tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89708231766168397052024-03-21T12:52:00.523-07:00Living in His storyJen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-65828486086947448422015-03-31T07:45:00.002-07:002015-03-31T07:45:11.691-07:00Working Hard or Hardly WorkingWhenever I would hear someone talk about my dad when I was growing up, the same words were always used to describe him; quiet, sometimes hilarious, hard-working, patient and generous. Yes, those words do best describe my dad but most people didn't know the half of it. <div>
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I remember the sound of dads work van rolling down the street and backing into the driveway every evening, that's when all of us kids ran down the stairs and to the front door. We would run through the house yelling "daddy's hoommmmmmme!". As he walked in the door, we would jump all over him because construction isn't a physically demanding job so he needed to get some exercise by picking us up. Even after a 14 hour day, he would take us for a bike ride to pick apples or build a snow fort in the backyard. Selfless and willing to give up his precious time. </div>
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Life got especially hard when I was about 12 and that's where I saw my parents work long hours and days for our family. Dad and mom did a paper route at 4 in the morning, then mom would go to her office job and dad to construction. Mom would take care of us in the evening while dad loaded Fedex trucks. They would do this day after day, not complaining, just doing what had to be done. Because of our parents example, us kids learned how to take care of each other and help out anyway we could. </div>
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As I got older, my dad and I started having deep conversations, talking about life and Jesus. His famous line would be "Jen, always do hard things." And that's the phrase I've used for most of my life. </div>
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There's almost always an easy way out in life, but it's not always the most rewarding. Work hard because you have a great desire to see God work in your life, do it for Jesus and not for yourself and above all, be humble about it. </div>
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I've never heard dad complain about going to work or being at work. He just does it. He's 57 and still works outside, he's the man. I hope to be as hard of a worker.</div>
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Whether your job is being a CEO for a company, McDonalds cashier, mom, farmer or whatever; work hard at it and be the best at what you do. </div>
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Jesus I glorified in your efforts and your humble attitude. </div>
Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-13142475292030377932014-04-12T19:08:00.000-07:002014-04-12T19:08:03.498-07:00Opportunities I have a blog! I totally forgot.<div>
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This is basically to sum up what's been on my mind for the last four months so read on if you dare. </div>
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Starting back in high school, I learned how to shut down my emotions and cut out the drama around me. It was was great! I had nothing that could bring me down emotional or mentally, all I had to worry about was if someone could hurt me physically. Once I started my freshman year it was the greatest thing. I could meet people and care about them but once they went away, my life was exactly the same without them. I would take on tasks and extra things to make me feel productive and I handled stressful situations without thinking twice. Fast forward to two months ago...I was the loneliest I've ever been, crying, a complete mental breakdown and couldn't control my emotions. That night my parents met me for dinner and we sat at Olive Garden for hours just talking and working things out. </div>
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Can I just say that my parents are such a blessing and I just love them so much. </div>
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That melt down was exactly what I needed to move on with my life. Since then I have been praying that God would allow me to feel for people and that He would fill my emptiness and loneliness. It's helped so much.</div>
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This has been my first semester at Iowa State and it's been absolutely amazing! My graduate date is May of 2017 and then off to my internship. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Seeing tractors on campus makes me feel like I chose the right college. </div>
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In February, my boss moved me to produce. It's been a completely new experience but a good one. I'm honored to manage such an amazing group of fun and ridiculous people. This summer, Fareway is sending some of the produce managers to Family Tree Farms in California for a couple days. It'll be a good experience to learn more about the section and get ideas from fellow Fareway people. </div>
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Everyday I get up and I'm just so excited to get to work, even after five years of the same company. Honestly, I don't how it's even possible that I could truly enjoy it so much but I'm really glad I do. </div>
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My crazy roommate bought herself a python, River is her name. ! I can look at it without wanting to vomit so there's progress being made.</div>
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Abbers and I hit up the Michael Gungor concert. Always fun to road trip with her. It' s been nice having someone to walk through life with and to share in struggles and joys.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My dad and I have been talking about getting one for years and I finally did it. Caroline is her name and she'll be seeing many rivers this spring and summer. </div>
