Tag Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; – J.R. -Why Me, Lord?

August 10, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

If you are given to hypochondriasis or “illness anxiety disorder,” you surely would not want to be transported back to biblical times. First, they had a host of frightening diseases and illnesses which, in modern times, have been eradicated. Second, they had almost no understanding of the causes; germs and bacteria, for example, were unknown in the ancient world. And third, the treatments – administered by priests, magicians and quacks – were at best useless and more often barbaric.

Why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

Luke 1:43

You especially would not want to be an expectant mother in biblical times. Pregnancy and childbirth represented the pinnacle of risk…from infection, bleeding, high blood pressure or other complications. Elisabeth, pregnant with the baby who would become John the Baptist, asked, “Why Me, Lord?” But it wasn’t a complaint. She wondered why she could be so favored. She was overjoyed to be part of the fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.

What’s troubling you today? A personal need, a family difficulty, or the disgraceful state of America? Whatever it may be, is there an opportunity in it for you to be a blessing? As you pray today, find the answer! “Why me, Lord?”

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – “S” Words

August 9, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

The “S’s” have it! Sin, servitude, supplication, salvation, security, and sin again. That is the story of the people of Israel in the time of the judges. They “did what was evil in the sight of the Lord” and were overpowered by their enemies because of their sin. (Judges 4:1) After years of oppression, they cried out to God for help. In His mercy, the Lord raised up judges who would save the people and allow peace for some years. Once the judge died, the people turned back to sin.

They forgot the Lord their God.

Judges 3:7

Deborah was a wife, a prophet chosen by God, Israel’s fourth judge and a leader in battle – all but the first very unusual for a woman. At a time when men faltered, she was faithful to God and advised His people, inspiring them to hope in their true deliverer. And, as He often did, the Lord caused the enemy to be defeated.

You are called to be strong in your faith, to seek God in times of trouble, and to know He will save you and keep you secure. But He expects you to be faithful to Him. Encourage those around you. Intercede for this nation – that it not give in to sin but serve God with courage and faithfulness.

Campus Crusade for Christ; Bill Bright – Trusting Means Safety

August 8, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

“Fear of man is a dangerous trap, but to trust in God means safety” (Proverbs 29:25).

One of the delegates attending a lay institute for evangelism protested that he was not going to go out into the community to share his faith, something he had never done before. I assured him that he was not required to go; it was simply an optional assignment. But I explained that if he would go along and observe a more mature witnessing Christian, he would learn something and would feel greater freedom in the future to witness on his own. Again he expressed his fear, but he did go, and God marvelously used him and his witnessing partner to introduce two people to Christ. He came home absolutely radiant, joyful, overflowing with thanksgiving and praise to God. He came to me immediately to say, “I am so glad that I went. I would have missed one of the greatest blessings of my life had I not gone. Thank you so much for encouraging me to go.”

The number one barrier to witnessing in the Christian life is the fear of man. Think of the contradiction. It never occurs to the average Christian that not to witness is to disobey God, and the consequences can be devastating to his spiritual life. Therefore the average Christian risks offending God for the fear of offending man.

It is interesting that there are 365 “fear nots” in the Bible – one for every day of the year. And yet there is one fear in particular that thwarts effective witnessing for Christ more than any other – the fear of man.

It would not be a distorted picture to envision thousands – and even millions – of believers caught in that dangerous trap referred to by the psalmist. And what a deadly snare! Martin Luther, years ago, found a solution to this deadly enemy:

And though this world with devils filled,
Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear for God has willed
His truth to triumph through us
The prince of darkness grim –
We tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure,
For lo! his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him.

Our trust must be in God whose indwelling Holy Spirit helps us not only to trust Him, but also to share the gospel with others.

Bible Reading: Proverbs 29:19-24

TODAY’S ACTION POINT: With God’s help, I will share His love and forgiveness with others with the confidence that having called me to be His witness, He will enable me and will prepare the hearts of those to whom I go.

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; – Take the Time

August 8, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

In 1789, George Washington delivered the “Thanksgiving Proclamation.” In addition to giving thanks, the day was set aside “that we may unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations, and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions.” Washington was a national leader who understood the power of prayer. Perhaps this was because of another leader who passionately interceded for his people.

I lay prostrate before the Lord these forty days and forty nights because the Lord had said he would destroy you.

