time for a change

"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord."  Ephesians 6:7

Here we are. The last day of the year.  Are you ready for a new year and possible changes?

Beside the usual new year resolutions... eating healthier, exercising more, resting more, being kinder, etc. are you contemplating anything major like a move or even a relationship or career change? I've made one major decision, as today is my last official day "on the job".  Tomorrow is a new day, new year and new beginning for me as a retiree.  What does that actually mean? I have an idea, but i'm not sure.

I know what my initial plans are, yet i am aware that like other decisions we make, it's subject to change. Yet, there is one aspect of my daily life i am sure will remain the same and that is having a fixed daily plan.  When teachers were told to keep their daily lesson plans available for review, as an assistant i came up with my own.  It is a plan i can and will keep for the rest of my life.

I took my written plan home on my last day at school.  And i taped it to my home computer this morning.  I don't know exactly what the day or year holds, but i do know Who holds me and Who i want to serve for the rest of my days,  no matter what.

New year for a change in activities, same heart for loving and believing God...  I know and trust this will work.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

come sit

"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

I do not know of a more glorious occasion to celebrate than CHRISTmas.  While the birth of Jesus is an event worthy of our daily celebration and praises, most of our celebration culminates during a few days in December.  And with that being said, this time of year we can find ourselves totally exhausted and in desperate need of rest.

As you continue to enJOY time with family and friends, may you also find some quiet moments/hours to reflect and rest in the One who made it all possible.  

I think that is what He really wants.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

trust Him

“'How will this be,' Mary asked the angel... 

'The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.'" Luke 1:34-35

Impossible situation, impossible solution... we have all faced them at one time or another.  And sometimes we're smacked in the face by what feels like an endless cycle of challenges and trials... with one right after-the-other. 

How will this be?
How can we survive?
What will happen next?
How can i continue?

Now what?

The CHRISTmas story is full of lessons, hope and direction for any season we are facing.

Whatever the question, the answer remains the same:

When we are weak, He is strong.  Trust Him.

God is with us, and He will see us through.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

Merry CHRISTmas!

 "While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying...

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” Luke 2:6-14

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

Merry CHRISTmas!

we are greatly loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

Silent night, holy night

“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6  

 "... and she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son.  She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn."  Luke 2:7

What makes CHRISTmas so special?  The children... especially The One.

Wherever it is, the manger scene sings of love, joy, peace, forgiveness, kindness, Truth, hope, fulfillment.  

Yet, we can easily lose our focus by allowing our preparations and expectations of CHRISTmas crowd out what is most important.  The distraction can set us up for frustration, sadness, exhaustion and disappointment. What all we add to CHRISTmas has the potential to rip away our JOY.

Lord, may it not be.  I want to be where You are; i want to meet You at the manger first. There is nothing we can do or say to compare to the glorious gift of eternal life -- made possible only by the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus, for the forgiveness of our sins. Thank You.

Let's keep room in our hearts for Him each day and be filled with His Peace.

Merry CHRISTmas!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it, 
veneal

sing it LOUD

 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests." Luke 2:14

Do you hear what i hear?  Good News can be found!
Angels we have heard on high exclaim, " Jesus is coming to town!"
Come all ye faithful, be filled with His joy and love,
A silent, holy night will then give you His Peace from above.

Deck the halls, we have reason to shout!
Christ the LORD has risen! let there be no doubt.
Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree, your beauty i see,
is about celebrating what Jesus did for you and me.

So, you better not cry, you better not pout,
Hark! the herald angels still sing it out!
Joy to the world, the Lord has come!
Have yourself a merry 'lil Christmas... each and every one!

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

ready for a break?

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people. Remember that the Lord will give you as a reward what He has kept for His people. For Christ is the real Master you serve." Colossians 3:23-24

As i turned off my alarm this morning for the last time as an active employee i wondered, now what.  I have preparations to finish for CHRISTmas celebrations, but then what.  And then i remembered.  I am still working for my first and #1 Boss.  While i won't be on the school clock, i will continue the lifelong heartbeat of loving and serving those who are woven in my soul, and that includes you.

