Mary and her
advance "Yes"
One of the things I have done over the past few years – to help make Christmas a bit more meaningful to me personally – is to take time to focus on one the central characters in the story and just “sit” with that person for the season. In years past it was Joseph, the three kings, the shepherds, but this year it has been Mary.
When the angel delivered the news of the virgin birth, Mary’s response was immediate and quite staggering (when you really stop and consider it): “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” (Luke 1:38).
I’m not sure we can fully comprehend how unbelievably complicated this was for her. Her unreserved agreement didn’t just launch a miracle story; it initiated a social catastrophe. By saying “yes”, she was stepping into a lifetime lived under a cloud of scrutiny and ridicule. She was accepting a path that would eventually lead her to the foot of a cross, where she would have to watch her son die a cruel and undeserved death. This was no Hallmark Christmas moment; rather it was a total surrender of her reputation and her future.
No happy endings here.
What fascinates me most about her story is that she didn’t even ask for a minute to conduct a reasonable “risk assessment” or weigh the personal cost. Her response was a simple and immediate: “May it be so.” Seriously?
To have that kind of soul-strength as a teenager is awe-inspiring. She didn’t negotiate the terms or ask for a workaround. She was so grounded in her identity as a servant of the Lord that her “yes” was already decided before the question was even asked. I find myself freshly inspired by that as I ponder that kind of predisposition toward obedience – a heart that is already aligned before the storm hits.
As I look at my own life and the season ahead (with the ever-present risk of cancer’s return), I realize that no matter how complicated or unpredictable my own future might be, it will most certainly not be as heavy as hers. Yet, I still find myself hesitating, weighing my options and checking my comfort levels before I move. I’m challenged by the contrast. I want to be similarly predisposed to doing exactly what He asks, and accepting whatever outcomes he allows, without the need to “sleep on it” or ensure the path ahead will be comfortable or easy.
I want the kind of character that is so settled and secure that the “yes” is the natural reflex of my soul. This Christmas, I have adopted a seasonal pocket prayer. I keep coming back to it and it’s an outgrowth of my reflection on Mary’s story. I have been repeating it (as I remember it) before I enter a room and/or start a conversation or consider an offer. It’s a simple, honest realignment of my heart: “Lord, you have my advance ‘yes’ to whatever it is you are asking.” Whether the path is smooth or unimaginably complicated, I want to be found standing in Mary’s posture of surrender. How about you?
Maybe that is the best gift we offer to the Lord this Christmas?
Soul Care with
Pastor Jenn
To Pastor (verb): to shepherd, advise, and guide into a place of deeper spiritual understanding
Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, And they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
What an almost unimaginable concept. They called Jesus “Emmanuel” because He would be God WITH us. As I read back over the story of the birth of Jesus, there was so much intentional “withness” in his coming to earth. As the Son of God, He could have come to earth in so many ways, but He chose the humblest of settings.
Had he been born as a King in a palace, it would have been a more refined birth, but it also would have been more distant from humanity. Instead, He was born in a cave surrounded by animals in their stalls with shepherds as witnesses of his arrival. Shepherds – the lowliest of humanity but also the most vigilant with their flocks. He could have been wrapped in the finest fabrics, but instead he was wrapped in swaddling clothes. In case you happen to think of the sweet, pink and blue baby blankets we have now when you hear the word swaddling clothes, that isn’t at all what those were. They were strips of cloth wrapped around only those rare, perfect lambs to keep them from getting dirty or blemished…to preserve them until the day of their sacrifice.
I think about the scene the Bible sets here, and I imagine the intention God put behind this moment. God, who is both all-powerful and all-knowing, who didn’t owe humanity a single thing, sent His only Son in the middle of an overcrowded city, in the middle of a mess, in the middle of humanity to be with those He came to save. He was set aside as both Savior and King, but also servant of all from the very beginning.
I pray this week you remember God now, just as He did then, longs and plans for “withness”. Wherever your soul aches most, whatever journey this year has taken you on, whatever diagnosis, fear or failure you are currently in, may you know that God is with you. He’s not just here for the glorious moments, He is with you through it all, right up close, drawing near with hope, love and compassion and most of all – presence.
Peace to you this Christmas.
Caregivers Corner with
Kathi Peters
Caregiver (verb): One who provides direct support for one who is in need of practical help, encouragement and love.
Don’t Fake Fine
As followers of Jesus, we sometimes tend to plastic-coat our responses to the question, How are
you?” by replying, “I’m fine—how are you?” It slips out almost automatically. And sometimes, that answer fits. But often, it doesn’t. Often, we are not fine at all. We are weary. We are overwhelmed. We are living in a broken world where people we love get sick—really sick.
A friend once said to me, “The great irony is that the brightest I’ve ever shined has been when
I’ve allowed myself to be most broken.” That sentence has stayed with me. As David’s caregiver, exhaustion is sometimes my unwelcome companion. When I run into people at church or out in public and they ask how I’m doing, I pause. Should I be honest? Should I keep it light? Should I deflect with a Bible verse or a polite smile?
Over time, I’ve come to believe that honesty is freeing. There’s a subtle message we sometimes
hear—even from well-meaning voices—that our words create our reality, as if admitting we’re struggling will somehow make the struggle worse.
