On the Journey With...
Have you ever met someone for the first time and been immediately struck by the grace upon their life? I had that exact experience meeting Mziya this past week. She is a person who has taken everything meant to diminish her and turned it into an avenue for redemption. She refused to let her hardships or being born with one arm (crazy to think I don’t consider myself with physical limitation) make her bitter or resentful. Instead, she has used her challenges as a springboard to serve and help others facing similar struggles. I think you will find her story (shared below) as inspirational as I did.
I grew up in an orphanage in the Republic of Georgia, a former province of the Soviet Union. Abandoned as an infant due to a congenital disability, I lived for a decade without a family, surrounded by poverty and hardship. Yet, my fellow orphans and I supported each other, finding strength in our companionship and faith. At age ten, my life changed dramatically when I was adopted by an American family. I arrived in the United States with no knowledge of English or the concept of a loving family. But I was ready to start a new life.
However, the promise of a loving home was quickly broken. My adoptive family was abusive and eventually abandoned me placing me in group homes. I found a community in each group home. Suddenly, I was faced with a difficult choice: return to Russia or stay in the U.S. Determined to find a family. I knew the choice of going back to Russia would be a devastating decision, so I persevered through various temporary homes until I was taken in by the Weber family. They gave me a consistent home and food, with security I had never known.
Unfortunately, the hardships and challanges in the weber family continued in my new home too, and I became a caregiver for two sickly parents who were broken by their own suffering. I eventually moved out on my own at age18. Shortly after, I endured the tragic loss of my mother and was forced to make the heartbreaking decision to take my father off life support. It was through this pain that I realized I had never truly grieved the childhood that was stolen from me.
I found myself at an emotional and spiritual crossroads.
There was a part of me that was tempted to retreat into self-pity and resentment. But I had already seen firsthand what that could lead to – and I wanted no part of that. So, I decided to forge my own new path, refusing to let my past define me. I earned a business management degree, became a bank manager by the age of 25, and later moved to Austin. As fulfilling as this role was, God kept reminding me that there was something more for me. So I took a step of faith with the support of my husband, leaving the world of corporate “success” and founded REIZ Adaptive Fitness, a non-profit dedicated to empowering individuals with physical disabilities. This mission opened the door for God to redeem the hurt and heartache of my past into a greater purpose. “REIZ mission, in collaboration with our clients, is driving a transformation in how we perceive and achieve our strength and purpose together”.
For a year now, I am honored and thrilled to collaborate with Team Survivor Austin where I have the opportunity to extend the work I do to serve and empower women with cancer through free fitness classes and community.
Along the way I have discovered that my happiness comes not from career titles or even overcoming debilitating obstacles, but from my health, my supportive community, and the positive impact I can make, however small, on the world at large.
If you’d like to join Mzyia for their inaugural fund-raising event, you can check it out HERE.
Soul Care with
Pastor Jenn
To Pastor (verb): to shepherd, advise, and guide into a place of deeper spiritual understanding
I’ve spent quite a bit of time thinking about what to write this week.
The world is heavy and words are few.
There have been times in my life when the best sense I could make of a difficult and painful situation is simply that the world is not as it was intended to be. It is fallen. It is broken. And we shouldn’t be surprised when it behaves as such. And, yet, I find myself regularly feeling just that – surprise, shock, sadness over our broken world.
Oftentimes in the world of faith we try to “spiritualize away” sadness or grief. But I truly believe that God understands our sorrows. There’s a whole book in the Bible dedicated to lament. This is something God understands on the deepest level. In Isaiah, the Bible says that Jesus was, “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” He was the living, breathing son of God but even he didn’t run from grief but knew it intimately.
The word “lament” is defined as a passionate expression of grief or sorrow. It feels especially fitting when life just doesn’t make sense – to passionately express the sorrow around a situation we can’t reason through. The human soul was not meant to bear such things. Our only and best option is to cry out passionately to the One who understands and who can hold up under the weight of a world gone awry.
I don’t want to leave you with any over-spiritualized rhetoric. I simply pray you know the heaviness you might be feeling is real and valid. I pray you don’t feel like you have to run from grief…there is a time and a season all of life’s emotions. I pray you know you aren’t alone in your grief…mourn with those who mourn. And I pray that as you grieve, you find your way through to the morning again.
Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
Caregivers Corner With
Kathi Peters
Caregiver (verb): One who provides direct support for one who is in need of practical help, encouragement and love.