Today's Bible verse is the daily lesson plan taped on my work computer for years. It set the tone for my day each morning and the tasks for the day. I plan to take it home today and tape it on my laptop.

Our Father placed on my heart 23.5 years ago, the writing and sharing of devotions.  As part of a school family, i sensed a strong need to support and encourage some of the most valuable people on earth... our teachers.  Their commitment, sacrifice and love for our children is nothing short of living like Jesus.  While my devotions evolved just for school teachers, i soon realized  we all are teachers in some respect.  We teach those around us by our thoughts and actions.  

All this to answer the question, will i keep writing... yes, i hope to always work for Him. God, our Ultimate Teacher, still has much to say and teach me. Whether through the eyes as a mother, lolli, wife, friend or other role, there are lessons to learn.  Writing might not be as regular, but i know God will continue to feed me as long as i continue to listen.

May your break be JOYful and filled with Him.  Where i am working will be different, but i know my Faithful Companion will be the same.  Thank You, Jesus.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

all wrapped up?

 "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 

The days are closing in on CHRISTmas.  Are you ready?  Are you all wrapped up?  And if so, what are you wrapped up in?  CHRISTmas can be a season of mixed emotions.   It can be a time to get easily wrapped up in emotions of anger, resentment, pain, regret, hurt, loneliness, fear, envy, bitterness, jealousy, exhaustion or pity.  But don't despair, you don't have to stay there.  

God wants to free you whatever is tightly wrapped up in your heart causing you pain, hurt or separation from Him.  He wants to unwrapped those harmful, destructive emotions and wrap you up in His Love, Hope and Peace instead. Through the birth of Jesus we have been given the greatest gift of all times... a gift that lasts for eternity.  A gift that by itself is reason alone to still have joy during CHRISTmas. 

Is your wrapping a bit tight and uncomfortable?  Do you need a change in your life right now?  Our Father has the perfect wrap picked out, and it starts with His unending love for you.  

What's that?  Yes, i think i see a smile starting to stretch across your face.  Thank You, Father, 'tis Your Season.

we are love and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

all i want for CHRISTmas is...

 "...live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:2-4

Like many with family scattered across the lands, we are already busy gathering for CHRISTmas celebrations. Traveling this past weekend to have precious time with our family, we left our dogs at home.  As we departed, the message on their long faces was clear, "All we want for CHRISTmas is you".

What makes for the best relationships?  I think my dogs nailed it. We just need to be with each other... talking, laughing, and soaking up love in their presence.  Isn't "being present" the most valuable gift we possess or can give to each other and with God?  

In many areas of life, i believe my dogs really do know best.  Don't you?

we are loved and chosen by God,
and He desires for us to spend eternity with Him,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,
what a love!
veneal

do you have room?

"(Mary) wrapped (the baby) in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”  Luke 2:7

What about now?  Do you have room for Him? 

in  your heart

in  your day

in  your thoughts

in  your actions

in  your plans

in  your prayers

Don’t let Him get crowded out due to stress, unexpected events, busyness, shopping or other added demands of the season. Keep Jesus at the top of your list. His Presence in us should have a permanent residence at all times, especially now.  

Wrap Him securely and tightly in your heart and place Him actively in your life for all to witness.  Make room for Him in all you do and say, and the true joy and peace of the season will be yours and radiant out to others.  

And what better gift to share than Him?  Jesus is the Gift that keeps on giving and giving and giving.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

He's right!

 "But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you Good News that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. " Luke 2:10-11

Do you agree with Luke??

I sure do.  BOTH Lukes got it right!  

Thank you, Luke in heaven and on earth for your Truths!  

Thank You, Father!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

a quiet moment

 “Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray." Mark 1:35

Quiet moments... we all need some, whether child or adult.