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As God continues to soften my heart and heal my brokeness, I am encourage by the verse in Psalm that says 'Restore in me the joy of Your salvation'. It's not about the bad decisions and choices I've made but about God's grace and love that says I'm not alone and that I'm forgiven. </div>
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Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-293286520249471932014-01-19T08:12:00.001-08:002014-01-19T08:12:36.856-08:00LifeAfter many busy weekends, weekdays and breaks this semester, I think it's about time to put out another blog.<br />
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Back in August I returned to the States from the beautiful country of Austria. I left new and amazing friends, a wonderful family who accepted me into their home, students who touched my life in a crazy way and those gorgeous mountains. In my first three days back I had started work again and my second year of college. Jet lag was broken quite fast. </div>
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Last semester was full of changes; good changes. There was no longer two crazy roommates to come home to but a quiet, studios Amber. At work, I lost the hair net and was exiled to the dairy case. All my classes were in Ankeny and my older sister was no longer here to spend Saturday afternoons, watching NCIS with.</div>
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So far, all these changes have been absolutely amazing! Amber has turned out to be an amazing roommate and friend. In fact, we will be signing another lease here in Ames in a couple weeks! We are hoping to be able to rent a house with another girl and to have a garage. It's the small things. </div>
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Being the dairy manager has been tons of fun. It has definitely been a challenge, especially during the holidays but a great learning experience overall. I still enjoy being full-time and of course, love those five a.m's. I love my job and Fareway and I really do hope to continue with this company. </div>
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Fifteen credits was the most I've ever taken and let me tell you...it was hard! My schedule was pretty jacked and sleep was out of the question. It's all good because I passed all 5 classes and didn't completely lose my mind. </div>
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Yes, my sister moved to Alaska a couple days after I got back. We saw each other for a couple hours before she peaced out. So far she likes it and I do believe she's mastered mushing and moose hunting. That's my sister folks. Good work T-dawg. I really do miss her and miss our awesome times together. </div>
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Saying goodbye to students in Innsbruck</div>
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Grandpa was diagnosed with kidney cancer and spent many weeks in the hospital last semester. </div>
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He is doing better but struggling to remember certain things. </div>
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Jones and I have started breaking the law together. </div>
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It's cool, our coworkers are okay with it. </div>
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My little brother turned 15 in December. I couldn't be more proud of him. What an amazing guy.</div>
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Picking up Tori for Thanksgiving break. We are stylish. </div>
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Jeremy and Jessica got married at the end of December so Aaron, Abby and I traveled up to Wisconsin and had so much fun. Abby and I had a couple of really good talks and I am so blessed to have her as a friend. Congratulations to Jess and Jeremy! You guys are awesome! </div>
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This is what I've wanted to talk about the whole time. Ladies and gentlemen, my best friend is marrying this sweetheart. Ally has been head over heels for Travis for quite sometime and I'm so happy that they will be getting married in 2015! Congratulations guys :)</div>
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And on that note, I will end. Please continue to pray for the youth in Austria. God is doing an amazing work there and if you feel called to help with English Camps this summer please contact me. You won't regret spending two weeks of your summer in Austria, teaching and hanging out with the coolest kids ever. </div>
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http://www.english-camp.at/Welcome.html</div>
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Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-50420738964816739112013-08-13T02:26:00.002-07:002013-08-13T02:26:36.828-07:00Austria 2013Being overwhelmed by the work of God isn't a feeling I get often.<br />
With my head down and eyes fixed on my own feet, I can't see the bigger picture.<br />
But when I get bored of my own path and look up, I am taken back by the beauty before me.<br />
My heart heart beats uncontrollably...I am overwhelmed.<br />
....No words to express my gratitude<br />
....Humbled<br />
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This life God has for me is just awesome. And I don't even know more then what has happened.<br />
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In Isaiah 55 there's a verse that stirs my soul.<br />
'My thoughts are not your thoughts and My ways not yours'<br />
God wants the best for me. This verse needs to be instilled in my brain everyday.<br />
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Europe Missionary Conference was in Slovenia at the end of July. Had a really good time and learned quite a bit. This is the Innsbruck City Team! So blessed being a part of such a great team. </div>
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Yes, I had to.</div>
