked Copy Box" class="copyBox" data-bible-id="981015" src="https://www.blueletterbible.org/assets/images/copyChkboxOff.gif" style="background: none; border: none; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; margin: 0px 0px 7px 7px; max-width: 100%; padding: 4px; vertical-align: middle;" /> <a data-bible-id="981015" data-ev-action="Verse Row [REF] Click" data-ev-cat="Bible" data-ev-label="Verse Row [REF] BibleID: 981015" data-type="tools" href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/nlt/luk/8/15/s_981015" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; color: #39547f; cursor: pointer; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 3px; text-decoration-line: none;">Luk 8:15</a></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><br /></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">The question is what type of ground do you possess? What is your soil like? There are four options:</span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">1. Footpath or wayside -- distractions of this world are overshadowing the truth and you lose faith.</span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">2, Rocky ground --roots can't go deep and are swayed by the temptations of this world.</span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">3. Thorns- pushed away due to cares, riches, and pleasures in life.</span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">4. Good soil -- fruit will come in season </span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;"><br /></span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">It's a matter of the soil of your heart. Are you hearing this? God's word is the seed. </span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">It depends on the soil condition of your heart for the seed to bring forth fruit. Everyone hears the message. </span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">It depends on what you do with the seed. Fruit comes when the harvest is ready -- that is a season. Notice that</span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">patience is required for the harvest. Patience, I have come to find out has a close cousin: waiting.</span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><span style="font-size: 12.96px;">The harvest is coming. </span></p><p style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 4px; white-space: nowrap;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHVrO_0wwAkR4v3vB2BQnrm3_sf8juTZHK0hXc1kIDKUCt3aYuPbdHzxFKfPgVBLuIKWMGi0CSdK6eNP28F3fa4_qYNfVCPW8dCBoB3M8FA1HE2QzaeetRRzcFGK0id9BTF1CpkFPyRTO7XfZAbBEQ9mU2wrYnpLR0OltTNQ7MIf9jeMmDuVQHg9uimQ/s3156/IMG_7521%20(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2492" data-original-width="3156" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHVrO_0wwAkR4v3vB2BQnrm3_sf8juTZHK0hXc1kIDKUCt3aYuPbdHzxFKfPgVBLuIKWMGi0CSdK6eNP28F3fa4_qYNfVCPW8dCBoB3M8FA1HE2QzaeetRRzcFGK0id9BTF1CpkFPyRTO7XfZAbBEQ9mU2wrYnpLR0OltTNQ7MIf9jeMmDuVQHg9uimQ/w400-h316/IMG_7521%20(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blue Jay</i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size: 12.96px;"><br /></span><p></p></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="15" id="yui-gen58" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen57" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">And the seeds that fell on the good soil represent honest, good-hearted people who hear God’s word, cling to it, and patiently produce a huge harvest.</span></div></div></div></div><div class="columns tablet-8 small-9 tablet-order-3 small-order-2" id="yui-gen44" style="-webkit-box-flex: 1; -webkit-box-ordinal-group: 4; align-self: flex-start; border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; clear: none; flex: 1 1 66.6667%; float: right; margin: 0px; max-width: none; min-width: 0px; order: 3; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 447px;"><div class="scriptureText" data-print-verse-prefix="8" id="yui-gen42" style="background-color: #e9eef1; border-radius: 3px; border: 1px solid rgb(211, 218, 228); box-sizing: border-box; color: #01103a; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; padding: 4px;"><span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen41" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Still other seed fell on fertile soil. This seed grew and produced a crop that was a hundred times as much as had been planted!”</span> When he had said this, he called out, <span class="rl unset" color="inherit" id="yui-gen43" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">“Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” </span></div></div></div>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-86183435059458766852022-04-25T20:09:00.001-07:002022-04-25T20:09:21.959-07:00How Waiting Brings Courage and Strength<p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpo4C-vJbq1FPzmjGFoYIs3DeO0ruMYcnp7-19L-Y5UZ2Vg6QmNa2GKDy8G54lBhzifi-o3mQrCLcTAb2a7EPaPbkW0sfP14oc5tE5Wrov9LORz3QqAcnKtqkW3P36IHn2GcXra_JK5mEGLsmOyz___RNPH6111lFt9rKXvNmd5vrvaZu6iyL9zkUvg/s4032/IMG-7161%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpo4C-vJbq1FPzmjGFoYIs3DeO0ruMYcnp7-19L-Y5UZ2Vg6QmNa2GKDy8G54lBhzifi-o3mQrCLcTAb2a7EPaPbkW0sfP14oc5tE5Wrov9LORz3QqAcnKtqkW3P36IHn2GcXra_JK5mEGLsmOyz___RNPH6111lFt9rKXvNmd5vrvaZu6iyL9zkUvg/w300-h400/IMG-7161%20(1).jpg" width="300" /></a></div>We wait for a lot of things in life. We wait for payday hoping we haven't overdrawn our bank account once again. We wait for Christmas Day to arrive full of brown paper packages, pretty bows, and stockings full. We wait for babies to be born and everyone knows that babies arrive only when babies are ready to arrive. We wait for test results and agonize over the what-if questions that loom over us. We wait for the red lights to turn green. We wait for the right job, the right guy or gal, We wait in line at the grocery store and tell our children, just wait as they beg and whine for candy. We wait for loved ones to pass into eternity and end their earthly pilgrimage. We wait. We wait for a lot of things. We wait for God to speak to us in the waiting. But why are we so impatient in the waiting?<p></p><p>This last week has been a hard one. It has been seven days since my mastectomy surgery. On the third day of my recovery, I found out that my father slipped into eternity to forever be with the Lord. Deep sadness and grief flooded my heart. We knew the time was coming, so we were waiting. It wasn't a surprise. Truly it was an answer to prayer as my Dad had been unable to walk since last November. My Dad was 89 years old. I have many fond memories of my Dad growing up as a child as well as my adult married years. He will be missed greatly.</p><p>In the waiting for my own healing this week I have been doing some deep pondering. It's a good thing. To wait is to stay or delay action until a particular time comes or something changes in your circumstances. I've been told to wait and heal. Just rest, sleep, and basically do nothing until the next doctor's appointment. This has struck me differently this time around. There is a purpose in the waiting: patience. </p><p>Patience is having the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset. I certainly can think of many times I have not had patience. Delay is similar to waiting for something to happen that you can't control. Delay also eludes to something late or happening slowly. As a basketball coach, one thing I really get frustrated with players is a lack of hustle. Do it right, do it now, and do it fast. I don't like waiting around for the girls to put the balls up on the rack. Run and put your ball away and return to the location instructed. Patience is a learned character trait. I must continue to work on that.</p><p>I've learned that God can handle the hurt, pain, and hard questions we have. You have to train for marathons. This life journey we are living is like a marathon. You never know when you might find yourself in a season of waiting. So you have to train like you aren't in a marathon so that when the hard waiting comes you are ready. Storms reveal foundations. Build a foundation that can't be washed away. God won't waste your pain. </p><p><i><span style="font-size: large;">"And we know that all things work together for the good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28</span></i></p><p>Know this: your strength will fail you. You can't do it on your own strength, merit, or will. Nope! Here is where it gets so interesting. God knows this about us. He knows we are weak. He knows we will lose hope. But God provides a way for us to find courage and strength in the midst of waiting - waiting in the storms of life full of death, heartache, pain, suffering, you name it. So what do you do in this desperate time?</p><p>You wait on the Lord.</p><p><i><span style="font-size: large;">But those who wait on the Lord</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: large;">Shall renew their strength:</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: large;">They shall mount up with wings like eagles,</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: large;">They shall run and not be weary,</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: large;">They shall walk and not faint.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="font-size: large;">Isiah 40:31</span></i></p><p>Friends I hope you find as much courage and strength in those words as I do. This season of waiting is full of waiting on the Lord. Just waiting. </p><p> <i><span style="font-size: large;">"It takes courage to keep dreaming when the circumstances that surround you make it seem as though your life is more like a nightmare loop than a dream come true." Jordan Lee Dooley</span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimRVhIAYErT-UWaW2O8S0Nu2gvo1qTPCrKu2LqDUcdjN5cA_j5nYmoIo46c-dLhrKsg5sNuiRPyhDvOJcTcPqXUir4Jakkp-UwECNielfMcBpbmE3XqDTvrLddH2-0i5TijF5LviplduAygz4amFM-_eLlOWd-vH_0JYTw2eusNrng7EQkstetj_Iu0Q/s4032/IMG-6929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimRVhIAYErT-UWaW2O8S0Nu2gvo1qTPCrKu2LqDUcdjN5cA_j5nYmoIo46c-dLhrKsg5sNuiRPyhDvOJcTcPqXUir4Jakkp-UwECNielfMcBpbmE3XqDTvrLddH2-0i5TijF5LviplduAygz4amFM-_eLlOWd-vH_0JYTw2eusNrng7EQkstetj_Iu0Q/w640-h480/IMG-6929.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-33898399178921969272022-04-21T13:05:00.000-07:002022-04-21T13:05:53.761-07:00Post Surgery Update<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcumlPgs-OkqoEd9qP03yoUcACbJX81XJTvuuP3woJuwn91HNXrCWr3lSJ2gSVY-7HJzOb7jpxgVNMj8gFlmNRQJBgtonAQ8AElrdN3Nn6aeb405phRRr0NeIzrKeHd9yapQ9XnEnIQ59jJZJQ1Q5WMPT9RxFSInET0w2GDO0Tv2htRsTcT3MLs8D9Qw/s2016/savingPNG.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcumlPgs-OkqoEd9qP03yoUcACbJX81XJTvuuP3woJuwn91HNXrCWr3lSJ2gSVY-7HJzOb7jpxgVNMj8gFlmNRQJBgtonAQ8AElrdN3Nn6aeb405phRRr0NeIzrKeHd9yapQ9XnEnIQ59jJZJQ1Q5WMPT9RxFSInET0w2GDO0Tv2htRsTcT3MLs8D9Qw/w300-h400/savingPNG.PNG" width="300" /></a></div><br />The surgery went very well on Monday, April 18, 2022. The entire team of doctors and nurses were wonderful at Washington University, Barnes-Jewish, and the Center for Advanced Medicine. They were very caring and asked lots of questions to ensure I was comfortable with what they were doing. My surgery lasted about 3 hours. I spent most of the day in recovery. We were discharged late afternoon and stayed in a hotel overnight. We made it overnight and went home late morning. Glad to be back home with my family. <p></p><p>The pain associated with this surgery is rather intense. We are keeping up with medications and I'm not allowed to do really anything but lay down or sit on the couch. I still have the drain tubes in on both sides and they require attention every few hours. Today -- is Thursday -- I'm losing track of the days! I was able to take a shower and wash my hair. That felt really good. I am very tired, very sore, and in a foggy state of mind. I know in time it will get better.</p><p>I appreciate all the messages and encouraging words. I'm not up to visitors just yet. If you are wanting to help out with a meal or donation please email me or message me. I have been keeping my phone on silent so I can sleep. I will get back to you when I am available.</p><p>At this point, we are just waiting for the pathology reports to be completed. I hope to hear something by Friday but it may just be next week. I will travel back to St. Louis on Tuesday, April 26 for the drain tubes to be removed and to see the plastic surgeon doctor. </p><p>Thank you for all your prayers! </p><p><br /></p>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-46887600764218606942022-04-15T04:59:00.000-07:002022-04-15T04:59:41.179-07:00It's About Time: Real Time<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeidCJyzLhr_k-wqLVOnVMb4AHwEvASlmLUZHsgySokx3GQLEEVDKozQZzJfwsf5V0omDF8JosLRqaKa6COiZRsil5EqtFVeL86HvA7QvQLoErjCs5hEHWtTwlaYkuxWz5zHTnaId2CXhqBEL7Ynqm1hQaQNaTUM1EOg8gMd7_SSrmrFX7jhgQuOWMTA/s3088/IMG_7181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeidCJyzLhr_k-wqLVOnVMb4AHwEvASlmLUZHsgySokx3GQLEEVDKozQZzJfwsf5V0omDF8JosLRqaKa6COiZRsil5EqtFVeL86HvA7QvQLoErjCs5hEHWtTwlaYkuxWz5zHTnaId2CXhqBEL7Ynqm1hQaQNaTUM1EOg8gMd7_SSrmrFX7jhgQuOWMTA/s320/IMG_7181.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">What is it about time? Twenty-four hours a day. Three-hundred and sixty-five days a year. We all have the same amount of time in a day to spend. It seems to be slipping away day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute, second by second. I've been asking myself many questions about my time. How am I spending it? What do I spend my time on? Who do I spend my time with? Where do I spend my time?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Time off</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span> </span>Time out</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Time in</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Timeframe</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Timekeeper</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Timecards</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Timesaving</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Timelines</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span>Timeless</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Around my neck of the woods were are waiting for the grass to grow. We measure time by the seasons and we predict that the climate would be warm(er) than it is this April. The cattle are hungry and no grass will grow with the cold temperatures. It gets a start and then frost comes and burns it back. We are buying time, hoping the grass grows as we empty the hay from the barn. It will get warmer, and the grass will grow. Maybe the grass will grow just in time. Do we wait it out and let time keep ticking day after day, or do we sell down the herd? Time will tell.