Set up for students, our JOY overflowed when teachers dropped in for a quiet moment with us too.  Nestled next to a "roaring" fire and twinkling lights, they allowed the quiet peace to provide a needed moment of sweet relief and refueling.

Don't let the busyness of the season demands leave you drained and depleted.

Be like Jesus. Stop, rest, pray and be refilled with the delight of the season and God.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

letters are better

 Jesus said...

"Freely you have received, freely give." Matthew 10:8

I, like many, have few true needs,
and when i do, i purchase with speed.

So, if you were planning to shop for me this year,
here's what will bring unprecedented cheer.

Write and send me a short note or a letter,
sharing what you did for a hurting gal or fella.

If short on money, don't despair,
just take some time to show another you care.

Can you do it, can you pass the test?
Can you give to those in need, and send notes to the rest?

So much today is bought strictly in vain, 
We spend time and money on things with no real gain.

May we eliminate the rush of buying needless things,
And concentrate on bringing glory to our One True King.
 
Strength in NOT overindulging to ones we love is required,
to defeat the materialist thinking the world helped us acquire.

God, help us remember everything belongs to You,
And to help care for all your children is what we should do.

A little less for me and more for Thee,
will bring true joy and peace for CHRISTmas eve.

How thrilled i'll be to see my note-filled CHRISTmas tree,
with kind/caring deeds and stories of those who believe...

...JESUS IS THE REASON TO CELEBRATE ~ HIS LOVE FOR YOU AND ME!

 
THANKS BE TO GOD!

"You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God." 2 Corinthians 9:11

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it, 

veneal

(feel free to share the letter as your own)

what do you wish for?

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:6

Our school play normally produced in Spring, moved to the first of December. ANY skepticism i had of our massive play-crew being ready, immediately vanished when i saw the amazing performance.  And what a perfectly timed production before CHRISTmas.  The magic of Aladdin was alive, energetic and relative to the season of giving.  After all, don't we all have wishes we'd like to come true?

As a recap, Aladdin first 2 wishes, to become a prince and to be saved, were for personal interest but his intended third and final wish was one of pure selflessness, to give Genie her freedom. His decision to fulfill it was almost nipped when his personal wishes appeared to go south.

Yet, in the end, he made the honorable choice of being true to his promise, and blessings beyond his dream erupted.

Father, as we prepare for CHIRSTmas, i pray my heart stretches beyond personal gain and to the comfort of those in need.  May our trust in You as our Savior, belief in Your Word and faith in Your will for us cause us to fully rely on You for everything.

What's better than a Genie in the bottle?  God in our heart. His goodness to us is unending.

Blessed is the person who trusts in the Lord

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

be merry/Mary

"But the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.  You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus'...

'How will this be,' Mary asked, 'since I am a virgin?'
The angel answered... 'nothing is impossible with God.'
'I am the Lord's servant,' Mary answered.  'May it be to me as you have said.'"  Luke 1:29-31, 34, 37-38
 

Faith - believing God for the good, even in the face of adversity.

Now, talking about faith… Mary had it.  

Father, fill me with the faith of Mary.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

here's the Truth...

  "While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born... She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." Luke 2:6-14

He didn't like CHRISTmas, and why should he?  He had never had a tree, never had presents, and had no good memories of it.  All he knew about CHRISTmas was what the world told him and what he saw around him... things and ways that excluded him.  So when asked to write about CHRISTmas memories, he couldn't.  Seeing his discouragement, the teacher told him about CHRISTmas, the real CHRISTmas.  He had never heard it, but now he has... and hope is made possible where there  once was darkness. He now knows about the Truth, and it includes him.

If you are stressed out, disheartened, discouraged... then maybe you need to hear the story, the real CHRISTmas story, again too.  Let us escape from the make believe and usher in truth and peace.  Then we can celebrate no matter what the circumstance around us might be.  For God has given His Son for us to have eternal life... can that not be enough?  If we are to give anything to others, may it be the sharing of Him.

Father, in song and praise, we thank You for our Savior.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

i want... more!