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Went hiking with some students. So proud of them for following Jesus.</div>
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London trip with Ritha. I'm definitely going to miss living with her, Judy and Freddy. </div>
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It feels so soon, but I fly back to Iowa on Thursday.</div>
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Thank you God for allowing me to come here and be apart of your work.</div>
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<a href="http://www.english-camp.at/TeamUSA.html">If you would like to be part of the English Camps fill out an application!</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.efca.org/give">Please consider partnering with me. My account number is 1747</a></div>
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Thank you for all your prayers and support!</div>
<br />Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-55060931299029545912013-06-08T03:34:00.001-07:002013-06-08T03:34:12.023-07:00Strength in the StruggleIt's been 3 weeks since I flew into Innsbruck for the summer.<br />
My initial thought was that this would be in my comfort zone since I'm dealing with youth but I was totally wrong.<br />
Moving into someones home the same day I met them was slightly uncomfortable.<br />
Going places and not knowing what any one is saying is strange.<br />
Sitting in German class and being the only one who speaks English/ is from America is intimidating.<br />
Not knowing this city and getting lost everywhere I go is frustrating.<br />
Not working at a regular job or having school gives me this feeling of laziness.<br />
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These have been my struggles so far but let me tell you what God has done through those.<br />
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My family is amazing! They are fun and very generous. I feel at home all the time. Ritha just took her English test we've been studying together for and we will get the results on Tuesday. We are hoping for a 1 or 2! This weekend we are doing a family bike ride and they love hacky sack...SCORE!<br />
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Not being able to communicate is actually really nice. I've been learning to listen and to shut my mouth. It's crazy how much I missed because I was focused on what I was going to say next. The day after I got here we went on a youth retreat and I understood nothing the speaker was saying. As I sat there reading my bible I couldn't help but be focused on the bigness of God. He can understand everyone. It still blows my mind that while I'm talking to Him in English, the guy next to me is speaking in German and a girl on the other side is speaking Italian, God can understand us the same. Amazing. Makes me excited for heaven when we all understand each other.<br />
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This week was the first week of German class. At the school (BFI) people come from all over the world to learn different languages. In my class I happen to be the only American which means the teacher is always calling on me because she thinks I understand. She asks me what the German word means in English and 95% of the time I just throw out a word because I have absolutely no idea what she's talking about. There are a couple relationships I hope to pursue in that class so we will see where those go.<br />
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Getting lost almost everyday turns out to be good sometimes. I've find lots of cool places and get tons of exercise! Because I ride my bike and walk everywhere, I pray more frequently since there's nothing else to do. Praying for this city is one of the most important things I can do and what better place to do that then the streets they walk on.<br />
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Not working was fun for the first 3 days then I started to miss it. I knew that would happen. Dave (my team leader) has given me a couple projects to keep me occupied which is great! God is still trying to teach me that I don't always need to have every hour of the day filled with things to do. If my day is filled with things I have to do, that means God doesn't have room for what He wants me to do. This is the biggest struggle for me and I get so frustrated. Running, biking and playing sports help me to feel accomplished so doing those things with students is what I'm working towards. My dad is totally the same way so thanks for that one daddy ;)<br />
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Getting to know the youth is just awesome. God is doing big things throughout this group of students. Love it.<br />
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Thank you for your prayers and support.<br />
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guten Tag<br />
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<br />Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-38726911434815675602013-05-15T13:50:00.002-07:002013-05-15T13:50:53.906-07:00Tomorrow is the Big DayMay 16 is the day.<br />
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Tomorrow I fly to Newark -> Frankfurt -> Innsbruck.<br />
I'll be dropped off by my awesome grandparents and greeted by the team leader in Austria.<br />
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The Lord has been so good in letting me raise the money and support for this.<br />
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I'll be blogging as often as I can to let everyone know what the Lord is doing over there but I do not plan on spending much time on the computer.<br />
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This are a couple things I'm praying for and you can as well...<br />
-For God to soften the hearts of the children I'll be working with<br />
-Open my eyes for opportunities His has put in front of me<br />
-That I'd have some awesome conversations with the family I'm living with<br />