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_401r_Ux8Nr0TXFxSqS2dDVEmPhX-_NOPA-tyaZk__Z_-i01QUIM6u6LelTR4puY3YDCOG6XLYzkwAweEH1TLpoPFywu2Xy1k8VnPh7LGFF6KlcMUTaIN57zuSeM4BpI5yEFw3H2n3trCkw9Xxn-9fdlgDzNPr0uMSjAK5kEVU_VnNpyKigfJdePXw/s4032/IMG_7162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_401r_Ux8Nr0TXFxSqS2dDVEmPhX-_NOPA-tyaZk__Z_-i01QUIM6u6LelTR4puY3YDCOG6XLYzkwAweEH1TLpoPFywu2Xy1k8VnPh7LGFF6KlcMUTaIN57zuSeM4BpI5yEFw3H2n3trCkw9Xxn-9fdlgDzNPr0uMSjAK5kEVU_VnNpyKigfJdePXw/w300-h400/IMG_7162.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Time is ticking away...tick...tick...tick</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gdTwaqTp69yLHf1Tz9CuLs7_hgsd12pRD_fjoT-i9a5yG2Gh5ji5JvAQ74zt_ieJ4wcTwVBia09xJeMJdFehoAtpuyOiBSBvA3brScz3dCbaHfFH69bRb0GSsHzUPSqy2VuyIbUSa87YYQTmZWdkO_wmRJgHhMpBFe0yvaYonPSLWnNt5U4Crl0eg/s2208/IMG_7078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2208" data-original-width="1206" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gdTwaqTp69yLHf1Tz9CuLs7_hgsd12pRD_fjoT-i9a5yG2Gh5ji5JvAQ74zt_ieJ4wcTwVBia09xJeMJdFehoAtpuyOiBSBvA3brScz3dCbaHfFH69bRb0GSsHzUPSqy2VuyIbUSa87YYQTmZWdkO_wmRJgHhMpBFe0yvaYonPSLWnNt5U4Crl0eg/w219-h400/IMG_7078.JPG" width="219" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Driving to a game</td></tr></tbody></table><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gdTwaqTp69yLHf1Tz9CuLs7_hgsd12pRD_fjoT-i9a5yG2Gh5ji5JvAQ74zt_ieJ4wcTwVBia09xJeMJdFehoAtpuyOiBSBvA3brScz3dCbaHfFH69bRb0GSsHzUPSqy2VuyIbUSa87YYQTmZWdkO_wmRJgHhMpBFe0yvaYonPSLWnNt5U4Crl0eg/s2208/IMG_7078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left;"><br /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gdTwaqTp69yLHf1Tz9CuLs7_hgsd12pRD_fjoT-i9a5yG2Gh5ji5JvAQ74zt_ieJ4wcTwVBia09xJeMJdFehoAtpuyOiBSBvA3brScz3dCbaHfFH69bRb0GSsHzUPSqy2VuyIbUSa87YYQTmZWdkO_wmRJgHhMpBFe0yvaYonPSLWnNt5U4Crl0eg/s2208/IMG_7078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left;"><br /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gdTwaqTp69yLHf1Tz9CuLs7_hgsd12pRD_fjoT-i9a5yG2Gh5ji5JvAQ74zt_ieJ4wcTwVBia09xJeMJdFehoAtpuyOiBSBvA3brScz3dCbaHfFH69bRb0GSsHzUPSqy2VuyIbUSa87YYQTmZWdkO_wmRJgHhMpBFe0yvaYonPSLWnNt5U4Crl0eg/s2208/IMG_7078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left;"><br /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gdTwaqTp69yLHf1Tz9CuLs7_hgsd12pRD_fjoT-i9a5yG2Gh5ji5JvAQ74zt_ieJ4wcTwVBia09xJeMJdFehoAtpuyOiBSBvA3brScz3dCbaHfFH69bRb0GSsHzUPSqy2VuyIbUSa87YYQTmZWdkO_wmRJgHhMpBFe0yvaYonPSLWnNt5U4Crl0eg/s2208/IMG_7078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left;"><br /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4gdTwaqTp69yLHf1Tz9CuLs7_hgsd12pRD_fjoT-i9a5yG2Gh5ji5JvAQ74zt_ieJ4wcTwVBia09xJeMJdFehoAtpuyOiBSBvA3brScz3dCbaHfFH69bRb0GSsHzUPSqy2VuyIbUSa87YYQTmZWdkO_wmRJgHhMpBFe0yvaYonPSLWnNt5U4Crl0eg/s2208/IMG_7078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left;"><br /></span></a><span style="font-family: georgia; text-align: left;">The music industry has had some popular songs including "time" in the title.</span><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sometimes we wish we could go back in time. Turn the clocks back to the "good old days." What are those anyway? I remember when my boys were little. The days of diapers, naps, and sleepless nights. But now it is rushing from one sporting event to another, staying up late to finish geometry, and getting up early for another practice. The tires on my truck see more of the road and I see less of my pillow. I wouldn't trade it for anything. Quality time together is what we all crave and need. It costs me my time. Lots of time spent in the truck driving. We spend time together as a family and these moments are the memories I want my kids to have with them when they leave the nest. Memories of Mom and Dad sacrificing their time to make time for them. We can buy our kids all the latest gadgets but really what they want is quality time with us. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The music industry has given us many songs written about time. </span><a href="https://spinditty.com/playlists/songs-with-time-in-the-title" style="font-family: georgia;">List of 100 songs with "time" in the title.</a><span style="font-family: georgia;"> Here is a list of 10 of them:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">1. “One Moment in Time” by Whitney Houston</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">2. “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">3. “Love me Two Times” by The Doors</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">4. “Time is on my Side” by The Rolling Stones</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">5. “Does Anybody Really Know What Time it is?” by Chicago</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">6. “Time of my Life” by David Cook</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">7. “Any Time at all” by The Beatles</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">8. “Too Much Time on my Hands” by Styx</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">9. “Big Time” by Peter Gabriel</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgOtyOKAcUl7C8xXnGk0KO-GViPGcwY3IM1npjFftz1lfnWMhWbBMMUCI0KAxsRm8szwopNNA98ZZW58oBrvSMlZ2kkxSpM79WfqaZPBjMiQq7Bzwgw_i_bg5GkAg2ecVABhPSP-GvQgF1yvL86WFyh5Ki27xh_myxil3I_vS5nbgVc57ecGMOPh_-Q/s3088/IMG_7071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgOtyOKAcUl7C8xXnGk0KO-GViPGcwY3IM1npjFftz1lfnWMhWbBMMUCI0KAxsRm8szwopNNA98ZZW58oBrvSMlZ2kkxSpM79WfqaZPBjMiQq7Bzwgw_i_bg5GkAg2ecVABhPSP-GvQgF1yvL86WFyh5Ki27xh_myxil3I_vS5nbgVc57ecGMOPh_-Q/s320/IMG_7071.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baseball Practice</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">10. “One Time” by Justin Bieber</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The list goes on and on. You get the point. I keep going back to the beginning of time. To the One who created time, holds time, and makes time. What is time anyway? Can you define it? According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, time is defined as a) the measured period in which an action, process, or condition exists or continues: duration. b) a nonspatial continuum that is measured in terms of events that succeed one another from past through present future.<span style="background-color: white; color: #303336; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">To me, it seems that time is both passing me by and standing still. It's as if I can see my life the way I think it should be happening but I'm outside of time. I'm on some sort of timewarp frozen in time. It's like a giant stopwatch is running on one lap but I'm stuck on the sideline just watching. I don't want to miss anything. I want to be present, at the moment, right now enjoying it all. That is what I intend to do -- cancer and all. I want to live in real-time. Carpe Diem. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://www.sciencealert.com/time">How to Slow Down Time</a> (Taken from this article)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 12px;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Outside of taking a trip into space, and away from Earth's gravity well, there<em> is</em> a way to slow down time – at least from your own perspective. This has nothing to do with the physics and nature of time itself, but how fast or slow life feels to each of us.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 12px;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Some researchers say that <a href="https://www.sciencealert.com/psychology-holds-clues-to-slowing-down-time-when-it-feels-like-it-s-racing-away" style="border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(220, 220, 220); color: #005689; text-decoration-line: none;">exposing yourself to new experiences or environments</a> can actually make time seem to pass slower. This may be to do with the amount of information our brains have <a href="https://www.sciencealert.com/it-s-not-just-you-time-really-does-speed-up-as-you-get-older-researcher-argues" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="border-bottom: 1px solid rgb(220, 220, 220); color: #005689; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">to take in and process</a> – when we're young or learning something new, the world seems to slow down. As we get older and get into a routine, the days and years seem to speed by.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 12px;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Unless you have a spacecraft, none of this is going to make you age any slower (sorry), but knowing that time is a little more bendy than many of us think it is can be a reminder that we have our own ability to alter our perception of how fast the days pass - if only a little.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; margin: 0px 0px 12px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">"<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12</i></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">So maybe this second go-around with cancer will help me to slow down time in my own life. If I can only remember to take more time to process everything that is happening! </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">We have a fascination with time. So much to do and so little time. Speaking of time I am almost to my surgery time! Many have asked how they can help me and my family out and I wanted to share that here. I am thankful for health insurance and a job to support the grand expense of surgery, hospital stay, doctor fees, and the list goes on. We will have travel costs of fuel and lodging. The hospital is 3 hours from home for me. If you feel like helping that is great, but please do not feel obligated. I appreciate your kind words of encouragement and prayers. For those of you that are local (in Missouri), we do have a few folks helping to arrange meals. Please send me an email if you want to help with that. Another idea is to send gift cards from local restaurants. I will not be driving for about 4-6 weeks and will rely on my husband and oldest son to pick up items for our family.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">A savings account has been set up in the name of Anna Luhers at West Plains Bank and Trust. Deposits can be made in Anna's name to any local area branch. If you are not from Missouri you can reach the bank here: <a href="https://www.westplainsbank.com/">WPBT </a> Any questions regarding financial donations please reach out to Lisa Pruett @ lpruett@liberty.mvbt.k12.mo.us. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>"To everything, there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. <span style="font-family: georgia;">Ecclesiastes 3:1-8</span></i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX049hoaCzPzs6aUtyxGIX22W84sPlshixWjz0zeyT0IcFq0fEGSWvX5ZvWFiYQ6FsF2Y0mSuo6QsS431NrT7ryPi-B8H9f3GKT5K8sVtQivV4VqpRueZq2pWojhd_FqXGhWiL8mq_fPkX3IuK1p9SfKP1n5zD5J3_lUHt22p9KrzIWp5sEUKcEajxmg/s2048/IMG_7194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="946" data-original-width="2048" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX049hoaCzPzs6aUtyxGIX22W84sPlshixWjz0zeyT0IcFq0fEGSWvX5ZvWFiYQ6FsF2Y0mSuo6QsS431NrT7ryPi-B8H9f3GKT5K8sVtQivV4VqpRueZq2pWojhd_FqXGhWiL8mq_fPkX3IuK1p9SfKP1n5zD5J3_lUHt22p9KrzIWp5sEUKcEajxmg/w640-h296/IMG_7194.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LMS Dance "Hollywood Night" </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></i></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></i></span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><p><br /></p>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-63056538012436808552022-03-26T18:57:00.000-07:002022-03-26T18:57:40.480-07:00Attitude and Altitude<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKemrKUb0-1mOG9rSQz7ta-Z1tb5Wx8etlmbm_peeYRtSQO_YbcIc8v3FAvByt0ITdoX7eefbl6SFTu9mNAK87Wzze-iWuA7QQrv_BD2fGO503QW3tsOS2J2BXCKIQPYoLGXevxdeUB-iqQeo67X7YB_bG0yoWsO8Chy22ibUn0xxsMZ8tAq-oO4zf_w/s4032/IMG-6957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKemrKUb0-1mOG9rSQz7ta-Z1tb5Wx8etlmbm_peeYRtSQO_YbcIc8v3FAvByt0ITdoX7eefbl6SFTu9mNAK87Wzze-iWuA7QQrv_BD2fGO503QW3tsOS2J2BXCKIQPYoLGXevxdeUB-iqQeo67X7YB_bG0yoWsO8Chy22ibUn0xxsMZ8tAq-oO4zf_w/s320/IMG-6957.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>After waiting another long week, I finally have a surgery date of April 18, the day after Easter. Let the countdown begin! So 22 days of waiting, pondering, and lots of praying. <p></p><p>I have really been struggling with my attitude and feeling sorry for myself It is easy to get in a funk mentally and extremely difficult to fight out of it. The battlefield of your mind is a real thing. The enemy uses our thoughts to plant ideas that are in direct conflict with God’s Word. I thought I would share a few ways I’m constantly battling the enemy. It seems that I have a target on my back as well as my mind. First, you have to start with your identity. Ask yourself, “who am I?” Who I am can be found on many pages of the Word. God tells me over and over again who I am in Christ. Secondly, you have to recognize the enemy is at work trying to destroy you from the inside out. Call it what it is. Call out the enemy for being a liar. Third, you need to replace those negative thoughts with the truth.</p><p>WHO I AM IN CHRIST
ORIGINALLY COMPILED BY <a href="https://vintagelawrence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/ANDERSON_WhoIAmInChrist.pdf">NEIL ANDERSON</a></p><p>I AM ACCEPTED...
John 1:12 I am God's child.
John 15:15 As a disciple, I am a friend of Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:1 I have been justified (declared righteous).
