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FROM THE BLOG

A review of 3 new fiction titles

A review of the first 2 books in the new 'The Art of' series by Matthew Porter

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'Journey with Grace' a new book by Sarah Grace, featuring a unique dyslexic-friendly font

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What a tough time we find ourselves in as we negotiate our everyday lives through a pandemic. As lockdown hit, I was finishing writing my book Journey with Grace , and was taken by surprise at how much it seemed relevant and timely. Had I been listening enough to God about the timing? Was I ahead of Him or behind Him? I decided to just keep journeying on to find out rather than give in to the fear of whether I would complete the book. I decided to engage with what was coming up on this lockdown journey, embracing the moment yet like many others feeling a bit guilty for actually enjoying it. Within my book I talk about managing our mixed emotions ‘at such a time as this’.

Why Journey with Grace?

It is by God’s grace that we take this journey we call life. I hope by sharing my own story, along with those of other authors, clients and friends, that my book will help you enjoy life more, turning confusion into clarity, fear into peace, anxiety into creativity and doubt into trust. Every journey is unique, and we can learn along the way and from each other. I encourage everyone to journal, as journaling provides a wonderfully private moment in which we can make further connections, both emotional and spiritual. So, to accompany Journey with Grace I am publishing a journal. Here’s little taster from the book for you…

Courgettes, not Marrows

‘With a client, we were exploring how she was managing her health, her time and her relationships. An analogy came freely as she shared about her pleasure from her garden. It was important to her to take the time to attend to her courgettes before they became marrows. Her courgettes are manageable, tasty and small enough to enjoy. Left to their own devices, they grow into marrows. I ask her what these are like for her. “They are large, dirty, hard to deal with, cumbersome, taste strange and can be hard to get rid of. They feel heavy and I can’t do much with them. They get dumped to one the side, dirty and hard to manage.”

'Emotions that are not kept in check are like marrows. Even when they are pushed down or to the side, they are still growing. At some point they will need to be dealt with. I make the link for her emotional well being and I hope that the examples in the book will give you insight into yourself too.’

‘I hope this book will help you see what you already have inside that has perhaps got lost somewhere along the way, or maybe this will be a little more finely tuned and can be ‘re-gifted’ back to you? This can then be passed on to others, especially to younger generations, as we learn how to live our lives in a better way.’

By His Grace

I am passionate about helping those with dyslexia through publishing and counseling. I do all I can to help people overcome the issues that having dyslexia can create. I especially want to encourage reading and shine a light on some of the positives that dyslexia can bring. I explore this further in my book in the chapter ‘My Secret Weapon’.

I share how dyslexia affected me, tripping me up when I was not looking, as it was undiagnosed up until a few years ago. I was always doing things to the best of my ability, despite these challenges. Making this book the best it can be has been an incredible journey. Some days it has felt rather like a tsunami, and all I could do is try to bring it back to a gentle ripple of peace, reminding myself that today I can only achieve what was set before me, and not try to do more. Sometimes it’s hard to cope with the unknown but I try and make the most of each and every day. Turning weakness into strength brings me great joy.

The most exciting part of my work so far is the privilege of inspiring the creation of a dyslexic-friendly font. Klaus, my most brilliant typographer, has even named it Grace! This is now being showcased for the first time in Journey with Grace . How wow is that!

Sarah Grace is an integrative psychotherapist in private practice and a director at Malcolm Down and Sarah Grace Publishing. Embracing her own life journey with dyslexia, she uses her counselling and coaching skills, to work closely with clients helping them lead a more fulfilling life.

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Together is the Christian resources magazine for the UK, with stories of what God is doing across the church today, book reviews and publishing industry news. Subscribe now at www.togethermagazine.org.

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Journey with Grace International Ministry

Main content, jwg international ministry 's mission is to feed, educate, clothe and encourage the orphaned and poor children in countries throughout the world..

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Journey with Grace: Dreams, Visions, Abundant Life Experience Kindle Edition

Have you ever wondered what grace really is? Is there more to it than just forgiveness of sins?

Disturbing dreams, visions, and a mysterious neighbor have interrupted Grace Williams' safe, predictable life. She's enjoyed the leisurely pace of this small town in Virginia, where she lives comfortably with her husband and two kids. But now, this neighbor, Angela, has taken her to an extraordinary place while Grace is facing challenges requiring lots of God's grace and wisdom. Will she find the grace she's looking for?

• Print length 161 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publisher Trilogy Christian Publishing
• Publication date August 2, 2022
• File size 606 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0B464MSTK
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Trilogy Christian Publishing; 1st edition (August 2, 2022)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ August 2, 2022
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 606 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 161 pages
• #57,862 in Christian Fiction (Kindle Store)
• #143,592 in Christian Literature & Fiction

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A Journey of Grace

NAZARENE DISCIPLESHIP

Join the journey today.