I’m Angry. There…I Said It.
I’m not angry at anyone in particular, but I am angry at the hand we’ve been dealt. And the truth is anger shows up in all kinds of ways.
- Fear, when I think about the future.
- Jealousy, when I see friends my age enjoying their lives—or even their retirements while we’re on this road.
- Irritability, when I feel decision fatigue from one more choice about dinner, supplements, or treatment options.
- Neglecting my own self-care, even when I know I need it most.
When that anger turns inward and I start sabotaging myself, I know I’m not in a good place. But when it spills outward and I take it out on others—especially the loved one I’m caring for—it causes double the pain.
I’ve caught myself muttering under my breath, only to hear, “What?” from across the room. And then I feel the regret instantly: wishing I had just kept quiet, but also knowing that stuffing it down isn’t healthy either.
Here’s the reality: being on the cancer journey can breed anger.
But we don’t have to stay stuck in it.
Here are a few things that have helped me—and might help you too:
- Watch what you watch. A steady diet of negativity from the news or heavy dramas can fuel anger. Choose things that lift you up instead.
- Speak it, don’t store it. One cancer blogger put it so well: “Say, I’m angry at the cancer, not at you.” Honesty diffuses so much tension.
- Find safe ways to release it. Take a walk, breathe deeply, journal your feelings. Most of all, pray. Sometimes my prayer is simple: “God, I feel really angry today. I’m not sure why, but I need Your presence and Your peace to wash over me.”
Friend, if you’ve been carrying anger, you’re not alone. It’s a normal part of this journey. But you don’t have to let it control you—or hurt the ones you love. There’s hope, there’s grace, and there’s always room for peace to enter in. One of my favorite passages…
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Worship Moment
with Joel Salabarria
To Inspire (verb): to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
Song: Life (Spotify and Apple Music)
Band: William McDowell (featuring Taylor Poole)
From: “Sounds of Revival” (2016)
There are seasons when it feels like we’re going through the motions—days feel dry, our hearts heavy, and hope seems dim. This song (Life) is a reminder that Jesus breathes renewal into exactly those places. He doesn’t just restore what’s broken; He brings things fully alive again.
You are alive…
You make me alive…
These aren’t just lyrics, but declarations that life isn’t just about existing, but about being awake in His presence, filled with purpose, and empowered by His love.
Life
Exceedingly Life
Abundantly
Overflowing, Overwhelming
More than I can dream
You’re giving me Life
Now I believe You’re for me
And I can see new mercies
Waiting for me every morning
Giving me Life
Giving me Life
Piet's Ponderings
To Ponder (verb): to think about something carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
In my 40 + years as a pastor, I was asked to officiate at funerals for people across the spectrum. Some were for people who died tragically of an overdose, some the victim of violence, some who had taken their own life, some who were lost in a horrific accident, and some who passed at a ripe old age – having lived a full and rich life.
When considering the request, the deceased’s ethnicity, political affiliation, or religious persuasions had no bearing on my participation. If at all possible, I always said yes, because every life deserves some measure of respect.
In my comments at the service, I typically said that one of the best ways to honor a life was to take the time to remember some of the good they did and emulate that – because in doing so their life continues to have meaning, and their loss becomes a little less painful.
I will follow my own advice and do the same for Charlie. This is not a note about politics. This is simply my attempt to honor a fellow brother in Christ whose life was taken way too soon.
Here is what I will remember about him and by God’s grace attempt to follow myself:
- When he was asked why he debated students on campus, he always had the same reply, “When we stop talking to each other, bad things happen!” Agreed… and even with this tragedy (and maybe especially because of this tragedy) we can’t stop talking to people we disagree with. Violence is never the answer.
- He was a bold and articulate advocate for what he believed to be true, and he would engage fearlessly with those who disagreed with him, but he never saw his opponents as his enemy, he saw them as generally good people who might be won over. I think that’s the right way to view it.
- He worked hard at trying to integrate his faith into his politics. That is really challenging work, and for the record, I didn’t agree with every conclusion he drew, but I most certainly commend him for that effort. We would all be well-served in making a similar attempt.
Rest in peace my brother, and our prayers are with your family. May God in his infinite mercy and grace take what was meant for evil and somehow turn it to good.
Nutrition Nuggets with
Suzanna Hake
To Nourish (verb): the act or process of being nourished.