1 Corinthians 6:17 I am united with the Lord, and I am one with Him in spirit.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 I have been bought with a price and I belong to God.
1 Corinthians 12:27 I am a member of Christ's body.
Ephesians 1:3-8 I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child.
Colossians 1:13-14 I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins.
Colossians 2:9-10 I am complete in Christ.
Hebrews 4:14-16 I have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ. </p><p>I AM SECURE...
Romans 8:1-2 I am free from condemnation.
Romans 8:28 I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances.
Romans 8:31-39 I am free from any condemnation brought against me and I cannot be
separated from the love of God.
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God.
Colossians 3:1-4 I am hidden with Christ in God.
Philippians 1:6 I am confident that God will complete the good work He started in me.
Philippians 3:20 I am a citizen of heaven.
2 Timothy 1:7 I have not been given a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind.
1 John 5:18 I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me. </p><p> I AM SIGNIFICANT...
John 15:5 I am a branch of Jesus Christ, the true vine, and a channel of His life.
John 15:16 I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit.
1 Corinthians 3:16 I am God's temple.
2 Corinthians 5:17-21 I am a minister of reconciliation for God.
Ephesians 2:6 I am seated with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realm.
Ephesians 2:10 I am God's workmanship.
Ephesians 3:12 I may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.</p><p>These simple truths remind me of who I am in Christ. God is in control, and I am not. I can't change my circumstances, but I can change my attitude about the circumstance. When my attitude is positive and focused on Christ my circumstances don't own me. I agree with Jon Courson, when he states, "Because we exist for God, gang (not the other way around), our part is to say, 'However He wants to direct His drama on the stage of my life, be it a comedy or a tragedy, so be it.'" </p><p>Keep the faith, fight the good fight, and control your attitude -- God will take care of the details. </p><p>"You're attitude determines you're altitude." Zig Ziglar</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82S3lY80m2aq_AF8h0iA6eb9NoccNcuwbERM5T7QF4SqJzgl2S4N0z8vrTJeTNFijF-t2jxRImajJ-fDVCrTGTrTXYnjU_QkGvwX-X-6nE5r4EOIyIVvJ6so2JhTcXU_YFwoLB03HzMhgF2cqfWu8rl3SOKlCj01Cuoku4m4NVHtW4bTisQv2bgLU-g/s4032/IMG-6958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82S3lY80m2aq_AF8h0iA6eb9NoccNcuwbERM5T7QF4SqJzgl2S4N0z8vrTJeTNFijF-t2jxRImajJ-fDVCrTGTrTXYnjU_QkGvwX-X-6nE5r4EOIyIVvJ6so2JhTcXU_YFwoLB03HzMhgF2cqfWu8rl3SOKlCj01Cuoku4m4NVHtW4bTisQv2bgLU-g/w640-h480/IMG-6958.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-61660831873131803942022-03-16T10:36:00.000-07:002022-03-16T10:36:22.266-07:00Siteman Cancer Center - Update from March 15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRSTsCUm0fg20vFediOnIJOlAmStmiVCvNWO0okcdWhQD7RurLN67Soxg3RLVKCeie300xuh98sjQXF5gu_gmYFVnSjfZsdSPIMHLIzP22lDFg65hQCY7hvdxQcogkdFONJol4qjwXeSC2lwJmsyPWDTb7ydLX4l4K21sRb0TMOqpkZUuTb6EblLnj5A=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRSTsCUm0fg20vFediOnIJOlAmStmiVCvNWO0okcdWhQD7RurLN67Soxg3RLVKCeie300xuh98sjQXF5gu_gmYFVnSjfZsdSPIMHLIzP22lDFg65hQCY7hvdxQcogkdFONJol4qjwXeSC2lwJmsyPWDTb7ydLX4l4K21sRb0TMOqpkZUuTb6EblLnj5A=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p>Yesterday was a wonderful day. We were seen quickly by the oncology surgeon who was caring, compassionate, and easy to talk to. Dr. M was everything I expected and then some. She reassured this Google searching crazy science girl to not stress. Not a problem at all to have a bilateral mastectomy! She has been practicing for over 20 years and can't say "definitely" but with some confidence, this type of cancer has been detected early and we are in no hurry to operate. </p><p><u><b>With that said I am still waiting for a surgery date.</b></u> (Big sigh....)</p><p>I did not need any additional imaging tests done yesterday. We visited for some time in her office and then she made a phone call to a colleague of hers, a plastic surgeon who was only one floor up in the CAM building at Siteman. I was amazed because we left one office and went directly to the plastic surgeon's office and literally waited maybe 10 minutes to be seen. I thought I would have time to take a few more pictures but seriously everything went so quick and smooth! We visited for a long time with Dr. B, a plastic surgeon about reconstruction. I had a lot of questions/concerns but ultimately felt much better about my decisions after visiting with Dr. B. So at this point, I am waiting on a phone call that coordinates both the oncology surgeon, the plastic surgeon and operating room availability. It could be up to 4 weeks wait. (Big sigh...again) I was assured the urgency is not as great as I was told previously. Again, we will have to wait for post-surgery results of lymph nodes to determine what treatment steps will be necessary. I feel so much about this decision to go to St. Louis!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdkdNJQBCoP0nbyjSdKXaGKGjzDILaz8BrzK3BI0knnCJ_f08tWEiRZckkcz02BBX1yejIwrQLapK1UbDywj1MhD6jaKTeE1vC2jUPb4r7U9Kfx_j20NwwWZQW4kvuRokUgljiq1qJJ8p3J01CISlOS2fxfnr8MyHPXMuS5hPLhIb-hdKGsrrtkPCPrQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdkdNJQBCoP0nbyjSdKXaGKGjzDILaz8BrzK3BI0knnCJ_f08tWEiRZckkcz02BBX1yejIwrQLapK1UbDywj1MhD6jaKTeE1vC2jUPb4r7U9Kfx_j20NwwWZQW4kvuRokUgljiq1qJJ8p3J01CISlOS2fxfnr8MyHPXMuS5hPLhIb-hdKGsrrtkPCPrQ=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7ErDWT8GQM-Msi4SLFBD7zPQ0kKy-ADziokZmPhrh6rzaqA7IS2lNVGdUeDV1ud5jOrtdK9ig5qeL6rpTOqHNg7pkgqkH-x7ak46GlACNdyh0IthCV9RIdfhMmMEM2PShpFe4T_HhwCrXvVBxtSTa7poZsIY-s6kd8IdgyZjCRjrE77ddzHC71Opkw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe7ErDWT8GQM-Msi4SLFBD7zPQ0kKy-ADziokZmPhrh6rzaqA7IS2lNVGdUeDV1ud5jOrtdK9ig5qeL6rpTOqHNg7pkgqkH-x7ak46GlACNdyh0IthCV9RIdfhMmMEM2PShpFe4T_HhwCrXvVBxtSTa7poZsIY-s6kd8IdgyZjCRjrE77ddzHC71Opkw=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thank you again for all the cards, text messages, and Facebook comments. I really appreciate all of you and knowing that so many care and are praying for myself and my family. At this point, I most likely will get to stay at school a few more weeks. I am really glad because in Missouri 8th grade science students take a MAP (Missouri Assessment Program) test and I really want to continue preparing my students for this assessment. Being a first-year teacher myself, all of this is new and I am eager to learn more along with my students. This makes me super happy knowing God cares about the smaller details in my world. Grateful for the support my school family has graciously offered to me in this uncertain time. (LMS family: you know who you are!) I will update once again when I have more information everyone. Several have asked about how they can help our family during this season. I am working on some ideas for this. Stay tuned as I will be posting more about how you can each help.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyMaiURUJCUF_Qn8Rb9YPXasg49ZkPK4GF8f-yYDpMqEzN-GS4ihtdWx4hCWzgZcWekLfrGnk5orMkdiTU47VO7fJaIz_ylWWQSX4bC4p1S2z0SPZzqxKajLZuBeIPe2HyaiZo5QZUBm8LTspAyc5F9l6hbjjpElVkoNW_rNFvDp0VlwhRb_5LdpNYpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="398" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyMaiURUJCUF_Qn8Rb9YPXasg49ZkPK4GF8f-yYDpMqEzN-GS4ihtdWx4hCWzgZcWekLfrGnk5orMkdiTU47VO7fJaIz_ylWWQSX4bC4p1S2z0SPZzqxKajLZuBeIPe2HyaiZo5QZUBm8LTspAyc5F9l6hbjjpElVkoNW_rNFvDp0VlwhRb_5LdpNYpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-23413327588956411802022-03-15T05:12:00.000-07:002022-03-15T05:12:05.175-07:00Welcome to the Buffering Zone<p> You know the feeling. It's the one you get when the screen pauses, the little arrow circle spins in slow-motion, the video you are watching just stops playing and you have to wait. You are waiting and waiting and you think to yourself will it ever load? Is my connection down, is the internet broken, maybe my battery is running low, did I drop my WiFi and I'm roaming now??? Yeah, we've all been there. Buffering is a lot like waiting.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLXWD-J8tpe4fuAnzOMjnES_pzrbmRWoy0BO_ERBbRR_nPDQhEQ1-7tH3Eki0gQ0MpwPYp5cDJLWlxo2dBsWElBXnMCMb8JMASSb2f9t3B66OdpOAIiZjDAC-JNCpAJpp1P4uKwm2g_aWadceKX7x2sxBUjJId6Rm3Svx4RuBl-Tct8jl5HwZUsGYf-A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjLXWD-J8tpe4fuAnzOMjnES_pzrbmRWoy0BO_ERBbRR_nPDQhEQ1-7tH3Eki0gQ0MpwPYp5cDJLWlxo2dBsWElBXnMCMb8JMASSb2f9t3B66OdpOAIiZjDAC-JNCpAJpp1P4uKwm2g_aWadceKX7x2sxBUjJId6Rm3Svx4RuBl-Tct8jl5HwZUsGYf-A" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>I discovered something about the meaning of buffering -- the literal meaning of the word buffer as a verb, it means: <u>to lessen or moderate the impact of something</u>. Pondering that. I believe God has a purpose for all this buffering in my life. All this time spent: waiting. Waiting for test results. Waiting for doctor appointments. Waiting for surgery. Waiting for news, any news. It's in the waiting we learn life lessons, we hear the voice of God calling our name, we put our roots down a little deeper.</p><p>God is using the waiting time, this buffering, as a shield around me because if he was to deliver all the news at once it would be too much to handle. This is His way of teaching me to trust Him more, to prioritize what is important, to slow down and cherish each day, each moment, every memory. The buffering is like a protection zone. It's the calm before the storm. I know the storm is coming. The hard part is coming. I keep telling myself to hold on.</p><p><i>Lamentations 3:5 "The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him."</i></p><p><i>Psalm 62:5 "My soul, waits silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him alone."</i></p><p><i>Psalm42:1 "As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for You O Lord."</i></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJCYErkaIWPO8phxqfLE-Ss2MRTcoj-IekqSNuztst9Z2v_HPK_F1ZraSJRo4xkFl0qoporJrYZ9KNlRiQbAGQboCXlXcuAL7Oa7BZ2ZWR1mZXKOKLCcpmPrFF7PTiUl12sudwyRvcf3utk26TL_ah6IjQmcqcI1MRCSqjNfYYbBPVwcfq60zxqfxb5Q=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJCYErkaIWPO8phxqfLE-Ss2MRTcoj-IekqSNuztst9Z2v_HPK_F1ZraSJRo4xkFl0qoporJrYZ9KNlRiQbAGQboCXlXcuAL7Oa7BZ2ZWR1mZXKOKLCcpmPrFF7PTiUl12sudwyRvcf3utk26TL_ah6IjQmcqcI1MRCSqjNfYYbBPVwcfq60zxqfxb5Q=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How many deer do you see???</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><i><br /></i><p></p><p>B: Brave, Bold, Breathe</p><p>U: Unity, Understanding, Undone</p><p>F: Faith, Family, Fullness</p><p>F: Fear, Fellowship, Future</p><p>E: Encouragement, Engagement, Epic</p><p>R: Rejoicing, Reading, Relaxing</p><p>I: Intercessor, Intelligent, Influential</p><p>N: Never-ending, New, Navigate</p><p>G: Goodness, Greatness, Grace</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnk_Ab2xzntf2sL8IbykUGzDJ8g4ZJjnL-My4ImRkp89i7xuidhZZSRyGNfAcTtyp5IbBbGzFKvbBsO7G2VPjABcAM_oaZVH6MDrv8WujGShbguXvTS-iDszePt57Co46RSodOkWJlDQg4a570iGsC1T2DixdS90OPxGSYzKnJvgmvEyiM5ICMrfdBZQ=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnk_Ab2xzntf2sL8IbykUGzDJ8g4ZJjnL-My4ImRkp89i7xuidhZZSRyGNfAcTtyp5IbBbGzFKvbBsO7G2VPjABcAM_oaZVH6MDrv8WujGShbguXvTS-iDszePt57Co46RSodOkWJlDQg4a570iGsC1T2DixdS90OPxGSYzKnJvgmvEyiM5ICMrfdBZQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>February 4, 2022, was the day I found out I had breast cancer. It has been a long 39 days. Today (3/15/2022) I go to Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis, MO, and meet with a new team of oncology doctors and surgeons. I am eager and filled with great anticipation for their advice and expertise.</p><p>I will post an update again when I have more information from my visit. Keep praying and posting comments. I love to hear from each of you!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjdFAFqkRFUBd6IDYxP1k5MYojb2SZrPqg5raFFIiDS2NWBLS5A754JuYCCZM_JmwsGBoIvPG7l0vELra1TiMP1n_pt3mEnq24z4_8FHcIPiGmlmvtLEQWfQOKJjWWnfDawVNsnYOr_LixabXBBoPEP1OLs0m8GLM7emxeQGHOIV0mBMETsTgkTPQqqcw=s1379" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1379" data-original-width="1206" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjdFAFqkRFUBd6IDYxP1k5MYojb2SZrPqg5raFFIiDS2NWBLS5A754JuYCCZM_JmwsGBoIvPG7l0vELra1TiMP1n_pt3mEnq24z4_8FHcIPiGmlmvtLEQWfQOKJjWWnfDawVNsnYOr_LixabXBBoPEP1OLs0m8GLM7emxeQGHOIV0mBMETsTgkTPQqqcw=s320" width="280" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-13063021238766358552022-03-02T20:10:00.002-08:002022-03-02T20:11:17.485-08:00Iron Sharpens Iron<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5ZNeJ0I50MtJ-fDTLl0x_2M8q1Jb4pjDwp3t-zhloy92A9FG5a05wIlA32EPKSn86ZSHdmKTbrUSUt6yAceqGKauK5QbaYubi6E_spkGRxz1H02vK5K1YeetMCBQlfHSzJ9oKxWeopRibMZTXvoT5B5Ogk4kyNU52u9DwNmCoJxrLHR0gyJPyiYrNhg=s2208" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2208" data-original-width="1206" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5ZNeJ0I50MtJ-fDTLl0x_2M8q1Jb4pjDwp3t-zhloy92A9FG5a05wIlA32EPKSn86ZSHdmKTbrUSUt6yAceqGKauK5QbaYubi6E_spkGRxz1H02vK5K1YeetMCBQlfHSzJ9oKxWeopRibMZTXvoT5B5Ogk4kyNU52u9DwNmCoJxrLHR0gyJPyiYrNhg=s320" width="175" /></a>After a 3 week battle with insurance over a needed medication for an iron infusion it was finally a go today. My Oncology/Hematology Doctor here in West Plains wanted me to get a dose of Iron in a few weeks before surgery. I have been struggling with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) for several years. I believe it is just my genetic makeup. How God made me. For some reason with all that I have been through my Iron levels just haven't returned to a more normal level. I have had several of the classic symptoms of (IDA) and I don't tolerate oral iron pills. For those that don't know I had a planned hysterectomy in December of 2021. This was to alleviate some of my iron depletion issues. This is rather personal information but I'm trying to be an open book. If my story can help someone else wondering, waiting, hoping then I'm going to share. I feel amazing after this surgery. Life changing. But again my iron levels were still low about 7 weeks post surgery. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCReOepNW0-dSh58tfYoqyj3SNlKrQi_hhWU_59_E39TnkF_F-wLzZ_4VVKdo5ybZ1s8snDmG-ICTKxQPPcpfEuqk2INSRbKr0ptCcILR4yiYPAd9tYFbe1dmoFsa9co7wb40RcFtf40Jt2JM4uaqJoODWBSPZFSPpaeA7NbsgCgUIT4iYDVk6MC_0og=s2208" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2208" data-original-width="1206" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCReOepNW0-dSh58tfYoqyj3SNlKrQi_hhWU_59_E39TnkF_F-wLzZ_4VVKdo5ybZ1s8snDmG-ICTKxQPPcpfEuqk2INSRbKr0ptCcILR4yiYPAd9tYFbe1dmoFsa9co7wb40RcFtf40Jt2JM4uaqJoODWBSPZFSPpaeA7NbsgCgUIT4iYDVk6MC_0og=s320" width="175" /></a>I just wasn't prepared for how I would feel today. This type of Iron takes almost 5 hours to slowly infuse. It also has a higher risk category for allergic reactions. Because of this I had to get a dose of liquid Benadryl (antihistamine), Dexamethasone (long-acting steroid). and some Tylenol. Thankfully my body was kind to me and I didn't have any allergic problems. I just experienced the weird sensations of the drug cocktail I received. My plans of sitting and reading, planning, and grading flew out the window. You feel so sleepy due to the Benadryl and this jittery un-nerving effect from the steroid. I tolerated the infusion and called in back up to take me home. </p><p>I did manage to get a quick a question off to my students back in science class. Thought I would share that here:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJLwJobVov34FKcQYJVOYHv47i8fPfzadbLdbAbSpZjAo1Ipf6edj-F_NuBjWZnMJ5DAHrisvvSeeJwTOU3XvKtrxJl6rDgVHfqgz1VWk4kM2C5CCOM8uvh3yTdDdaw0mG-HawJKpbsKm2xoPrpa4o5KDm2K9P5Ia72LZ2rdo6zelbZPcbitFDzTjDZA=s2532" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2532" data-original-width="1170" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJLwJobVov34FKcQYJVOYHv47i8fPfzadbLdbAbSpZjAo1Ipf6edj-F_NuBjWZnMJ5DAHrisvvSeeJwTOU3XvKtrxJl6rDgVHfqgz1VWk4kM2C5CCOM8uvh3yTdDdaw0mG-HawJKpbsKm2xoPrpa4o5KDm2K9P5Ia72LZ2rdo6zelbZPcbitFDzTjDZA=w185-h400" width="185" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>We are learning about Atoms and the Periodic Table of Elements. Nothing like a real life example to cement the learning goal for the day!</p><p>You may be wondering what Iron does in your body. I have a great article if you care to read some cool science. The <a href="https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency" target="_blank">American Society of Hematology</a> (all about blood!) has lots of information.</p><p>I have been so blessed by so many of your kind words reaching out with love and support for me and my family. The comments, text messages, and phone calls are amazing. It is in times like these that we need each other. I would just ask that you be respectful and sensitive to my kids. We are trying to keep them from having un-necessary anxiety due to the connotation of the cancer word. We have a great support system and truly appreciate every one of you. When we get closer to surgery date and recovery we will be cashing in al the many offers for help.</p><p>Proverbs 27:17 </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8dA84u_uagGpYNoT5Ytj5oJMcuH0wpC3KUJK3nayesTHbTevvGzEtfiwo0uHtbP9T359-LOPHu1lz_xmZI6V5tfBPIN_sYQB4nXdyNTJrVDVnf8MddRNzW-oxxsqiV-U1cW2NbhYh0LA1HSSMYPmeCirHDW8gBqdwcgPmDL2wQRkPeBTtqmJ3ytClPg=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8dA84u_uagGpYNoT5Ytj5oJMcuH0wpC3KUJK3nayesTHbTevvGzEtfiwo0uHtbP9T359-LOPHu1lz_xmZI6V5tfBPIN_sYQB4nXdyNTJrVDVnf8MddRNzW-oxxsqiV-U1cW2NbhYh0LA1HSSMYPmeCirHDW8gBqdwcgPmDL2wQRkPeBTtqmJ3ytClPg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>We know that when two knives are rubbed together it enables the iron to be sharper, making the knives more efficient to cut and slice. God's word is a double-edge sword. It is what we use as our guide to teach, encourage, and correct. </p><p>Hebrews 4:12 </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiU8y0vTjU8B8Qclv5HQlHMqo4XKR7mvCSKviFKxKg6I6YidMgjXD0emwfKoYk5JdgVOTAakTbz0hpZn_AMJbSpBqvaPIM2B8mKguqseIz8-dVPZkyNnU1lK7XjJZaos7YqshIzlV7DS4M6YRQenrxJ4jtJaohrfAWBQ63xpRggdVZkIiezVttXWcYw3Q=s225" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiU8y0vTjU8B8Qclv5HQlHMqo4XKR7mvCSKviFKxKg6I6YidMgjXD0emwfKoYk5JdgVOTAakTbz0hpZn_AMJbSpBqvaPIM2B8mKguqseIz8-dVPZkyNnU1lK7XjJZaos7YqshIzlV7DS4M6YRQenrxJ4jtJaohrfAWBQ63xpRggdVZkIiezVttXWcYw3Q" width="225" /></a></div><p>We are to sharpen one another when we meet together in fellowship. This may look a little different to us these days as some of our fellowship activities have ben disrupted due to COVID related issues. We have to be intentional in seeking out fellow iron sharpeners. I'm glad to have you joining me on this journey. It is my heart to be open, real, authentic, fresh, and inspiring. I love to read your comments, so keep on keeping on!</p>Keep the prayers coming! 14 days until my next appointment. I am still waiting on some testing to be completed. Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-45505675858103451182022-02-26T19:48:00.004-08:002022-03-02T17:36:41.303-08:00Again...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiQ9QxIj950aTxU9Eb1hQcOhsFEM_9qEDrTJiGqBwjdh00ycJ4J4A5P9HAbeughkLxdmtFPFlml-hH5L1deh4HDt53dE9JYsnm_2hwAuQn1rzbU2jQhD6XawIyCE2X-PKk-eaQMIgz7Ul5SlnELUk62HSX7TlIatG1HvjHuht7s0hejWQEOi5ERi686bw=s4032" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiQ9QxIj950aTxU9Eb1hQcOhsFEM_9qEDrTJiGqBwjdh00ycJ4J4A5P9HAbeughkLxdmtFPFlml-hH5L1deh4HDt53dE9JYsnm_2hwAuQn1rzbU2jQhD6XawIyCE2X-PKk-eaQMIgz7Ul5SlnELUk62HSX7TlIatG1HvjHuht7s0hejWQEOi5ERi686bw=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div>Those words were spoken over the phone....you have cancer. Wait what did she just say? Can you repeat that? My heart is beating so loud that I didn't hear that correctly, right? Clearly this isn't happening to me.</div><div> Again. </div><div><span> </span>Again. </div><div>She repeats, the written words of the initial pathology report: invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast. I'm sorry to report this news -- it is breast cancer. I'm numb all over. Please wake me from this bad, bad dream. This has already been on my "not to do ever again bucket list"...again? Deep breath. Inhale slowly. The tears are hot and salty. It's happening again. <div><br /></div><div>Heartbroken doesn't even begin to describe the amount of pain, disappointment, anxiety and fear that came flooding over me. </div><div><br /></div><div>But God....</div><div><br /></div><div>I sit looking out my bedroom window at the snow covered ground, no leaves on the trees, just a blanket of white, seemingly enveloping the ground beneath its deceiving covers. Winter is tucking away Spring for a bit longer it appears. The end of February is coming to an end like a cheating Valentine. It's icy cold outside, just like my aching, breaking heart, shattered in a million pieces. Black birds swarm the white ground hoping to find a meal. I silently whisper, how I wish I could fly away like the birds do. But clearly I'm jolted awake from my bad dream, I'm reminded not like the birds but like the tree. The birds are now perched high in the branches of a great oak tree sitting along the fence line in the pasture. Be like the tree planted firmly, roots deep, the seasons come and go, the tree is not moved. Be like the tree planted by the rivers of water that bring forth fruit in season. All I really want to do is pull the covers up from my white comforter, and disappear. This was all ready on the "not to do bucket list" ever again.</div><div> Again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhj_mBLqufm0Bg4z-h2qWCcCdM0tn6ED1UvzuvJkO0GTHPwsp66CiI_fgvCX6HAwKMyehgmvm3HNn8EQckqLS1H0MLzUNxhfRAUgKeHfym3ZXNm7c2oA_XfcnmviGlHQCWetrUY7lLyOCADjlvZ9EPm6ik7lfa6D3S6pN8tMS8Ea9Yrk4HNeO_VIGKhdw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhj_mBLqufm0Bg4z-h2qWCcCdM0tn6ED1UvzuvJkO0GTHPwsp66CiI_fgvCX6HAwKMyehgmvm3HNn8EQckqLS1H0MLzUNxhfRAUgKeHfym3ZXNm7c2oA_XfcnmviGlHQCWetrUY7lLyOCADjlvZ9EPm6ik7lfa6D3S6pN8tMS8Ea9Yrk4HNeO_VIGKhdw=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div> But God has a different plan for me.</div><div> Again. </div><div>Be like the tree. A picture of strong faith enduring through the changing seasons. I didn't choose this path, it chose me. I am reminded that I am His <i><a href="https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4161/nkjv/tr/0-1/">poiema</a></i>, His workmanship created to do good works for Him, to be a light, a beacon to those around me of hope and strength. Just like the tree that has strong branches for the birds.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now I must embark on another journey of knowing, understanding, refining of my faith. </div><div><br /></div><div>Faith.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrew 11:1</i></div><div><br /></div><div>I can't see the future. But I know who does.</div><div>I can look back at the evidence of His faithfulness in my own life.</div><div>I can stand on faith.</div><div>God is good </div><div>God is love</div><div>God is faithful</div><div><br /></div><div>We are called to live in a way the reflects what He has done for each of us. Jesus came to be the perfect sacrifice on our behalf so that He might cleanse us from our sin and present us to the Father holy and blameless. Jesus redeemed us with His precious blood so we can live a holy life.</div><div><br /></div><div>But all the heartache gets in the way. I am not alone in my brokenness and heart ache.</div><div><br /></div><div>Brokenness comes in many packages. Diagnosis of cancer. End of a marriage. A wayward child. Harsh reality of war. As the headlines read even now and the bombs break through hearts and homes on foreign soil, none of us are immune to brokenness. It cuts deep. Hits us smack in the heart of it. Stop you dead-cold. Your life shattered in a million pieces. As the pain wells up and the tears brim over the eyelids and fall, fall, fall, and crash down there are more questions than answers to life's rhetorical questions. This is a fallen world. Sin demands death. </div><div><br /></div><div>For such a time as this...we are told trials will come.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith - the salvation of your souls." 1 Peter 1:6-9</i></div><div><br /></div><div>So these trials come to test our faith like the refining process of gold. The genuineness of your faith. What is your faith built on? It's about to get really hot. Gold is prized for it's beauty. Gold is a unique metal. Gold conducts heat and electricity. Gold is ductile and can be drawn to a thin wire. It is highly reflective of heat and light. Gold is malleable, so it can be flattened into extremely thin sheets. Gold melts at 1,945 degrees Fahrenheit.</div><div><br /></div><div>No wonder God uses gold as an example of how he wants to refine me. In the end beauty. Conducts and reflects heat and light. Sounds like a familiar saying. Malleable -- mold me, shape me, stretch me, grow me. Drawn to a thin wire. Again, like a tree standing strong through the seasons.</div><div><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Here is what I know:</div><div><br /></div><div>This has been caught due to a routine yearly mammogram. I do not have a stage of this cancer as that can only be determined by testing lymph nodes. It is called invasive ductal carcinoma grade 3. I still have tests being done to help make more decisions. This cancer requires surgery to remove the area affected. I have decided to pursue treatment/surgery at the <a href="https://siteman.wustl.edu/visiting/main-campus/">Siteman Cancer Center</a> in St. Louis, Missouri. At this point I don't know if I will need chemotherapy as that depends on the lymph nodes. I want to be as aggressive as possible to fight this. This hospital is part of Washington University Medical School as well as Barnes-Jewish Hospital. It is a premier center for treating cancer. I have an appointment for March 15 for a consultation. I hope to have a surgery date after that visit. </div><div><br /></div><div>Some of you may not know my previous battle with cancer in 2011, when I was diagnosed with stage 3B colon cancer. You can read about that in past blog entries and on the right hand side of the blog "My Cancer Story." </div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you to so many who have reached out with cards, txt messages, and emails. I am overwhelmed by your love and support. I am sorry if you are reading this here and I wasn't able to tell each of you personally. It just isn't possible. I plan to keep writing and updating.</div><div><br /></div></div>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-45212030906082483342018-05-13T04:00:00.000-07:002018-05-13T06:21:12.238-07:00Seven Years - Peace in the Valley<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwFl-Nr-Oi_mcjuvhekZg4i2bLsSrVg3NYFYPHdvhK6qmB4lMux6Ib8Z-dyLccoqZjr6mT1yKCSxQ6M4H9ivJTMln1RhYU5YtteCD01Lxo4-WCY1_JqfRSx1HGWATywSBymCa-MRQhH6E/s1600/IMG_5468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwFl-Nr-Oi_mcjuvhekZg4i2bLsSrVg3NYFYPHdvhK6qmB4lMux6Ib8Z-dyLccoqZjr6mT1yKCSxQ6M4H9ivJTMln1RhYU5YtteCD01Lxo4-WCY1_JqfRSx1HGWATywSBymCa-MRQhH6E/s320/IMG_5468.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foggy Morning</td></tr>
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Today is May 13, 2018. Seven years ago today my life and my family's life was forever changed by the diagnosis of cancer. Today just also happens to be Mother's Day. I can't think of a better way to celebrate seven years cancer free -- than being a Mom. God saw me through a very difficult time as a Mother and blessed me with two sons. So much has happened in the last seven years that God has been planning it amazes me. For those that don't know my entire cancer story you can read the side bar titled "My Cancer Story." I know God has been preparing me to write and return to blogging. I don't know if anyone really reads this but here goes...It is pressing on my heart and mind to write more often about my journey battling cancer and being a cancer survivor. Many have asked me to write about life on a cattle ranch here in Peace Valley Missouri. Devotionals regarding being a wife, mom and woman in Christ seem to be top on the list. I want to explore the topics of ranch life (like being a "real" pioneer woman). You know I love to cook, play in the garden and take pictures of my crazy messy blessed life. Id' love to hear from you. If there is something you want let me know.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dlPDLb3CXNq6jS_iOdHYRy5es1RJepvCh5OUxRue37_HLwUq2N914SSF9MaXfB0TynYwyWTLdZUAmDQvdwkahyphenhyphenQxXo0w4AuC-JawySeV9c9POaT62-O-MQDOX6Alhnpn6hvXfwDIFebz/s1600/IMG_5510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dlPDLb3CXNq6jS_iOdHYRy5es1RJepvCh5OUxRue37_HLwUq2N914SSF9MaXfB0TynYwyWTLdZUAmDQvdwkahyphenhyphenQxXo0w4AuC-JawySeV9c9POaT62-O-MQDOX6Alhnpn6hvXfwDIFebz/s320/IMG_5510.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Late September</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOySheGL6Ht2tzK7cb8TA19a4F2vmLloZbY9mR_FzHSFWMzwGyGnM3FuXtLG8M-mS5M013NaQu1eD-1bN3TEOL0rzzlID0FPd4VS80FlV1ykwLJnG4J2xTSrTKErx9J2HN_uxQ95NzIafa/s1600/Anna_Heifers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOySheGL6Ht2tzK7cb8TA19a4F2vmLloZbY9mR_FzHSFWMzwGyGnM3FuXtLG8M-mS5M013NaQu1eD-1bN3TEOL0rzzlID0FPd4VS80FlV1ykwLJnG4J2xTSrTKErx9J2HN_uxQ95NzIafa/s320/Anna_Heifers.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeding Heifers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyb-XeeDZy3KgiPhEs7KbkdQqRlyLCxpMev8mJYMhLwrTGEf4elZ0cUyMGDd6O0IZmlJZUXUb6qJW-9qDSTgsivZ59N_qwlZSpjjZeCQ0HCuMlJo2olK_tSShVaU1xmSoNNlgPe5Yi0kn9/s1600/Boys_Mom_Sept.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyb-XeeDZy3KgiPhEs7KbkdQqRlyLCxpMev8mJYMhLwrTGEf4elZ0cUyMGDd6O0IZmlJZUXUb6qJW-9qDSTgsivZ59N_qwlZSpjjZeCQ0HCuMlJo2olK_tSShVaU1xmSoNNlgPe5Yi0kn9/s320/Boys_Mom_Sept.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boys and Mom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhUgqgMw5x9RAzh_p4yBaTSTZnk5wCLJ8cnRoBHZSVUsB_A8MinCydg6zsFpcEbjJan7FYOG7nhdKMESDUemfld9Adr6W3dwJG9I5NEUbJ3DzY8q4XNqxRHkGUUDv45vrixRhpvuMhcrQ/s1600/MO_Heifers_Boys.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhUgqgMw5x9RAzh_p4yBaTSTZnk5wCLJ8cnRoBHZSVUsB_A8MinCydg6zsFpcEbjJan7FYOG7nhdKMESDUemfld9Adr6W3dwJG9I5NEUbJ3DzY8q4XNqxRHkGUUDv45vrixRhpvuMhcrQ/s320/MO_Heifers_Boys.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Missouri Cattlemen</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTc6rCSDtgUnINfl-6kKJK6gR1LhxxiuPDhruno6AiYFqmqhGroU4dSJe-6og8E48DYjUnGKXNznnmwrJQRH-7bvOTLftGO-zXDAWyCoM7xgFvBpoYLuokvBMSeIhPUFtURv_8FmpqdyD/s1600/IMG_5608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTc6rCSDtgUnINfl-6kKJK6gR1LhxxiuPDhruno6AiYFqmqhGroU4dSJe-6og8E48DYjUnGKXNznnmwrJQRH-7bvOTLftGO-zXDAWyCoM7xgFvBpoYLuokvBMSeIhPUFtURv_8FmpqdyD/s320/IMG_5608.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">October Leaves</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4BOEEiNmGC-Ar4s1eGcwfrKXCsZWuUPLO4_o7O-eduF-Cf7t5WgWXvy6RmN6beO0cxH7JxoGD_Xx7geNAVev9ufTl9Sq665wuCZbyzwskN2zaCR-YVfPDCenhNBBMFH92tSGGanrPF8G/s1600/IMG_5623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4BOEEiNmGC-Ar4s1eGcwfrKXCsZWuUPLO4_o7O-eduF-Cf7t5WgWXvy6RmN6beO0cxH7JxoGD_Xx7geNAVev9ufTl9Sq665wuCZbyzwskN2zaCR-YVfPDCenhNBBMFH92tSGGanrPF8G/s320/IMG_5623.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November Leaves</td></tr>
