Tag: Jesus

Posted in The Women of Scripture, Trusting God in All Situations, Women of the Bible

Women in Scripture- Mary Magdalene: Witness to the Resurrection — A Model of Devotion and Joy

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Mary Magdalene’s story is one of unwavering devotion, joy, and boldness. She is a true testament to the power of deep personal faith and the transformative presence of Jesus in our lives. As a faithful follower, Mary was among the first to witness the empty tomb and to share the incredible news—she was the first to see Jesus risen.

Her story reminds us of the importance of a heartfelt, personal relationship with Jesus. Despite her past, her dedication shines through. Her unwavering loyalty and courage demonstrate how genuine faith can change lives and influence others profoundly. Mary’s witness *signifies her vital role in the early church* and exemplifies what it means to be faithful and bold in our walk with Christ.

Her life encourages us to cultivate a deep devotion to Jesus, to find joy in His resurrection, and to recognize that sharing our testimony can inspire others. Mary Magdalene’s story teaches us that true dedication, no matter how bold, comes from a loving heart committed to the Lord’s mission.

Bible Quote:

Go and tell my brothers and sisters, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.— John 20:17

This verse highlights her significant role in sharing Jesus’ message and her faithfulness in spreading the good news.

Heavenly Father,  

Help us to be more like Mary Magdalene faithful, bold, and devoted to You.  

May we witness Your love with joy and share Your good news without fear.  

Fill our hearts with her unwavering faith and teach us to recognize Your presence in every moment.  

Guide us to be witnesses of Your resurrection and lights to others.  

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Mary Magdalene’s story invites us to deepen our relationship with Jesus, to be courageous in our faith, and to share His love joyfully. Like her, let us be bold witnesses, rooted in devotion and driven by the transformative power of Christ.

References

Luke 8:2-3— Highlights her background as a follower who was delivered from evil spirits, emphasizing her transformation and deep devotion to Jesus.  

John 20:11-18— The account of Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb and her encounter with the risen Jesus, showcasing her faith and joy. Mary Magdalene stood outside the tomb crying… Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabbi!

Matthew 28:1-10— The scene of Mary Magdalene and the other women discovering the empty tomb and witnessing the resurrection.  The women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.

Mark 16:9-11 – Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene after His resurrection, affirming her importance as a witness.  Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.

Acts 1:14 — Shows Mary Magdalene among the early followers, united in prayer after Jesus’ ascension, demonstrating her continued faithfulness.  They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers

Posted in Uncategorized

The True Meaning of Freedom: A Reflection for Memorial Day

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As we observe Memorial Day, a day set aside to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedoms, it’s important to reflect on what true freedom really means. From a biblical perspective, the foundation of freedom is rooted in God’s creation of mankind. We are made as free moral agents, capable of choosing to love and follow Him.

The Biblical Foundation of Freedom

In Scripture, the word “freedom” comes from a Greek root that captures several aspects of spiritual truth:

  • Freedom from restraint and obligation (Romans 7:3)
  • Freedom from bondage and slavery (John 8:33)
  • Freedom from sin itself (John 8:36)

This indicates that true freedom isn’t simply doing whatever we please; it’s liberation from the constraints that enslave us—whether that’s sin, guilt, or spiritual bondage. As Miriam Webster’s Dictionary defines it, freedom is “the quality or state of being free from necessity, coercion, constraint, slavery, and the power of others.”

However, within biblical theology, freedom is not the liberty to do whatever we want without consequence. Instead, it is the freedom from sin that enables us to live in obedience and alignment with God’s will. Freedom, in God’s plan, is about being set free to pursue righteousness, love, and His divine purpose.

The Cost of Freedom

Freedom is seldom free. History teaches us that “for freedom to exist, someone had to die.” Many have given their lives or are willing to soldiers, veterans, and others—so that we might enjoy the liberty we often take for granted today. Over 2.8 million have sacrificed their lives in battle defending this nation.