Deuteronomy 9:25

In Deuteronomy 9, the Israelites were about to cross the Jordan to fight for their promised land. Moses’ speech encouraged them that God would fight on their behalf, but also reminded them of how he interceded with God when they had sinned against Him. He stood in-between God and the Israelites to plead their case and defend them.

Moses was a leader who interceded regularly for others – and God listened. His prayers made a difference for the Israelites. When was the last time you truly interceded with God for someone or for the nation? Today, take the time, as much as is needed, to earnestly pray…and if you don’t know where or how to start, ask God for help (Romans 8:26).

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Moved to Serve

August 7, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

“Let me know if I can do anything for you.” This phrase is often tossed out by well-meaning people who care about others. But those truly burdened to help don’t say, “Let me know…” They say, “I’m bringing dinner. What time should I come?” Or “I’d like to babysit. What night do you want to go out with your spouse?”

“If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.”

Acts 16:15

In Acts, the author tells of Lydia’s conversion. When she and her family were baptized, Lydia insisted the apostle Paul and his companions come home with her. Today’s passage in The Message version says, “[Lydia] wouldn’t take no for an answer.” Lydia’s generosity for the servants of God teaches modern-day Christians how to meet needs as well.

Lydia was moved to hospitality. She didn’t say, “Let me know…” She insisted on the missionaries’ attendance. Do you meet the needs of others with as much passion as Lydia? Ask God to point out needs you can meet for others. Pray for servant hearts in Christians who are national leaders – that their service would reflect Christ on those who don’t know Him.

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Amazing Plans

August 6, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

When America’s forefathers were anticipating the future of their fledgling nation, they could not possibly have imagined the cultural and economic complexities challenging America today. John Adams, though, acknowledged the source and power behind their vision of the future: “the right to freedom, being the gift of God Almighty, is not in the power of Man to alienate.”

He said to them, “Hear this dream that I have dreamed.”

Genesis 37:6

In the Bible, God had big plans for a man named Joseph. He gave him dreams about a place of service and honor being prepared specifically for him. Joseph’s aspirations to fulfill God’s plan made him a target for resentment. His adversaries thought they could derail both his dreams and God’s purposes by contriving to have Joseph imprisoned and enslaved. They succeeded in putting Joseph in prison – but ultimately his enemy’s antics merely served to prepare Joseph for God’s amazing plans.

Mortal man is not the author and finisher of your story…or of America’s future. Regardless of what you see happening in the news today, be assured that no evil can upend God’s purposes and plans. Be confident and committed to pray for the nation’s leaders today.

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Pass the Ball of Faith

August 5, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Stephen Curry likes to point people to “the Man who died for our sins on the cross.” Curry was named the National Basketball Association 2015 Most Valuable Player and led the Golden State Warriors to the championship. Yet his eyes are on heavenly prizes. Curry credits his parents for teaching him that studying for school and washing the dishes were more important than basketball. Most of all, they taught God’s Word and modeled their faith at home every day. As a result, Curry was 13 when he accepted Jesus as his Savior.

A faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice.

II Timothy 1:5

“It was a big decision that my parents couldn’t make for me,” said the superstar point guard. “I’m His humble servant right now and I can’t say enough how important my faith is to who I am and how I play the game.”

In the Bible, it was the influence of Timothy’s mother and grandmother that led him to Jesus Christ. So remember to pass the ball of faith through your words and actions to the children in your life. Pray that America’s leaders also see the importance of being godly examples to this nation’s future generation.

Charles Spurgeon – False professors solemnly warned

August 4, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

“For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.” Philippians 3:18,19

Suggested Further Reading: Acts 20:18-35

The apostle was a very honest pastor—when he marked anything amiss in his people, he did not blush to tell them; he was not like your modern minister, whose pride is that he never was personal in his life, and who thus glories in his shame, for had he been honest, he would have been personal, for he would have dealt out the truth of God without deceitfulness, and would have reproved men sharply, that they might be sound in the faith. “I tell you,” says Paul, “because it concerns you.” Paul was very honest; he did not flinch from telling the whole truth, and telling it often too, though some might think that once from the lip of Paul would be of more effect than a hundred times from any one else. “I have told you often,” says he, “and I tell you yet again that there are some who are the enemies of the cross of Christ.” And while faithful, you will notice that the apostle was, as every true minister should be, extremely affectionate. He could not bear to think that any members of the churches under his care should swerve from the truth, he wept while he denounced them; he did not know how to wield the thunderbolt with a tearless eye; he did not know how to pronounce the threatening of God with a dry and husky voice. No; while he spoke terrible things the tear was in his eye, and when he reproved sharply, his heart beat was so high with love, that those who heard him denounce so solemnly, were yet convinced that his harshest words were dictated by affection. “I have told you often, and I tell you, even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ.”

