In the normalcy of routine, Father spoke this uncanny parallel. Just as Daryl routinely clothes himself daily with this irreplaceable Under Armor sweatshirt, so should I clothe myself with these … Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love. Clothed in this wardrobe God picked out for us, leads us to take action to meet another’s need which in turn opens doors to share love, specifically Father’s love. Reality is, as I walk with Jesus every single day, I should routinely – without hesitation or second thought – finish off my attire with these … just as Daryl routinely – without hesitation or second thought – finishes off his attire with the comfort of said item. Unfortunately, being clothed with these doesn’t mean a selfless, stress free, worry free, anxiety free, life. No, it simply redirects my direction to another closet. A closet filled articles that indicate the peace of Christ dwells in my heart.
The absurdity of this parallel spoke deeply to my soul in my role as hospitality coordinator (a.k.a. need-meeter). If I am clothed with anything other than these, I will attempt to meet their needs out of pride, worldly wisdom, and an ‘I can do it’ mentality. In my daily routine, it is a vital necessity that I first meet with Jesus, clothe myself with these and walk confidently by His side trusting that He will meet the needs around me … for His glory!
I’ve been pondering the fact that it would appear easier to clothe myself with these if yours truly were not such a slave to fashion and my closet had fewer resources. However, I’ve come to the conclusion that even in routine, clothing myself with these basic, all-purpose garments is still a choice. Made easier only as I walk intimately with my Clothing Designer.
What are you clothing yourself with today? Would you care to join me in refreshing your closet so that the peace of Christ dwells in your heart?
Choosing His attire ... Their needs are met ... Filled with His peace.
Life on the Mountain
They came - 3 Vida220 coordinators, 3 team leaders, 9 staff (old and new), 13 students! And, we are learning to know, love and disciple them! This is what community, relationship and challenge are all about. The first two 'new people' weeks are always full of medical questions, advice and challenges. (He is our need-meeter!) There seems to not be many quiet moments as we spend our days at Casa Vidanet. Little Caesars has blessed our bellies and wallets at the end of these busy weeks for our Friday pizza and movie night! 80's day costumes; Parades, lanterns and a week off school for our beloved CR independence day; Staff orientation and updating job descriptions; Youth group for Jedidiah is once again in our routine; Jump center birthday celebrations; A visit with our favorite ER doctor, Dr. Jenkins, for a sprained thumb; New staff driving lessons; Life-giving shopping buddies; And ... making a closet choice in the routine of life to clothe ourselves with these.
Praise
Staff who desire to serve Jesus in the routines of base maintenance, hospitality, administration, communications and community service.
Friends to share life with
Sprained not fractured thumb
Students who desire to grow with Jesus
Jesus' presence to meet simple and complex needs
Prayer
As we look to another term of service, December 2023 - August 2026
Would you prayerfully consider financial support for our family?
Clear direction for school options for Jedidiah
Wisdom for Micah and team as they coordinate life for our Vida220 students
Adam's tender heart to process as his best neighbor buddy moves to another house
Jedidiah to be a leader in our home and outside our walls
Joseph connections and friendship
Lean into the Everlasting Arms as we face challenges with family life, leadership and mentor relationships.
To clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love.
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| 80's themed school day ... Reliving my Jr. high and high school fashion statements! Collars up and peg your jeans! |
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| Celebrating Kids Day ... He was seen only by his blue shoes and stripped socks! |
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| Kids day is always more fun with a buddy! |
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| These mighty men have stolen Mama Jen's heart with grandmotherly affection! |
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| Adam representing the role of Adam! |
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| If this picture could talk ... stories and laughter with every expression! |
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| He ran the torch from the center of town to school to kick off the independence festivities! ... Proud mama moment! |
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| Lantern parade with school friends. |
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| Another year, another independence day parade ... His musical ability is amazing! To God be the glory! |
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| Our beloved Professor and 2 brother duos! |
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| Jump Center memories ... Bruise/abrasions from jumping and landing on his back learning to Wall-walk! |
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| No caption needed! |
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| Two Jedidiah's!!! Ones first name, the other's middle name! |
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| For the love of learning ... |
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| The Cabin and the 70 ... two of his favorite things! |
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| Colossians 3:12–14 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. |