"Be filled with the Spirit... Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:18-20

It's the question of the season... what do you want for CHRISTmas?  If you are like me, the first response is nothing; i already have all i want.  But do we??  After more careful consideration, i've come up with a list of wants. And i'm taking it to my number One Giver. It's a list i surely can request year-after-year.

Father,  i pray for an increase in my heart, as i love You and others more than last year.  I pray for an increase in boldness in serving You better.  I pray for an increase in faithfulness to You when i face the dark.  I pray for an increase in serving others consistently and not just during special seasons. I pray for an increase in thankful songs to You for Jesus and the multitude of blessings in my life. Thank You.

And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.

What are you asking for this CHRISTmas?

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

shattered

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God... For Jesus Himself is our Peace." Ephesians 2:8,14

Last year's decorations had been quickly packed, stored and stuffed in the attic.  It was good enough for most items, but not the fragile glass CHRISTmas bell.  It was totally shattered.  Better wrapping could have saved it. 

How is your CHRISTmas season going?

Shattered bells, shattered lives ~ and CHRISTmas still comes. It's near impossible to live 365 days without changes.  Marriages, deaths, change of income, sickness, births and other things happen. Some for the better, some not - as least through our eyes.  During trials, i struggle, as my eyes shift down on me and not up on Him.

Father, there are times i am crushed by the world around me.  Life can be hard, unpredictable and mean.  And when i tackle it, without You, i shatter like glass.  Instead, i want to stay completely wrapped, protected and covered in Your Love, Wisdom and Will.  Oh, how thankful  i am for the wonderful CHRISTmas season!  During this time, no matter what has happened the past 365 days, i am reminded and drawn back to what really matters... You and Your unconditional Love.  Thank You for my most precious and unbreakable gift, Your Son, my Savior.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

ready to celebrate?

 Jesus said...

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Seeing me in my CHRISTmas shirt, Katie asked, "You ready to start celebrating CHRISTmas?"

"Start?? Why i never stopped." And it's true.

The manger scene at my front door and baby Jesus in the den are never removed.  I use to chunk them in the attic after December, but not anymore.  I need their presence and reminder year round of God's unending love for me.  Because of the loss of precious loved ones, some family moving further away, job shake ups and health issues, i find the visual reminders of our hope as believers a needed touch of comfort and peace. 

No matter the circumstances of today or the season, by refocusing on the immense love and promises of God, i am strengthen. CHRISTmas can be and is a daily celebration for the hope we possess as believers. Because of Jesus we have the promise of eternal life.  That alone is reason enough to celebrate.

Are you celebrating yet?

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

is there's an elephant in the room?

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

It's show time! For many weeks we've been preparing for what promises to be a fantastic school production of "Aladdin".  It is an ENORMOUS feat in many respects... hours on hours of preparations, numerous hands involved and larger than life moments prepared. And from all of this, we now have an elephant in the room.  Literally, we are housing an elephant in the library. He undoubtably will make a MONUMENTAL entrance in the play.

I'd like to think the show elephant is the only elephant in the room.  Yet, for many of us being honest and open with our feelings are shoved in closed compartments in our soul.  Upspoken words or thoughts can place the weight of an elephant on our shoulders.  When we ignore and don't address difficult situations, we create a false security of safety from its exposure, while we wrestle internally with it.  I challenge you to admit it doesn't gnaw away at your peace.

Since we claim elephants don't forget, I can imagine this idiom evolved from us being like the elephant... not forgetting, especially the difficult, silent issues.  As uncomfortable as it might be, bringing them to light might help uncover answers and build healing, restore relationships and eventually create true inner peace.

Are you looking at an elephant in the room, or maybe a herd of them?  Praying for room in your heart to move it out, so the full JOY of CHRISTmas can fill your heart and soul.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

the star you are

  "... for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life..."  Philippians 2:13-15

It's said most everyone will experience five minutes of fame or stardom on earth.