Time for another of my favorite recipes, for those watching their red-meat intake, this is a healthy AND tasty burger option: favorite.
EASY CHICKEN BURGERS
What you’ll need:
– 1-2 lbs ground chicken
– Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, thyme – go crazy)
– Red onion, chopped in tiny pieces
– Garlic, minced (there is no limit)
– Salt, pepper, garlic powder (eyeball it)
– Avocado oil + broth for cooking
1. Literally, throw everything in a huge bowl and mix it up.
2. Form patties with your hands.
3. Cook on medium-high heat until both sides are browned.
4. Add broth and cover the pan – those juices will soak in and make the inside cook nicely.
5. Enjoy!
I eat these for breakfast with micro greens, add it to a bowl of roasted veggies for lunch/dinner, etc. They’re also so easy to just grab and eat cold from the fridge.
Prayer for Revival
To Pray (verb): Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
Heavenly Father,
Our hearts ache for our cities and our world. We come to you with the sorrow of the past few weeks, a pain born from the violence, hatred, and division that seems to consume us. We see the brokenness and the fear, and we know that we cannot fix this on our own.
We are crying out for a spiritual revival. Pour out your Spirit on us, Lord, not just to bring comfort, but to bring profound change. We pray for a revival of empathy, that we would see others not as political opponents, but as your beloved children. We ask for a revival of courage, that we would be brave enough to stand for justice and peace, even when it is difficult.
Heal our land, Lord. Mend the hearts that are broken by grief and the minds consumed by anger. Let your truth be the light that cuts through the darkness. May this revival begin in our own hearts, transforming us from the inside out, so that we may be agents of your love and reconciliation in a world so desperately in need of it.
In your holy name, Amen.
Last Chance
Please Share Your Thoughts
As we begin our third year of sharing stories through the Black Sheep Messenger and The Healing Chronicle, we’d love to hear from you. Yes… even you! Thank you for being willing…
Your feedback will help us understand what content is most helpful and meaningful to you, and what you’d like to see more of in the future.
If you haven’t already done so, please take a few moments to answer our quick, six-question survey. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated and will help shape the future of our newsletters.
Link HERE.
Support the work!
The Van Waarde Foundation underwrites and supports a variety of projects related to supporting, educating, and encouraging fellow cancer warriors and their families.
Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration.
https://www.patreon.com/c/pietvanwaarde
Experiencing a cancer diagnosis is obviously a profound personal setback, and the added weight of self-blame can make it feel even heavier. While it’s natural to reflect on past choices and wonder if you have contributed to our own illness, getting stuck in a cycle of self-condemnation is a separate matter altogether. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings of guilt and remorse without letting them define you or impede your journey toward healing. This involves taking a thoughtful and compassionate approach to your past.
The first step in processing this guilt is to separate accountability from condemnation. It’s helpful to own the reality that some past behaviors may have been unhealthy, but this is an entirely different concept from believing you deserve this illness. You can acknowledge, for example, that a long-term smoking habit increased your risk of lung cancer without believing you are a bad person or that this is a form of punishment. True ownership means recognizing the consequences of past actions and committing to better choices moving forward. This is a path of learning and growth, not a cycle of shame.
The goal – and this is really important – is to shift your focus from “Why was I so foolish?” to “What can I do now?”
Next, it is vital to learn and practice self-compassion and forgiveness. Think of it this way: You wouldn’t speak to a friend with a similar diagnosis in a harsh and condemning way; instead you would offer them kindness and empathy. You must extend that same grace to yourself. Forgiveness isn’t about excusing past mistakes; it’s about releasing yourself from the burden of carrying them. You are a person who made certain choices – and yes, maybe some were unwise and irresponsible – but your diagnosis is not meant to define your worth. I am speaking to you as one who has had to work through these very same feelings.
I have resumed my journaling practice to process and release feelings of guilt. I also rely on spiritual friends and counselors for support, as they serve as vital extensions of grace and peace. When I feel stuck, they provide valuable insight and strength, helping me navigate my journey with greater clarity and compassion.
In summary, processing the guilt associated with a cancer diagnosis is a journey of intentional release and radical self-compassion. The key is to avoid the trap of self-blame by embracing accountability and then choosing to extend grace to yourself. By separating past actions from your current worth, you can free yourself from the weight of condemnation and focus your energy on healing, both emotionally and physically. Ultimately, this allows you to reclaim your own narrative and move forward with purpose and peace.