DOWNLOAD VIDEO  

CHRISTLIKE  

DISCIPLES  

"I am the way and the truth

and the life"

Discipleship is a journey of grace with

Jesus as our guide and companion.

Christian discipleship helps

believers grow in the Lord

Jesus Christ as they are equipped

by His Holy Spirit, who resides within them,

to overcome the pressures and trials of

this present life and become more

and more Christlike.

Jesus Prepares

prevenient grace

God PREPARES the path before us. His hand reaches out and beckons us to Him, drawing us into a deeper relationship with Him. This grace both precedes our response and enables our response.

JESUS RESCUES

saving grace

Jesus RESCUES us from sin and leads us into the truth that sets us free. We receive the gift of saving grace by believing in God. He redeems us, makes us a new creation, and adopts us into His family.

JESUS GUIDES

sanctifying grace

The Holy Spirit EMPOWERS us to live a life fully consecrated to God. Sanctifying grace begins the moment we experience salvation. Initial sanctification is followed by spiritual growth in grace until, in a moment of full consecration and complete surrender on our part, God purifies and cleanses the heart.

DISCIPLES AND

DISCIPLE-MAKERS

ARE ABLE TO

SHARE THIS JOURNEY

OF GRACE BY...

WITNESSING: Every disciple of Jesus is called to share the story of God’s grace in his or her own life with others. As we make disciples, we must tell and retell the story of God’s grace in our lives and the lives of others.

WALKING : God does not make Christlike disciples in a moment. The journey of grace spans a lifetime. Christ calls His followers to a journey with others from no faith to new faith to mature faith . The journey with others takes patience. It takes love. It takes grace!

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About Us: JWG Aviation

JWG Aviation was founded by an aviation enthusiast, who had a deep passion for the industry. Although our company is relatively young, some of our team members, including our founder and owner, have been involved in aviation since 1986, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to every project we undertake.

One of the unique aspects of JWG Aviation is that we are not solely focused on aviation services. We use the sales of avionics to fund projects of the Journey With Grace International Ministry . Our ministry is dedicated to helping poor and orphaned children around the world, and provides life skills programs to them. By purchasing avionics from JWG Aviation, you are not only getting top-quality products, but you are also supporting a great cause.

At JWG Aviation, we are committed to providing excellent service while maintaining the highest levels of safety and quality. We take great pride in our work and strive to build long-lasting relationships with our clients. When you work with JWG Aviation, you can trust that you are receiving exceptional service from a team of aviation professionals who are passionate about what they do.

Contact us today so we can help you get back in the air.

Let us put our experience to work for you – no matter where you are in the world..

Navigating the Ups and Downs: Strategies to Ride the Emotional Roller Coaster with Grace

P icture this: You're cruising through life, feeling like you've got it all together, when suddenly, emotions hit you like a whirlwind. You find yourself on an emotional roller coaster, with highs and lows coming at you faster than you can say, "Whoa!"

Yep, that's what we call emotional whiplash, my friend. But fear not, because you're about to embark on a journey that will equip you with the tools and strategies to tackle this wild ride with a smile on your face and a skip in your step.

In this article, we're going to explore the wacky world of emotional whiplash and how to navigate its twists and turns. We understand how overwhelming it can be when your emotions seem to have a mind of their own. That's why we're here—to offer a helping hand and let you know that you're not alone in this experience. Together, we'll uncover the secrets to regaining emotional balance, embracing the ups and downs, and emerging from the emotional roller coaster stronger than ever.

So, buckle up and get ready for an adventure filled with practical tips, heartfelt support, and even a dash of lightheartedness. It's time to take control of your emotional whiplash and show it who's boss.

Understanding Emotional Whiplash

Emotional whiplash is an intricate phenomenon that can leave us feeling like we're caught in a whirlwind of emotions, spinning through highs and lows in rapid succession. It's as if our emotions have a mind of their own, pulling us in different directions without warning.

To truly grasp the nature of emotional whiplash, it's important to delve into its underlying causes. External triggers play a significant role in setting off this roller coaster ride. Stressful life events, such as the loss of a loved one, a breakup, job-related challenges, or major transitions, can act as catalysts for emotional turbulence. These triggers disrupt our emotional equilibrium, sending us on a wild ride through a myriad of feelings.

But it's not just external factors that contribute to emotional whiplash; our internal world also plays a crucial role. Our personal history, upbringing, and past experiences shape the way we perceive and respond to emotions. Some individuals may have learned to suppress or ignore their emotions, leading to an accumulation of unresolved feelings that eventually manifest as emotional whiplash. Others may have developed heightened emotional sensitivity, making them more susceptible to intense emotional fluctuations.

The oscillation between extreme emotional states characterizes emotional whiplash. It's like being on a pendulum, swinging from euphoria to despair within moments. One minute, you might be overflowing with excitement, feeling invincible and ready to conquer the world. But before you know it, that joy gives way to a sudden crash of sadness or anxiety, leaving you feeling depleted and confused.