-Patience for His timing and the travel over there<br />
-I'd have a kingdom driven mindset (big prayers for a big God)<br />
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Pray for those students a lot.<br />
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Here has been the statement that I've been repeating for the last couple months:<br />
'I'm the weakest person I know and if the Holy Spirit doesn't help me, I sin.'<br />
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This is your trip, Lord. Help me.<br />
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Thanks for all the prayers and support guys!<br />
Can't wait to tell you all about it.<br />
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#overflowJen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-58262191327718844792012-12-11T13:28:00.000-08:002012-12-11T13:28:12.070-08:00End of Semester EvalOne semester down, a lot more to go.<br />
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What a crazy first semester of college it's been. First I was going to be in Austria all year<br />
then some how ended up in Ames! The plans of me being a missionary this year in a completely different<br />
country were set a side for bit while God did work in my life here.<br />
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Moving to Ames was probably the last thing I really wanted to do but somehow it turned out alright.I was able to meet and live with Rachel who's actually the craziest person I know. She's awesome! We started running together at the beginning of the semester and we also decided that when we get bored Dairy Queen blizzards are the only remedy. Living with Tori again has been great as well. We've gotten closer and just been able to open up with each other quite a bit. Sharing a bunk bed isn't bad at all actually; especially when she's trying to go to bed and I try to scare her...classic.<br />
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Teshia Robinson and I have gotten involved with Cornerstone Church and I absolutely love it. The worship there is amazing and they always have great speakers's. Through that I was able to get into a connection group and it is amazing! The girls in my group have taught me a lot and the leaders are a tremendous blessing in my life.<br />
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My job is way better now then it was at the beginning of the semester. At first I hated my co-workers and thought the way this store was ran was just the worst but after a couple of months of getting use to it, it's probably one of the best Fareway's in the company. In October my boss asked me if I have ever considered being a manager and I said yes. Then and there he offered me a full time position and an opportunity to be in the management program. I took it and got a significant raise and benefits. I now have health insurance! Working full time and taking 11 credits wasn't too bad this year, let's hope it stays that way next semester. Being able to make some money, pay off school and not be in debt is a great feeling.<br />
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I've been reading the book of Ecclesiastes and it pretty much sums up my semester and what I've learn<br />
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'I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward of all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was <i>meaningless, a chasing after the wind; </i>nothing was gained under the sun.' Ecclesiastes 2: 10-11<br />
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I could work and work and achieve goals that I set but it's all meaningless if my God isn't the center of all of it. So my prayer for next semester is that I won't get caught up in the things of this world but the things of heaven.<br />
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<br />Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-78966741963367189362012-10-15T08:15:00.000-07:002012-10-15T08:15:42.933-07:00Prayer Update Hey everyone,<div>
just wanted to give you and update as to where the fundraising is going and where to be praying specifically.</div>
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I have sent over 20 letters to businesses asking for a donation and making it clear that their business can get a tax deduction on it. Only one has contacted me back so far and I'm doing follow up calls with them this week. If you know of any companies needing a tax break let me know. Please be praying that God will do great things in that.</div>
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As far as churches go, I've been pretty hesitant to contact any more churches because very few will let me fill out applications let alone invite me to talk to the missions board. BUT Grace Church in Indianola has asked me to come out in 2 Sundays to do a presentation in front of the congregation. I'm super pumped about that. </div>
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Since I've been in Ames, I've been attending Cornerstone Church and recently got the opportunity to speak with the missions pastor. He didn't sound really hopeful that I would get funding but he still said he would talk to the financial staff. </div>
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So 5 things to be praying about:</div>
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-That those business letters will be fruitful and we would see a miracle within that attempt</div>
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- For God to touch the hearts of people at Grace church to respond in a positive way and that they will partner with me</div>
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- That Cornerstone will truly consider my request and at least support me in prayer</div>
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- Austria: the youth disparately need to know of God's love. Pray that their hearts will be soften and His name would spread throughout Europe through the youth.</div>
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- And finally, pray that my heart will be in tune with God's. I need direction on where to go next and I need to know that everything will play out like He wants it to.</div>
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God has blessed me with $7,000 so far, that means $30,000 left to go!</div>
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Thank you for your support and prayers.</div>
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Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-85805749622171664512012-07-31T13:58:00.000-07:002012-07-31T13:58:55.809-07:00New thingsMy heart is heavy tonight as I attempt a blog tonight.<br />
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Heavy because of..... tough decisions that had to be made and executed<br />
....changes<br />
.....internal struggles<br />
As I think of words to describe this month, nothing actually comes to mind because it's been so<br />
...different. Let me tell you why; the Lord has been at work in my life.<br />
The plan to be in a missionary in Austria starting in September got moved to January due to the lack of funds. And from that came the decision to go to DMACC this semester and from that- moving to Ames and<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">continuing to work at Fareway. </span><br />
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When you have your heart set on going to do something like move to another country then are told you can't, it hurts. Flat out sucks.<br />
But here's the deal; I'm going to move to a town where people need to Jesus too. People still need to know about the saving Christ and it's my job to tell them. I'll still be building relationships, connecting in with a church, learning new things and furthering my knowledge about life.<br />
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Situations change all the time, people change, you change, life changes....but my God is the same yesterday, today and forever.<br />
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It's sad to have to leave all my friends at Fareway who've become like family, my small group, church, friends and family but thinking about meeting tons of new people is exciting!<br />
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And to those who are wondering; Ian and I did break up. Nothing was wrong with our relationship but it felt like God was wanting us to direct our undivided focus on Him. We are still friends and it's not awkward between us. It's awesome to have a friend like Ian that will understand things like this and be so in love with the Lord ans who will cling to Him even more through this. It was hard don't get me wrong but God never said that doing the right thing would be easy.<br />
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With all this being said I have to leave with this: when you hear the will, the call of the Lord always go for it, never looking back on what could have been. #noregrets<br />
<br />Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-66547757594861302692012-05-27T20:32:00.000-07:002012-05-27T20:32:03.618-07:00Give Me RestAbout 3 months out and this is what I've been learning...<br />
God is big<br />
My plans aren't His<br />
He knows what will happen<br />
He's obviously teaching me something<br />
I can't do this myself<br />
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These things He's teaching me aren't easy; not knowing what will happen in 3 months scares me so much and the fact that God knows...honestly? It makes me a little mad sometimes. After so many times of having to rely fulling on God, you'd think that I'd learn that He knows what's He's doing right? NOPE. I'm dumb and un-trusting of the one who planned out my life before I was even born.<br />
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Lately the book of Psalm has been speaking to my heart and uplifting me.<br />
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<i>Those who know your name will <b>trust</b> in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.</i><br />
<i>-</i>Psalm 9:10<br />
<i>But I <b>trust </b>in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation </i><br />
- Psalm 13: 5<br />
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Encouraging.<br />
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This weekend I listened to a speaker at Hidden Acres and she was telling a story about how when she asks students about there relationship with God they respond with 'I could do better.'<br />
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My first reaction was 'what's wrong with that?'<br />
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They could do better...<br />
<i>"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect</i> <i>in weakness" Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me. - 2</i> Corinthians 12:9<br />
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It's not about us doing <i>better, </i>it's about us resting in His love, His grace, mercy and forgiveness. That hit me because I have the same reaction. I always want to be a better Christian by doing good things and trying to be a better person- but it starts with me realizing that I need to fall back on Christ.<br />
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Over and out.<br />
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<br />Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-48974485845544136382012-05-20T19:35:00.000-07:002012-05-20T19:35:01.894-07:00Random ThoughtsThis week has been quite the week. It's been full of change, stressful situations, times of relaxation, hello's , goodbye's , happy and sad moments, rejoicing over accomplishments and cake.<br />
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So graduation week, yes?<br />
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My grandparents from Florida came on Tuesday and it's been great to catch up with them. They keep suggesting I go to Florida soon so that looks like a possibility!<br />
Friday night we had a Mother Daughter Tea....Sounds boring right? Yup, it was.<br />
Smoking Sawee was the high-light of my Friday night/ Saturday morning. There's just something about sitting with my dad watching smoke at 2:30 in the morning that's really enjoyable.<br />
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Maddie and I had a great party and a big thanks to all who came! I'm blessed to have a friend like Maddie!<br />
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Commencement ceremony today was nice. As I watched my friends walk across that stage, I couldn't be more proud. They have accomplished many things in high school but it's their relationships with the Lord is what I'm most proud of. Walking and growing closer to our God with them has been such an incredible journey.<br />
It really hit me today that I won't be spending next year with them. As much as that sucks and hurts, I rest in the fact that God will provide replacement relationships in our lives.<br />
Also, sitting next to a nice fellow(Ian) was pretty fun. I'm blessed to be dating such a good guy.<br />
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Fundraising has been not so great lately. It's been very slow and discouraging the last couple of weeks. Talking to churches hasn't been successful. Here's where the faith, trust and hope comes into play. If this is something God wants me to continue, then so be it. If it's not, so be it. Amen.<br />
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<br />Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-17737954767913911202012-05-04T11:30:00.000-07:002012-05-04T11:30:09.448-07:00Threads of HopeThreads of Hope is such a cool ministry!<br />
Families in the Philippines make a living off of making bracelets that missionaries buy and then<br />
sell in the United States. These people have very little but they are amazing at making these things!<br />
I contacted them and asked for 1500 bracelets and they said all I need to do is give them half of the profit and<br />
send the bracelets that I don't sell back. The other half of the money made will go towards my mission trip to<br />
Austria.<br />
I'll be selling them at Hidden Acres this summer so hopefully that goes well!<br />
If you'd like one or would like to help sell them give me a call!<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5uUC6tzCuY">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5uUC6tzCuY</a><br />Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-28601642110014382532012-05-01T20:29:00.000-07:002012-05-01T20:31:04.834-07:00Being Satisfied<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">A few weeks ago I went to a Tenth Avenue North concert with a couple of friends in Clear Lake.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">(totally sweet concert by the way)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">As an intro to one of their songs they brought of a verse that's been stirring in my mind for the last couple of weeks - Psalm 90:14</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">It goes like this: ' Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love; that we may sing for joy and be glad all of our days.' </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">Now think about that.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">What does it mean to be satisfied by Gods love? </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">Maybe being consumed with the fact that some body is crazy in love with you and that He's the God of everything? Or not looking for love in other people, places or things? Or knowing that you've been forgiven from that sin you thought no one could forgive you for?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black;">I've been trying to pray this every morning but sometimes it's just hard. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">It's hard to put down the things that I want to satisfy me and let God be the one to do it.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">I mean come on, my friends, family, job, social life, money, and things can do the same thing God does right? Some days it feels like they can but eventually the are going to leave me disappointed and alone. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">Satisfy means to...</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">fulfill the desires, expectations, needs or demands of a person</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"> give full contentment</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"> put an end to -</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"> give assurance to</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">When I pray ' God will you be the only thing that I look to to fill me up today' it allows for Him to be able to do His work through me. If I abandon all my selfish desires first thing every morning, I can only imagine how God will begin to use me. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black;">If everyone prayed and meant this every morning what would our school, church, community and country look like?</span>Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-75789173563758674672012-03-28T19:29:00.003-07:002012-03-28T19:29:47.216-07:00Fundraising update and stuffThe week after spring break is always a little crazy. It seems that teachers realize they actually need to start putting in grades so they over-load you on homework and make you take lots of quizzes, which is a rude awakening coming back from a week of no school. Not cool. Not fun.<br />
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Almost everyday I receive a donation card in the mail saying that someone has given me 50, 100 or 500 dollars. This has been one of the most encouraging and humbling experiences- watching people give and commit to praying for me.<br />
Marty Smith has been putting together a garage sale to help with the fundraising. This will take place at my house on April 7 from 7- 12. People have been dropping off donations for the past week and as my house fills up with clothes, toys, books, tv's, ect, I cannot help but feel totally blessed.<br />
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Along with sending letters, I will be going to many different churches to talk about what the Lord will be doing through me in Austria. (Slightly nervous to this but I'm sure it'll be fine)<br />
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I'm praying that God will provide $48,000 and patience as I watch Him do is work.<br />
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<strong style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+4:6&version=NIV" style="color: #b37162; text-decoration: none;">Philippians 4:6</a></strong><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">prayer</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> and petition, with </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">thanksgiving</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">, present your requests to God. </span><br />
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<br />Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-15937875671714127872012-02-14T08:43:00.000-08:002012-02-14T08:43:40.734-08:00Surrender<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I surrender all to You because..</span><br />
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
-You're good</div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
-You're faithful</div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
- You love me</div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
- You died for me</div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
- You know what's best</div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
- You are God</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
What does it mean to surrender? </div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
To yield to another, give up, abandon</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
As I sit here listening to 'Surrender' the verse that's so convicting is ' I'm giving you my dreams i'm laying down</div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
my rights, i'm giving up my pride for the promise of new life'</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Why does my life seems so unbearable sometimes? </div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Why is it seem to be the same and boring?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Because I fail to do give God everything. </div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I want to fulfill my dreams, the things I've been putting my hope in, I want my life to be the way that I plan it out.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
See that- MY LIFE. </div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Weird because I thought I gave my life to Him when I became a christian. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Luke 9:23</div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969); color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
'If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross <i style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">daily</i> and follow me.'</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In the New Testament this phrase is used over and over again. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It's very important to realize that this isn't a one time thing; it's daily.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">That means everyday I wake up and give God my day- surrender my hopes, my dreams, etc.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And as I do that, He begins to change my life into His story through me.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It all starts with surrendering to Him.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.917969);">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8970823176616839705.post-33173073681578766972012-01-27T12:56:00.001-08:002012-01-27T12:58:27.155-08:00<br />
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Four days ago I received an e-mail saying that I was
accepted to go on a mission’s trip to <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Austria</st1:place></st1:country-region>. Last summer I counseled at
Hidden Acres and at the last staff meeting a guy from an English day camp in
Austria came and spoke to us about the need for young leaders over their; so
being the curious person I am, I decided to look into it. Somehow that led me to apply for a year long
mission’s trip. </div>
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Over the last 6 months I’ve been going through a crazy
application process, filling out an ungodly amount of forms, answering lots of
deep questions, and my favorite, phone interviews. </div>
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Looking back on that, it’s been totally worth it.</div>
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It would have been
worth it even if they didn’t accept me. </div>
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Why? Well I learned answers to deep theological question,
learned to lean on God for wisdom and guidance, and I obeyed Him. <i>It was worth it because God told me to.</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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As I smiled, yelled and cried in excitement, I felt the
presence of the Holy One say, “I know what I’m doing, trust me.” </div>
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I don’t know if you’ve ever experienced that feeling but
it’s one that will never get old.</div>
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<br /></div>
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In September I’ll be leaving for <st1:place w:st="on">Europe</st1:place>
for 11months. Let the fundraising begin!</div>
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<br /></div>Jen Geddeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12925968930979846563noreply@blogger.com0