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus…
Romans 8:1
Soul Care with
Pastor Jenn
To Pastor (verb): to shepherd, advise, and guide into a place of deeper spiritual understanding
“And Boaz said to the elders and all the people, “You are witnesses this day that I have bought all that was Elimelech’s, and all that was Chilion’s and Mahlon’s, from the hand of Naomi. Moreover, Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of Mahlon, I have acquired as my wife, to perpetuate the name of the dead through his inheritance, that the name of the dead may not be cut off from among his brethren and from his position at the gate. You are witnesses this day.”
Ruth 4:9-10
I’ve been studying the book of Ruth for a few weeks now. If you haven’t visited it lately, it really is such a beautiful, engaging story. I encourage you to go back and read it. The thing that keeps stirring in my mind is the idea Boaz was a “kinsman-redeemer”. Now, I admit I don’t understand all the ins and outs of this custom but what I do know is he had the responsibility within his family lineage to step in and care for a deceased relative’s family. He would keep watch care and provide for that family. It’s quite a role, honestly. Quite a responsibility.
The interesting part of the story is who he redeemed. Yes, he redeemed Naomi. And consider all he redeemed her from – a life alone, poor, bitter, without a husband or children. In every way that matters, he redeemed her future. But he also redeemed Ruth, who wasn’t even from his tribe or culture – or faith, for that matter. But he was gracious and saw a picture so much bigger than even Ruth herself imagined. He redeemed her past and her present and secured her a beautiful future full of children and grandchildren. It really is something.
As beautiful as Boaz’s redemption was, it points to an even greater redemption. It’s also a foreshadowing of all Jesus would do for us. He is OUR kinsman-redeemer. The only one who could possibly save us from our past, stand with us in our present and give us a future worth living – Jesus did it all. In light of the story of Ruth, I’m so in awe (again) of Jesus. I pray this week you would have that sense of awe too, knowing that your kinsman-redeemer holds every part of your life in his hands and is planning extraordinary, beautiful things for you.
Caregivers Corner With
Four Things to Remember
Caregiver (verb): One who provides direct support for one who is in need of practical help, encouragement and love.
When you’re helping someone else, it’s easy to get so caught up in their needs that you neglect your own. But as the old saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. To be truly effective in helping others, you have to prioritize your own well-being.
Here are four things to remember to take care of yourself:
1. Self-Care Isn’t Selfish, It’s Necessary
Change your mindset. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a vital part of caring for someone else. Think of it like a marathon – you can’t finish the race if you don’t refuel. Simple, consistent actions like getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking short breaks can prevent burnout and help you stay strong for the long haul.
2. Set and Enforce Clear Boundaries
Be realistic about how much you can give and communicate those limits. It’s okay to say no to certain requests or to take a break when you need it. By setting healthy boundaries, you protect your own emotional and physical health and prevent resentment. You’re teaching others how to treat you and ensuring your support is sustainable.
3. Ask for Help and Accept It
You are not meant to do this alone. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Many people want to help but don’t know how. Be specific. Instead of saying, “I need help,” try saying, “Can you bring a meal on Tuesday?” or “Could you sit with them for an hour so I can go for a walk?” When help is offered, accept it gracefully.
4. Find Moments of Joy and Connection
It’s easy to get lost in the challenges, but it’s crucial to intentionally seek out joy and stay connected to things that matter to you. Whether it’s a hobby you love, a favorite song, or a few minutes of quiet reflection, these small moments recharge your emotional batteries. Remember who you are outside of this role and make time to connect with friends or family who can support you.
Worship Moment
with Joel Salabarria
To Inspire (verb): to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
Song: Back To You (Spotify and Apple Music)
Band: Michael Mudoh
From: “Back To You” (2025)
Sometimes the path feels unclear, but grace was guiding you the whole time. Every detour, every delay and even the silence, was God gently leading you back to His heart. Not because you earned it, or had pity for you, but because He never stopped loving you.
Let’s get back to HIM!
What if the prayers I prayed
Weren’t really meant for me
Cause My heart can lead me astray
You know what I really need
And the times that You told me to wait
Cause there’s more for me to see
So now I see
Lord it was You
Leading me to You
And I know it’s true
There’s nothing I can do
With you
You always lead back to You
Please help us out…
Take the Survey
To Encourage (noun): to give support and hope to someone so that they will do or continue to do something.
As we begin our third year of sharing stories through the Black Sheep Messenger and The Healing Chronicle, we’d love to hear from you. Yes… even you! Thank you for being willing…
Your feedback will help us understand what content is most helpful and meaningful to you, and what you’d like to see more of in the future.
If you haven’t already done so, please take a few moments to answer our quick, six-question survey. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated and will help shape the future of our newsletters.
Link HERE.
Nutrition Nuggets with
Suzanna Hake
To Nourish (verb): the act or process of being nourished.
Time for another of my favorite recipes, and with football season here, this is a snack favorite. Enjoy (guilt free) with MASA seed oil free Tortilla Chips!
Avocado Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 avocado
–
1 clove of garlic
– 1 small bunch of cilantro
– 1/4 onion
– 1 Tbsp salt
– Juice of 1 lemon
– a pinch of cayenne pepper
– 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
Add all ingredients into a blender. Squeeze in the lemon juice, add salt and blend with water until you reach a creamy consistency.
The Serenity Prayer
To Pray (verb): Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
While many are familiar with the Serenity Prayer, not many are familiar with its history. Over the years the prayer has been attributed to several great Christian thinkers including Thomas Aquinas, Augustine and Francis of Assis, but it was actually written less than a century ago in a cottage in western Massachusetts.
Reinhold Niebuhr was born the son of a German American pastor in Wright City, Missouri. He later became a pastor himself, serving a congregation in Detroit before moving to New York to teach at Union Theological Seminary, where he gained recognition as a theologian, activist and social critic. His brother, H. Robert Niebuhr, a well-known ethicist and theologian is best known as a founder of Christian Realism an approach to ethics grounded in the insight that human beings are called to strive toward their highest moral ideals, while recognizing our inability to fully achieve them. Richard writings deeply influenced his brother Reinhold who also had a poetic flair. And his infamous prayer beautifully captured the heart of Christian realism.
Piet's Ponderings
To Ponder (verb): to think about something carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
I believe that starting the day with intention is crucial for setting ourselves up for success.
And I will concede that a good cup of coffee certainly helps, however, I’m becoming increasingly convinced that it takes more than that to prepare for the day’s challenges.
In fact, I have become very particular about thoughts and practices that begin my day.
My current routine is built around a very meaningful set of rituals. And yes, it starts with a good cup of coffee, but also includes reading, praying, stretching, plunging, and walking.
Beyond these physical practices, I find it helpful (even strategic) to make a definitive personal commitment (early in the day) to stay alert to the leadings and promptings of the Spirit throughout the day.
Because my daily purpose must be about something more than just making check marks on a to-do list; it must be about being present, open, and responsive to what truly matters.
Helping people…
Cultivating character…
Engaging in redemptive action…
Gaining the applause of heaven…
Quick Reminder
We have room for two more people in the Building Resilience Course. We had our orientation class this past Sunday, but you can still be a part! You can find out more HERE.
If you are ready to sign up please send a note to my executive assistant Jennifer <jennifer@20threesix.com> and she will get you everything you need.
Also, don’t forget, newsletter recipients got $150 discount off their registration fee, and scholarships are available!
Support the work!
The Van Waarde Foundation underwrites and supports a variety of projects related to supporting, educating, and encouraging fellow cancer warriors and their families.
Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration.
https://www.patreon.com/c/pietvanwaarde
Experiencing a cancer diagnosis is obviously a profound personal setback, and the added weight of self-blame can make it feel even heavier. While it’s natural to reflect on past choices and wonder if you have contributed to our own illness, getting stuck in a cycle of self-condemnation is a separate matter altogether. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings of guilt and remorse without letting them define you or impede your journey toward healing. This involves taking a thoughtful and compassionate approach to your past.
The first step in processing this guilt is to separate accountability from condemnation. It’s helpful to own the reality that some past behaviors may have been unhealthy, but this is an entirely different concept from believing you deserve this illness. You can acknowledge, for example, that a long-term smoking habit increased your risk of lung cancer without believing you are a bad person or that this is a form of punishment. True ownership means recognizing the consequences of past actions and committing to better choices moving forward. This is a path of learning and growth, not a cycle of shame.
The goal – and this is really important – is to shift your focus from “Why was I so foolish?” to “What can I do now?”