But I believe our heavenly Father holds all the power and He understands our frailties. Not only
understands, but empathizes with them. Being truthful about our weakness does not trap us in it.
It does not diminish God’s ability to sustain, heal, or redeem. In fact, Scripture reminds us that it’s often in our weakness that His strength is most clearly revealed.
So maybe it’s time we stop pretending we’re okay.
Because when we allow ourselves to be real, we make room for grace. And when we show up
honestly—tired, broken, and in need—we may be shining brighter than we realize.
For when I am weak, then He is strong.
II Corinthians 12:10
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: “Hard Fought Hallelujah” (Spotify and Apple Music)
Band: Brandon Lake, Jelly Roll
From: “King of Hearts” (2025)
There are seasons when faith feels heavy, when the battle outstretches our strength, and the heart longs for a breakthrough. “Hard Fought Hallelujah” captures the honest tension of walking with God acknowledging that sometimes worship doesn’t come from victory but through the fight itself.
This song reminds us that:
Worship isn’t just for the mountaintop. When our soul has yet to catch up with our words, we can still choose to lift our praise – not because everything is perfect, but because God remains faithful. When we declare “hallelujah” in the midst of struggle, we are confessing that our hope is anchored not in ease, but in the presence of the One who carries us.
Key thought: Faith is not absence of struggle it’s praise in the struggle.
Even when we don’t feel strong, when healing is slow, when answers are delayed, we can still lift our voice knowing that God sees every heartache and He is working even when we don’t understand how
Reflection for the week:
If you’re in a hard season, let your worship be your testimony.
You don’t have to have all the answers but you can praise the One who does.
He hears you. He holds you. And every hallelujah in the fight is a step toward breakthrough.
Piet's Ponderings
To Ponder (verb): to think about something carefully, especially before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.
I love this quote by C.S. Lewis and find myself coming back to it many times over.
Because we do wonder about it – don’t we?
Sometimes we look back at what we’ve had to give up or lay down and we miss it! We thought (maybe immaturely) that this would get easier and that there would be more rewards and accolades.
But… not so much.
So, what do we do with that?
How do we rightly interpret what Lewis is pointing out?
I have to believe it has something to do with soul-satisfaction – that our connection to God and His purposes fulfills something deeper than anything the world can ever provide.
And when I stop long enough to think about it, I do eventually see it.
But… I still need the reminder – and maybe you do too!
Nutrition Nuggets with
Suzanna Hake
To Nourish (verb): the act or process of being nourished.
If you’re looking for the perfect breakfast to serve on Christmas morning or at an upcoming holiday brunch, look no further than this Protein French Toast Casserole!
The BEST gluten free protein French Toast Casserole
It’s the perfect make-ahead casserole. Simply prep the night before, and pop it in the oven the next morning for a stress-free, high protein breakfast that your whole family will love!
15oz gluten free white bread (I use Canyon GF Country White Bread)
1/2 cup raspberries, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup strawberries, sliced thin, fresh or frozen
4 eggs
2 cups liquid egg whites
1/2 cup cottage cheese
1 1/4 cups almond milk
1/3 cup maple syrup
zest from one lemon
2 Tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp almond extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- Preheat oven to 350. Add the cubed bread to a sheet pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Add the toasted bread into the dish. Sprinkle the berries on top.
- Combine the remaining ingredients in a blender. Blend on medium speed for about 10 seconds or until you can no longer see the cottage cheese curds and everything is well-combined. You don’t want to over-mix it, or it will be too frothy.
- Pour the mixture over the bread and berries. Use a spatula to make sure all of the bread is coated / covered.
- You can either bake immediately, or store (covered) in the fridge overnight until ready to bake the next morning. Bake at 350 for 45-50 minutes or until the egg is set. It will be puffy at first, but will settle down as it cools
- Serve with more maple syrup and whipped cream, if desired, and enjoy!
Our Christmas
Prayer
Lord, we come to you in a season that is often so loud and hectic, but still not bold enough to quell the quiet ache many of us carry. For those of us attempting to keep the jolly mask in place while our hearts are elsewhere—anchored in the grief of a chair now empty, the heartache of persistent discomfort, the gut punch of another untimely reoccurance, or the weary weight of a world that feels increasingly off-center—the lights of the season can feel more like a distraction than a celebration. We confess that this internal emptiness is most obvious when the expectations are highest. Forgive us for trying to white-knuckle our way into a joy we don’t currently possess and help us instead to find the courage to be exactly where we are: unsettled, honest, and looking for a spiritual weathervane that might graciously point us home.
We ask that You would walk us back to the real Center of these days—not a festive feeling, but a foundational fact. Remind us that the first Christmas wasn’t a tidy production; it was a rugged, unconventional entry into a messy reality, much like our own.
For the one dealing with illness, be their soul-strength;
For the one navigating loss, be their ever-present comfort; and
For the one who feels the restlessness of a harder season, be their faithful companion.
Let us find rest not in the resolution of our problems, but in the presence of the One who entered the messy stable of our humanity just to bring us back to the Father’s table. In the unhurried grace of the Savior, we pray. Amen.
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.
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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