For meditation: What effect do you have upon your pastor (Hebrews 13:17)?

Sermon no. 102

4 August (Preached 24 August 1856)

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Powerful Promises

August 4, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

The apostle Peter knew people that worshipped various gods. As he explained that Christians have power to live a righteous life in Christ, he differentiated it from the other beliefs of the day. “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” (2 Peter 1:16)

We ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain.

II Peter 1:18

Peter himself saw the transfiguration of Christ and heard the Father say, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” (Matthew 17:5). Peter also experienced Jesus’ forgiveness in a dramatic way. After denying Jesus three times (Mark 14:66-72), the resurrected Christ gave him opportunity to renew his love three times (John 21:15-17).

Peter summed up the plight of a true spiritual seeker: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). Spend time seeking the Lord. Ask and He’ll answer; seek and you’ll find; knock and it will be opened (Matthew 7:7) are powerful promises worth spending time on. Press in and pray for your concerns and the needs of this country.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Word Gets Around

August 3, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

There is a tradition in American towns in which the “key to the city” is presented to certain visitors. It usually involves a ceremony, a speech or two, an ornamental key of some sort, a local official like the mayor, and usually someone famous – a rock star, politician or other luminary. One thing you will likely never see is the “key to the city” being presented to a homeless person.

All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me.

Ruth 2:11

When Ruth travelled to Bethlehem with her family, she did so in the most inauspicious of circumstances. They were hungry and desperately looking for some place to live where they would not starve. And yet, without any help from a public relations assistant and certainly lacking an entourage, Ruth was quickly noticed and praised because of her character and faithfulness in serving her family.

America today is awash in empty sound bites and silly schemes. But you will stand tall when you live with rock-solid integrity and humbly serve others. Make that your mission today!

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Never Coincidence

August 2, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

If the wicked Haman had succeeded in his plan to annihilate the Jews in the days of Xerxes his king, the story of God’s saving work through Abraham’s descendants would never have happened. There would have been no fulfillment through Jesus Christ, no gospel and no Christian church. But God’s sovereign plans never fail. He uses His people to carry out His purposes.

Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?

Esther 4:14

Though His name is never mentioned once in the book of Esther, you can see God’s hand throughout. There are unexpected turns in events, but nothing is coincidence – the Lord is always in control. Even Haman’s wife began to see that the Jews were a protected people. Esther was chosen to be a part of their deliverance, and she did what she knew was right to do when it was time to do it.

Today, wicked men have power and authority around the world. God has placed you in a culture opposed to your values and your relationship with Him. Troubled about this nation, you must trust God even when He appears to be silent. Step out in faith and be bold when you are called to do right. Then rest in Him – knowing His plans are perfect.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – The God Who Sees

August 1, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

When crimes occur in today’s technological society, one of the first things the police search for is camera footage – whether traffic cameras, security cameras or cell phone video from passersby. There’s not much you can do that isn’t caught on camera.

The man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.

Genesis 3:8

Adam didn’t live in an age of cell phones and digital cameras, but he still got caught eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. The Creator of the Universe didn’t need security footage from the Garden of Eden to show Adam tasting the fruit from the forbidden tree. Through Adam’s experience, you comprehend the omnipresence of God. In today’s passage, Adam tried to disappear among the garden – but God was undeniably there.

The same is true where you are right now. El Roi, the God Who Sees, is there when no one is watching. He sees when you try to cover sin, but He also sees the hard work you think no one notices. Ask Him to help you recognize and revere His presence in your life and in the lives of your national leaders. Pray for Americans to live a life that doesn’t need to be hidden.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Light Show

July 31, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Stargazers headed outdoors recently to watch a spectacular occurrence. The planets Jupiter and Venus were so close in the sky they almost appeared to be a “double star.” The bright light given off by the two planets was a dazzling demonstration of God’s glory. Some scholars believe a planet alignment like this created the “Star of Bethlehem” that guided the wise men to the Christ child.

Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars!

Psalm 148:3

Whether God created one bright star or aligned the planets to herald the birth of His Son, no one really knows. But what is known is how all of creation freely displays God’s glory – even the planets and stars. You were created to exhibit His glory, too. All people have “gifts that differ according to the grace given to us” (Romans 12:6).

Are you fully using the gifts you were given? When you freely work in the area the Lord has blessed you, the resulting display is astounding. Pray for fellow Christians to use their gifts according to God’s purpose. Also ask the Lord to help America and its national leaders recognize the Creator in both the stars…and in their lives.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Conference Call Calamity

July 30, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

In an extraordinary and infamous 2013 conference call, the chief executive officer of mass media company AOL lost his temper…while 1,000 of his employees listened in astonishment. Two minutes into the call, Tim Armstrong became irritated when his creative director picked up a camera to video the meeting. “Abel, put that camera down right now! Abel, you’re fired. Out!” Sacking a key leader publicly and impulsively while the whole company listened clearly did nothing to improve employee morale. Armstrong later apologized, saying it was an “emotional response at the start of a difficult discussion dealing with many people’s careers and livelihood.”

The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

Psalm 145:8

Short-tempered bosses are common because short-tempered people are common. But there is One who is “gracious and merciful…slow to anger.” Isn’t it wonderful to know that God will not react impulsively to your sins and shortcomings?

You may be saddled with guilt or discouragement – perhaps over personal or family situations. And America, with her plummeting moral trajectory, may seem like a lost cause. But God is patient, not willing that any should perish, and there is yet time for change and transformation. May it begin today as you pray!

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Loving Boldness

July 29, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

There was a time David hid in fear for his life from King Saul. In his prayer, he lamented that no one took notice, much less cared about him.

No refuge remains to me; no one cares for my soul.

Psalm 142:4

As you look up and down the streets where you live, how many of those folks do you even take notice of? Are there any you truly care about? Thankfully, in America today it is still possible to share what Jesus has done for you with people you meet. You know that God cares, and He has commissioned you to witness for Him. Why are Christians in the United States often reluctant to share? Some are fearful; others lazy. Yet to not speak up is disobedience, and Jesus said if you love Him, you will keep His commandments. Soul winners not only follow Christ, they abide in Him…and the time is coming when sharing His love will no longer be possible.

When praying today, think of specific people that need to hear His truth. Ask God to prepare their hearts in advance – and then share Christ with them with loving boldness. Then remember Christian men and women in government, and pray for doors of opportunity to open for them to witness.

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Then and Now

July 28, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

The song Forever, written by Chris Tomlin, has been a favorite of worship leaders since its release in 2001. It’s been listed in the top 25 praise songs as reported by Christian Copyright Licensing International since 2003. The lyrics are based on Psalm 136. The Psalm is meant to be sung and praises God for all He has done.

And brought Israel out from among them, for his steadfast love endures forever.

Psalm 136:11

There are countless examples in the Old and New Testament of people singing and of God’s command to do so. Today’s verse focuses on when God brought Israel out of slavery in Egypt. Being set free was certainly something to sing about then and still is today – which is probably why Chris Tomlin has had so much success with the same words so many years after they were originally written.

God’s Word says He doesn’t change. He set His people free in Egypt over 2,000 years ago and He can set you free today. During this month of celebrating America’s freedom, set aside some time to celebrate your freedom in God and the life in the Spirit that He provides. As you do, pray for those who do not know Christ to find Him and be set free, too.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – In Appreciation

July 27, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

How often do you hear about people who live near a great landmark, such as the Statue of Liberty, and never go see it? People grow accustomed to the things around them and don’t stop to appreciate the gifts they’ve been given.

Come, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who stand by night in the house of the Lord!

Psalm 134:1

So it is with reaction to the Lord. Americans have the freedom to worship God, yet how many of the nation’s churches are nearly empty each Sunday? Many people are not even aware of how wonderful and beautiful it is to give oneself over in complete worship of the Creator of the Universe. “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.” (Hebrews 12:28)

Spend time today worshipping Him in spirit and truth (John 4:24) and appreciating His gifts to you. Ask the Lord to move on His people to give Him honor and praise due His name. Pray for God to send a revival to this country and turn many hearts to Jesus – so they, too, may revel in the reality of His resurrection and bless the Lord!