Recognizing the patterns and characteristics of emotional whiplash is crucial for understanding and addressing this phenomenon. It helps us realize that we're not alone in experiencing these intense emotional shifts. Many people go through similar emotional roller coasters, and it's essential to approach our struggles with self-compassion and empathy.

By developing awareness of emotional whiplash, we can begin to unravel its complexities and gain insight into our own emotional landscape. Understanding the triggers and patterns specific to our experiences can empower us to navigate the ups and downs more effectively.

In the next section, we'll explore practical coping strategies to help you navigate the challenges of emotional whiplash. By adopting these techniques, you'll be equipped with tools to regain emotional balance and resilience in the face of unpredictable emotional swings. So, let's buckle up and discover how to ride the waves of emotional whiplash with grace and strength.

Riding the Emotional Roller Coaster: Coping Strategies

Emotional whiplash can feel like a wild and unpredictable roller coaster ride, but fear not! There are practical strategies you can employ to regain your footing and navigate the twists and turns of this emotional journey.

Emotional Awareness and Self-Reflection

Developing emotional awareness is a crucial first step in dealing with emotional whiplash. Take the time to tune in and identify your emotions as they arise. Notice the subtle shifts, and try to pinpoint the triggers or situations that tend to set off emotional fluctuations. Journaling, mindfulness exercises, or even seeking professional guidance can assist you in deepening your understanding of your emotional landscape.

Developing Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Cultivating healthy coping mechanisms can provide you with stability and resilience when faced with emotional whiplash. Find activities that allow you to express and process your emotions in a healthy way. Engage in regular exercise, practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation, or explore creative outlets like writing, painting, or playing an instrument. These activities can act as outlets for emotional release and provide a sense of grounding during turbulent times.

Seeking Support from Friends, Family, or Professionals

Remember, you don't have to navigate emotional whiplash alone. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or support groups who can offer a listening ear and understanding. Sometimes, simply sharing your experiences and emotions with someone else can provide immense relief and validation. Additionally, consider seeking professional support from therapists or counselors who specialize in emotional well-being. They can provide guidance, tools, and tailored strategies to help you manage and overcome emotional whiplash.

Embracing Lightheartedness

While dealing with emotional whiplash can be challenging, injecting a dose of lightheartedness can help you find moments of joy and relief. Seek out activities or experiences that bring you laughter and happiness. Engage in hobbies, watch funny movies, spend time with loved ones who bring positivity to your life, or engage in playful activities that allow you to let loose and experience moments of levity. Laughter and joy can be powerful antidotes to the intense emotions that accompany emotional whiplash.

Remember, coping with emotional whiplash is an ongoing process, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you explore and experiment with different coping strategies. Over time, you'll discover the techniques that resonate most with you and contribute to your emotional well-being.

In the next section, we'll delve into strategies to build emotional resilience, helping you weather the storms of emotional whiplash and bounce back stronger than ever. Get ready to harness your inner strength and embrace the challenges that come your way.

Harnessing Your Inner Strength: Building Emotional Resilience

Emotional whiplash can be a challenging and turbulent experience, but the good news is that you have within you the power to build emotional resilience and navigate these emotional storms with greater ease.

By harnessing your inner strength, you can bounce back from the ups and downs of emotional whiplash and emerge stronger than ever.

Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques

Cultivating mindfulness can help you develop an anchor amidst the emotional turbulence. Practice being present in the moment, focusing on your breath and bodily sensations. This can provide a sense of stability and help you detach from the whirlwind of emotions. Grounding techniques, such as focusing on your senses or engaging in activities that bring you into the present moment, can also be effective in grounding you during emotional fluctuations.

Positive Affirmations and Reframing Thoughts

Our thoughts have a significant impact on our emotions. Incorporate positive affirmations into your daily routine to counter negative self-talk and cultivate self-compassion. Remind yourself of your strengths, resilience, and ability to overcome challenges. Practice reframing negative thoughts into more positive or realistic perspectives. This can help you develop a resilient mindset and approach emotional whiplash with a greater sense of optimism.

Engaging in Activities that Bring Joy and Relaxation

Engage in activities that bring you joy, relaxation, and a sense of inner calm. This could include pursuing hobbies, spending time in nature, practicing yoga or meditation, listening to uplifting music, or engaging in creative endeavors. These activities serve as a respite from the emotional roller coaster and provide a space for rejuvenation and self-care. Prioritize self-nurturing activities that replenish your energy and foster emotional well-being.

Seeking Support from Loved Ones

Surround yourself with a support system of loved ones who provide encouragement, understanding, and a safe space for you to express your emotions. Share your experiences with them and lean on their support during challenging times. Being able to openly communicate your feelings and receive validation can be incredibly therapeutic and enhance your emotional resilience.