As a believer in Christ, though, you have the opportunity to shine like a star every day.  Live as you believe, my sisters and brothers, and His Light within you will reflect an eternal stardom -- possessing the power to draw others to His Mighty Love and salvation.  

You are His star; and you are His hope for others to witness.

we are love and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

Happy Thanksgiving

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ." Ephesians 1:3

More plentiful and beautiful than the feathers on a turkey are God's blessings to us.

Here are a just a few reminders -- Jesus, family, friends, health, a warm home, delicious food, clean water, beautiful music, laughter, travel, safety, freedom, peace, helping hands, your next breath...  

Thanks be to God from whom all blessings flow.  

Happy Thanksgiving, friend.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal 

every time

  "I thank my God every time I remember you." Philippians 1:3

Praying you have a safe and peaceful Thanksgiving season.  And, thankful to be your sister/brother-in-Christ. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

thankful... through it all

 "I remain confident of this: I believe I will see [yet again] the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13

As we prepare for Thanksgiving, even in the face of an unsettling year, may we remember the challenges, heartaches and hardships of the pilgrims. Their first Thanksgiving was memorable despite their difficulties. We too still have reason to safely celebrate as we thank God for His faithfulness to us, and for better days to come.

What God knows; God can handle. And he knows it all. Resting in Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

broken? you’re covered

 "Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed... 

Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." Romans 4:18, 20-21

Shattered dreams, we've all had them. And no matter how we finagle or struggle to fit the pieces back together like we want, it usually doesn't happen. Broken dreams come in many shapes and sizes, sometimes they occur rarely and sometimes in clusters, sometimes we sense it and sometimes we are blindsided. However it happens, it still hurts and can feel more like a feverish nightmare than just a broken dream. Are you facing any brokenness today?

job uncertainty
financial turbulence
torn relationships
challenging children
aging parents
insensitive spouse
demanding leader
false accusations
physical limitations
sickness
emotional stress
death 
worldly pressure

Whatever is going on... we can still be thankful. In faith, we can trust God will see us through each hardship and trial. We only have to look back and see God's continuous fingerprints on our lives to remember what He has already done for us. Our strength and peace will be restored knowing He will continue to sustain us.  

As God picks up all the pieces of our broken dreams and rearranges them, let's keep believing and knowing He has the power and desire to bring goodness into our lives.

God works all things to the good to those who love Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

taking the heat

 "And be thankful." Colossians 3:15

I've taken a lot of heat this week, but i wouldn't change it for anything.  The sweat on my back has been worth every steamy minute of my job. Kindergarteners eagerly splashed, cut and feathered colorful turkey placemats to use for their Thanksgiving feast. The laminator in the work/sweat room rolled and cooked turkeys by the tens for a total of over 100 plump birds.

This is a sweet tradition i eagerly anticipate each year.  It's all in the spirit of celebrating their family, friends, teachers, neighbors, pets, Jesus and more.  Lucky me for having the honor of putting the shiny, finishing touch to their heARTfelt turkey work.

There's nothing like a colorful, kind turkey to warm and fill a heart with gratitude.  They are rich in love and low in calories.

Thank You, Father, for our blessings... may we never forget the first one came from You.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

you're in my book

"Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you..." 3 John 1:2

Thanksgiving is a week away, but it's never too early to give thanks.  Today i'm thanking God for you, my sisters and brothers in Christ.  You constantly encourage, inspire, strengthen and delight me.  I love doing life with you!

Like these students, may we overflow with thanks to God for His goodness.  Focusing on our blessings instead of our disappointments allows more of His Peace to fill our hearts and souls.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

just breathe

"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8

Tired? Worried?  Not sleeping well? Feathers ruffled?  Not sure what tomorrow holds, much less the future? You are not alone.

May we find comfort in knowing and trusting God with each minute, hour and day of our life. His Hand is always on us and with us. What seems hopeless, impossible or insurmountable to face is possible with Him.  He has a plan, and it is good.  Just breathe... and let His Spirit fill us.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal