tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27779370675117358032024-03-13T20:18:58.178-07:00Rozmiarek ReflectionsSharing The Gospel and Our Lives With The Military CommunityLou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.comBlogger72125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-37785002563621350902014-04-03T00:35:00.000-07:002014-04-03T00:35:36.292-07:00March Happenings!!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I cannot believe it has been almost 2 months since we've blogged to our friends and family. We have had whirl wind of activity over the past few months. Our partner, Andrea Haddock, arrived on 20 February - along with a Christian worship rock & roll band called The New Divide. This started about 45 days of continual visitors. We have learned that the Lighthouse is not only a refuge for our navy friends and family, but for ministries that come to Japan too. Since our arrival last summer, we have hosted the African Children's Choir, The New Divide, Covenant Players and people that come to visit their Navy family & friends.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vSUvSeRos7A/Uzz8q2ZZxcI/AAAAAAAAAfc/RbuS6fqGMi0/s1600/andrea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vSUvSeRos7A/Uzz8q2ZZxcI/AAAAAAAAAfc/RbuS6fqGMi0/s1600/andrea.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Andrea exploring Japan</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Andrea has jumped right into the mix of things. We absolutely LOVE her. She is beginning to disciple people, to help with planning events & excursions and embracing other ministry opportunities. We really believe that God is going to use her in a mighty way as part of the Yokosuka Lighthouse team.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We continue to host a busy ministry. We love the people that God is bringing through our doors. We have folks that are just exploring their spirituality and what does being a Christian mean; we have people that have been walking with Christ for a few years and folks who are very mature in their faith. It's exciting to see how the Lighthouse community really loves one another and embrace each other right where they are at. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0NTBSCDAdJE/Uzz8t82ChFI/AAAAAAAAAfs/2aUpzozGyq4/s1600/New+Divide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0NTBSCDAdJE/Uzz8t82ChFI/AAAAAAAAAfs/2aUpzozGyq4/s1600/New+Divide.jpg" height="129" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The New Divide</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We have enjoyed being able to open our doors to support some other Christian ministries. The New Divide spent two weeks with us as they toured Japan. It was a joy to partner with them as they reached out to American and Japanese people.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ak33oEmP3uQ/Uzz8slspE2I/AAAAAAAAAfk/uVs5Ni68u9c/s1600/Mt.+Fuji.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ak33oEmP3uQ/Uzz8slspE2I/AAAAAAAAAfk/uVs5Ni68u9c/s1600/Mt.+Fuji.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mt. Fuji</span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Gmb8bpCTWQ/Uz0N7Oy4GOI/AAAAAAAAAf8/6b-nKogt_rY/s1600/2014-03-31+09.53.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Gmb8bpCTWQ/Uz0N7Oy4GOI/AAAAAAAAAf8/6b-nKogt_rY/s1600/2014-03-31+09.53.33.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cathy had the opportunity to speak at a women's retreat. The retreat center was located on a lake at the base of Mt. Fuji. We had about 35 ladies that participated and it was a great time together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We also are enjoying a very nice Spring. It is Cherry Blossom season here in Japan. Here is a picture of our tree from our patio. What a great reminder of the creativity of our Lord! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We are enjoying our time in Japan. It has it's challenges, but many more blessings!! Thanks for your friendship & prayers.</span><br />
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Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-26223218805508529472014-02-14T23:17:00.000-08:002014-02-14T23:17:06.639-08:00Andrea is on her way!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jennessa * Cathy * Andrea</td></tr>
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On Thursday, our friend and colleague, Andrea Haddock will be joining us in Yokosuka. It was a little over a year ago when we asked Andrea to consider teaming with us in Japan. We are very excited to have her join us as we minister to the Navy.<br />
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Andrea will be focusing on our Single women's ministry and assisting us as we reach out to our Single sailors as well. Andrea will be arriving on Thursday, 20 February. <br />
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It has been exciting to be a part of her journey as the Lord has led her to join us. Her next few months will be filled with tasks: getting base pass, her Japanese driver's license, getting to know the Lighthouse community and to see exactly where God would like her to lead and serve.<br />
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Please pray for Andrea as she spends her last few days in South Carolina. Pray for the final details of her international move to come together. Pray for her heart as she says her final good-byes to family and friends. Pray for us as a team. Our hearts desire is for God to be glorified through the ministry at the Lighthouse and that Christ will be exalted in the nations through the lives of transformed military people. Join us as we welcome Andrea Haddock to the Lighthouse team!!Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-25610834121869857542013-12-30T22:46:00.000-08:002013-12-30T22:46:03.947-08:00We are official drivers in Japan!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7RCxiKbW9k/UsJdmTJ5qoI/AAAAAAAAAdg/CWHfbg2VWiY/s1600/IMG_1062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7RCxiKbW9k/UsJdmTJ5qoI/AAAAAAAAAdg/CWHfbg2VWiY/s200/IMG_1062.JPG" width="166" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With smiles of appreciation -- <br />we have our Japanese driver's licenses!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">On Thursday, 26 December, we arose early in the morning to make the hour drive to Yokohama, specifically to the Futamatagawa License Examination Hall. As we drove, we were counting to ten in Japanese, practicing our Japanese directions (left, right, stop, speed up, etc.). We tested each other on the "pre-exam" requirements (looking under the car for objects, locking the door, adjusting the mirrors, etc.). But, we knew that we would be returning to Yokosuka WITHOUT our license.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Everyone told us that NO ONE passes on their first attempt - especially foreigners. This was our last step in our transition and we really wanted to be done. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Over the past six months since our arrival in Japan, we have learned that the driver's license conversion for Americans is quite difficult. In Germany, we were blessed to have contractor status at Ramstein. This allowed us to get a license from the base without having to get a German driver's license. In hind sight, we wish we would have had a German drivers license. Germans have an agreement with the Japanese and they need to pass an eye test and written exam to receive their Japanese Driver's License. The United States does NOT have that type of an agreement, so we needed to go through the complete process. Neither one of us has had to take a driving test since we were 16!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The process is a three step process: (1) formal application; (2) eye and written exams; (3) driving exam. Fortunately, the written exam is in English and is fairly easy. The driving exam is on a specific course at the exemption hall, is administered by a police officer and is in Japanese. We are not allowed to have a translator with us during the exam. You may have a translator to help you with the paperwork and to get feedback after your exam, but not during the exam.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We have been driving in Japan with our International Driver's License. We have had six months of practice to get use to driving behind the wheel which is on the right side of the car and driving on the right side of the road. We also took a lesson which was quite expensive! But, we had an English speaking instructor and we could drive the course that we were taking the exam on. Keitasan was very patient and helpful, but he too prepared us for first time failure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">After a busy Christmas day, we went to bed and were ready to get up and tackle the test. Cathy decided to check her email to see if anyone back in the States was awake yet on Christmas morn. No stateside emails, but we received an email from our friend who was going to meet us at the examination hall to be our translator. She notified us that she was sick and would not be able to meet us. It was 9:45PM and we were stunned. We had to leave at 5:30AM to go to Yokohama and we had no idea who to call to replace her. We contacted a young man that we thought might have the day off from work to see if he could help us. Unfortunately, he couldn't. We checked with another few friends, but of course, at the late hour, everyone was busy.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Takako and Josh</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We just stared at each other and decided we would have to change our appointment - which requires you to go in person. We actually thought about trying to take the exam without a translator, but knew that would be difficult. On Christmas, we had one of our sailors bring a Japanese friend to dinner. Takako spent the day with us and I took of picture of her & Josh. She asked me to email it to her and provided me with her email address AND cell phone. We decided to give her a call. We had spent about 5 hours with her, and felt bad for calling so late and asking her such a big favor, especially since we just met her….BUT we were desperate. It was 10:45PM and Cathy called. It went to voice mail and we left Takako a message. At 11:00PM, we went to bed realizing we were destined to have to reschedule our driving test. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">At 11:15PM, the phone rang and it was Takako. She apologized for calling so late and then told us she would be more than happy to help us out. It turns out that she lived in Yokohama and knew where the examination hall was and she could meet us there! Takako was a tremendous help. We would never have been able to complete the various paperwork that was needed nor understand the examiner without her! The driving test and results took almost 6 hours - what a huge sacrifice of time for her! We were so grateful!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cathy was chosen to take the exam first. The next person that takes the examination actually gets to ride in the backseat to watch. So, Cathy pulls out with the examiner and a Chinese woman. When she returned to the beginning station, the examiner told her (through Takako) the things that she had not done correctly. The Chinese gal hops into the driver's seat and Lou now sits in the back seat. After a few minutes, the Chinese gal is back at the starting point. It seemed like she didn't take as long to finish the course as Cathy. It turns out that she didn't finish the course. She failed somewhere during the test and was asked to return. Lou had no idea what she did wrong and he automatically thought he was a "dead man". Lou hops in the front seat and upon return he too learns what he had not done correctly. We were convinced that we would be returning to retake the exam.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">After the other people take the exam, the instructor grades the tests and calls us forward. He is sitting behind a window and hands the paperwork to you with either a date for your retake exam or information about the next step after passing. We get called forward as a team…Takako talks to the examiner and turns to us and says "<i>You both passed!</i>". We were stunned, shocked, speechless. Cathy said "<i>Did you say 'we both passed'?</i>". Takako smiled and said "<i>YES</i>". If the examiner wasn't behind the window, Cathy would have probably hugged him. We honestly were shocked. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There were 15 foreigners that took the exam that day, 4 of us passed. One was an Indian man and it was his second time taking the exam. One was a Chinese lady and it was her third time taking the exam. The Chinese lady that was driving with Lou failed and it was her fifth attempt. We felt so bad for her. It took another 2 hours to get our actual license. But, we now can drive in Japan for as long as we stay in Japan. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We are grateful for our driving instructor, Keitasan. We are VERY thankful for Takako and her willingness to help us with the translation and giving up her entire day for us. We are convinced we had a fair but kind examiner. God is good!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cathy sent Keitasan and Mikisan (she was the lady that provided us with the information on the driving school) an email to tell them that we passed on our first try. Mikisan told Cathy that in the 5 years she has been helping foreigners get their license, she has never had anyone pass on their first time! Keitasan told us that we were his first foreign students that passed on their first time. We don't share this to receive accolades on our ability; we share this so you understand truly what a miracle this is! </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">St</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ay off the streets in Japan -- Lou & Cathy are driving. We wish you all a very Happy 2014! </span>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-35448178716294763492013-12-20T20:15:00.000-08:002013-12-20T20:15:23.472-08:00Christmas is right around the corner!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iVUbf_zRteA/UrUUiLLCJXI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/cNPj4JzK9xk/s1600/1456502_10202933024592693_951448719_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iVUbf_zRteA/UrUUiLLCJXI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/cNPj4JzK9xk/s200/1456502_10202933024592693_951448719_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">don't know about you….but we cannot believe Christmas is in just a few days! We are excited to be here in Yokosuka and have the opportunity to open our home to the sailors that serve our nation. We continue to be amazed at how much we LOVE what we do. We enjoy being a safe place for people. We constantly tell people that no matter where you are on your spiritual journey -- you are WELCOME in our home. Come enjoy a home cooked meal, in an environment where you can just be yourself, have fun, ask questions and have a family when you are so far away from yours.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul & Natalie & Sam<br />A couple of our favorite sailors</td></tr>
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<span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As we get ready to celebrate Christmas, we have been focusing on WHY do we celebrate Christmas. Lou has done a fabulous job unpacking who Jesus is and the significant of why we should celebrate His birth. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">The Lighthouse is a safe place for people who have no idea if God exists or why Jesus came, but are curious to find out more. For the people, and there are many in our community, who are discouraged, lonely, feel adrift in life, they can come and learn more about the peace and comfort they can experience by beginning a relationship with Jesus. Finally, t</span><span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">he Lighthouse is a safe place for those who are in the midst of the joyous journey of being a Christ follower. </span></span><br />
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<span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">No matter where you are or what's going on with you this Christmas, we love you and miss you. We wish we could be home in Colorado to celebrate Christmas with our families. But, we are grateful for our "home away from home" here in Japan and that we can be extended family to the folks that will come through our doors. We wish you a joyous & holy Christmas.</span></span>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-41376246412944915502013-11-30T21:50:00.000-08:002013-11-30T21:50:03.654-08:00Moving towards Christmas<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had a great first Thanksgiving here in Japan. I find that after Thanksgiving weekend is over, we are thrust into the Christmas season. We tend to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, busy calendars and being pulled in many different directions. How many of us just try to survive the holidays? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One thing that tends to go out the window for me is the art of slowing down and reflecting during this special season. I tend get caught up in the activities of life and I don't take time to reflect on what God did for me as He came to Earth that first Christmas morning. This morning as I was reading my devotional, I was reminded of this:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>"Modern man has lost the perspective of eternity. To distract himself from the gaping jaws of death, he engages in ceaseless activity and amusement. The practice of being sill in My Presence is almost a lost art, yet it is this very stillness that enables you to experience My eternal Love.</i>" <b>Jesus Calling</b> by Sarah Young.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We are going to try and embrace slowing down this month. It will be hard, but yet it is vital to our well-being. When we slow down we can reflect on the love of God that has for us, the blessings that this year had bestowed upon us, and mourn the trials and heart ache that we have experienced.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lou & I aren't typically very liturgical in our practices, but this year, we are going to spend some time each Sunday celebrating the Advent. The Advent season reminds us that to "reenter" the story of the coming King….Jesus. Today, we are going to reflect on the first week of hope. We would encourage you to STOP for a few moments, cease activity and reflect on the hope we have.</span><br />
<br />Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-3553502853592708242013-10-06T04:54:00.000-07:002013-10-06T04:54:17.558-07:00The Power of Community<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cadence has a "mission verse"....<i>"We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us." I Thessalonians 2:8</i></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">African Children's Choir - Uganda<br />We housed the choir while they<br />traveled Japan and ministered<br />to the Japanese.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We love this challenge of sharing our lives with the military community. As we share our lives, we build community with one another. What does community mean to you? For us, community is family. A group of people that share their lives with one another, they share their dreams, their failures, they support one another in good times and in bad, they accept one another and love each other to grow and change in all areas of their lives. Community impacts other communities. In the short time we have been in Yokosuka and serving at the Lighthouse, we have experienced the power of community.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We have seen people sacrifice their Saturday afternoon to go help a pregnant women whose husband was at sea and she needed some yard work done. We have seen people sacrifice their time to love a group of children from Uganda. We have seen people give money to meet the needs of another community in Cambodia. We have seen people reach out to their co-workers who are going through a difficult marital situation. This is sharing your lives with one another, this is sharing the gospel. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our folks hanging out with some<br />international students from a<br />Tokyo university</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We love being the place where people can come and experience community. We have people in our ministry that are single and married, people with kids and people with no kids, people who recently said good-bye to a college-age child, people who have recently said hello to their first child. We have people that have experienced fulfilled dreams and are dealing with the grief of broken dreams. We have the privilege to come along side them all and love this community.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">F</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">or those of you who are on our prayer & financial team, you are extension of this community. People experience a "home away from home" because of people that sacrifice their finances so we can be a community to the military and to the Japanese. We are so blessed to be a part of the Cadence community, the Lighthouse community and the community of believers!</span>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-54194191670795547862013-08-18T01:48:00.000-07:002013-08-18T01:48:03.195-07:00Brothers/SIsters, to Parents, to Grandparents<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Jay and his family<br />One of our first 20 something...<br />now all grown up!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">About 15 years ago, we began doing life with 20 & 30 somethings. We served our church by hosting a small group where we enjoyed dinner together, a time of bible study and then hang out time over dessert. When we began we fit the role of an older brother & sister to the folks we loved. It was fun to come alongside them as they started their "adult lives", dealing with "adult issues". We walked through various joys and sorrows, explored what it meant to be a Christ-follower, discussed budget ideas, gave advise on dealing with difficult bosses, enjoyed hearing about first stages of romance -- this is doing life with one another. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Celebrating seminary <br />graduation with Andrew Hess....<br />one of our favorite "goofballs"</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Our philosophy hasn't changed, whether it is serving our church, working at Northrop Grumman, or serving with Cadence, we have learned that when you share a meal, you can begin to share your lives with one another. We absolutely LOVE this age group!! We have continued to knit our hearts together with 20 & 30 somethings, but they stay 20 & 30 and we continue to get older. We moved into the surrogate parent role a few years ago. We have gone to more weddings, baby showers, college graduations in our 40's & 50's than when we were in our 20's & 30's. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Greta (on left)<br />Her first ballet recital</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Meadow & Lou</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Now as the years have progressed, many of the people that we love, now have children. Their kiddos look to us as surrogate grandparents. Since we have joined Cadence, we have been invited to piano recitals & ballet recitals, baseball & soccer games, spelling bees, softball tournaments and so much more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Our military kids want their grandparents to participate and it is too expensive and far away for most to be able to come. So, we go, we attend, we cheer, we wave from the crowd, we hug them, we toss a ball to them, we love them. We understand the sacrifices that our military personnel make for our country; so, it is an honor to be family to them. No matter what role we play: brother or sister, mom or dad, or grandpa or grandma, it is a pleasure to do life & ministry with them all!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Emily Rei Howie -- our <br />first Japanese "granddaughter"</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cadence has a core verse that illustrates our vision for doing life & ministry. I Thessalonians 2:8, </span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">"We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us." </i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Thanks for allowing us to share our lives with you. </span></div>
Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-44998682182225085662013-07-20T23:14:00.001-07:002013-07-20T23:14:42.591-07:00Saying Good-bye to Yukie Ida!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Our last night with Yukie</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For those of you who are in the military, you know how hard it is to say good-bye. It is a reality in our job....people leave our ministry regularly. We don't have to like it, but it is something we have to deal with.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This week we said good-bye to someone very dear to us, to the Lighthouse community and to the local Japanese community. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Yukie Ida has been a part of the Yokosuka community for several years. She came to the Lighthouse and met Jesus here. As she grew in her faith, she was asked to join the Lighthouse team. Yukie has served here for 6 years. On Monday, she said good-bye to her "family". The Lord is leading her to another ministry focus. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Yukie has served with four different house directors: Paul & Stacy Cassidy, Jim & Martha Bowden, Matthew & Jill Bachali and now us. She has been a faithful servant to Jesus, Cadence and the Lighthouse. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We were fortunate to have 4 weeks with sweet Yukie. In those four weeks, we grew to love her & appreciate her deeply. It became obvious to us that Yukie served in a sacrifical way to the Navy and to the Japanese. She had a Japanese ladies study, where she was instrumental introducing them to Christ, where she discipled them, and helped these ladies deepen their walk with Jesus. One sweet gal told me she will miss Yukie because <i>"She taught me about God, she is my sister." </i>Yukie was a blessing to her Navy family as well. She taught them about Jesus' deep love for them and helped them navigate the Japanese culture. She has been a good friend and a great teammate!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We will miss Yukie!! But, we know that God has a tremendous plan for her. We are excited to watch her in this next chapter of life. Thanks Yukie! </span>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-22080222452086506032013-06-17T00:23:00.000-07:002013-06-17T00:23:52.721-07:00Scary Dragons & Military love<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>We walked off the plane a little dazed & confused</b>, but a familiar face greeted us...Matthew Bachali! We were so glad to see him as we arrived in Tokyo on Wednesday, 12 June. After juggling our suitcases and getting through customs, we drove to our new home. When we arrived at the Lighthouse (the name of our ministry), we were greeted by 40+ folks to a "<i>Welcome to Yokosuka</i>" party. We enjoyed a fabulous dinner and met several people that we will be doing life with here in Yokosuka. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Our first few days with Matthew & Yukie have been fabulous! We are so grateful for the ministry that Matthew & Jill, Carolyn & Yukie have done in this past year. We are inheriting a very healthy ministry, a fabulous leadership team and a beautiful home. We have been very busy with transition items: getting alien registration cards, learning nuances with the house, transfering bank accounts, utilities, cell phones, etc. Matthew & Yuke have pulled together a wonderful transition plan that we are marching through day-by-day.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vi5VpsFerMI/Ub63zLigySI/AAAAAAAAAao/M0nHmQ9n20w/s1600/IMG_0640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vi5VpsFerMI/Ub63zLigySI/AAAAAAAAAao/M0nHmQ9n20w/s200/IMG_0640.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In the midst of that, we have become settled into our apartment. The Lighthouse is unique to Cadence. It is a ministry center, that includes 2 apartments for the Cadence team. Yukie lives in the 4th floor apartment - a nice 2-bedroom place. We have the the 3rd floor apartment - a lovely 3-bedroom home. We have unpacked all of our boxes and put our pictures on the wall. We have some final touches to truly call it home -- but we are quite settled now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As we unpacked, we experienced some "love" from our Ktown family. We would open drawers and find a picture of scary dragons and on the flip side was a note from someone in our ministry in Ktown. It's a very long story, but these sweet ladies pulled a prank on us in Ktown with this picture. They tried to convince us that this was a gift from an Air Force man that was part of the Ktown ministry several years ago. The hospitality house was integral in his adjustment to Germany and he wanted to thank us by giving the house an original work of art. The young man even showed up to our home one night to see where we had hung his masterpiece. Beth had us going for a while...Jennessa played innocent; but the truth finally came out. They found this "work of art" in a dumpster and as good youth workers decided to prank us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">How fun it was to find these pictures throughout the house and receive words of love, encouragement, prayers & support from our Germany family! Saying good-bye to to our Ktown family was so hard and we miss them very much. God is good! He has used our new Navy family in these first few days to make us feel welcome and He has used our Ktown family to feel loved and to remind us why we serve the military! </span></div>
Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-5438517915918215892013-06-04T07:05:00.001-07:002013-06-04T07:05:48.935-07:00One week from today......<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aQirzCmcbBk/Ua3yH5wlZ0I/AAAAAAAAAaE/ihXt8k78PR4/s1600/935285_10201251513035955_1054115591_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="168" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aQirzCmcbBk/Ua3yH5wlZ0I/AAAAAAAAAaE/ihXt8k78PR4/s200/935285_10201251513035955_1054115591_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One week from today, we are flying to Tokyo! We cannot believe how fast our time has flown. We have enjoyed seeing many of you and catching up on life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But, we are ready to go! When we received our work VISAs a few weeks ago, we were excited. It was the final step for our move to Japan. We truly miss loving on our military! We are excited to have the opportunity to learn a new military culture as we do life with the Navy. We cannot wait to begin life and ministry with these fine folks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As we enter this last week, we have mixed emotions as our time with our family is coming to an end. Please keep us in your prayers as we say our good-byes and get our final hugs before we leave. Please pray for our transition as we begin our life and our ministry in Japan. We are so thankful for Matthew & Jill Bachali who have, along with their four kids, sacrificed this year to serve at the Yokosuka Hospitality House. They have done an amazing job loving our sailors! We will have big shoes to fill. We will be in touch again soon! Thanks again for your love, friendship & prayers.</span></div>
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Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-12943935211199154602013-04-18T08:20:00.000-07:002013-04-18T08:20:06.780-07:00Happy Birthday Dad!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad & Mom....53 years together and going strong!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Today is my father's 75th birthday: April 18, 1938. We spent the weekend celebrating this milestone day. We started on Saturday evening with a family dinner out. I feel so fortunate that my family and I get along and enjoy each other's company so much. I am grateful that my parent's foster that over the years. Whenever we have had conflicts, they encouraged us to forgive and move one. We have walked through many joys and sorrows together, but our family is united. I love being able to call my parents and my siblings friends!!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chuckie as a baby! So cute!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We spent Sunday enjoying some cake & ice cream with extended family and friends. It was a small affair -- Dad is not one for the lime light. But, it was fun to share stories from his youth and his life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We won't be together today for his 75th birthday. But, I hope my father knows how much I love & respect him. I enjoy spending time with him, ribbing him, hanging out and loving him. He has been instrumental in my life as a mentor for my spiritual convictions, my success in the work place and molding me as a wife and a mother. I am forever grateful for him. Happy Birthday Dad!!</span></div>
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<br />Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-28334574695292846892013-04-03T15:51:00.001-07:002013-04-03T15:51:53.755-07:00Easter 2013<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andrew and Amanda<br />Boulder, Colorado</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">"What is the hardest thing about living overseas?" is one of the most frequent questions we receive. Without question, it is being away from family and friends. We loved our Germany community and they were like family to us! But, we do miss the folks that we have done life with for so long. It has been fun to reconnect with so many dear people and hear what has been going on in their lives.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Jack & Melissa Bruckner<br />Broomfield, CO</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We enjoyed a beautiful, sunny Easter weekend in Colorado. This will be our last formal holiday at home before we move to Yokosuka. We had the opportunity to visit some friends from our Boulder community. We went to Easter service at our old church, Flatirons Community Church. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Chris & Nathan playing dominoes <br />on Easter morning</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We miss celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter with family. We love providing that home away from home to our servicemen and women; but we must admit it was a special time this year! </span></div>
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Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-27052734536696476042013-03-13T08:44:00.001-07:002013-03-13T08:44:58.495-07:00It is good to be home!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We made it back to Colorado on Sunday afternoon. We were on a 2 month road trip visiting friends, extended family, existing supporters and raising some additional support. God was so faithful to us! We had so much fun reconnecting with people. We left for Germany almost 4 years ago. In most cases, we hadn't seen these folks since we left. We had precious times of fellowship with everyone! We also saw some friends from Germany along the way. We enjoyed catching up on life and hearing how their time back in the States is going. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Alan & Robin Brunton --<br />friends from Fortville, Indiana</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">God blessed us with safe travels and great weather on drive days, except for one: OUR VERY LAST DAY. As we returned to Denver, we got stuck in Limon for a few hours. <i>[Limon is a Colorado town on the Kansas border.] </i>A major snow storm had hit the Denver and the eastern plains of Colorado on Saturday. The roads were in good shape as we drove on Sunday. But, there was an accident that closed I-70 for almost 2 hours. We enjoyed a break in a little cowboy bar in Limon. We made it home just fine!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Aunt Cathy with her<br />sweet niece, Avery Palmer</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We will be sending out a formal newsletter soon. You will hear more stories from our time away from Colorado. We are glad to be back and will be spending time with our Colorado friends & family over the next few months. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Please continue to pray for our transition to Japan. We are waiting for our VISAs to be approved. We are getting more & more excited about our next assignment with Cadence. Thank you for your faithfulness to us and our ministry.</span></div>
Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-66734142848348222622013-02-05T07:59:00.000-08:002013-02-05T07:59:01.971-08:00Modern Day Idols<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">On 18 January, we left on a two (2) road trip. We are visiting friends, family, and supporters. As we planned our trip, we struggled with where to go, who to see and how long to be gone. It was a difficult decision because we realized we will not be able to see everyone. As we have been driving around the country, we have enjoyed some fun visits with people and it's been great to reconnect with so many people. But when you are locked in a car, you also have a ton of time to think and pray as you are driving from Albuquerque to Dallas.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQcoxX6RigI/UREq_P5nRfI/AAAAAAAAAW0/0GwC9910K8E/s1600/MB900384853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQcoxX6RigI/UREq_P5nRfI/AAAAAAAAAW0/0GwC9910K8E/s1600/MB900384853.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A few months ago, I (Cathy) began meditating on the first and second commandments about not having any gods before God and not worshipping idols. Since, I've had many hours in the car, this is something that I have been rethinking. I don't know if anyone else struggles with this, but I sometimes think that I don't have idols in my life. I don't worship an image or bow down to a idol. But, I'm finding there are other things that might be considered a "god". So, I've been convicted to evaluate the idols in my life that keep me from worshipping the Lord with all my heart, soul and mind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What are our modern day idols? Work? Cars? Finding a mate? Wishing for a child? Caring for loved ones? Perfectionism? Diet & exercise? Lack of Vulnerability? I'm not saying that some of these are bad desires or hobbies, some of them are; but if any of them are more important than my relationship with the Lord, they might be an idol.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For me, and I'm still trying to get my arms around this, I know that one my idols is my family. I love my husband and cannot imagine life without him. My relationship with my daughter is in a good place and I want it to continue to get better. I am honored to have great parents that I respect, love dearly and can call friends. My siblings, Rich & Jeanne, hold a very dear place in my heart - I should probably tell them that more often. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now, that doesn't sound too bad, what's wrong with this? I'm starting to realize that I sometimes put pleasing them over pleasing God. I sometimes obey them, when God is leading me to do something else. It's easier to not have a conflict with my husband, than it is to disobey God. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M4twwH5-bMA/UREq_DTCNPI/AAAAAAAAAW8/_E16PjGD1mo/s1600/MB900289345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M4twwH5-bMA/UREq_DTCNPI/AAAAAAAAAW8/_E16PjGD1mo/s1600/MB900289345.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm just beginning to unpack this, but I am convinced that I need continue. My heart is realizing that I have idols in my life and I really don't like it! I want God to hold the place in my heart, the place in my worship, the place in my thought life that He deserves. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So, as I continue over the next several weeks, I am going to be asking the Lord to reveal areas of my heart that are holding a higher place than they should. I am asking Him to reveal to me other idols that are limiting me from truly experiencing an abundant walk with the creater of the Universe. Will you join me?</span></div>
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Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-9108968381719730492012-12-23T17:52:00.000-08:002012-12-23T17:52:04.593-08:00Forrest & Katie: Engaged!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ktmOPg5sd48/UNey6JfjGLI/AAAAAAAAAWI/SrdJgMXWklQ/s1600/164757_485012236607_6203794_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ktmOPg5sd48/UNey6JfjGLI/AAAAAAAAAWI/SrdJgMXWklQ/s200/164757_485012236607_6203794_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="106" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katie as a little girl</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lou & Katie..first day of <br />
seminary & high school</td></tr>
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We cannot believe how time flies. When Cathy was younger, her mother would tell her that time flies faster once you have children. Boy is that true!! Katie was 9 years old, when she came to live with us. Many of you know our story...we were not able to have biological children. After pursuing some medical intervention and adoption, we felt like the Lord was closing the door as we were approaching 40. Within six months, Katie (Lou's niece) came to live with us. Her mother had died and Katie joined our family. </div>
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Junior Year at Pine Creek</td></tr>
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As most parents, we loved her dearly, but we also made our mistakes with Katie. But, by the grace of God, Katie has turned out fabulous! She has a lovely personality, a great sense of humor, a zest for life. She graduated from Pine Creek High School in 2008. She then entered into college life at the University of Northern Colorado (UNC). As she started the summer of her Junior year, she meet Forrest Bowlick. Forrest had just graduated from UNC and was about to start his Master's Degree at the University of Idaho. Forrest and Katie met at work as they were Freshman Orientation Directors and the romance began.</div>
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On Friday, Forrest asked Katie to marry him and she said YES! We are so excited for them. Every parent wants their child to be loved and cared for well. We have witnessed Forrest loving Katie and caring for her well. They are very compatible, are happy and are committed to one another! </div>
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They currently live in College Station, Texas. Katie is a substitute teacher, pursuing a full-time position as an elementary teacher. Forrest is a PhD candidate at Texas A&M. He is pursuing his PhD in Geography and will graduate in 2015. We are excited to have him join our family! </div>
Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-10554190727773675812012-12-06T08:30:00.001-08:002012-12-06T08:30:40.433-08:0015 years...still missing you!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> I don’t know about you, but
sometimes I truly <strong>LONG</strong> to go home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
not talking about my earthly home, I’m talking about heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For those of you who are Christ-followers, I
think you knows what I mean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
days that are filled with joy…I have days that feel like I’m in a battle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On this day, every year, my heart reflects
more on this longing of going home.</span></span></span></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vx6bj-2wOm4/UMDG9Y2avsI/AAAAAAAAAVk/ePWFWWDc4-s/s1600/Scan0018_018_018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vx6bj-2wOm4/UMDG9Y2avsI/AAAAAAAAAVk/ePWFWWDc4-s/s200/Scan0018_018_018.jpg" width="144" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">December 6, 1997 -</span> </span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">15 years ago today,
my youngest brother Chris was called home by the Lord. He was 27 years old and
died suddenly in a car accident. My life - my families lives - everyone that
knew and loved Chris - have never been the same. I miss my brother immensely. I
think of him every day...I still dream of him, although not as often. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gYoK0HtNkeY/UMDHNo1yO6I/AAAAAAAAAVs/E4acppZ7wQM/s1600/Scan0005_005_005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="139" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gYoK0HtNkeY/UMDHNo1yO6I/AAAAAAAAAVs/E4acppZ7wQM/s200/Scan0005_005_005.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having fun together many years ago!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I
am grateful that my memories of him bring more smiles now than tears. I am
thankful that healing has occurred in my heart, even though there are still
times my grief is overwhelming. But, I am forever grateful that I have <strong>HOPE</strong>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
have hope that I will see him again because of our relationship with Jesus. I
have hope that one day I too will be called home and enter into a place where
there are no more tears, no more sadness. In Heaven, I will walk on streets of
gold, see my Heavenly Father face to face and be reunited with Chris. I do <strong>LONG</strong>
for that day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-45Ldr_8zHV8/UMDHWBHWu6I/AAAAAAAAAV0/L6Qf6lkHHOs/s1600/Scan0011_011_011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="138" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-45Ldr_8zHV8/UMDHWBHWu6I/AAAAAAAAAV0/L6Qf6lkHHOs/s200/Scan0011_011_011.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My fabulous sibs: Rich, Jeanne & Chris</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">As
I reflect on this anniversary...I remember the words of the song <i>Homesick</i>
by MercyMe. They still ring true and are the heartbeat of my heart. I am
including them below...as you read them, my prayer is that you have the same
confidence that I have, that you have the same hope that I have. My hope is in
Jesus!<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong></strong></span></u></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong>Homesick by Mercy Me</strong></span></u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">You're in a better place, I've heard
a thousand times</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">And at least a thousand times I've
rejoiced for you</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">But the reason why I'm broken, the
reason why I cry</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Is how long must I wait to be with
you</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I close my eyes and I see your face</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">If home's where my heart is then I'm
out of place</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lord, won't you give me strength to
make it through somehow</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I've never been more homesick than
now</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Help me Lord cause I don't
understand your ways</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The reason why I wonder if I'll ever
know</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">But, even if you showed me, the hurt
would be the same</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Cause I'm still here so far away
from home<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I close my eyes and I see your face</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">If home's where my heart is then I'm
out of place</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lord, won't you give me strength to
make it through somehow</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I've never been more homesick than
now</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">In Christ, there are no goodbyes</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">And in Christ, there is no end</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">So I'll hold onto Jesus with all
that I have</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">To see you again</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">To see you again<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">And I close my eyes and I see your
face</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">If home's where my heart is then I'm
out of place</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lord, won't you give me strength to
make it through somehow</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Won't you give me strength to make
it through somehow</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Won't you give me strength to make
it through somehow<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I've never been more homesick than now<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-9861972488894292182012-11-10T08:21:00.000-08:002012-11-10T08:21:46.355-08:00Goodbye Sweet Marko<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div align="left">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BRLa4fpGlR0/UJ57z1rseRI/AAAAAAAAAUk/1_IEq41A1gY/s1600/44583_815748850679_1487295_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BRLa4fpGlR0/UJ57z1rseRI/AAAAAAAAAUk/1_IEq41A1gY/s200/44583_815748850679_1487295_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marko</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In August 2010, we had the privilege to faciliate a missions trip to Miskolc, Hungary. We teamed with Good Sports International and took a team to work at two orphanages and a refugee camp. We spent the majority of our time at the orphanage in Miskolc. We grew to love the children and some really captured our hearts. One of those little ones was Marko.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tHJxZpvOwyQ/UJ59ZlvE5oI/AAAAAAAAAUs/E0YlDo969ek/s1600/img_0047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tHJxZpvOwyQ/UJ59ZlvE5oI/AAAAAAAAAUs/E0YlDo969ek/s200/img_0047.jpg" width="133" /></a>We soon learned that Marko was very sick. He had a heart condition. Despite his illness, he was active, happy, pleasant and loved to give big hugs. We learned today that Marko lost his battle. This is a tragedy, but we know that Marko <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id=".reactRoot[78].[1][2][1]{comment10151397113838888_10151398333988888}..[1]..[1]..[0].[0][2]"><span class="UFICommentBody" id=".reactRoot[78].[1][2][1]{comment10151397113838888_10151398333988888}..[1]..[1]..[0].[0][2]."><span id=".reactRoot[78].[1][2][1]{comment10151397113838888_10151398333988888}..[1]..[1]..[0].[0][2]..[0]">is healthy and happy with Jesus. We know that his young life had such an impact on so many - we know that because he impacted our lives. Please pray for the children at the Miskolc orphanage...Marko was their little brother in so many ways and he will be missed! Pray for the orphanage staff and the staff of Good Sports...it is a time of grief and sadness.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span> </span></span></span></div>
Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-69640364018705674432012-10-21T12:02:00.001-07:002012-10-21T12:04:20.262-07:00What's next for us?<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z9-B7RYwGGI/UIRE5eSzzOI/AAAAAAAAAUM/VsZJVrqrgLU/s1600/247751_10151106985906317_1139384682_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z9-B7RYwGGI/UIRE5eSzzOI/AAAAAAAAAUM/VsZJVrqrgLU/s200/247751_10151106985906317_1139384682_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cathy - Beth - Heather</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We have finished our formal ministry in Kaiserslautern, Germany. We will start our home assignment (furlough) here in Europe. We are blessed to have the opportunity to attend a missionary care retreat in Croatia. It is an all expense paid retreat (lodging, food and conference fees) that is geared for foreign missionaries. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We are looking forward to spending the next few days getting some rest, reconnecting with one another and with the Lord. There will be a time of teaching and worship every night, time of fellowship, and REST. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We have the honor to attend this retreat with a few of our Cadence colleagues: Kyle & Melissa Carnegie, Heather Lite and Beth Mabry. We are looking forward to spending some quality time with them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We will be back in Colorado in November. We are excited to spend the holidays with our friends and family. We will spend most of our time, after the holidays, reconnecting with our supporters. We will be in touch with many of you as we begin to pull together our road trips. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">We will be also focusing on our move to Japan. Lou will be visiting Yokosuka in November to see the ministry in action, meet the folks we will be doing life with and to get the lay of the land. Please pray as we prepare for this next assignment. We know there will be adjustments as we learn to minister to naval servicemen and women and to live in the Asian culture. We also ask that you would pray for our goods as they left Germany just a few weeks ago. Pray that they will arrive safe and dry! </span></div>
Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-89519252105594152442012-07-16T05:34:00.002-07:002012-07-16T05:35:25.235-07:00In Christ Alone.....<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lou & I have been talking about what it means to be "In Christ". We have realized that we have a problem, that many Christians have, the failure to understand the impact of the resurrected life of Jesus. How do we get our arms around the idea that we are simultaneously righteous and a sinner? Martin Luther used this as his argument against the idea that our works merit our salvation. We understand in our head that we are save, justified and reconciled to God, but at the same time we are sinners. So, what does it mean to be "In Christ"? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">God does want to transform us. He wants to take away the guilt of sin, but also the power of sin. We just learned that Paul uses the phrase "<em>in Christ" </em>or "<em>in the Lord"</em> 164 times in his epistles<em>.</em> This is obviously an important truth! So, what does that mean? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As Lou & I have been discussing this, we have been thinking about what it means to be a new creation,what it means to abide, what it means to be indwelt by Jesus, what it means to be a follower of Christ. This is a process and we are still flushing it out. Yesterday at church, we sang the song <em>In Christ Alone. </em>I have grown to love this song, but it moved me even more because of this concept that Lou & I have been reflecting on. Here are the lyrics [written by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend, 2001]</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In Christ alone my hope is found<br />He is my light, my strength, my song<br />This
Cornerstone, this solid ground<br />Firm through the fiercest drought and
storm<br /><br />What heights of love, what depths of peace<br />When fears are
stilled, when strivings cease<br />My Comforter, my All in All<br />Here in the love
of Christ I stand<br /><br />In Christ alone, who took on flesh<br />Fullness of God
in helpless Babe<br />This gift of love and righteousness<br />Scorned by the ones
He came to save<br /><br />'Til on that cross as Jesus died<br />The wrath of God was
satisfied<br />For every sin on Him was laid<br />Here in the death of Christ I
live, I live<br /><br />There in the ground His body lay<br />Light of the world by darkness slain<br />Then bursting forth in glorious
Day<br />Up from the grave He rose again<br /><br />And as He stands in
victory<br />Sin's curse has lost its grip on me<br />For I am His and He is
mine<br />Bought with the precious blood of Christ<br /><br />No guilt in life, no
fear in death<br />This is the power of Christ in me<br />From a life's first cry to
final breath<br />Jesus commands my destiny<br /><br />No power of hell, no scheme of
man<br />Could ever pluck me from His hand<br />'Til He returns or calls me
home<br />Here in the power of Christ I stand</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I love the reminder that He is my hope, my comfort, my Savior, my coming King! Lou & I will continue to process this truth that we are "In Christ". This song will be a reminder of hope I have by understanding this truth.</span></div>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-16328828615842325952012-06-07T00:03:00.000-07:002012-06-07T00:03:22.730-07:00Rest....will that happen for me?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWyY0F55DZk/T9BRUgEVtLI/AAAAAAAAAUA/g48VPIkfk58/s1600/img_4171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWyY0F55DZk/T9BRUgEVtLI/AAAAAAAAAUA/g48VPIkfk58/s320/img_4171.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">For about a year now, I have been reflecting on the verses in Matthew 11:28-30, "Come to me, <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23488AG" title="See cross-reference AG">AG</a>)"></sup> all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23488AH" title="See cross-reference AH">AH</a>)"></sup> <span class="text Matt-11-29" id="en-NIV-23489"><span class="woj">Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23489AI" title="See cross-reference AI">AI</a>)"></sup> for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-23489AJ" title="See cross-reference AJ">AJ</a>)"></sup> </span></span> <span class="text Matt-11-30" id="en-NIV-23490"><span class="woj"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-11-30"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I must confess that at times I don't believe that God wants to give me rest. I don't think that His burden is light. Now, I am not a theologian or a philsopher (Lou is, but not me). So, I probably need to really dig out some of his commentaries and other books to study this more. But on face value, I have been wrestling with this idea that God wants to give me rest. </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-11-30"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As I been meditating on this, I have also been reflecting on other things that I might not necessarily believe about my Heavenly father. Now, as a Christ follower for almost 40 years and now a misllsionary, this is horrible to admit. It is the on-going struggle of what I <strong>know</strong> to be true, but <strong>experiencing</strong> it at a heart level is a different thing. For instance, I know that God delights in His children, but does He delight in me? I know God is a generous and gracious God, but why do I struggle with the world of merit instead of His world of grace? </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-11-30"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I long to rest in Him, yet I get so caught up in the details of life. I long to experience the green pastures and the soul restoration that Psalm 23 talks about, yet the deadlines of life tend to pull at me more than time with God. I also know this is more my problem than God's...but I'm being honest to what's going on in my soul. </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-11-30"><span class="woj"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">What is amazing is as I have been wrestling through these issues of the heart, I have sensed a deepening of my faith. I have sensed His presence more as I walk through this journey. I still cry out more often, "How long Lord" or "Why Lord", than I do "Thank you Lord". But, I know God is working, I know God is patient with me and I know I will find rest.</span></span></span></div>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-61059051465764347442012-05-14T14:06:00.001-07:002012-05-14T14:06:56.815-07:00Class of 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You know the old saying "Time sure does fly"! Well, we are feeling that more than ever. We have spent the past two weekends celebrating. Four years ago, we dropped Katie off at the University of Northern Colorado. She was entering into the next chapter of life -- a college student. Katie chose UNC for it's education program. It seemed like yesterday that she was beginning this phase of life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Now, on 5 May, Katie walked across the platform and received her Bachelor's degree. We are not sure where the time went, but now she is entering the next chapter of her life....job hunting!! She has been dating a young man, Forrest Bowlick. Forrest is a graduate of UNC and on 12 May, he graduated with his Master's Degree in Geogrpahy from the University of Idaho. We had the privilege to join him and his family in this proud moment.<span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We are very proud of both of them. Forrest is a PhD candidate at Texas A&M. He will begin his program this fall. Katie has decided to move to College Station, Texas and look for an elementary teacher position there. We are excited to see what is in store for them now!</span></div>