Building emotional resilience takes time and practice. Embrace the journey of self-discovery, acknowledging that setbacks are a natural part of growth. Remember that resilience is not about avoiding or suppressing emotions but rather learning to navigate them with grace and resilience.

In the next section, we'll explore the concept of embracing the journey, highlighting the potential for growth and transformation that arises from navigating emotional whiplash. Get ready to tap into your inner resilience and discover the profound lessons that lie within.

Embracing the Journey: Growth and Transformation

While emotional whiplash may seem like an overwhelming and chaotic experience, it also presents an opportunity for personal growth and transformation. By embracing the journey and navigating the challenges that come with emotional whiplash, you can emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient than before.

Positive Perspective on Emotional Whiplash

Shift your perspective and view emotional whiplash as a catalyst for growth rather than a burden. Recognize that the intensity of your emotions reflects your capacity for depth and passion. Embracing the journey means embracing the full range of human emotions, both the highs and the lows. By reframing your perspective, you can begin to see emotional whiplash as an invitation for self-exploration and self-discovery.

Extracting Lessons and Insights

Every emotional experience, no matter how challenging, offers valuable lessons and insights. Reflect on the patterns, triggers, and emotions that arise during episodes of emotional whiplash. What can you learn about yourself and your needs from these experiences? Are there any recurring themes or underlying issues that require attention? By engaging in self-reflection, you can uncover profound insights that pave the way for personal growth and healing.

Cultivating Resilience through Adversity

Emotional whiplash provides an opportunity to develop resilience. As you navigate the unpredictable emotional landscape, you learn to adapt and bounce back from setbacks. Each time you overcome a wave of intense emotions, you strengthen your emotional resilience muscles. Embrace the challenges as opportunities to grow and develop your inner strength. Remember, it's through the storms that we learn to appreciate the sunshine.

Practicing Self-Compassion and Self-Care

Be gentle with yourself as you navigate emotional whiplash. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging that emotional fluctuations are a normal part of the human experience. Treat yourself with kindness, understanding, and patience. Prioritize self-care activities that nurture your well-being and replenish your emotional reserves. By taking care of yourself, you equip yourself with the necessary tools to face emotional challenges head-on.

Embracing the journey of emotional whiplash requires a mindset shift and a willingness to embrace the lessons hidden within the ups and downs. By approaching this experience with curiosity, self-compassion, and a growth-oriented mindset, you can transform emotional whiplash into a catalyst for personal evolution.

Emotional whiplash may be a wild ride, but remember, you have the power within you to navigate its twists and turns. Throughout this article, we've explored the intricacies of emotional whiplash, learned practical coping strategies, and discovered the keys to building emotional resilience. By embracing the journey and viewing emotional whiplash as an opportunity for growth, you can transform this challenging experience into a catalyst for personal evolution.

Remember to cultivate self-awareness, develop healthy coping mechanisms, seek support from loved ones, and embrace moments of lightheartedness. As you harness your inner strength, practice self-compassion, and prioritize self-care, you'll find yourself better equipped to ride the waves of emotional whiplash with grace and resilience.

So, my friend, as you embark on this ongoing journey, know that you are not alone. We're here to support you, and within you lies an infinite capacity for growth and transformation. Embrace the challenges, extract the lessons, and trust in your inner strength. You have what it takes to navigate emotional whiplash and emerge from the roller coaster stronger, wiser, and ready to embrace life's twists and turns with open arms.

Search Journey with Jesus Website

Translate journey with jesus website, grace abounding.

Ray, please note that every week I want the upper right module teaser text to fit 100% into the home page module and not spill over onto the next page.  I will try to keep them short in order to do this but every once in a while you might have to edit.

Make a hotlink to my review of the book in the first paragraph. Do not make a link to the NYT article. Make a hotlink to the Levertov poem The Avowal.

Indent the intro text from Ephesians.

Lectionary essay for the March 10, 2024 RCL

TITLE = Grace Abounding

Images and descriptions for the lectionary essay: use the 4 images plus descriptions from here,  https://www.journeywithjesus.net/essays/3637-20150309JJ

Image for the upper left module home page:  use the first image from here,  https://www.journeywithjesus.net/essays/3637-20150309JJ

Poem for upper right module: Antilamentation,  https://www.journeywithjesus.net/poemsandprayers/1279-antilamentation

Image for upper right module: use photo from here,  https://www.doriannelaux.com/about

Teaser text for upper right module:  Dorianne Laux’s book  Only As the Day is Long  was a finalist for the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. Her latest collection is Life On Earth  (2024). Laux has received fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts, and has been a Pushcart Prize winner.  

Weekly Prayer  after end of essay: Mary Coleridge, After St. Augustine ,  https://www.journeywithjesus.net/poemsandprayers/527-mary-coleridge-after-st-augustine

Numbers 21:4-9 Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 Ephesians 2:1-10 John 3:14-21

Fourth Sunday in Lent

From Our Archive

Debie Thomas, Looking Up (2021); and In a Nutshell (2018); and Dan Clendenin, Confession is Good for the Soul (2012).