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So why Missouri? That is the biggest question everyone asks me. We moved from Southern Idaho to Missouri in August of 2017. Many factors played in to our decision to move. The best and simplest reason is this: God told us to. Yes God said go to Missouri! So here we are in Southeast Missouri just North of West Plains in a community called Peace Valley. There is such a place as Peace Valley and yes it is peaceful here! After running a crazy schedule for so many years God has provided a place of rest for our family. We are enjoying our daily routine of taking care of our cattle as a full time job as a family. God began to prepare us for this task many years ago. We are applying the skills we have learned over the years to accomplish this now.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigN9IRXvp_dw2yiuaGTTID-AvTl6Rvp_9rYOYrGlO6dHj9gSsWEvwVXv70hwHZKs_dwUQ_xoE4hgnXjfEDAg3JinhLZs-obK0hLxWol5_vOxysrQPi3RJIQrFoVZz-A3PnuQOkJzSl-M00/s1600/IMG_5729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigN9IRXvp_dw2yiuaGTTID-AvTl6Rvp_9rYOYrGlO6dHj9gSsWEvwVXv70hwHZKs_dwUQ_xoE4hgnXjfEDAg3JinhLZs-obK0hLxWol5_vOxysrQPi3RJIQrFoVZz-A3PnuQOkJzSl-M00/s320/IMG_5729.JPG" width="320" /></a>This area of Missouri is known for rich pasture ground able to support beef cattle. It rains in Howell County about 47 inches per year. That is a drastic change from Southern Idaho at a meager 9.36 inches per year. Needless to say there is no need to irrigate here! God sends the rain to water the earth in due time. We are so glad to not have to irrigate twice a day here. They say we are always 10 days away from drought here so the importance of praying for rain is a real thing. Currently we need rain, so join me in praying for rain in Peace Valley!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidF3ewmZkkBjuaMB4obafvkHYYOmEKf7DmBLiamUuKG1YhxxvV_O-b6VLL5m_bxsCNa58DGch1IbuksJf-_DcYF72OJdyTxzwgz11a7vA0zmd_5NJdrg7r6uRyrLdT1b6CCc96r08luVqY/s1600/IMG_5742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidF3ewmZkkBjuaMB4obafvkHYYOmEKf7DmBLiamUuKG1YhxxvV_O-b6VLL5m_bxsCNa58DGch1IbuksJf-_DcYF72OJdyTxzwgz11a7vA0zmd_5NJdrg7r6uRyrLdT1b6CCc96r08luVqY/s320/IMG_5742.JPG" width="213" /></a>You can read more<a href="https://mdc.mo.gov/conmag/2017-08/native-grasses-livestock-producers" target="_blank"> HERE</a> about the land in Missouri and why we chose to move to the Ozarks to run a cattle ranch. This is an article about native grasses by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Our cattle ranch has fescue grass and timber ground mixed in each pasture. The forest ground is diverse! I am learning to identify many varieties of trees. When we arrived in the late summer early fall and the leaves were still on. Then winter came and leaves fell to the forest floor. Now it is late Spring and the forest is full of life and leaves have returned and flowering trees have bloomed. It is so beautiful! Surprisingly the cattle love to sit under these big oak trees and find shade from the hot sun. It is not so easy to count the cows and find everyone with the trees. It is easy to forget you are on a cattle ranch and might mistake it for a state or national forest. This girl is so overwhelmed with he new flora and fauna to learn! My botany skills are being sharpened and I am enjoying the challenge of a new ecosystem to learn and appreciate.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XNqZNIuRhKUHAQ_j5640_8DpjebfBVpnZS5c37xvsz8JyN0RER6F4ktIpytgye_Z5uCVkTvEexU2YlNtXAWubaV05EAkq_jfY5oLhVu9dxENKuilG7sze4zMVs334gvf32CvTqk6Dtxb/s1600/IMG_5782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XNqZNIuRhKUHAQ_j5640_8DpjebfBVpnZS5c37xvsz8JyN0RER6F4ktIpytgye_Z5uCVkTvEexU2YlNtXAWubaV05EAkq_jfY5oLhVu9dxENKuilG7sze4zMVs334gvf32CvTqk6Dtxb/s320/IMG_5782.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iris just bloomed!</td></tr>
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Stay tuned for more updates soon. I am working on writing some more devotional material in a series format that will build on a concept and specific section of scripture. God has been teaching me so many things and I have crazy notes all over the place to organize.<br />
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For now I will leave you with this thought ---<br />
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Psalm 24 1:6<br />
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New Living Translation</div>
<div class="chap" style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; text-align: justify;">
<div class="psa-title" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-top: 7px;">
A psalm of David.</div>
<div class="poet1-vn-sp" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 15px; margin-top: 12px;">
<span class="reftext" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/24-1.htm" style="color: #0092f2; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>1</b></a></span>The earth is the L<span class="smallcaps" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 21px; text-transform: uppercase;">ORD</span>’s, and everything in it.</div>
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The world and all its people belong to him.</div>
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<span class="reftext" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/24-2.htm" style="color: #0092f2; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>2</b></a></span>For he laid the earth’s foundation on the seas</div>
<div class="poet2" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 55px;">
and built it on the ocean depths.</div>
<div class="poet1-vn-sp" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 15px; margin-top: 12px;">
<span class="reftext" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/24-3.htm" style="color: #0092f2; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>3</b></a></span>Who may climb the mountain of the L<span class="smallcaps" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 21px; text-transform: uppercase;">ORD</span>?</div>
<div class="poet2" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 55px;">
Who may stand in his holy place?</div>
<div class="poet1-vn" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 15px;">
<span class="reftext" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/24-4.htm" style="color: #0092f2; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>4</b></a></span>Only those whose hands and hearts are pure,</div>
<div class="poet2" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 55px;">
who do not worship idols</div>
<div class="poet2" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 55px;">
and never tell lies.</div>
<div class="poet1-vn" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 15px;">
<span class="reftext" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/24-5.htm" style="color: #0092f2; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>5</b></a></span>They will receive the L<span class="smallcaps" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 21px; text-transform: uppercase;">ORD</span>’s blessing</div>
<div class="poet2" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 55px;">
and have a right relationship with God their savior.</div>
<div class="poet1-vn" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 15px;">
<span class="reftext" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/24-6.htm" style="color: #0092f2; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>6</b></a></span>Such people may seek you</div>
<div class="poet2" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 55px;">
and worship in your presence, O God of Jacob.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We are blessed to be here in Peace Valley, Missouri -- so thankful for the many friends we had to leave in Idaho and the new friends we have met and are getting to know here now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Psalm 50:10-11</span></div>
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English Standard Version</div>
<div class="chap" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">
<div class="heading" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-top: 12px;">
God Himself Is Judge</div>
<subheading class="psalm-title" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-top: 12px;">A Psalm of Asaph.</subheading></div>
<div class="poet2" style="font-family: Trebuchet, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 55px;">
<span class="reftext" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/50-10.htm" style="color: #0092f2; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>10</b></a></span><span class="ln-group">For every beast of the forest is mine,</span><br />
<span class="indent" style="margin-left: 35px;">the cattle on a thousand hills.</span><br />
<span class="reftext" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 14px; margin-left: 1px; margin-right: 2px; vertical-align: text-top;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/psalms/50-11.htm" style="color: #0092f2; text-decoration-line: none;"><b>11</b></a></span><span class="ln-group">I know all the birds of the hills,</span><br />
<span class="indent" style="margin-left: 35px;">and all that moves in the field is mine.</span></div>
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<span class="indent" style="margin-left: 35px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="indent" style="margin-left: 35px;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJ8ioFVHv2xFdTrnUdBApegZSOneD3bYQoc7FfZ65DvyzunVsZB9rjsiliP77uQ27Cu_tpx5uJbpGqPhzmvV1e66-TIVOtIelJCEBmpjlaZeQZE_3Jui0Q5Mb5MOP7tjMsMwHOL4k0Gmm/s1600/IMG_5755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJ8ioFVHv2xFdTrnUdBApegZSOneD3bYQoc7FfZ65DvyzunVsZB9rjsiliP77uQ27Cu_tpx5uJbpGqPhzmvV1e66-TIVOtIelJCEBmpjlaZeQZE_3Jui0Q5Mb5MOP7tjMsMwHOL4k0Gmm/s320/IMG_5755.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May</td></tr>
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Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-42101974366865142662014-12-12T11:38:00.001-08:002014-12-12T12:06:54.902-08:00Ditch the Fig Leaves this ChristmasThis is the season of giving and receiving. Making lists and checking them twice. So much pressure we put upon ourselves to be perfect. Perfect cards, perfect desserts, perfect outfits, perfect hair, perfect kids, perfect gifts...it's all perfect. Or is it? I'm tired of the perfection game. Perfection is something we strive for but never attain. We miss the Perfect gift of Christmas busying ourselves trying to <i>"be perfect"</i> and before long we are wiped out well before the twenty-fifth of December. Why do we make ourselves crazy this time of year more than any other time? We want our families to appear happy, our homes beautifully decorated minus any life clutter popping out of closets and drawers and the kids on their best behavior because we have bribed them with <u>lots</u> of candy. Who are we really trying to fool? Why does the fig leaf come out this time of year and try to hide the truth of who we really are? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGjRCbqYnp90JlCY4cguOH60a_pYXlD455W5Y_5EjqUFrHftWAAW50XQm9NQ46kfHDWs343jsl_f7L2PTx40ATRKGDUEP-u1V2VeC13BGh_o5tICppyQd2yU9yxNck6-McKvQd6VjYXCI/s1600/IMG_0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmGjRCbqYnp90JlCY4cguOH60a_pYXlD455W5Y_5EjqUFrHftWAAW50XQm9NQ46kfHDWs343jsl_f7L2PTx40ATRKGDUEP-u1V2VeC13BGh_o5tICppyQd2yU9yxNck6-McKvQd6VjYXCI/s1600/IMG_0025.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's no secret that Adam and Eve made fig leaves because they were afraid (Genesis 3: 10) What were they afraid of? Afraid that God would no longer love them. Afraid that if God really knew them and saw them for who they really were -- He may not like them. Friends I think it is the same for us...fear of rejection. Rejection that God wouldn't like me, rejection that those around me wouldn't like me anymore. The truth is God all ready knows what we are and He loves us just the same. Ever since that day in the garden when Eve took the fruit and ate it and shared it with her husband mankind has been hiding out. Covering up with fig leaves. The problem isn't in the fig leaves it's in our thinking.<br />
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<i>I can't let others see the real me, because they won't like the real me.</i><br />
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<i>Christmas cards with perfect smiling faces and fresh clothes all matching -- picture perfect perfection, but is it real?</i><br />
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<i>Oh thanks to Pinterest I can pin my way to perfection: homemade crafts and goodies to eat but is it really sweet?</i><br />
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<i>Presents wrapped up with ribbons and bows out of guilt to give above and beyond my means in order to please others. Come January will they even remember who the gift was from?</i><br />
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There is a measure of dysfunction in all of us. We are broken people in desperate need of a Savior. So why this time of year do we hum the tune of <i>Silent Night</i> when we are screaming on the inside of all the<i> un-holy</i> in us and hide once again behind fig leaves? Our thinking is all messed up. We don't need to perform better but receive better. It's the Gift we keep rejecting. The Gift of God's love is free - but we reject it before we can unwrap all that is there!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>John 3:16 NKJV - "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFReKz3IBHZoRNanAz8gkHw9TRSdf3rluoSfnIsOa5keDcfoGIPLMMUJPvEH2dQNim9E7xCYAjLcsK-2r1d7Z7K7oX2kIRQxvnGCto5mnVBR-FERIoYkC5C833Hk24bwXjjj3UqX5J084U/s1600/IMG_0562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFReKz3IBHZoRNanAz8gkHw9TRSdf3rluoSfnIsOa5keDcfoGIPLMMUJPvEH2dQNim9E7xCYAjLcsK-2r1d7Z7K7oX2kIRQxvnGCto5mnVBR-FERIoYkC5C833Hk24bwXjjj3UqX5J084U/s1600/IMG_0562.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Christmas is all about believing the Gift. The gift of a baby sent from heaven to save the world from it's sin and sure death. The story of Christmas began way back in the beginning. Back in the garden with the fig leaves. God knew that Adam and Eve would fall and be afraid. He had a plan to bring the best Gift of salvation to mankind. Hiding leads to more hiding and playing this game of perfectionism. It leaves you feeling ashamed, alone, isolated and fearful.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Genesis 3:7-10 NKJV - Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they [were] naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings. And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden. Then the LORD God called to Adam and said to him, "Where [are] you?" So he said, "I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself."</i></div>
