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Dana Rongione 23/09/2024 Dana Rongione 23/09/2024

Mindfulness in Christian Living

This morning, Jason decided to treat us to homemade scones for breakfast. It was a lovely gesture, to be sure, but one that didn't quite go according to plan.

You see, our oven is a bit of a peculiar beast. It's got two knobs: one for temperature and another for the various oven controls. You can turn up the temperature without turning on the oven or turn on the oven without adjusting the temperature. We typically leave the temperature set and only fiddle with the control knob, as we're creatures of habit when it comes to baking temperatures.

Jason went about his merry way, mixing the ingredients and shaping the scones with the precision of a master baker. He popped them in the oven, set the timer, and waited for the magic to happen. But when the timer went off, he opened the oven door to find... raw dough. The scones looked exactly as they had when he'd put them in!

Dana Rongione 22/07/2024 Dana Rongione 22/07/2024

Foreground Faith

Today, I'd like to tell you a little bit about my favorite design software, Canva. I've been a Canva fan for years now, using it for everything in my writing ministry—from creating images for my blog and social media posts to designing videos and even book covers. Since becoming a missionary, it's become even more invaluable, helping me make everything from business cards to banners.

One of my favorite features is called "Position." This handy tool lets me shuffle elements between the foreground and background of my projects. It's like having a magical switch that lets me focus on one part of my design at a time.

Need to spotlight a particular element? No problem! Just a few clicks, and I can push less important bits to the background, like tucking away clutter behind a curtain. And when I'm ready to bring them back? Presto! They're right where I left them, waiting for their turn to shine.

Dana Rongione 09/11/2023 Dana Rongione 09/11/2023

Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 5

Peter, displaying extraordinary faith, steps out of the boat in the midst of a raging storm and starts walking toward Jesus. It's a powerful image of unwavering faith in the face of adversity. Peter's eyes are fixed on Jesus, and he advances fearlessly.

But then, something happens that often affects us, too. The storm distracts Peter. Just as we sometimes decide to trust God and stay focused on Him amidst life's trials, we get distracted when the storm intensifies, drags on, or when we're weary. It's a common human response to the challenges we face.

Dana Rongione 06/11/2023 Dana Rongione 06/11/2023

Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 4

Picture this: The disciples are on a boat battling a relentless storm. They've been rowing for hours, weary and frustrated, questioning where Jesus is in their time of need. And then they see Him, walking on the water. It's a moment filled with uncertainty and doubt, as they initially mistake Him for a ghost.

But here's where the story takes a remarkable turn. Peter, known for his boldness, dares to speak up. He requests to join Jesus on the water, asking, “If it's really you, Lord, let me walk on the water and come to you."

Dana Rongione 30/10/2023 Dana Rongione 30/10/2023

Walking With Jesus Through Life's Storms, Part 2

Do you ever feel like every step forward can feel like taking three steps back? We've all been there, haven't we? We put in so much effort, yet it seems like we're getting nowhere.

In this episode, we'll dive deeper into the frustration, exhaustion, and fear the disciples faced in the midst of the storm. It's a universal experience that many of us can relate to, especially during challenging times. But remember, just as the disciples eventually reached the other side, so will we.

Dana Rongione 26/10/2023 Dana Rongione 26/10/2023

Walking With Jesus Through Life’s Storms, Part 1

We've all been there, haven't we? When life takes unexpected turns and throws us into a whirlwind of chaos, it's natural to question our path and God's plan. We sometimes doubt whether we're truly following His will or if we've gone astray.

Today, we delve into the story of the disciples, who, despite their obedience, found themselves caught in a storm. It's a reminder that trials are part of life, even for the faithful. We'll explore the truth that trouble is not exclusive to those who follow Jesus, and that's okay. In John 16:33, Jesus Himself said, "In this world, ye shall have tribulation," but He also promised, "but be of good cheer; for I have overcome the world."

Dana Rongione 23/10/2023 Dana Rongione 23/10/2023

Even If He Doesn’t

Once upon a fiery furnace, there were three men with unpronounceable names, and their story is a blazing example of faith even when it appears perplexing. The heat was on, and I don't mean a scorching summer day. King Nebuchadnezzar had ordered Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to bow down and worship an image of gold. The price for non-compliance? A one-way ticket to the fiery furnace. Yikes!

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. - Daniel 3:16-17 (emphasis mine)

Dana Rongione 02/09/2023 Dana Rongione 02/09/2023

Plot Holes or Potholes?

You know that feeling when you're in the zone, pounding away on a keyboard, and in the middle of a writing sprint that's like a caffeine rush for your creativity? (If you’re not a writer, you’ll have to equate this to some other project you’re elbow-deep in.) So there I was, watching my tale come alive on the screen and giggling in excitement. The story was full of twists and turns, excitement, mystery, and anything else I could throw at it. And the best part of all? It was almost finished!

Dana Rongione 15/08/2023 Dana Rongione 15/08/2023

Embracing Storms With Jesus

I want to dive into one of my favourite stories from the Gospel of Matthew, when Jesus walked on the water, and Peter took a bold step of faith to join Him. It's a story full of awe, wonder, and valuable lessons.

Dana Rongione 25/07/2023 Dana Rongione 25/07/2023

God’s Rescuing Hand

Last week, we received a long-awaited response from the UK government concerning the appeal set forth by our sponsors. The news wasn't good. The request was denied, and our sponsors' license was revoked. What does this mean for us? From the time of that decision, we have 60 days to set up a new sponsorship and get a new visa or leave the country. You know those rollercoaster rides at amusement parks? Yep, that's exactly how our emotions have been taking us for a spin lately. Anxiety, stress, and frustration have been our not-so-friendly companions during this journey.

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Dana Rongione