This Week's Essay

Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace you have been saved through faith, not of works."

For Sunday March 10, 2024 Fourth Sunday in Lent

Lectionary Readings ( Revised Common Lectionary , Year B)

Numbers 21:4-9

Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 Ephesians 2:1-10 John 3:14-21

I was born and raised in the Presbyterian church, but nonetheless came late to the observance of Lent. In recent years, my Lenten practices have included pretty standard fare. One year I read through the four gospels. Another year I read the book by Stanley Hauerwas called  Cross-Shattered Christ; Meditations on the Seven Last Words .  I've also given up coffee and alcohol, which taught me that abstinence is easier than self-control, and that my appetitive desires have a power all their own. 

Another Lent I ate just one meal a day in an effort to identify with the 800 million people around the world who experience chronic hunger. That was hard. By late afternoon I felt cold, even if I put on a sweater. I became agitated and distracted, unable to concentrate on anything. My fast also led to legalistic hair-splitting — wasn't an afternoon snack cheating, or just an early dinner? And didn't gorging myself at supper defeat the purpose of fasting in the first place?

I think these disciplines were good for me, even though I struggled with my motives. Lenten practices of self-denial are a positive pushback in our culture of self-indulgence.

Lenten disciplines also appeal to my ascetic streak. My wife jokes that I'm an "all or nothing" sort of person who won't take an afternoon hike with her but will do a 500-mile pilgrimage. I remember right where I was sitting at the dinner table thirty years ago when a friend joked, "Dan, were you  born  serious?"

On the other hand, the early desert monastics warned of all forms of extremist zeal. They knew from personal experience that there's a thin line between self-discipline and self-justification. In our culture of merit, Lenten disciplines can become a way to prove yourself, spiritually-speaking — to others, to yourself, and certainly to God. 

But trying to earn God's love is a fool's errand. It's both unnecessary and impossible.

So, one year for Lent I did something different. I did nothing at all. I tried to follow Edwina Gateley's wisdom (see below) to be quiet and still before God. To say nothing. Ask nothing. And do nothing. Nothing, that is, except to "let your God / Look upon you with his enormous love. / That is all."

And that's a different kind of hard.

I got support for my Lent-Lite from my wife. She likes to joke that "Lent isn't in the Bible." She's on the right side of Scripture, but the wrong side of history — since the fourth century, many Christians have observed the 40 week days before Easter as a season of reflection, repentance, fasting, and acts of mercy. Nonetheless, she makes a very Protestant point.

The Protestant Reformation denounced all manner of "romish popery." John Calvin dismissed Lent as a "superstitious observance." Huldrich Zwingli defended a Zurich printer named Christoph Froschauer, who had defied the church's prohibition against eating meat during Lent by inviting twelve friends for a sausage dinner. Froschauer was arrested, but later released, after Zwingli preached a sermon called On Rejecting Lent and Protecting Christian Liberty from Man-Made Obligations . So, even today, various Protestants do not observe Lent — Anabaptists, Quakers, some Baptists, various Reformed traditions, and all sorts of non-denominational believers.

I also have a friend who described to me how his spiritual director counseled him to "abstain" from all his tried-n-true ways of seeking God — conversational prayer, meditation, the rosary, Christian books,  lectio divina , and the like. He's "fasting" from all that hard work that he usually does to relate to God. Similarly, in a recent article in the NYT (February 17, 2024), Chanequa Walker-Barnes described giving up "self-neglect" for Lent. Instead, she focused on "40 Days of Self-Care," which practice led to her recent book Sacred Self-Care (2023).

Our Jewish friends have an ancient ritual to address our spiritualities of Trying Too Hard. It's called  Kol Nidre  — in Aramaic, "all vows." The  Kol Nidre  is a declaration that is recited at the beginning of the service on the eve of Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement).

The cantor chants a prayer that begins with the first two words  Kol Nidre :

"All vows, obligations, oaths, and anathemas, whether called 'ḳonam,' 'ḳonas,' or by any other name, which we may vow, or swear, or pledge, or whereby we may be bound, from this Day of Atonement until the next (whose happy coming we await), we do repent. May they be deemed absolved, forgiven, annulled, and void, and made of no effect; they shall not bind us nor have power over us. The vows shall not be reckoned vows; the obligations shall not be obligatory; nor the oaths be oaths."

The counterintuitive idea of  Kol Nidre  is that, however well-intended, we break our promises to God. So, I "repent" of all my vows and promises to God, and receive forgiveness for and freedom from them.

In John's gospel this week, Jesus describes our struggle between light and dark, life and death, salvation and condemnation, belief and unbelief. No one is immune from this struggle. Nobody gets a free pass. "All of us," says Paul in the reading from Ephesians, are implicated. And the struggle comes to us, he says, "by nature." Indeed, "the basic and most fundamental problem of the spiritual life," said Thomas Merton, "is this acceptance of our hidden and dark self."

So, what am I to do? Double down on Lenten religious effort?

John 3 for this week repurposes a story from Numbers 21 to point the way forward. Just as Moses lifted up a bronze serpent in the desert that healed people merely by looking at it, so today we only have to look to the love of God in Jesus. There's nothing else we can or should do.

In his little epistle, John strips away all pious pretense with a shocking admission: "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us." The only thing I'm asked to do is "to know and rely upon the love that God has for us” (1 John 4:10, 16).

Paul says the same thing this week in Ephesians. I experience God's favor "by grace through faith," apart from any human merit. His goodness is a free gift, not a reward for my spiritual efforts. And my faith? Luther compared faith to "the beggar's empty hand" that receives a gift. God only asks me to accept his acceptance, in the words of the hymn, "just as I am, / without one plea."

This Lent I want to experience what Denise Levertov describes in her poem  The Avowal .

As swimmers dare to lie face to the sky and water bears them, as hawks rest upon air and air sustains them, so would I learn to attain free fall, and float into Creator Spirit’s deep embrace, knowing no effort earns that all-surrounding grace.

A true saint, said Merton, is not someone who has become good through strenuous disciplines, however well-intended, but someone who has experienced the free goodness of God.

NOTE: On Edwina Gateley's poem, see her book  There Was No Path So I Trod One  (2013).

Weekly Prayer Mary Elizabeth Coleridge (1861–1907) After St. Augustine Sunshine let it be or frost,  Storm or calm, as Thou shalt choose;  Though Thine every gift were lost,  Thee Thyself we could not lose.

Dan Clendenin: [email protected] et

Image credits: (1)  Victoria and Albert Museum (London) ; (2)  The Morgan Library and Museum (New York, NY) ; (3) State Hermitage Museum (St. Petersburg, Russia); and (4) The-Orb.net.

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Pursuit of Growth and Grace

Raianne Sereene Baysa, a senior majoring in psychology from Ilagan, Philippines, shares how her hometown served as the fertile ground where dreams were nurtured and aspirations took flight. Now, amid the lush landscapes of Brigham Young University–Hawaii, this journey continues, marked by unwavering determination, profound gratitude, and an unyielding commitment to growth.

Sereene’s Journey

Baysa proudly claims the "Corn Capital of the Philippines" and the "Rice Bowl of the North" as her home. She shared that “Ilagan, specifically, is known for its hardworking people and vibrant nature.” Growing up with this example of hard work would serve her well through the next several years. Her journey, though strewn with challenges, is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of education.

Before her sojourn to BYUH, Baysa found herself immersed in the world of journalism, honing her skills as a budding photojournalist and leading her peers as the editor-in-chief at Isabela National High School and later at the University of Santo Tomas. However, after two years into her bachelor’s program, she began to feel drawn to serve the Lord as a missionary.

Instead of comparing herself to her peers who were already serving or returning from missions, Baysa firmly stated, “I was focused on my will to serve, knowing that the only person I need to compare myself with is myself.” She was called to serve as a missionary in the Utah Salt Lake City Temple Square Mission and the Montana Billings Mission. It was during these transformative 18 months that Baysa discovered not only the profound joy of service but also a newfound passion for childhood and family studies.

Her unwavering faith and resilience were further tested during the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Transitioning to online learning at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, navigating time zone disparities, and overcoming personal adversities, Baysa exemplified resilience in the face of adversity.

“Do it Afraid”

Throughout her journey, Baysa drew inspiration from her guiding principles, finding solace in scriptures and embracing the mantra of "Do it afraid." “...Good and bad will always give me two things: experience and growth,” Baysa said. Regarding spiritual growth, she also shared, saying, “[Christ] feels and relates to everything I am going through as a student. Because of the promise of His companionship forever, I no longer have to fear...” Armed with a sense of purpose, she began her journey in BYUH.

Valuable Lessons Learned on Campus

At BYUH, Baysa discovered a nurturing community that embraced her with open arms, providing not only academic enrichment but also unwavering support during times of personal tribulation. Her encounters with compassionate professors and mentors, including Dr. Eric Orr and the staff at Hau'ula Elementary School Counseling Services, reinforced her belief in the transformative power of mentorship and service.

Reflecting on her journey, Baysa shares three invaluable lessons gleaned from her BYUH experience. Firstly, the importance of grace, both in extending it to others and practicing self-compassion. Secondly, a deep-seated love for lifelong learning and the pursuit of higher education. She states, “I have also gained a deep-rooted love for constant learning and higher education through the opportunities and resources I have had here.” And finally, the profound impact of charity in effecting meaningful change in the world.

To students embarking on their own academic odyssey, Baysa offers sage advice: prioritize self-care, embrace challenges with courage, and never underestimate the transformative power of education. “Also, enroll in that challenging class! You can do hard things!” she said, adding, “you will be surprised at what you can do when you don’t underestimate yourself in the first place... I testify that the Lord will allow us to see the relevance of everything we have learned here at His university.”