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We don't need to be afraid of being real -- being naked about who we really are. Hiding behind fig leaves prevents you from being really naked. Exposing the truth of who you really are immediately makes you vulnerable, open and free. God sees it all. The truth is we don't like how we feel when we are hiding. When we confess our hiding we experience freedom and healing.<br />
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<i>James 5:16 ESV - "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7hOXw1XBJMCoqBFy9O4QVigpkVB2ICJMnCgvtNohKSvFkJiNH4obQHAiGCoU0DFy9lv4cRBJkD9dtR5XE34u4S-GYZ6nRr_-PipHFpVfP8AyEb9vh7bC91bj1IhE75nGIl1fMkPiI7unA/s1600/treesnow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7hOXw1XBJMCoqBFy9O4QVigpkVB2ICJMnCgvtNohKSvFkJiNH4obQHAiGCoU0DFy9lv4cRBJkD9dtR5XE34u4S-GYZ6nRr_-PipHFpVfP8AyEb9vh7bC91bj1IhE75nGIl1fMkPiI7unA/s1600/treesnow.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a>So friends this Christmas stop hiding and be real! Find a friend to be real with and stop playing the game of perfectionism. Be real. I dare you to be transparent. Stop doing all the motions of Christmas with a fake heart and fig leaves tied up to cover your imperfections. Hey we are ALL sinners saved by grace. We need healing this Christmas. Healing from our addiction to perfectionism.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Luke 2:8-11 NKJV - "Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. "For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."</i></div>
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You can find the words "do not be afraid" even in the Christmas story. Be brave have courage and fear not! The Shepherds are a great example to us. They were willing to go just as the angel told them. They did no hiding, no fake photo ops just pure authentic shepherds praising the saviors birth. What a glorious picture for us. </div>
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I'm still working on writing my Christmas letter and waiting for the family photo card I ordered just this week to arrive. I need to buy stamps and make my address list. There are endless shopping lists, presents to buy, parties to attend and the never ending chores of the everyday still have to be done. I choose to be naked and openly say I am not perfect. I still don't have a Christmas tree yet and the lights we bought to put outside are still in the box. I have grand plans for using that secret Pinterest board on the best Christmas cookies and homemade gifts to make for all my friends -- but this year it just may not happen. Sorry friends! I choose the best Gift: Jesus over perfection and I'm ditching the fig leaves.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"I don't want a Christmas you can buy.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I don't want a Christmas you can make.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>What I want for Christmas is a Christmas I can hold.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>A Christmas that holds me, remakes me, revives me.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I want a Christmas that whispers , Jesus!"</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>---Ann Voskamp <u>The Greatest Gift</u></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Merry Christmas!</b></i></span></div>
Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-55408057806592773502014-11-12T21:40:00.003-08:002014-11-17T21:35:18.032-08:00Let the Children ComeThere is a big difference between being tired and burned out. I am physically tired due to this season of life with a little 16 month old running around. Zachariah is into everything. I mean EVERYTHING. I also have the privilege of homeschooling my oldest boy Dustin. This also is a task that requires self-sacrifice and huge time commitment. I don't do it alone, which I am thankful for, but it does mean I have to prioritize my day. The last few days have been crazy to say the least. We have been trying to get a backyard project completed all summer long and well the timing wasn't perfect but, we finally got a concrete patio poured in our backyard. The thing about it is that means the dogs, all 4 of them can't be in the yard for 3 days. In case you don't live in an area that is receiving an arctic blast let me just tell you it's cold, bone chilling cold. Right now it's 11 degrees. Winter blew in and settled in. So the last few nights I have spent time bundling myself up to take trips outside with dogs who are not leash trained in any fashion to go potty. This routine of going outside is filled with drama. It is not an easy feat to take one dog because all four of them want to go at the same time. Try doing this at 2 am half asleep and trying to keep quiet so you don't wake the rest of the house! I have spent two times now chasing dogs who seem to have a mind of their own and want to taste freedom. This makes me tired!<br />
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I've been working on some ideas for children's ministry at church lately. I was recently challenged by my husband to figure out why the disciples prevented the little children from coming to Jesus. Why would they do this? I mean it's Jesus - the man who heals the lame, sick and blind. Why would they say we don't want any kids here? It was the disciples telling the parents, we don't want your kids here.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Matthew 19:13 NKJV] "Then little children were brought to Him that He might put [His] hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them." </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">[Matthew 19:14 NKJV] "But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven."" </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">[Matthew 19:15 NKJV] "And He laid [His] hands on them and departed from there."</i></div>
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Looking at verse 13 we have a key word: then. You see Jesus was busy. He was up over his eye-balls in day to day ministry activities. Let's face it, He was busy doing miracles, preaching and teaching and traveling. He had just finished dealing with a question about divorce from the pharisees. Before that he was in Galilee and traveled to Judea beyond the Jordan. This was a journey on foot that normally took two and a half days, roughly 70 miles as a straight path. But this meant going through the region of Samaria. Jews would take the long route to avoid Samaria. They traveled the hot desert road from Jerusalem to Jericho, and up the Jordan valley. This route would be twice as long and much hotter and more uncomfortable. This means Jesus just spent four days give or take out in the desert walking and entered into ministering to the people immediately upon arrival to the Jordan area.<br />
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This reminds me of another time the Lord was traveling from Galilee to the Jordan area. Except this time he traveled through Samaria. Jesus cut right through on a straight path to a well outside of town for an important encounter. There was a woman coming to the well to draw water.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[John 4:3 NKJV] "He left Judea and departed again to Galilee." </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">[John 4:4 NKJV] "But He needed to go through Samaria." </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">[John 4:5 NKJV] "So He came to a city of Samaria which is called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph."</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[John 4:6 NKJV] "Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from [His] journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour." </i></span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">[John 4:7 NKJV] "A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink."" </i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">[John 4:8 NKJV] "For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food."</i></div>
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Jesus was tired. Physically tired from walking in the hot desert sun and now apparently hungry and thirsty. The disciples go off into town to buy some food as Jesus sits down by the well. It's noon and the well should be vacant, but it's not.<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:6 NKJV] "Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from [His] journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour." </span></i><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:7 NKJV] "A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink.""</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:8 NKJV] "For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food."</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:9 NKJV] "Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?" For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans." </span></i><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:10 NKJV] "Jesus answered and said to her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, 'Give Me a drink,' you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.""</span></i></div>
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The point is this: even though Jesus was weary from his traveling, his teaching schedule and constant discussions with the pharisees he still did the will of the Father. He was still doing ministry. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Jesus was weary in the ministry, not of the ministry.</b></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:7 NKJV] "A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink.""</span></i><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:8 NKJV] "For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food."</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:9 NKJV] "Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?" For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans."</span></i><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:10 NKJV] "Jesus answered and said to her, "If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, 'Give Me a drink,' you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.""</span></i></div>
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Jesus goes on to explain to this woman all the details of her life and really takes her to the Living Well. This is in spite of his physical condition. He worked past it. At the end of the passage we catch a glimpse of how he was able to accomplish this. The disciples didn't understand. They thought someone else brought him food to eat. <br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:31 NKJV] "In the meantime His disciples urged Him, saying, "Rabbi, eat.""</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:32 NKJV] "But He said to them, "I have food to eat of which you do not know.""</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:33 NKJV] "Therefore the disciples said to one another, "Has anyone brought Him [anything] to eat?""</span></i><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[John 4:34 NKJV] "Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work."</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The secret to not becoming weary of the ministry is to continually do the will of the Father.</b></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[Matthew 6:33 NKJV]</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."</span></i></div>
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If God has called you to something He will be faithful to equip you as you serve. The hard part is staying committed to the calling. Continually doing the will of the Father has some amazing benefits both here on earth and later for heaven. <br />
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So back to why the disciples were telling parents to keep the kids away from Jesus. I think the disciples were tired also and just hadn't figured out how to continually do the will of the Father and not be weary of the ministry. One bonus we have now is the power of the Holy Spirit in us to give us power to accomplish His will. There are lots of things in this world that can cause us to become tired. We just have to keep our focus so we don't loose sight of the prize ahead. In children's ministry it's no different. It seems like a revolving door. No one wants the job of Sunday school teacher. The job of teaching kids isn't the most visible position of leadership. Yet even Jesus wasn't too busy to lay hands and pray over the children. We shouldn't be either.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Galatians 6:9 NKJV]</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i> "And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So the question I have is how committed are you? Are you weary of the ministry or weary in the ministry? We must take time to seek first the kingdom of God </span>which<span style="font-family: inherit;"> requires praying, reading the Word and waiting for Him to respond. Let's not loose heart. The children are important. </span></div>
Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-27701312410147293112014-11-04T19:49:00.003-08:002014-11-04T19:49:33.917-08:00The Attitudes to Be<br />
The treasury of scripture never ends. The deeper you dig the more buried treasure there is to find. I love this about the Word. There isn't enough time in my life to spend studying the truths buried between the lines of each verse. I have set to a habit of cogitating the profoundness of this great and marvelous mystery. It is an absolute joy and privilege to have the ample resources at my finger tips to make digging into the Word easy. Tools at the swipe of my finger, located on my iPhone like the <a href="http://www.blueletterbible.org/" target="_blank">Blue Letter Bible</a>, software programs like <a href="https://www.logos.com/" target="_blank">Logos</a>, pod casts from various pastors and YouTube videos of teachings. <br />
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I always found it hard to understand this particular passage of scripture in Matthew chapter 5. I have spent some time really studying it and wanted to share my findings. Of course these aren't all my original thoughts. Mostly this is due to the fact that my Bible study group is covering the life of Jesus and we just happened to finish up on this. I have re-read this over and over. Trying to wrap my human brain around these God-concepts. The Holy Spirit gives us understanding when we earnestly seek and ask. I am so thankful for this.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Matthew 5:1-12</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:1 NKJV] And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:2 NKJV] Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:3 NKJV] "Blessed [are] the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:4 NKJV] Blessed [are] those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:5 NKJV] Blessed [are] the meek, For they shall inherit the earth.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:6 NKJV] Blessed [are] those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:7 NKJV] Blessed [are] the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:8 NKJV] Blessed [are] the pure in heart, For they shall see God.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:9 NKJV] Blessed [are] the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:10 NKJV] Blessed [are] those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:11 NKJV] "Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>[Mat 5:12 NKJV] "Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great [is] your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.</i></span></div>