But spiritual freedom also comes at a high cost. Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice, died on the cross so we could be free from the power of sin. His death was the price paid for our liberty from spiritual bondage. Countless Christians have also suffered and even died for the sake of spiritual freedom, standing firm in their faith when it was costly.

Maintaining Our Freedom

Memorial Day reminds us to honor those who paid the greatest price for our freedoms. But it also calls us to reflect on how we maintain the freedoms we enjoy today—both in the natural and spiritual sense.

Spiritually, maintaining our freedom involves daily commitment walking in obedience, reading God’s Word, praying, and trusting in Jesus Christ. It’s about guarding our hearts against the forces that threaten to enslave us again—sin, temptation, petty, gossip, and worldly distractions.

In Galatians 5:1, Paul reminds us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” That’s a call to remain vigilant, to hold onto the liberty Christ purchased with His own blood.

A Day to Remember and Recommit

As we reflect on those who have fought and fallen, let’s also remember that our greatest freedom—spiritual freedom—is a gift from God’s grace through Jesus Christ. This Memorial Day, let us honor both the sacrifices made in the physical realm and the spiritual freedom bought at an eternal cost.

May we live each day in gratitude, valuing our freedoms, and committed to walking in the liberty that Christ offers. And through our lives, may we honor their sacrifice by living out the truth of God’s Word and sharing the freedom found in Him with others.

Posted in Jesus

Happy Easter!

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Happy Easter ! Jesus has Risen ! Thank you for stopping by , today we celebrate the most significant event in our Christian faith: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This glorious moment signifies new life, hope, and the incredible gift of grace bestowed upon us. As we reflect on the meaning of this day, let us remember the profound truths about Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins and how we can live a life filled with gratitude and purpose.

The Sacrifice of Jesus

Jesus came into this world not only to teach us about love and compassion but to make the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This powerful verse encapsulates the essence of God’s unconditional love and His desire for us to be free from the burdens of our sins. Jesus endured unimaginable suffering so that we could experience true forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Living Your Life for Christ

As we acknowledge Jesus’ sacrifice, it’s essential to consider how we can honor Him by living our lives fully devoted to His teachings. In Galatians 2:20, Paul shares, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” This verse calls us to die to our old selves and embrace a new identity in Christ. By surrendering our lives to Him, we allow His light to shine through us, impacting those around us.

Gratitude and New Beginnings

Easter is a beautiful reminder that no matter what sorrow, grief, or anger we may carry, we can leave those burdens at the foot of the cross. Jesus did not die for us to live a miserable, lonely life; He desires for us to experience joy, community, and fulfillment. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us to “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Through prayer and gratitude, we can find peace even amid life’s challenges.

So, on this joyous Easter Sunday, I urge you to reflect on the immense sacrifice that has been given for you. Reach out to your family and friends, attend church services, or gather together for a meal. If you are unable to get out, consider tuning in to uplifting messages from pastors like Charles Stanley, Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, or Jack Hibbs. These resources can inspire and encourage you in your walk with Christ.

A Call to Rejoice

Let today be a day of rejoicing and new beginnings. As you celebrate the resurrection of Christ, may you also cultivate a spirit of gratitude in your heart. Remember, you are forgiven, loved, and called to live a life that reflects His glory.

Wishing you all a blessed Easter filled with joy, hope, and a renewed commitment to live for Christ. Embrace the new life He offers, and share that light with everyone around you. Happy Easter!

Posted in Uncategorized

The Garden of Gethsemane

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The Garden of Gethsemane, located in East Jerusalem, is an olive grove whose name means “a place of pressing.” It’s here where workers would place olives into a press and extract valuable olive oil under significant pressure. Before Jesus went to the cross and rose from the dead, He passed through this very garden. It was in Gethsemane that He felt immense distress, knowing the crucifixion awaited Him;

His sweat became like drops of blood as He expressed, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:38). This was His moment of trial, a season of suffering that He had to endure.

In the stillness of Gethsemane, the devil sought to sway,
Whispering doubts and tempting Jesus to stray.
Yet amidst the anguish, His resolve held strong,
Choosing God’s will, He proved where we belong.

While we celebrate the resurrection, it’s crucial to recognize that the true victory was achieved in Gethsemane. It was here that Jesus chose not to give in, despite the impending betrayal, the unjust trial, the brutal beatings, the agony of the cross, and the weight of our sins. Under immense pressure, He made a pivotal decision: “Father, not My will but Your will be done” (Matthew 26:39). This shows us that real victory isn’t achieved in public; it’s forged in private moments. How we respond in our own Gethsemane—whether we are grappling with challenges, facing delays in our dreams, or enduring personal trials—is what truly matters.

The apostle Paul expressed, “I want to know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings” (Philippians 3:10). Resurrection cannot exist without some suffering. It requires a strong will, a determined mind, a warrior’s mentality: “I will not give in to complaining, blaming, doubting, or worrying. I know that beyond this suffering lies the power of the resurrection.” Beyond that struggle lies healing, abundance, divine connections, and new opportunities. The anguish and pressure we face are temporary; they do not define the conclusion of our story. Gethsemane is merely a season—a passage meant for us to experience so we can embrace the power, fullness, and abundance God has in store.

However, the enemy would love for us to become trapped in Gethsemane, questioning, “God, why? Why did this door close? Why is this taking so long?” Doubts about our families or jobs may creep in, just as the devil attempted to exploit Jesus’ moment of vulnerability, trying to persuade Him toward despair. Yet Jesus stood strong, even faced with His imminent death.

You cannot reach your destiny without experiencing pressure, feeling squeezed, or hearing thoughts that suggest things won’t work out and that God has forgotten you. Your very feelings of pressure are indicators that a resurrection is on the horizon.

You wouldn’t be in Gethsemane if something extraordinary wasn’t imminent—doors opening that you never imagined, business opportunities finding you, the right people entering your life, and healing from situations that seem impossible. It’s essential to keep doing the right thing, especially during tough times, because soon enough, you will witness the power of the resurrection!

Posted in Uncategorized

Death to old Self Starts the Moment of Our Salvation -We are Born Again

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Death to self occurs at the moment of salvation , we are “born again” its when we are crucified with Christ, as stated in Romans 6:6. 

At this point, we receive a new nature because the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us (John 14:17). 

However, sometimes it takes time for us to willingly make sacrifices. 

If you can recall, there are times when you might be in a pickle and you start praying. Oh Lord, if you just help me out, I will go to church or oh Lord, if you get me out of the situation or change my ways , or Lord if you let me survive, I will do better …..and then you come out of that pickle ; you get out of that jam and you survive the situation were in and then you don’t follow through

So we’re really not ready to sacrifice everything to grow closer to God. You haven’t followed through even though God followed through. We must stop acting as if God grants us wishes he is not a genie. He is your Lord and you should be obedient or at least follow through and keep your word.

When we truly value what God has given us, we can experience the freedom He intends for us. Jesus’ purpose is to shape us into His likeness, as outlined in Romans 8:29. 

But to fulfill this calling, we must be willing to place Christ in a prominent position in our lives. That means put him above everything and everyone else above your self and your significant other your parents your children, friends, money …everything .

This means that the Lord calls  us to the cross on a daily basis. 

 and lay down anything that distracts us from serving and following Him. 

It’s important to understand that God isn’t asking us to give up everything so we see ourselves as lonely or poor. 

Instead, laying down our treasures—whether they are possessions, relationships, or dreams—at the foot of the cross frees us from worldly attachments. You don’t want to worship money, things, you don’t want to brag about how much money you have , you don’t want to brag about who you gave $ to , you are to give quietly. Don’t throw money at a junkie you’re not helping him. Don’t throw money at people using you give to those who you know lives could be better by your help. A single parent raising kids, battered women, veterans living with ptsd, elderly who struggle to have food and medicine. Surprise someone with a car not a new car but a used one. If a woman’s or man is driving a 1980 Toyota that body looks like Swiss cheese maybe get them a 2000 Toyota or a something better they will be just as grateful. Pay a persons medical bill ease their burden, do good with what you have , if your broke volunteer , help in other ways. but don’t idolize it ! we must release these things, so our self-esteem no longer depends on them, and our sense of acceptance comes from being complete in the Lord. As Paul said, we are alive in God through Jesus Christ (Romans 6:11).

We must be a blessing to others but we should never worship fame and money more than we do our God.

When we idolize money it ourself it sets us up for the devil to slide in to convince you you are better than God

Your not.

So when you are saved you start to put God first and you will begin to grow.

Peace.

Posted in Blessed, Faith, Grace

Embracing New Beginnings: The Transformative Power of Grace- Someone needs to read this today

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In the journey of life, there are moments when God orchestrates a shift in our circumstances—an unexpected turn that seems challenging and confusing at first. But often, these changes serve a greater purpose: to help us develop a new attitude, a renewed perspective on life. You may find yourself in a situation that feels isolating, where you no longer resonate with the habits or mindsets of your friends or family. And that’s absolutely okay.

God has placed you in this unique scenario for a reason. He is calling you to rise above the ordinary, to shed the layers of familiarity that no longer serve your growth. It can be daunting to step away from the crowd, especially when it feels like you’re drifting from the people you once knew so intimately. But remember, this transformation is not just a call to be different; it’s a divine invitation to embrace your true self.

You’ve been saved by grace—a concept that is as profound as it is liberating. Grace means that you have been pulled from the pits of darkness and set free to live a life filled with purpose. It’s important to understand that grace covers every part of you; every sin, both those you’ve confessed and those buried deep within your heart. This unconditional love from God doesn’t give you a license to revert to old ways. Instead, it empowers you to break free from the chains that once bound you, allowing you to step into a new identity that reflects His love and forgiveness.

You are no longer the person you once were. Your slate has been wiped clean, and now your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. This is not just a change in status; it’s an invitation to walk in the fullness of what it means to be a child of God. Picture it: one day, you will be raised up and seated with our heavenly Father, basking in the glory of His presence. But until that time comes, you have a crucial role to play here on Earth.

Every day is an opportunity to demonstrate the transformative power of grace in your life. Be a shining example of what it means to be saved. Your actions, thoughts, and words should reflect the incredible gift you have received. It’s about embracing a new way of thinking and living—one that honors the grace that has been bestowed upon you.

So, when you feel different or out of place, remind yourself that being set apart is part of God’s plan for you. Take pride in the fact that you are evolving, growing, and becoming the person He has always intended you to be. Let your life be a testament to the truth that you are indeed a new creation. Walk boldly into the future He has for you, knowing that His grace is sufficient for every challenge you face.

Celebrate the journey! Embrace the new attitude, the fresh perspective, and the beautiful life that awaits you. You are not alone—God is with you every step of the way, guiding you toward a destiny filled with hope, purpose, and love.

Remember, Jesus loves you

Posted in Christmas

The Birth of Jesus and the Meaning of the Three Gifts from the Wise Men

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Christmas is a time of joyous celebration, reflecting on the profound significance of the birth of Jesus Christ.

This miraculous event not only marks the arrival of our Savior but talks about the gifts presented by the three wise men—gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Each gift is deeply symbolic, offering us insights into the nature of Jesus and His mission on Earth

The Nativity Story

A Humble Beginning

The story begins over 2,000 years ago in Bethlehem, where Mary and Joseph found shelter in a humble stable. Despite the simplicity of His birth, the significance of Jesus’ arrival was monumental. Announced by angels and celebrated by shepherds, the birth of Christ was a divine declaration of hope and redemption for humanity.\n\nAs the story unfolds, we learn of the wise men (or Magi) who traveled from the East, guided by a star to pay homage to the newborn king. Their journey was not just a physical pilgrimage but also a spiritual quest, driven by the search for truth and understanding.\n\n###

The Gifts of the Wise Men

Upon reaching the stable, the wise men presented three gifts, each carrying its own unique symbolism

Gold: The Gift of Kingship\n\n Gold has long been associated with royalty and wealth. By presenting gold to Jesus, the wise men acknowledged His kingship.

This gift signifies that Jesus is not just an ordinary child; He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. His reign is not one of earthly power but of divine authority, bringing hope and salvation to all who believe in Him.

Frankincense: The Gift of Divinity\n\n Frankincense is a fragrant resin used in worship and religious rituals, representing the divine nature of Jesus. In the Old Testament, it was often used in the sanctuary as an offering to God. By giving frankincense, the wise men recognized Jesus as the Son of God, worthy of worship and adoration. This gift emphasizes the significance of Jesus as our mediator and high priest, connecting humanity with the divine

Myrrh: The Gift of Suffering and Death\n\n Myrrh, a fragrant spice used in embalming, serves as a poignant reminder of Jesus’ eventual sacrifice. While this gift may seem somber in contrast to the others, it foreshadows the mission of Jesus—to suffer and die for the sins of humanity.

Myrrh symbolizes His role as the suffering servant, highlighting the depth of His love and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. \n\n### The Deeper Meaning of the Gifts\n\nTogether, these three gifts encapsulate the essence of who Jesus is: the King, the Divine, and the Suffering Servant. They remind us that Christmas is more than just a celebration of His birth; it is a call to recognize the fullness of His identity and His purpose on Earth.\n\nAs we celebrate Christmas, let us reflect on the lessons these gifts impart. We are invited to embrace Jesus as our King, to honor Him with our worship, and to remember the sacrifice He made for us. In doing so, we align ourselves with the true spirit of Christmas—a spirit characterized by love, hope, and an unwavering commitment to follow Christ’s example in our lives.

This Christmas, as we gather with family and friends, let us cherish the story of Jesus’ birth and the powerful symbolism of the gifts brought by the wise men. May we be inspired to live out the message of Christmas not only during the holiday season but throughout the year, embodying the love and grace of our Savior in all that we do.

Posted in Christ has Risen, Easter, Uncategorized

Easter Sunday: Embracing the Resurrection and Living as Symbols of Christ’s Love

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As Easter Sunday arrives, our hearts are drawn to the profound significance of this sacred day—the cornerstone of the Christian faith. Beyond the colorful eggs and joyful celebrations lies a deeper truth that calls us to reflect on the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection and to live as symbols of His boundless love.

Easter Sunday marks the culmination of Holy Week, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is a day of triumph, hope, and redemption—a reminder that death has been defeated and that new life is available to all who believe.

At the heart of Easter lies the message of God’s unfailing love for humanity. In the death and resurrection of Jesus, we see the ultimate expression of this love—a love so profound that it conquered sin and death, offering forgiveness, reconciliation, and eternal life to all who accept it.

As Christians, Easter Sunday challenges us to embody the message of Christ’s resurrection in our daily lives. It calls us to make every moment count by living in a way that reflects the transformative power of His love.

So, what does it mean to be symbols of the love Jesus gave to us on Easter Sunday?

First and foremost, it requires us to embrace the reality of Christ’s resurrection in our hearts and minds. We are called to live with a deep sense of gratitude and awe, recognizing the immense sacrifice Jesus made for us and the new life He offers to all who believe in Him.

Secondly, it entails embodying the love and compassion of Jesus in our relationships and interactions with others. Just as Christ laid down His life for us, we are called to love one another selflessly, putting the needs of others before our own, extending grace and forgiveness, and seeking reconciliation and healing wherever there is brokenness.

Furthermore, Easter Sunday challenges us to be agents of transformation and renewal in a world that is often marked by brokenness and despair. It calls us to actively engage in acts of justice, mercy, and compassion—to stand up for the oppressed, to advocate for the marginalized, and to bring hope and healing to all who are in need.