<br />Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-87010940740314327492012-03-19T06:11:00.004-07:002012-03-19T09:36:06.208-07:00What's Luck Got to Do with It?<div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">I (Cathy) had the honor of speaking at the Spring Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC) Rally in Ramstein on Saturday. This was a regional rally so there were ladies from Ramstein AFB, Daenner, Baumholder, Heidelberg, Weisbaden, and Spangdahlem. </span></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Since the rally was on St. Patrick's Day, I was asked to speak on "luck". At first I wasn't sure about the topic, but the more I meditated on the idea, I got excited about it. I was given two sessions and so I spoke on two different aspects about luck.</span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"> </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />According to Webster, the definition of luck is <em>“a force that brings good fortune or adversity”.</em> As I was preparing for my teaching, I wasn’t surprised to learn that there is no reference to luck in the Bible. But, I did learn that there are actually 26 references to casting lots to make adecision. Many of us know the messianic prophecy that is fulfilled when the guards “cast lots” to see who would get Jesus’ clothes. How about the reference in Acts where after prayer, the disciples have Judas’ replacement narrowed downto two fellows and the cast lots to make the final decision between Joseph andMatthias – the luck of the dice chose Matthias. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"> </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />Proverbs 16:33 states <em>"We may throw the dice but the LORD determines how they fall."</em> Here in lies the truth….the Lord determines how the dice fall,every decision is from the Lord. We spent our time looking at two things: (1) there is no such thing as luck, God is in control and He is sovereign and (2) what do we do with this idea of being“lucky”, blessed, fortunate.</span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"> </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />We began examining the idea of God's sovereignty. Easton’s Bible Dictionary defines sovereignty as“Gods absolute right to do all things according to his own good pleasure.” If someone is sovereign, he is in control, the buck stop with him. God claims to be the king, not just of this planet, but of the entire universe. He is outside of time, He is infinite, He had no beginning, He has no end. He is the ruler over everything – you & me included.</span></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Isaiah 46:9-10 states that <em>“I am God and there is no other..my counsel shall stand and I will accomplish all my purpose.”</em> Daniel proclaims<em> “God does according to his will in the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth and none can stop him or say to him “What have you done?”</em> Daniel 4:35 Job reminds us in 23:13-15 – but he is unchangeable and who can turn him? What he desires, that he does. For he will complete what he appoints for me?” Finally, Psalm 115:3, <em>“Our God is in the heavens; he does whatever he pleases.” </em>The Bible reveals throughout many passages that our God is sovereign and in control.<br /></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />I don’t know about you, I find this to be great news! And here is why…I lack in many areas that God does not, and this is why His sovereignty is good news even when it doesn’t make sense to me. I find great comfort in understanding that life circumstances are not just coincidences, fate or luck. It is because God is in control and He is sovereign.<br /><br />I can trust God’s sovereignty, because He is all knowing, all powerful, holy, just and loving. <strong>We may not understand things, but we can trust Him.</strong> When we have a loved one that has been diagnosed with a disease, we can rely on the truth that God is in control. When we think of our most difficult issues with our kids, we can rely on the truth that God is in control. When the economy – national or personal – in on a slide, God is in control. What about things that are going well in our life. We tend to focus on the trials more than the joys, but the truth is that nothing will enter your life – good or bad – that God does not either decree or allow. As Romans 8:28 states, my paraphrase, nothing will ever enter your life, that God cannot work out for your good. He is sovereign. </span></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">I understand this is a difficult idea to get our arms around. God who is in total control, is all-knowing, all-wise, infinite in His love. He is not surprised by what you & I are walking through in this moment of time. I don’t know what you may be walking through right now, good or bad, but , God isn’t surprised by your circumstances. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"> </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />In the afternoon, we discussed what does it mean to be "lucky". I shared a story about an interchange between two friends of mine to help illustrate this point. In May 2004, Lou & I facilitated a short-term mission trip with 14 folks from our home church in Colorado to Mozambique. We joined about 10 folks from a South African church and went to a village called Manica. The missionary that we supported lived in Manica full-time, his name is Schalk. While we were there we met Mr. Short, one of Schalk’s best friend. We entered into a dialog between these two men that dealt with this idea of luck. Mr. Short considered another mutual friend "lucky" because he had an opportunity to receive an education and found a job in England. This allowed him to leave poverty. He got "lucky" in Mr. Short's opinion. It wasn't due to the fact that he had worked hard and studied hard. He just got the break.</span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"> </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />We'll I got thinking about this idea. I'm a white woman, born into a middle class family, in the USA. I have an education, good health, a nice home, running water, heat, food. Am I lucky? Taking this into the discussion from the morning, I must admit I don't know how to reconcile the fact that our sovereign God chose me to be born in the United States and that the same God chose Mr. Short to be born in a war-torn, poverty stricken village in Mozambique. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"> </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />I decided that I am blessed because I have the joy of walking with Christ and I am approved by God by no merit of my own. I contend that God created us for two reasons (1) enjoy a relationship with him and (2) to extend his glory to the ends of the earth. Simple enough. Enjoy his grace, extend his glory. As you study the Bible, see if you see these themes woven through God’s word: people enjoying His grace and people extending His glory. In the book <em>Radical</em>, by David Platt, he states “God is seen pouring out his grace and his people for the sake of his glory among all people, in every genre of biblical literature and every stage of biblical history.”<br /></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />Do you think that God no longer pours out his grace to us for the sake of his glory? I don’t. So how does this work. I believe we experience his outpouring of grace the moment we are reconciled with him through our relationship with Jesus. But shouldn’t His grace motivate us to participate in His purpose? </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />So, can I challenge you to wrap your arms around the idea that God might have a motive in blessing us? Platt states again “God creates, blesses and saves each of us for a radically global purpose.” This challenge is what is our part in this purpose? For Mr. Short, as a Christ follower, He has the opportunity radically change his village based on how God has gifted him and "blessed him". Just like I have the same opporutnity, to radically impact my world for the glory of Christ. But, because of our different status, different locations, different giftings -- God will call us differently.</span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"> </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />As I have wrestled with the fact that my friend Mr. Short was born where he was born – through the sovereignty of God and I was born where I was born – through the sovereignty of God. I’m meditating on this idea of what do I do now? What is the responsibility that I have with my materially blessings that Mr. Short does not have because of his lack of materially blessings? How is God calling me to radically impact the world to bring glory to God? And what am I doing about that? </span></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Maybe you are in a place where you a weak (physically, mentally, emotionally, relationally), maybe you are feeling helpless or engulfed in worry, remember God knows what you are going through, He will use this time to give you grace, to prod you to trust Him more and to learn that He is all sufficient. Maybe, you are just realized that God has ordained each of your days, they are unfolding in the way that He designed and planned. He has allowed you to go through hard times and trials, joys and laughter, so that He can make something beautiful out of every situation! God knows everything about you! Despite the good and the bad, we can take comfort that we are still blessed by God. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />No matter what is going on in your life, God is in control and we can partner with Him to impact the world for His glory. I know we are all in different places and stages of life… I challenge you to walk away thinking about this truth. <em>"God is in control and I’m blessed, what am I doing with my blessings?"</em> I’m not necessarily just talking about materially blessings, but that might be what God is calling you to do - give monetarily. I’m talking about taking inventory of your life, and if you are a Christ follower, ask yourself this question how am I impacting my co-workers, my children, my husband, my hairdresser, my “whatever” to bring glory to Christ.</span></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">This isn’t about guilting you into something, this is about our heart attitude. Our hearts should be consumed with making the glory of God known: in our families, in our work place, in all nations. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. God has prepared you for good works, before the beginning of time. He was sovereign and had a plan for You to partner with Him in bringing glory to Him. Isn’t that exciting?</span></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">For me, as I have had the opportunity to see how some of the world lives and that I am truly “lucky”. God has provided for me in ways that are truly humbling and I have a responsibility to impact the world in a way to bring glory to God through those provisions. As I have seen human beings who have been less lucky or fortunate or blessed than me, I have realized it is easy to give and serve when I remember how I am in partnership with God. Whether that is giving more money away to help those that are in poverty, to take cookies to my ailing neighbor, to love my husband well, to leave a legacy of Christian values to my children. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />Sometimes I partner with God through contribution, money. Sometimes I do this through service. Sometimes I do this through prayer. For me, this is the good news….that God is his sovereignty, in his wisdom, in his love has created me to enjoy a relationship with Him and to partner with Him to extend his glory to the ends of the earth. Will you join me? Ask yourself the question: <em>What’s next for me now?</em></span></div></div>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-4119144631488686902012-03-11T00:36:00.002-08:002012-03-11T01:03:23.747-08:00It's been a busy season.....<div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">We cannot believe how fast the past few months have flown by! We do stay busy with life and have recently begun to realize we need to do a better job with our work-life balance. On a monthly basis, we put out a ministry calendar so our folks know what studies and activities are going on at the Hospitality House.<br /><br /> </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">We enjoy leading four studies, on 3 different nights. Lou leads a men's study on Tuesday nights and is faciliating <em>The Truth Project</em>. On Friday night, we are studying the spiritual disciplines (prayer, fasting, meditation, etc.) and enjoy a combined group of singles, young married and families. Every other Sunday night, we host a study for young couples and we are studying John 15, unpacking the idea of being "in the vine and becoming a fruit bearer". Finally, on the other Sunday nights, we host an adult study and we are going through Philip Yancey's book on <em>Prayer</em>.</span></div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Well, this week we had a young man that asked to get together with us. Since he works during the day, evenings are the best time for us to connect with most people. We do meet with some people one-on-one in mentoring relationships during the day either over coffee or lunch. But, our evenings become quite full. He was so sweet as he looked at our calendar and wanted to know if we could meet Wednesday or Thursday, since those "appeared" to be free. Yes, on our ministry calendar those evenings were open. </span><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Unfortunately, we had other commitments. So, we found a night that will work in a few weeks. </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"><br />But, it caused us to chat again about the busyness of life here in Germany. We realized that we hadn't had a night open to ourselves for almost 40 days. We love doing life with people and coming along side them so it is hard for us to say "no" to folks. This isn't too brag either...it is not about how many people we are meeting with or how many are coming through our ministry. Our hearts desire is to do life with people, hear what's going on in their lives, support them in whatever way we can and love them as Jesus would love them. </span></div><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">We are realizing that we need to make sure we have a little balance in our life so we can not grow weary. We love our ministry, we love our lives and we are in this for the long haul. We are running a marathon and not a sprint. God willing, we want this to be the last "job" before we are called to our heavenly home. We love what we do and our privileged to be serving God and our military. We are taking a few days off in two weeks and will be going back to the drawing board on this issues. We are grateful that we serve a God who is patient with us - despite the fact that we have to relearn lessons over and over again!</span></div>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-71206755497246195492012-02-12T03:52:00.000-08:002012-02-12T06:21:19.758-08:00Meditation and Rest<div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">Over the past few weeks, I've been struggling (again) with what does it mean to rest in the Lord? How do we deal with the demands of the day, but knowing that we need God's touch to deal with the demands of the day? I don't know about you, but this has been a life long struggle. I have seasons when I do better with "life-balance"; I have seasons when I'm horrible with it. Job demands, family demands, ministry demands, life demands....how can I stop for a few moments to spend time with the King?<br /><br /></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">On Friday, Lou started, our Spring study, discussing the spiritual disciplines, as outlined in Richard Foster's book, <em>Celebration of Discipline.</em> He started off this week by teaching on meditation. Lou challenged us to experience the discipline of meditation. Richard Foster defines Christian mediation as "the ability to hear God's voice and obey His word." According to Thomas a Kempis the purpose of meditation is calling us to "a familiar friendship with Jesus." Foster isn't trying to say that we should have some "mushy, giddy, buddy-buddy relationship with Christ"; but more the level of intimacy and frienship that the disciples experienced while walking with Christ.<br /><br /></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">So, this week I am going to take the challenge to put my "to-do" list aside, to trust God to help me push back the demands of the day, to not feel guilty about taking time to rest and to practice meditation. I hope you can take this challenge: to take a moment this week to become still, to stop and think, to stop and listen, to experience a moment of inward silence that can bring comfort and peace in our fast paced lives.</span></div>Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2777937067511735803.post-50897139968207001422011-12-14T00:12:00.000-08:002011-12-14T00:14:30.132-08:00One Day at a TimeMy family and I are walking through the grief of losing Jessica. We are approaching our first Christmas without her. We have experienced some pockets of joy in this holiday season, but we also have dealt with loss and despair. Daily I cling to the truth that God is in control, God will bring peace & comfort, God does have a plan. Yet, sometimes my emotions still fight this truth.<br /><br />I've been reading through a devotional book by Frances J. Roberts, titled <em>Come Away My Beloved</em>. Today really hit home and I thought I'd share it with you. The scripture reference is Matthew 6:34, Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."<br /><br />Frances Roberts writes - the text is written as if God is speaking to us:<br /><em>O My child, have you not known the way of the Lord, and can you not trust Him now?</em> [I must admit I'm not sure I feel like trusting God in this current valley.]<br /><br /><em>Be content with what each day brings, rejoicing in your God, for surely He shall deliver you.</em> [I have experienced this in the past, but again getting my emotions to line up with truth can be difficult.]<br /><br /><em>His way is discernable to the eye of faith. His heart is surely your strong tower. In His affection you have security. In His love are your hope and peace. Each day holds some small joy that shall escape you if you are preoccupied with tomorrow.<br /></em><br /><em>Nothing daunts your Father. Nothing can restore the past and nothing can bind the future, but today you may live in the full blessing of the Father's smile. Hold to His words, for they are like a nail driven into solid wood. All else may seem shifting and transitory, but His Word is firm.</em> [I know this is true -- my feelings and emotions do shift, but God's word has been faithful to me.]<br /><br /><em>His word is a rock that shall not be moved. It is a firm place to stand. Do not walk in the path of human reason, and resist the pressures that would project you into conjectures about the future. Live one day at a time! For you know that He loves you, and you will find your peace as you rest in Him.<br /></em><br />I choose today to remember that no matter how my emotions may shake me, my rock is God and I can trust His word. I will walk day by day, remembering who He is and knowing He will bring peace and healing to me and my family.Lou and Cathy Rozmiarekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16750484025980730242noreply@blogger.com0