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<b>Verse 3</b><br />
When I am poor in spirit I recognize I am nothing. Jesus is everything and I am nothing without Him. I am a broken vessel unable to fix myself and in need of someone to save me from myself.<br />
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<b>Verse 4</b><br />
I was always confused about those who morn. Why would it be a blessing to just cry? Then I understood why the crying was taking place. When you honestly take inventory of your heart it will reveal the ugly secrets you want know one to ever know about.<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Psalm 51:2-4;10-11</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For I acknowledge my transgressions, And my sin [is] always before me.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Against You, You only, have I sinned, And done [this] evil in Your sight--That You may be found just when You speak, [And] blameless when You judge.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Do not cast me away from Your presence, And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.</span></i></div>
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Cleansing takes place as we mourn or cry over our sin, our brokenness, our need for a savior. I plead with God to forgive my sin and I am sorry and ask for forgiveness from my sin that separates me from God.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bleeding Heart</td></tr>
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<b>Verse 5</b><br />
Poor in spirit is meekness. It is being humble. It is an emptying of self. We can label this pride or arrogance. It is surrendering your rights and giving full control to the Lord.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f9fafb; font-family: inherit; line-height: 16.1280002593994px;"><i>"Meekness toward God is that disposition of spirit in which we accept His dealings with us as good, and therefore without disputing or resisting. In the OT, the meek are those wholly relying on God rather than their own strength to defend against injustice. Thus, meekness toward evil people means knowing God is permitting the injuries they inflict, that He is using them to purify His elect, and that He will deliver His elect in His time (Isa 41:17, Luk 18:1-8). Gentleness or meekness is the opposite to self-assertiveness and self-interest. It stems from trust in God's goodness and control over the situation. The gentle person is not occupied with self at all. This is a work of the Holy Spirit, not of the human will (Gal 5:23). " Copied from Blue Letter Bible</i></span><br />
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Even Jesus made himself humble (Philippians 2) even to the point of death on a cross.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">
Strong's G5013 - <em id="yui-gen64" style="border: 0px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); bottom: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: arial, helvetica; font-size: 0.9em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; vertical-align: top;">tapeinoō</em></span></h1>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">to make low, bring low</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to level, reduce to a plain</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">metaph. to bring into a humble condition, reduce to meaner circumstances</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to assign a lower rank or place to</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to abase</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to be ranked below others who are honoured or rewarded</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to humble or abase myself by humble living</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to lower, depress</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">of one's soul bring down one's pride</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to have a modest opinion of one's self</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to behave in an unassuming manner </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">devoid of all haughtiness</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Verse 6</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now that I have admitted I am a sinner, repented of my sin and confessed Jesus as Lord of my life and I am in submission to Him; now I am truly empty ready to be filled. If the previous statement is true I will be </span>genuinely<span style="font-family: inherit;"> hungry for God to fill me. So it begs the question, am I really hungry for God in my life? Am I looking for Him to fill me? What am I filling myself with?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Verse 7</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When I extend mercy to others it will be given to me. Because I am poor in spirit I can give to others in a self-less way. It's not </span>judging<span style="font-family: inherit;"> when really judgment is necessary. One just simply over looks the issue at hand. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;">Ephesians 4:32 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"</i><i>And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you."</i></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">Verse 8</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My motivation of self promotion has died. I am not </span>pursuing<span style="font-family: inherit;"> fame and recognition of man. No I am in the business of giving glory to an audience of One. My heart has grieved over my own sin and I am free of self seeking glorification.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Mark 9:35 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>"A</i><i>nd He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all."</i></span></div>
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<b>Verse 9</b></div>
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Being a peacemaker is not something you can fake. This is where you find out if you have thick skin or not. People can me mean. I have laid down my rights and my ideas of how things should be done. Yes I still have opinions but self-promotion has ceased. I am a servant and I want to keep the peace around me by leading by example.</div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Romans 12:9-21</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[Let] love [be] without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[Be] kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another;</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but [rather] give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance [is] Mine, I will repay," says the Lord.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head."</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Verses 10-12</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIgZun5PWvz6Vlh0Mx-BZLgdkGanugSqlV879-QPk08UJYsgfaOlnKyZg-7GoWUnWytKBiM8Zt5CjZBTGcHzA-D3V7NyE0dUNVDAwT2bWvj73YWX63PrYcfavIU_-bwnMYg_2BHGKQRIUC/s1600/IMG_0871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIgZun5PWvz6Vlh0Mx-BZLgdkGanugSqlV879-QPk08UJYsgfaOlnKyZg-7GoWUnWytKBiM8Zt5CjZBTGcHzA-D3V7NyE0dUNVDAwT2bWvj73YWX63PrYcfavIU_-bwnMYg_2BHGKQRIUC/s1600/IMG_0871.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is my conviction. Do others see my beliefs lived out loud and know where I stand? To some I will be a sweet fragrance and to others the smell of death (2 Corinthians 2:15) This is one we just don't want to talk about. Persecution. Here in comfy USA we just don't give it much thought. Yet I do believe their are several types of persecution. The obvious and most easily recognized would be current day saints in chains because of their faith. Pastor <a href="http://beheardproject.com/saeed" target="_blank">Saeed Abadeni </a>from Boise Idaho is one of many in chains for his faith. His story like others reminds us that </span>persecution<span style="font-family: inherit;"> is real. We can also experience </span>persecution<span style="font-family: inherit;"> from friends and family when we take a stand that others don't agree with. The end result is the same. </span>Persecution<span style="font-family: inherit;"> was meant to spark growth and the spread of the Gospel. I have no doubt that is exactly what Saeed is doing in a very dark place. This earth is not my home. I am on a mission to know Him and make Him known whatever the cost. You have to decide what side of th fence you are on before perscution arrives at your door. The reality of our world today should provoke us to live out our faith. With news reports of school shootings, be-headings occurring globally, the rise of ISIS and Ebola outbreaks one must be ready. Be ready now. Don't wait church. We were told by Jesus that trouble will come. It is not a matter of IF but WHEN.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">John 16:33 </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."</span></i></div>
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Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-76434592708348480672014-10-25T22:55:00.002-07:002014-10-25T22:55:26.075-07:00My Hardest PeaceI am a fighter. I am stubborn. I admit I want it my way and my way now. It's this flesh that keeps me trapped and stuck on my man-centered ideals and a false reality that life is all about me. Cue the thunder and lightening bolts from heaven. Wake up and slap my-self silly to recognize it's not about me, it never was about me. I finally came to that realization after I had finished college, married prince charming and had one baby. I had bought into the lie that life was about the pursuit of happiness the <i>Great American Dream</i> had lied to my <u>Little House on the Prairie</u> romantic ideas of farm life. Well if the <i>American Dream</i> was a lie then my fantasy of farm life painted on <u>Little House on the Prairie</u> was even worse. Farm life is hard work. Not for the weak or weak minded. There is a lot of work to keep a farm operating. I married my college sweetheart who was preparing for a career as a veterinarian. I worked four years in the lab as a chemist and scientist. Put him through school. I wore rubber gloves, a white coat and sometimes safety goggles. I loved my job. Too bad those goggles didn't save my eyes for the road ahead. The short story is we found our way to Idaho after four years in Iowa and two in California. We moved to Idaho I was 8 months pregnant. The farm we were purchasing fell out of escrow. We moved into my brother and sister-laws basement. So now we are in a new state, no friends, new baby and stuck in a basement. I traded the basement for a double wide 1970's mobile home about four months later. It wasn't my idea of a farm house. It was home and it was in the trailer that I realized life wasn't about me. It was about Him. God exists to glorify himself, He created me to glorify Him. My story and everyone's story is to bring Him glory.<br />
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"<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">God loves His glory more than He loves us, and this is the foundation of His love for us."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> John Piper</span></div>
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I had allowed myself to become bitter and depressed because things just weren't going the way I wanted or had planned. I was miserable and made others around me just as or even worse. Light began to shed on my life as I once again began reading the Word and actually doing what it says. A friend had challenged me to read the Bible through in one year. Read daily for one year. Wow. Seems simple. This simple idea became my safe place, my shelter from the life I had and the life I dreamed of having. I found my hope, my peace and self in this. I began to change from a man-centered view to a God-centered view. In other words living self-free. It's not about me. I had made it all about me. My heart had some healing to do. I was broken. Deep in a pit of dark depression. Secretly I saw a counselor who really didn't help but just allowed me to vent my venomous thoughts.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">and in His law he meditates day and night. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">of water that bring forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf does not wither; </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">and whatever he does shall prosper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Psalm 1:1-3</span></div>
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Not all counselors are that way I have now discovered. Honestly you can go and find a person who will tell you want you want to hear. It won't change anything. It makes you feel good for a little while. But nothing changes. Feelings lie. Now If you talk to the Counselor and read His word then bingo, life can change. Mine did. I experienced such healing and growth it is hard to put it in words. I just know that I know. What proof is there other that I am just simply not the same person I was? I entered into a season of discovery in my faith. Who really was this Jesus? I wanted to know Him and make Him known. My prayers shifted.I had found my peace in the midst of a hard season.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death." Philippians 3:10</span></div>
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I embarked on a journey few take. It is the narrow gate that leads to the abundant life. I was praying for change. The change was happening slowly but surely. I was losing myself and finding Christ in the everyday tasks of living. God was teaching me the holy disciplines of being His child: reading the Word, memorizing it, pondering it, praying it. I simply couldn't get enough. I became involved in Celebrate Recovery. I participated in small groups and shared my heart with other hurting women from all walks of life. I began to serve. It is in serving that we truly model to others how amazing the power of Christ can change a person's life. It's all about the story. My story is His-story. We tend to judge a person's story based on the outcome: how good or bad it is. We fail to see that it is His-story published for others to see the good and bad, not to judge it.<br />
