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Comment by russ allen on July 2, 2009 at 7:05am

Good morning! How are we faithing? We've touched on attitude this week. Another thing that goes along with this is motivation. We are motivated to a certain attitude by many things. We do things for self gain. We do things for our kids. We do things our boss asks of us. We obey the Word God gives us. We pray out of duty. We pray because we are hurting. We pray because we have a relationship with Jesus. What motivates us directly effects that attitude we have. May be good and may be not. There is an example given us in James;

James 2:14-17
What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
NIV

Besides a lesson on faith there is also a lesson on motivation. The one who says "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," is more concerned with appearing religious than the well being of that person being told those things. The person saying those things is not seeing the need nor even cares. His motivation isn't the person but himself. He wants to feel good and to look good to others. If the motivation was the person in need, food and a blanket would be provided without a second thought. Ever met someone who tells you about all the good they've done? Wears it like a badge of honor? What's the motivation? Sure good intentions may be there but why would they care who knows of the deed? God knows, that person receiving knows. The motivation is, "look at me". So when you do things, what are you thinking? Where are your motivation origins? Read these next verses and think how they relate to you and what you do every day. Do you do them because it is the right thing to do or do you do them for the accolades they bring? Think about this;

Matt 6:1-18
"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
"So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
"This, then, is how you should pray:
"'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.'
For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
NIV

Remember our troops and their leaders...

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for all your blessings. Lord we honor you and thank you for the wisdom in your Word. Help us be motivated by grace and faith and not by greed and fame. Lord, open our eyes to truth that only you have. Lord, blind us to the things that impede our relationship to you. Help them not interfere with your voice. Lord, protect our troops and impart mercy and wisdom to them and there commanders. Lord come quickly, in Jesus name, Amen
Posted by russ allen at 6:33 AM

Comment by russ allen on July 1, 2009 at 7:21am

Great morning! How are we faithing this fine morning? Yesterday we talked about our thinking and our attitude. Lets continue with some more wisdom from the Word. How our attitude and demeanor is directly shows how we believe.

Eph 5:1-2
Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children;
and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell.
ASV

Imitators of God. Walk in love. Love as Jesus loves us. Hard sometimes ain't it. Why is it hard? Well first off, we're human and not God but notice it says "imitators of God". What does that mean? First is the "golden rule", do unto others as you would have them do to you", that covers alot of ground. We've discussed this theme before. If you wouldn't like it done to you, you probably ought not do it. Think on that awhile. Explore how and what you do today to see if it imitates this principle of God. Showing love to others doesn't have a thing to do with liking them but has to do with showing compassion and genuine concern for them and their soul. How they live their life is none of my concern but showing Jesus so they can find the peace and love I have will lead them to the savior who will deal with them and their life. Now as a believer we must be ready in season and out to share the Word. For me personally, I have not been prompted to point out where people are failing. If they ask, I'll tell them but tempered with God's Word and not mine. Sure we give advice on which socks to wear or which car to purchase but pointing out failings in a spirit of finger pointing serves no one.

Eph 4:29-32
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
NIV

Rom 12:9-13
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
NIV

Those are important for how we are to be. Those are examples of imitating God and his ways. We reach out to our savior in every thing every day. We must be more concerned about others souls than whether they are "doing church" properly. That idea of "doing church" right hasn't a thing to do with ours or their relationship to Jesus. As imitators of God our attitude must be one of love and compassion. Anything else is not in line with the Word and will not lead others to Jesus. Think about that...
Remember the DeBusk family as they travel...