Moving Forward

As Baysa bids farewell to her alma mater, she sets her sights on new horizons, fueled by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a commitment to service. With aspirations of pursuing a master's degree in counseling or clinical psychology, Baysa stands poised to chart new territories, becoming the first in her family to achieve such educational heights.

As Raianne Sereene Baysa’s time at BYU–Hawaii comes to a close, her journey from Ilagan to BYUH is remembered as not merely a geographical passage but a testament to her perseverance and how education can shape lives. Baysa’s journey inspires all students to embrace growth, grace, and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

Replay – Dave Jenkins: Contentment – The Journey of a Lifetime Stand Up For The Truth Podcast

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Mary Danielsen chats with author Dave Jenkins of Servants of Grace Ministries about contentment and what it means to have God be our all-in-all. Dave calls it the "journey of a lifetime" not only because our trials and difficulties can be lifelong but because God is working a great weight of glory in each of His children. What would life be like if every trial we experienced came with it lasting peace and joy? As foreign or even impossible as that may sound to us today, we are being sanctified and renewed day by day, but conditionally -  if we can learn to wait, trust, and take every thought captive. Piece of cake, right? Maybe not that simple, but very achievable by the power of the Holy Spirit. In such a malcontent world, this is a timely discussion for those going through the ups and downs of life that may included anxiety, depression, and the pitfalls of being human. [PDF Transcipt] "Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime" is available here.   Shameless plug for swag for our listeners/donors! https://www.redpillprints.com/stand-up-for-the-truth - Thanks for YOUR support.  

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5 Students Use Couri Hatchery to Prepare for New York Business Plan Competition

Frank Marin, Natasha Brao, Tosin Alabi, Motolani Oladitan and Jessica Grace McGhee

This semester, five University students working at the Couri Hatchery Student Business Incubator at the Whitman School of Management made it through the regional level of the New York State Business Plan Competition (NYBPC), an intercollegiate event designed to help prepare the next generation of entrepreneurs in New York state.

The hatchery, led by Program Manager Indaria Jones and supported by faculty from the Department of Entrepreneurship and Emerging Enterprises (EEE), assists students in preparing for this highly competitive event. They will compete for up to $100,000 in cash prizes to support their ventures.

The following students are currently competing for a place in the statewide competition to be held in Albany, New York, on April 25:

Tosin Alabi G’25 (MBA ) is an entrepreneur-in-residence at the Couri Hatchery and a student in Whitman’s MBA program. She is competing with her business venture DiabeTech, an electronic bandage created for diabetic foot ulcers.

The bandage not only protects the wound but has sensors that check temperature and glucose levels in real time, providing vital information for the patient and physician. This information can be used to ward off dangerous consequences of diabetic foot ulcers like gangrene or amputation.

From Nigeria, Alabi appreciates the support she has been given at the Hatchery, particularly as an international student.

“International students are already dealing with acclimating to both the culture and the rigors of the education here. Sometimes I feel like an octopus juggling so many things at once,” she says. “It took courage for me to go to the hatchery, but the resources there have helped me understand the rules, legalities, licenses and visa limitations that impact my business. And, I could not go a day without the support of Indaria. She has put a light in the Couri Hatchery and made it the place for me. DiabeTech is not just a business idea for me. It’s helping people have a better life, even those in my own family who are diabetic.”

Natasha Brao ’22 (College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA)), G’23, G’24 (MBA) first discovered the deliciousness of the classic Mediterranean dish Shakshuka on a trip overseas in 2019 and soon realized it was a compilation of many Mediterranean backgrounds and cultures. Having always loved experimenting with cooking, she created Shooka , a spiced tomato sauce with the idea of “mixing and melding cultures to promote creative cooking” and formalized her business in 2023. The product quickly gained attention this March when she started selling the sauce. Brao recently acquired a spot at New York State’s International Taste Festival where upwards of 7,000 attended and had the chance to try Shooka.

“My entrepreneurial side comes from my creative background [Brao earned a bachelor’s degree in design]. I was an idea machine and very passionate about food and culinary businesses,” she says. “I’ve been hanging out at the hatchery for quite a while, planning the future of the business, considering strategic partnerships and creating a road map so I can stay on track as a busy student and entrepreneur. I have weekly meetings with the advisors at the hatchery and that has kept a fire under me to keep progressing week to week.”

Frank Marin ’23 (College of Engineering and Computer Science), G’24 (MBA) is enrolled in a dual program earning an undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science and an MBA with concentrations in entrepreneurship and supply chain management. He is working on a business opportunity called Marhold Space Systems LLC , which involves the removal of debris in space through innovative techniques. Marin is creating a general process for the spacecraft to follow that will give it maximum efficiency in debris removal.