Next, it is vital to learn and practice self-compassion and forgiveness. Think of it this way: You wouldn’t speak to a friend with a similar diagnosis in a harsh and condemning way; instead you would offer them kindness and empathy. You must extend that same grace to yourself. Forgiveness isn’t about excusing past mistakes; it’s about releasing yourself from the burden of carrying them. You are a person who made certain choices – and yes, maybe some were unwise and irresponsible – but your diagnosis is not meant to define your worth. I am speaking to you as one who has had to work through these very same feelings.
I have resumed my journaling practice to process and release feelings of guilt. I also rely on spiritual friends and counselors for support, as they serve as vital extensions of grace and peace. When I feel stuck, they provide valuable insight and strength, helping me navigate my journey with greater clarity and compassion.
In summary, processing the guilt associated with a cancer diagnosis is a journey of intentional release and radical self-compassion. The key is to avoid the trap of self-blame by embracing accountability and then choosing to extend grace to yourself. By separating past actions from your current worth, you can free yourself from the weight of condemnation and focus your energy on healing, both emotionally and physically. Ultimately, this allows you to reclaim your own narrative and move forward with purpose and peace.
So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus…
Romans 8:1
Soul Care with
Pastor Jenn
To Pastor (verb): to shepherd, advise, and guide into a place of deeper spiritual understanding
“And Boaz said to the elders and all the people, “You are witnesses this day that I have bought all that was Elimelech’s, and all that was Chilion’s and Mahlon’s, from the hand of Naomi. Moreover, Ruth the Moabitess, the widow of Mahlon, I have acquired as my wife, to perpetuate the name of the dead through his inheritance, that the name of the dead may not be cut off from among his brethren and from his position at the gate. You are witnesses this day.”
Ruth 4:9-10
I’ve been studying the book of Ruth for a few weeks now. If you haven’t visited it lately, it really is such a beautiful, engaging story. I encourage you to go back and read it. The thing that keeps stirring in my mind is the idea Boaz was a “kinsman-redeemer”. Now, I admit I don’t understand all the ins and outs of this custom but what I do know is he had the responsibility within his family lineage to step in and care for a deceased relative’s family. He would keep watch care and provide for that family. It’s quite a role, honestly. Quite a responsibility.
The interesting part of the story is who he redeemed. Yes, he redeemed Naomi. And consider all he redeemed her from – a life alone, poor, bitter, without a husband or children. In every way that matters, he redeemed her future. But he also redeemed Ruth, who wasn’t even from his tribe or culture – or faith, for that matter. But he was gracious and saw a picture so much bigger than even Ruth herself imagined. He redeemed her past and her present and secured her a beautiful future full of children and grandchildren. It really is something.
As beautiful as Boaz’s redemption was, it points to an even greater redemption. It’s also a foreshadowing of all Jesus would do for us. He is OUR kinsman-redeemer. The only one who could possibly save us from our past, stand with us in our present and give us a future worth living – Jesus did it all. In light of the story of Ruth, I’m so in awe (again) of Jesus. I pray this week you would have that sense of awe too, knowing that your kinsman-redeemer holds every part of your life in his hands and is planning extraordinary, beautiful things for you.
Caregivers Corner With
Four Things to Remember
Caregiver (verb): One who provides direct support for one who is in need of practical help, encouragement and love.
When you’re helping someone else, it’s easy to get so caught up in their needs that you neglect your own. But as the old saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. To be truly effective in helping others, you have to prioritize your own well-being.
Here are four things to remember to take care of yourself:
1. Self-Care Isn’t Selfish, It’s Necessary
Change your mindset. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a vital part of caring for someone else. Think of it like a marathon – you can’t finish the race if you don’t refuel. Simple, consistent actions like getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking short breaks can prevent burnout and help you stay strong for the long haul.
2. Set and Enforce Clear Boundaries
Be realistic about how much you can give and communicate those limits. It’s okay to say no to certain requests or to take a break when you need it. By setting healthy boundaries, you protect your own emotional and physical health and prevent resentment. You’re teaching others how to treat you and ensuring your support is sustainable.
3. Ask for Help and Accept It
You are not meant to do this alone. Reach out to friends, family, or support groups. Many people want to help but don’t know how. Be specific. Instead of saying, “I need help,” try saying, “Can you bring a meal on Tuesday?” or “Could you sit with them for an hour so I can go for a walk?” When help is offered, accept it gracefully.