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your wisdom. Thank you for your faithfulness to love and stand with a seriously handicapped lot like us. Lord we lift you up with all praise and honor because we know that without your grace we are lost. Lord, protect our minds from interference from the enemy. Lord we lift those up who are handicapped mentally and physically. Reveal yourself to all of us so we cannot deny your love, in Jesus name we pray, amen!
Posted by russ allen at 6:42 AM

Comment by russ allen on June 30, 2009 at 6:50am

Good morning! How are we faithing? It is interesting what the motivation for what we do actually is. Why do we go to work? To eat and provide a roof over our head of course. Why do we meet with friends or family for a meal or a night of games? Because we love them and enjoy time spent with them. Why do we talk about the Lord with others? Because of the relationship we have with Jesus. Because our inner joy is Jesus and we want to share it! How do these things become burdensome? Why would we not do these things? Let's look at some behavior that is motivated for the wrong reasons. Going to work with an attitude of loathing can sink you into such a deep resentful depression that you are mean to every one around. Work with some like that? Me too. There are physical and mental needs that are met with work. The TV show "Dirty Jobs" is entertaining but could you imagine doing some of those jobs day in and day out? The motivation is what that is about. I'm sure you've heard and maybe even said, gotta go to the in-laws tonight, boy I'm dreading that. Why is that a dread? This might be a good time to look through the eyes of God, approach that visit with the compassion Jesus showed you. What if the people you are visiting are saying the same thing...makes you approach that visit a little differently doesn't it. I've heard people brag about how many people they have led to Christ and then want to know how many you led. Why would someone do that? This isn't a numbers game. This doesn't make you a better Christian. This makes one pitiful because they missed the reason why we share Jesus. We share because of what he has done for us. We share because he loves the person you are talking to as much as he loves us. He will lead and grow that person just like he did you. If you don't see this, you need to seek Jesus out more and leave the religion alone. Look at these and use yourself for some perspective. Never is the Word meant to criticize or tear down our glee with God's love but to teach us how to be more like Jesus. It's not always easy or painless but we must believe that in the long run, God knows best. Everything we do must be done with the assurance God is with you and that relationship you are afforded with him is available to anyone who asks. Don't force feed or judge, love as Jesus loves.

Col 3:15-17
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
NIV

Gal 2:19-21
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!"
NIV

Ps 32:8
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;I will counsel you and watch over you.
NIV

Matt 7:1-6
"Do not judge so that you will not be judged.
"For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you.
"Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?
"Or how can you say to your brother, "Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye?
"You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.
"Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine, or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.
NASU

Attitude. Big word that has implications in every facet of life. Motivation. What and why do we do anything? Purpose. The reason we do anything in life. Remembering these things so we can adjust our demeanor so that demeanor is one of love and grace, not one of regret and loathing.
Remember Roseanna...Shelly...Edith Mitchel...Donna Haggard...Rob Hart...

Heavenly Father,
Lord, we thank and praise you for the things that you provide. Help us remain mindful of your blessings and love. Lord, we need to adjust out attitudes. Lord bring revelation to our minds and souls so we can focus on what is important and not be consumed with drudgery. Lord thank you for another day to live in your splendor, in Jesus name, amen
Posted by russ allen at 6:15 AM

Comment by Bulldozer on June 28, 2009 at 11:13pm

Thank you all for your prayers. My Father is doing better they found a proiblem with his meds. Every day seem to be getting better, but he has a long road to go. So keep him in your prayers. PLEASE


Be safe and God Bless
Loving Brother Bulldozer
(ps) My Father said thank you all.

Comment by russ allen on June 26, 2009 at 7:44am

10-4 on the prayers..

Comment by russ allen on June 26, 2009 at 7:44am

Good morning! How are we faithing? Did you try the reflection thing we talked about yesterday? Did it reveal things you missed while in the moment? Wisdom from God's Word is for us so we can approach situations with a sound mind and clear thinking. Proverbs is full of the kind of wisdom that is useful every day, every event. The letters Paul wrote apply to every day situations. Look at these;

Prov 3:5-8
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him,and he will make your paths straight.
Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.
NIV

Prov 11:22
When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
NIV

Prov 27:1-2
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips.
NIV

Prov 28:14
Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble.
NIV

Here's an assignment for us, read some proverbs this weekend and reflect how each you read may applied to your life. No self condemnation, just reflection so adjustments can be made and you become better equipped next time things crop up.
Remember Jennifer-job...remember Kellynn and her new baby boy!!