“I am incredibly passionate about science and its growing importance, and I have a lot of ideas on how to make the world a better place, starting with removing debris,” he says. “The Couri Hatchery has been a place for me to talk with like-minded, entrepreneurial people, including members of the EEE faculty who challenge me and also help me stay on track. I hope that one day my ideas can make a difference in people’s lives.”

Jessica Grace McGhee ’19 (VPA), G’24 (VPA) is a fine artist with her own online gallery, who is also a creative arts therapy graduate student in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. She is entering her business venture Sacred Art of Rising (SAOR) in the competition. SAOR will engage survivors of chronic and complex trauma on three different platforms: the Resource Center in Syracuse’s South Side, an area of the city with a high poverty level; the Retreat Center, a safe space with a myriad of nonverbal and verbal therapeutic platforms with access to restorative rest; and the Sacred Art of Rising mobile app with sliding scale access to psychoeducational, motivational and self-care content with a platform for telehealth therapy.

As a survivor of complex and chronic trauma, McGhee has created SOAR as an alternative, non-verbal therapeutic platform to help others recover, especially those who are underserved, as a means of “symbolic investment.” She wants SOAR to create a full-circle investment in marginalized communities that heals and uplifts people to reach their own self-directed goals. And, McGhee hopes it will be a place to provide safe outdoor space for individuals and families to build healthy attachments, get social rest and also reach people in need of a place to heal and decrease the chronic toxic stress that accompanies poverty.

“I knew SOAR would be amazingly helpful but, financially, I couldn’t see how I could make it happen. Linda Hartsock just lit up that path for me,” she says. “I moved from Los Angeles to Syracuse in 2008 and was promised a very healthy existence but then endured several kinds of abuse before I got up the courage to leave. But, Syracuse University and the people at the Couri Hatchery have rooted for me and done their best to uplift me and help me reach my dreams.”

Motolani Oladitan ’24 (A&S) , a psychology major, has created Tà Beautie , an online marketplace for African entrepreneurs to sell their beauty products collectively online. From Nigeria, Oladitan is starting with six to eight products and hopes to expand from there, becoming the premier destination for African beauty and wellness by helping get these brands into mainstream U.S. markets. She has tested and used every product she offers, and when people kept asking to borrow her products, Oladitan knew she was on to something.

“Traci Giesler, Indaria Jones, Linda Dickerson Hartsock and all the mentors at the Couri Hatchery and the Blackstone LaunchPad have been so good to me and are always ready to help me practice my pitch or offer recommendations on how to tackle the things I’m facing,” she says. “I’m looking to put together a marketing plan, and even if I don’t win the competition, I know it’s a learning experience. Syracuse University has been a learning experience, too, and I will take the feedback and implement that into the future of the business. I am in this for the long run.”

The Couri Hatchery is named for John Couri ’63, co-founder of Duty-Free International and president of the Couri Foundation.

Dawn McWilliams

• 5 Students Use Couri Hatchery to Prepare for New York Business Plan Competition Wednesday, April 17, 2024, By Dawn McWilliams
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Grace review – monumentally odd father-daughter odyssey via mobile cinema

Travelling across Russia in mostly silence, Ilya Povolotsky’s debut feature has a strange confidence in its own insistent dispiritedness

W ith long journeys in a red camper van, long unbroken shots of shattered Caucasian landscapes, and very long silences between its alienated father and daughter, Ilya Povolotsky’s debut feature has a strange confidence in its own monumental dispiritedness. “I want to know that you have a plan,” says the teenager. “And that we won’t get stuck somewhere outside Khabarovsk with a chicken and a sad librarian woman.” This being a Russian art film, you wouldn’t bet against it.

The two unnamed characters, played by Maria Lukyanova and Gela Chitava, are making their way across the country for unspecified reasons, other than her desire to see the sea. They run a small mobile cinema out of their van for wan residents of purgatorial steppe towns and flog snacks and porn by night at sketchy truck stops for the hauliers who aren’t with sex workers. The father has transient liaisons of his own, adding an accusatory edge to his daughter’s faraway gaze, frequently fixed on nothing. Things aren’t looking up when they reach the sea; local people are scooping dead fish off the foreshore. “Fish plague,” says a police officer. “You’d better leave now.”

We find out little tangible about either of them. But the less is said, the more insistently the spaces involved, between places and people, speak. The daughter likes taking Polaroids to commemorate their chance encounters; Povolotsky operates in the same manner for this road movie, consistently racking up eye-catching summations of the physical and spiritual desolation around the pair, from tawdry malls to a dilapidated research centre. And the odd revelation, too, like a wondrous shot of her being caressed in a sunlit field by giant turbine shadows.

Not that this is the kind of film to suggest that art and aesthetics are any redemption. Stuck in the passenger seat, Lukyanova’s mute intensity and wary questions are the language of someone who must feel out their own path forward. This is a captivating odyssey through an almost cosmic-sized immensity.

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