Lastly, Easter Sunday invites us to live with a sense of hope and anticipation, knowing that the resurrection is not just a historical event but a present reality that continues to shape our lives and the world around us. It calls us to live with confidence in the promise of new life and to share that hope with others through our words and actions.

As we celebrate Easter Sunday this year, let us not only rejoice in the empty tomb but commit ourselves anew to living as symbols of the love Jesus gave to us. May our lives be a testament to the transformative power of His resurrection, and may we strive to make every moment count in service of His kingdom and glory.

Posted in Faith, Jesus, Uncategorized

John 12:25-26 what it reveals

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In John 12:25-26, Jesus reveals the essence of discipleship, urging us to weigh the cost and rewards. He emphasizes that clinging to our earthly desires will lead to loss, while embracing selflessness and surrender to Him yields eternal life. By serving and following Jesus, we align with His purpose, assured of the Father’s honor. These verses prompt introspection, challenging us to prioritize God’s will over selfish pursuits. They underscore the eternal significance of a life devoted to Jesus, encouraging obedience and trust in Him. Ultimately,

Jesus desires your joy, not your misery. He wants you to recognize that He is the ultimate treasure, worth sacrificing everything to obtain. In John 12:25, Jesus teaches that if we prioritize our own lives above all else, we will remain unfulfilled. However, if we understand the supreme value of Christ, we will willingly surrender our lives to Him. By following Jesus, even in the face of death or material loss as mentioned in verse 26, our lives will be dedicated to serving Him. In doing so, we will be honored by the Father and become fruitful trees, rather than lonely seeds.

John 12:25-26

Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.

John 12:25-26 calls us to count the cost, embrace selflessness, and experience the abundant life found in Christ.

Have a blessed day. ✝️

Posted in Faith, Jesus, Joyful-Echoes.com, Life, Ministry

Finding Strength in Serving the Lord: A Reflection on Joshua 24:15

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In Joshua 24:15, the verse “but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” encapsulates a powerful declaration of faith and commitment. While the promise to serve the Lord is steadfast, it’s essential to recognize that this commitment doesn’t exempt us from life’s challenges. Instead, it empowers us with the strength and resilience needed to navigate through them.

Serving the Lord doesn’t promise a life free from problems, hardships, or trials. In fact, throughout the Bible, we encounter numerous examples of faithful individuals who faced immense struggles despite their devotion to God. However, what sets them apart is their unwavering trust and reliance on the Lord to see them through.

When we choose to serve the Lord, we are not promised immunity from adversity, but we are assured of His presence with us every step of the way. This presence provides us with the strength, courage, and wisdom necessary to confront and overcome whatever challenges may come our way.

One of the key aspects of serving the Lord is the transformation it brings to our perspective. Instead of viewing problems as insurmountable obstacles, we see them as opportunities for growth and refinement. Through our trials, we learn to lean on God’s strength rather than our own, trusting in His plans even when they seem beyond our understanding.

Moreover, serving the Lord fosters a sense of community and support within our households. When we make the conscious decision to prioritize God in our lives, we create an environment where faith, love, and grace abound. As a result, we can draw strength from one another as we journey together in serving the Lord.

Furthermore, serving the Lord enables us to find meaning and purpose in the midst of our struggles. Rather than allowing difficulties to overwhelm us, we can channel our energies into serving others and making a positive difference in the world around us. In doing so, we discover that our trials have the potential to become testimonies of God’s faithfulness and provision.

Ultimately, serving the Lord isn’t a guarantee of a trouble-free life, but it is a source of unfailing strength and hope. It’s a daily choice to trust in God’s promises, to seek His guidance, and to rely on His unfailing love. And as we journey through life with this unwavering commitment, we can rest assured that we will emerge stronger, more resilient, and more deeply rooted in our faith than ever before. So, let us echo the words of Joshua: “but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”