Since I've come down I've been downloading sermons from Mars Hill, and Rob Bell just started a series on the book of Philippians. So far, it's excellent, encouraging, and challenging. One thought in particular has really stood out in my mind. Philippians, and most of Paul's letters--despite the content--open with a blessing of grace and peace. "Grace and peace to you from God our father..." The greek grace=charis=free expression of God's love; peace=shalom=mankind experiencing peace in the here and now.
Imagine what our lives, this world would be like if everytime we greeted one another, if in every interaction, we blessed one another with grace and peace. Grace and peace to you...
I spent this past weekend experiencing grace and peace at our teacher retreat. We went up to Panajachel which is on Lake Atitlan. It was absolutely beautiful, refreshing, and so good to be around the teachers I usually don't see (aka the elementary teachers). We went ziplining, kayaking, played a lot of games (Hannah...I had a
near repeat of our rook experience. I need to work on that...), ate some good food, and enjoyed God's creation and his people.
Pic 1: Lake Atitlan
Pic 2: My roomates Trisha (curly hair) and Suzy
Pic 3: Super cute Guatemalan children in Pana
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Grace and Peace
Posted by travelingtroll at 8:27 AM
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6 comments:
Annette,
I'll be the first to post on your latest blog. I'm so looking forward to coming down and visiting Guatemala, your school, and your friends. As I see the pictures, God must have placed you in a beautiful spot.
Shalom
Hermanator
Annette,
Oops! Of course the highlight of our visit will be to spend time with you.
Love,
Dad
Grace and peace to you, Annette.
I love the pictures of the two little children. It reminds me of the song "Jesus Loves the Little Children".
It sounds like you had a restful weekend.
By the way, Jennifer got her acceptance letter from Trinity. She is really looking forward to going there in the Fall.
Marlene
Grace & Peace to you as well. You are so right, if we would begin all interaction with others this way our mindset would be so much more positive and in line with what Christ desires of us.
The area for your retreat looks beautiful! Retreat ~ a place of quiet or security, a refuge. That lake could provide that type of atmosphere. I enjoyed your pictures, if they are that beautiful, it must be amazing in person. The one of the children brought my heart right back to the villages we worked in. Yes, you are really igniting the desire to return ~ do you think your dad will give me some more time off? Love & Peace Phyllis
Annette,
I'm sorry to hear about your rook experience. But I am glad you said ALMOST, that gives me some hope. You've been living in Guatemala now for almost a month! See you in about 4 more :)
Miss you!!
Annette,
This may be the only post I ever leave, but I felt I had to say something to redeem the Herm Witte family after seeing dad sign his as the "Herminator".
Anyways, we enjoy reading your post so keep them coming. I am amazed at your ability to put into words your thoughts and beliefs. You have a gift that is blessing all of us who are lucky enough to read it.
Love,
Scott, Cheri, Noah and ...
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