Recommended Reading: Matthew 28:1-7, 16-20

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Not in Vain

July 26, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Alexander Hamilton, signer of the Constitution of the United States, was known for his efforts in securing ratification of the Constitution by the states. He did not take the credit, however. In 1787 he wrote, “For my own part, I sincerely esteem it a system which without the finger of God, never could have been suggested and agreed upon by such a diversity of interests.”

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.

Psalm 127:1

In context, today’s verse makes the same application…to your family, your occupation, or to the government of this nation. If God is not a part of your actions or decisions, the results of your labor are in vain. Likewise, the efforts of the nation’s leaders will fall woefully short if God’s direction is not sought or followed.

Certainly, if you are discouraged with rulings in this country, letters or phone calls to your representatives will help. But infinitely more powerful is prayer! A preacher during war time in the 1940s, E.C. Olsen, said, “I believe that our difficulties would soon be past if the godly people of this country would earnestly pray.” You cannot thwart the purposes of God, but He listened as Abraham prayed for Sodom, and He will listen to you.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Majestic and Unchanging

July 25, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

With 54 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet, one only has to drive through Colorado to appreciate the mountains. They are majestic, unmoving and formidable. Mountains can either be your greatest protection or, in inclement weather, your possible undoing.

As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore.

Psalm 125:2

Likewise is the Lord. He is majestic, worthy to be worshipped and praised. His love is steadfast and He is unchanging, the same yesterday, today and forever. Yet He is formidable. His righteousness and holiness is to be obeyed and respected. God is your greatest protection, your source of salvation, your origin of hope and strength. But for those who have not embraced Christ, He will be their undoing.

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) He loves you, protects you, and meets your needs; in fact, “Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” (Matthew 6:8) As you worship His goodness and majesty, remember to pray for the leaders and citizens of the United States of America to turn to Him for their salvation, strength and hope.

John MacArthur – Inheriting Heaven or Hell

July 24, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

“[God] caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Pet. 1:3).

Everyone receives an eternal inheritance—either Heaven or Hell.

We have seen several aspects of the believer’s inheritance, and will see more in future days. But realize that unbelievers also will receive an inheritance, for Jesus will say to them, “Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels. . . . And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life” (Matt. 25:41, 46).

Only Christians have eternal life and a royal inheritance. When you received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you became a new creation in Christ and your life began to center on Him rather than yourself. The Holy Spirit indwelt you and began to transform your attitudes and actions. That’s the new birth! It’s like starting all over again, only this time you’re pursuing God’s glory rather than worldly pleasures or goals.

Also, when you were saved you became an heir of God and a fellow heir with Christ (Rom. 8:17). So the new birth was the means of your salvation and your eternal inheritance.

Having said that, I must admonish you, just as Paul admonished the Corinthians, to “test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you—unless indeed you fail the test?” (2 Cor. 13:5). You never want to be deluded about your relationship with Christ. When you trust in the living Lord, you have a living hope and a glorious eternal inheritance. Anything less results in an inheritance of eternal damnation.

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies” (John 11:25). Be sure your faith is firmly fixed on Him.

Suggestions for Prayer

Pray for family and friends who don’t know Christ. Ask the Lord to redeem them so He will be glorified, and they will become joint heirs with Christ.

For Further Study

What do these verses teach about the new birth: John 1:12-13, John 3:3, and 1 Peter 1:23?

DAILY DEVOTIONS, NEWS AND INFORMATION

Tag Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; – J.R. -Why Me, Lord?

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – “S” Words

Campus Crusade for Christ; Bill Bright – Trusting Means Safety

Presidential Prayer Team; – Take the Time

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Moved to Serve

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Amazing Plans

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Pass the Ball of Faith

Charles Spurgeon – False professors solemnly warned

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Powerful Promises

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Word Gets Around

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Never Coincidence

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – The God Who Sees

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Light Show

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Conference Call Calamity

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Loving Boldness

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Then and Now

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – In Appreciation

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Not in Vain

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Majestic and Unchanging

John MacArthur – Inheriting Heaven or Hell

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