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the gift of life! Thank you for babies that make grown men cry and talk weird. Thank you for your wisdom in your Word. Thank you that you love us enough to care about all we face. Lord I ask for a healing in Rex's heart. Let the doctors find nothing and let it be known that a miracle is present in front of everybody! Lord, we ask these things and ask your will be done and your purpose be known, in Jesus name, Amen
Posted by russ allen at 6:51 AM

Comment by russ allen on June 25, 2009 at 7:02am

Good morning! How are we faithing today? Maybe one should ask, how did you faith yesterday? Reflections on the days events is a good thing to do so we can take notice of the lessons we have learned that at the time we may have been to involved to notice. Example, I got wound tight over an event and after calming down, realized I had pushed down long ago the feeling of being used by that person. Didn't even know it. I thought I had dealt with it back then. Oh I forgave the sin but the hurt never got dealt with. It is interesting when one reflects that they can see like they are outside the events. If our attitude is to see the lessons upon reflection and not sinking bad feelings and animosities further or the continuation of complaining, we become aware of the steps we need to take to remedy any ill will or sick emotions. Lets face it, ill will and sickly emotions are OUR problem, not the one who caused them to begin with. Getting in those states has caused us to be controlled by them, never a good thing. Granted, it ain't always easy to deal with things but the longer we put it off, the more rooted they become and later they may manifest themselves when we least expect it and in behavior we typically don't condone. Forgiveness is good but don't refuse to deal with it. We tend to say,"it's ok " when we are hurt, angry or bemused. Be honest yet graceful, be courageous yet control your tongue, be patient yet deal quickly so festering doesn't occur. Look at these and think;

2 Cor 5:16-21
So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
NIV

Isa 53:55
But he was pierced for our transgressions,he was crushed for our iniquities;the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,and by his wounds we are healed.
NIV

Eph 5:1-2
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
NIV

1 Peter 2:23
When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.
NIV

Remember Kellynn Bates, she's in labor!...remember Alan Beres that he sees the doors to open for him...PRAISE REPORT: Roseanna is home from ICU!...remember Jimmy P....

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your wisdom found in your Word. Lord, help us see your truth in every situation. Lord, help us deal with things regardless of the pain. Lord we bless you and honor you with our praises and requests because we know you have control. Help us make choices that honor and please you, in Jesus name, Amen
Posted by russ allen at 6:25 AM

Comment by russ allen on June 24, 2009 at 7:03am

Good morning! How are we faithing this fine day? Got lots of things on this pea brain and it is taxing, 8 brain cells and all....haha....when I feel like I have it all together I get reminded by events that I don't and in fact, no one does. I find that things that weren't even on the radar show up. I see other walks and see things they are on top of and realize where I lack. How about you? No wishing to be where they are just an awareness of what may be to come. The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15 tells so many things that apply to us. Not just the walking away part but the realizing of mistakes and the compassion of the sons Dad. When the brother gets butt hurt because of celebrations made when his brother repents in his coming home is telling in that he missed the point of the celebration. The fact that the brother came home wiser and in repentance is cause for a big "whew" and a hearty "welcome home". The brothers willingness to work wherever was an indication of his mindset after realizing he goofed up but good. Our Father in heaven just waits for us to do the same. Jesus already fulfilled the law by taking on sin in its essence, at its root for us. He paid so we could come home. What we did isn't even the issue. The fact that we come to Jesus is. When we realize we are holding animosities or ill feelings to others we need to be quick to forgive like that Dad did. I am aware of an event that I thought I had forgiven but to my dismay had not. I was down right mad and didn't even know it. Squashing things is not a good idea and that is a subject for another day...

Luke 15:11-32
Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them. "Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. "When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' So he got up and went to his father. "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. "The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' "But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate. "Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 'your brother has come,' he replied, 'and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.' "The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!' "'My son,' the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.'"
NIV

Remember Roseanna in ICU...remember Jimmy Praria...