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Fast forward five years...blink . . .and my baby is now finishing kindergarten. We also were able to purchase the original farmhouse and acreage that completed our property. Signed the papers as a sweet present from the Lord on Valentine's Day. It was finally looking like my life was taking a turn. I was humbled to see God answering my prayers for a better home for my family. Bitterness and resentment were in my past and I was glad to have faced them. The soil of my heart had been worked over and new fruit was forming.<br />
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Everything changed on May 13, 2011. I was diagnosed with cancer. Here I was 34 years old with colon cancer. It wasn't until The first week of June when I found out it was stage 3B and I would need to have chemotherapy. I had a calm resolve. I didn't panic. Yes I cried. A lot. Buckets to be more specific. I knew who my God was and is. I knew where my safe place was. I went there and stayed for as long as I could in those long days of endless hurry up and wait for another test result. The answers just didn't seem to come quick enough. They always seemed to lead to more tests and more questions.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My flesh and my heart may fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Psalm 73:26</span></div>
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It was as if time kept going around me but I had hit the pause button. Everything was swirling around me almost in slow motion. I had a lot of why questions. Why me? Why now? I also had a lot of what if questions. What if I don't make it? What if I don't see my baby grow up? What if I don't get to grow old with my husband? But then God reminded me to trust Him with everything. To be thankful in all circumstances. Suffering with a physical health issue is just not fun. Yes this was a wake up call. God is getting my attention and the attention of those around me. God is in control of all circumstances. Nothing gets by Him that He doesn't allow - that is for the believer. He uses the schemes of the devil to bring Him glory. I have learned that suffering doesn't create character it reveals it. Through the pain of this trial I grew in Christ in countless ways. It has also prepared me to help others who are walking the same road I walked. It is a privilege to comfort them. I still have the why questions. I still travel to the oncologist every three months for tests and yearly for CT scans. I get poked and scanned. I hold my breath and exhale. I breathe in deep because I know God is sovereign and in control. It's been three and half years since my diagnosis. So far my tests have all been negative for cancer. It is Him that is responsible for bringing cancer to my journey here on the earth. I am forever grateful. It has been the hardest mountain. I wouldn't trade it, for it has given me the greatest and hardest peace of all: knowing Him even more.<br />
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This post in in response to a challenge by Kara Tippetts who is a breast cancer survivor battling for her life. She blogs about her journey and sweet family at <a href="http://mundanefaithfulness.com/" target="_blank">mundanefaithfulness</a>. Recently Kara wrote a book called <u><a href="http://mundanefaithfulness.com/the-hardest-peace-book/" target="_blank">the hardest peace: expecting grace in the midst of life's hard</a></u>.I highly recommend her blog and her book. Blessing fellow cancer survivors!<br />
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<br />Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-56226168277717309282014-10-16T21:41:00.000-07:002014-10-16T21:52:52.539-07:00Making a Come Back<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So I know it's been a while since my hand rested on the keyboard and I stared blissfully into the LED light of my laptop. What can I say? Life happens. I have been busy. Busy doing important things. You know like mothering my babies, tending a garden, chasing two growing energy laden puppies around, home-schooling my oldest boy, continuing ministry activities and occasionally cook, clean and do laundry. Not to mention, just enjoying this season of life. Reading that makes me tired! I feel a sense of conviction to write again in this blog realm. This is part of my journey; my continued healing and recovery from cancer. I face it daily. I don't like to admit it but my own mortality stares back at me in the mirror every morning. Life is fragile. Life is short. Too short. We have no idea of when it will come to an end. We just know our days are numbered and we must make to most of each day. Live like you are dying. Sounds familiar to the words of Jesus, <span style="font-size: large;">"</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;">He who finds his life will lose</span><span style="font-size: large;"> it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it." Matthew 10:39</span> I feel like I have lost it. I am literally pulling my hair out going bonkers in my mind trying to jungle it all. Yet I am finding myself in this season of life. More so than ever, I know I am doing what God wants me to do. It's my so called "job"to be a wife, a mother and a follower of His ways. Do it all for His glory because there is just simply nothing else on this planet better than that. I continue to undergo diagnostic testing to monitor my blood, have CT scans and routine conoloscopy check-ups. So far so good. God is so merciful to me. I am so very thankful. So many have asked how I am doing and what is going on with my health now that I am three and a half years from my diagnosis. I want to share. I want to scream it from the rooftops. He is good, all the time God is good.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jL1XKoQnhx6tm8agTzZvooPgHg6-zPlOTqK3c-uL1LMrMObWOUCG1u8up4CKH9VeiY1ruLbQTROhozWKqn8U1gRd24vL0W4O64sN9sSrkq7Bz4uPWQt1DeVqrwciYyxvp9d8SBbb9sgP/s1600/IMG_2455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jL1XKoQnhx6tm8agTzZvooPgHg6-zPlOTqK3c-uL1LMrMObWOUCG1u8up4CKH9VeiY1ruLbQTROhozWKqn8U1gRd24vL0W4O64sN9sSrkq7Bz4uPWQt1DeVqrwciYyxvp9d8SBbb9sgP/s1600/IMG_2455.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Boys</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0Hcv0jsr8R1PDUkjuRC9GIYRtVyTNs68YLSpdi62XcmPy8F7xgnXvEzq8d9LHquZhIu1llyTBOOlk9Fva5NEqstxxopAZzohZSWMStFNeAMPfuMeg06YXRs2AxnSAuGB0epvqcMcOr-G/s1600/IMG_2191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0Hcv0jsr8R1PDUkjuRC9GIYRtVyTNs68YLSpdi62XcmPy8F7xgnXvEzq8d9LHquZhIu1llyTBOOlk9Fva5NEqstxxopAZzohZSWMStFNeAMPfuMeg06YXRs2AxnSAuGB0epvqcMcOr-G/s1600/IMG_2191.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puppies</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So today I commit myself once again to faithfully log-in the hours to write. I have so many lessons I am learning and am continuing to ponder. The Lord is working in ways I never dreamed. His word is alive and active. I rejoice in the opportunity at hand to witness to those around me. Watch and see what the Lord will do. Strange things yes are on the horizon. So I'm making a come back to the blog world. I have an appointment with my laptop. I hope you will make an appointment to visit my blog and read what my heart speaks through the keys on the keyboard to the white light of the computer screen. May the Lord be glorified.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #f8f8da;"><br /></span></span>Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-13685741353614719602014-04-13T16:02:00.000-07:002014-04-13T16:02:07.199-07:00Key Number OneWe must <b>learn</b> like Paul.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>whatever state I am to be content. Philippians 4:11-12</i></span></div>
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Learning is key number one. Paul tells us that he has learned. The verb tense tells us that it took some effort and time. It's like when you first start to play the piano. You have to keep at it. You practice until you learn how to do it. Being content is like that. You can't just sit down at the paino bench and expect to play Mozart. You build up to it. Sometimes it takes days, weeks, months and even years to master. This is what Paul was writing about. He had to go through the training in order to learn. Paul didn't just one day wake up and say <i>oh I have contentment in my life now</i>. No he went through a lot of things to get to a place where he could honestly pen the words <i>I have learned to be content</i>.<br />
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I can only imagine that before his conversion Paul was a disciplined man. He was a Pharisee among the strictest sect of Jewish religious zealots and leaders. He would have know the first 4 books of the Old Testament by memory. Not to mention the 600 plus additional "rules" laid out by man's attempt to be holy. He was a smart man and had the ability to store and retrieve knowledge in his brain. Once Paul switched camps and became a true believer he didn't waste all his knowledge. He put it to good use for the sake of the Gospel. He used all the circumstances in his life as training material. He recorded it all in his brain and then made mental notes. He kept his eyes on the prize. Think about the long list of hardships Paul endured. Here is a list:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Prison </li>
<li>Beaten countless times</li>
<li>Danger of death</li>
<li>Stoned</li>
<li>Shipwrecked 3 times</li>
<li>Snake Bitten</li>
<li>Hunger</li>
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Sometimes learning comes with a steep price and the "learning curve" comes out of now where. Or should I say you have no idea how on earth it will be possible to learn form this situation. In the end Paul is able to write down what he has learned and share his wealth of knowledge. I often wonder if he gave any thought as to the vast impact of his writings. Time has surely seasoned his writings and enabled all of us to learn from his experiences. What a privilege for Paul to be used in such an amazing way. Proof again that God uses ALL things for His glory and nothing -- nothing -- is ever wasted for the sake of the Kingdom of Christ.<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to <em>His</em> purpose." Romans 8:28</span></i></div>
<br />Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7891203336688161320.post-41044106060169038472013-11-07T08:27:00.002-08:002013-11-07T08:28:04.658-08:00When Everything is Fine and When It's NotUnlocking Joy - Keys to Understanding Joy<br />
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Can I really have joy at all times?<br />
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What does the response to the question,<i> "Hi how are you?"</i> typically answered? Usually I'm <i>fine</i>...<br />
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What does this really mean to you? Are you really honestly <i>fine</i>?<br />
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Can we honestly define fine?<br />
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How do you you know deep down that God is good? Whatever crosses your path....cancer and everything else.<br />
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Read Luke 17:11-19 The Story of the 10 Lepers<br />
My attention is drawn to two words in this passage of scripture. The first word is found in verse 14, "And so it was that as they went, they were <b>cleansed</b>." As they went walking towards the temple to show themselves to the priests they were cleansed. This speaks of the outside change that occurs in our lives. A physical difference occurs. This is visible to those around us. For lepers this would be a hugs deal to not have the mark of infected skin. Now that had the ability to enter the temple and participate with others and actually have fellowship. As I read on later in verse 19 am am struck by the second word, "And He said to them arise, go your way, your faith has made you <b>well</b>. The leper who returned to thank Jesus was made whole. His faith resulted in wholeness. In the Greek the word wholeness is <i>sozo</i>, which means salvation. This is very interesting and a huge nugget of truth I have stumbled upon. I dig a bit deeper and discover that because this man had faith to boldly so thank you it had a profound effect upon his salvation -- how appropriate to say thank you to Jesus. We say thank you to Jesus when we partake of the communion. We break break and drink the cup and remember, we are thankful. This act of thanking God reminds us of the cross and what Jesus did for each one of us. We remember grace is a gift. It is the gift of salvation we are thankful for.<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">"For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men." Titus 2:11</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Now we can say that thanksgiving is the evidence of our acceptance of whatever He gives.</b></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">"Whoever offers praise glorifies me. And to him who orders his conduct aright I will show the salvation of God." Psalm 50:23</span></i></div>
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Thanksgiving results in a full-life -- the abundant life -- the blessed life.<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs in the kingdom of heaven.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are those who morn, for they shall be comforted.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are the pure i heart, for they shall see God.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Matthew 5: 3-10</span></i></div>
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What is the opposite of thankfulness?<br />
Ingratitude - Ungratefulness <br />
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This is the robber of joy. It stops us dead in our tracks and replaces our joy with a negative attitude and a heart that stinks full of ingratitude and ungratefulness.<br />
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So what is the key to unlocking joy?<br />
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I have four keys that have helped me in my battle for joy. I will outline them here and then in the next few posts I will expand on each key.<br />
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Key #1<br />
We must <b>learn</b> like Paul...Philippians 4:11-12<br />
Learn to be content<br />
Takes Practice<br />
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Key #2<br />
That I might<b> know</b> Him...Philippians 3:10-11<br />
Takes quality time<br />
Need to get my mind engaged<br />
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Key #3<br />
<b>Work out</b> your own salvation...Philippians 2:12<br />
Requires discipline<br />
Holy habits<br />
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Key #4<br />
Not only to believe in Him, but to <b>suffer</b>...Philippians 1:29<br />
Experience growth<br />
Christ magnified in us<br />
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Am I really willing to do the hard work to have joy always?<br />
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Can I really do something to help my self break this bad habit of ungratefulness?<br />
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I hope to answer these questions over the next few posts...Anna Luehrshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04743521508667640878noreply@blogger.com1