the desert place

I knew living here wouldn't be easy, but does it have to be this hot, too?

Please God, don't cook me...

jj

It's okay, He is right here...

"the LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
(Deuteronomy 31)

Lord, I have had so many heartbreaking conversations this week. So many are girls that are empty and afraid. Please Lord Jesus comfort them, speak to them, hold them close to you and let them know that You are their hope, You are their life, You are their love.

Nothing else really matters. All can be destroyed or taken away or lost, and what is left?

Where is peace or joy to be found? It is in YOU.

Help them to see You in their everyday lives.
Help them to recognize You in the quiet and in the chaos.
Help them to stop trusting in their own strength and know-it-all pride. It just takes them farther away from the help they really need.

Lord you promised to open the eyes of the blind and to set the captives free...Please Lord, set them free.

I trust You ~You are always here for me,
Amen.

If any friends feel led to pray, please do so.

With grace and peace,

jj

I caught a glimpse of Your splendor

In the corner of my eye
The most beautiful thing I've ever seen
And it was like a flash of lightning
Reflected off the sky
And I know I'll never be the same

Show me Your glory
Send down Your presence
I want to see Your face
Show me Your glory
Majesty shines about You
I can't go on without You, Lord

When I climb down the mountain
And get back to my life
I won't settle for ordinary things
I'm gonna follow You forever
And for all of my days
I won't rest 'til I see You again

Show me Your glory
Show me Your glory

I can't live without You

(Thrid Day song...running through me tonight...)

17th Century Nun's Prayer

"LORD, you know better than I know myself that I am growing older and will someday be old. Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something on every subject and on every occasion. Release me from craving to straighten out everybody's affairs.

Make me thoughtful but not moody: helpful but not bossy.

With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity not to use it all, but you know, Lord, that I want a few friends at the end...

Keep me reasonably sweet; I do not want to be a saint--some of them are so hard to live with...

Give me the ability to see the good things in unexpected places, and talents in unexpected people.

And give me, O Lord, the grace to tell them so. Amen."

Manti Pageant

This year was different, oh yes it was...

I didn't react the way I usually do as pageant arrives, I tend to get overwhelmed and feel very oppressed. No, this year, I was lighthearted and optimistic and almost too relaxed (not good when so many people are arriving). I think God had something new in mind? I like new.

It was really a great time.

I was amazed at the individuals that God put in my path that made this year unique. Interesting this Jesus I know, He just loves to shake things up and let us see His miracles?! Love love love it.

I made several new friends, and caught up with good friends, and spent most of my time in very unexpected ways with friends that I cherish. Each one is a gift. I am thinking of each of you as I go through my pics. Love and peace to you.

* * * *

I hope that everyone had a great time of fellowship at the stonehouse, at the park, and especially on the streets of Manti. I did. I didn't want to miss a minute of it, I loved every hug and every testimony that I heard. Precious gifts.Your heart for people is huge...thank you for being you Sir!

(and helping me with Sr. John)

Fellowship meal at the park on Saturday & Jamie's great "bread and water" booth...
smiles amidst the freezing cold rain

Josh and I enjoying a snack

* * * *

I also hope that everyone that came had a powerful experience of knowing God more intimately through your time here. I prayed that God would be more real...present...in your face...
Nothing like being shaken up in your faith to pull you closer to Him.

* * * *

I love that part of living missional, I am always whining for my Great God and He is always right here. Right here. And He was here...

Sweet. I loved the Rising tide group on the streets.

T. heading to worship?
* * * *

I am always welcoming pilgrims here, all year long, and any time you want to call, email, stop in and stay you are always welcome.

Love to you my brothers and sisters in Christ,
Grace and Peace Aaron,

the little nun in Manti with Mitz and Robin

and I had to post a pic of this...Erin putting cream on 26 mosquito bites...Yes, this is Manti.

and the Jesus family arrives...

The WORD of God is displayed in color...

The food is delicious and fun to share...

Worship is the best in a crowd of a hundred...Yum.

& the hands and feet of God share space in this place, it is my favorite (and least favorite) times of year.

Love you all.