4. Find Moments of Joy and Connection
It’s easy to get lost in the challenges, but it’s crucial to intentionally seek out joy and stay connected to things that matter to you. Whether it’s a hobby you love, a favorite song, or a few minutes of quiet reflection, these small moments recharge your emotional batteries. Remember who you are outside of this role and make time to connect with friends or family who can support you.
Worship Moment
with Joel Salabarria
To Inspire (verb): to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
Song: Back To You (Spotify and Apple Music)
Band: Michael Mudoh
From: “Back To You” (2025)
Sometimes the path feels unclear, but grace was guiding you the whole time. Every detour, every delay and even the silence, was God gently leading you back to His heart. Not because you earned it, or had pity for you, but because He never stopped loving you.
Let’s get back to HIM!
What if the prayers I prayed
Weren’t really meant for me
Cause My heart can lead me astray
You know what I really need
And the times that You told me to wait
Cause there’s more for me to see
So now I see
Lord it was You
Leading me to You
And I know it’s true
There’s nothing I can do
With you
You always lead back to You
Please help us out…
Take the Survey
To Encourage (noun): to give support and hope to someone so that they will do or continue to do something.
As we begin our third year of sharing stories through the Black Sheep Messenger and The Healing Chronicle, we’d love to hear from you. Yes… even you! Thank you for being willing…
Your feedback will help us understand what content is most helpful and meaningful to you, and what you’d like to see more of in the future.
If you haven’t already done so, please take a few moments to answer our quick, six-question survey. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated and will help shape the future of our newsletters.
Link HERE.
Nutrition Nuggets with
Suzanna Hake
To Nourish (verb): the act or process of being nourished.
Time for another of my favorite recipes, and with football season here, this is a snack favorite. Enjoy (guilt free) with MASA seed oil free Tortilla Chips!
Avocado Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 avocado
– 1 clove of garlic
– 1 small bunch of cilantro
– 1/4 onion
– 1 Tbsp salt
– Juice of 1 lemon
– a pinch of cayenne pepper
– 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
Add all ingredients into a blender. Squeeze in the lemon juice, add salt and blend with water until you reach a creamy consistency.
The Serenity Prayer
To Pray (verb): Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
While many are familiar with the Serenity Prayer, not many are familiar with its history. Over the years the prayer has been attributed to several great Christian thinkers including Thomas Aquinas, Augustine and Francis of Assis, but it was actually written less than a century ago in a cottage in western Massachusetts.
Reinhold Niebuhr was born the son of a German American pastor in Wright City, Missouri. He later became a pastor himself, serving a congregation in Detroit before moving to New York to teach at Union Theological Seminary, where he gained recognition as a theologian, activist and social critic. His brother, H. Robert Niebuhr, a well-known ethicist and theologian is best known as a founder of Christian Realism an approach to ethics grounded in the insight that human beings are called to strive toward their highest moral ideals, while recognizing our inability to fully achieve them. Richard writings deeply influenced his brother Reinhold who also had a poetic flair. And his infamous prayer beautifully captured the heart of Christian realism.
Piet's Ponderings
To Ponder (verb): to think about something carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
I believe that starting the day with intention is crucial for setting ourselves up for success.
And I will concede that a good cup of coffee certainly helps, however, I’m becoming increasingly convinced that it takes more than that to prepare for the day’s challenges.
In fact, I have become very particular about thoughts and practices that begin my day.
My current routine is built around a very meaningful set of rituals. And yes, it starts with a good cup of coffee, but also includes reading, praying, stretching, plunging, and walking.
Beyond these physical practices, I find it helpful (even strategic) to make a definitive personal commitment (early in the day) to stay alert to the leadings and promptings of the Spirit throughout the day.
Because my daily purpose must be about something more than just making check marks on a to-do list; it must be about being present, open, and responsive to what truly matters.
Helping people…
Cultivating character…
Engaging in redemptive action…
Gaining the applause of heaven…
Quick Reminder
We have room for two more people in the Building Resilience Course. We had our orientation class this past Sunday, but you can still be a part! You can find out more HERE.
If you are ready to sign up please send a note to my executive assistant Jennifer <jennifer@20threesix.com> and she will get you everything you need.
Also, don’t forget, newsletter recipients got $150 discount off their registration fee, and scholarships are available!
Support the work!
The Van Waarde Foundation underwrites and supports a variety of projects related to supporting, educating, and encouraging fellow cancer warriors and their families.
Thank you in advance for your prayerful consideration.
https://www.patreon.com/c/pietvanwaarde