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for all you forgive us for. We don't understand most times why you love us but we're glad you do. Lord forgive us when we goof up and when we do things we don't mean to. Lord grant us the wisdom to see truth and to be bold to act justly. Lord, don't let us get haughty or prideful over things that are temporal. Lord, open Jimmy's heart and mind to your ways. Lord, heal Rose in Jesus name, Amen
Posted by russ allen at 6:22 AM

Comment by russ allen on June 23, 2009 at 7:15am

Good morning! How are we faithing? Man, things happen in this life that kick our butts. Sometimes things take place that we wonder how they happened and why. Some are our own doing, some are not. Some are heinous, some are just pains in the...well you get it. We have to remember that our worth is not dependant on these things. Our happiness and self view should not be based on events and especially on what others think of us. Disagreements happen. Paths for you are not mine and visa versa. Does that make either any more or less important? Of course not. I know some who feel so inadequate to even talk about Jesus because they are not religious enough or can't quote scripture like a scholar, does that matter? Nope and here is why; God loved YOU enough to send his son for you. You worth is based on God's view of you. He loves you. The bible is full of these ideas and statements. If we were dependant on our actions, none of us would make it. When things happen to you or the ones we love, don't think it is punishment or retribution from God. God did tell us that if certain things were done that certain reactions would take place. Heck man, science proves this too. For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. The only time that doesn't apply is when God loves us. Why should he? Do we deserve it? No man! No one is perfect. No one can keep the law totally. If we boast that we do we just didn't. Don't be consumed be things in this world. Give it to Jesus. You having difficulty dealing? Seek comfort in Gods hands. Go to that Godly friend and spill. If it is a physical thing, go see a doctor. Look at these

James 1:16-18
Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
NIV

Eph 2:7-10
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
NAS

Rom 3:21-26
But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. He did this to demonstrate his justice, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished- he did it to demonstrate his justice at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. NIV

John 6:37-40
All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day."
NIV

Did you see anywhere in those verses that we must earn anything? Do you see anywhere in those verses about worthiness before you can come to him? Nope because it ain't about being good enough, it's about loving God who loved us first. I know some of you are hurting and so does God so don't withdraw and suffer alone. Don't let guilt or despair drive you away from God because now is the time to run fast to him.
Remember Jonna...remember Kathy...remember Sammy...remember Kellynn...remember Chris

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for loving me. Thank you for never wavering in that love. Thank you for understanding us because you have been where we are now. Lord we ask for healing physically and emotionally. We ask for supernatural touches on our situations that awe us because we know it's you. Lord we love and honor you,grant us the wisdom and the courage we need to come through anything in an honorable way so we grow in our love for you so we are beacons to the lost, in Jesus name, amen
Posted by russ allen at 6:22 AM

Comment by russ allen on June 22, 2009 at 6:55am

Great morning! How are we faithing? This was one of those weekends that was full of things that will end up with long lasting effect. This was one of those weekends that as things transpired we could see what lay ahead and we were not at all pleased. Ever have those times when you see things unfold and you know tough times are coming? I'm sure you all do. I am so thankful for a strong support system and wisdom from the Word. Any situation, any praise or problem can be dealt with when we seek wisdom from the right source. It becomes so clear when we seek out Godly council and not just someone to complain with. Hanging on to presence of mind so we don't look for ear ticklers isn't always easy. People like to wallow in despair and have someone to do it with. Why? Aw, who knows, but praise God we have access to him through Jesus our savior. Look at these to assure and to encourage you as you face the day and the week;

Ps 32:8-11
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;I will counsel you and watch over you. Do not be like the horse or the mule,which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you. Many are the woes of the wicked,but the LORD's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him.
Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!
NIV

Phil 4:19
And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
ASV

Ps 25:9
He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.
NIV

Ps 34:11-14
Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good;seek peace and pursue it.
NIV

Matt 11:28-30
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." NIV

Prov 8:10-11
Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.
NIV

Prov 4:1-2
Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.
NIV

Whatever you may face, keep these in mind and turn to the source that is the only truth.

Remember Colton and Chloe...Donna Haggard...Thomas Allan...Chris Hall...Nicole Major...

Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your love for us that stays. Lord we sometimes don't know why things happen but we know you are in control and as long as we seek you, it will turn out for your glory. Help us keep our minds sound and our perspective true. Lord we praise you for all you do and know good is there for those who love you. Give us the strength when we are in those times and help us see the lessons quickly! Lord we lift those mentioned to you, heal them physically and emotionally and we thank you in Jesus name, amen
Posted by russ allen at 6:16 AM

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