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A.J. Swoboda's avatar

As always, Amanda, I'm beyond blessed by your words. And God's grace as you help serve the spiritual and intellectual needs of those who are seeking to better understand their faith—and love God. It is sacred work. And you are the one for it. Also, so glad you are engaging Ian's work. His book is fabulous.

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Amanda Held Opelt's avatar

Goodness, this is just so, so kind. Thank you for all the encouragement!

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Linda Stoll's avatar

I do love it here, Amanda. Your wise, gentle voice is a deep encouragement in a world of unsettling clamor. I see Jesus in your words.

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Amanda Held Opelt's avatar

Thank you for these kind words!

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Lisa Livingstone Kramer's avatar

Bless you! Thanks for the book recommendations and music list. I love the season and truly appreciate Advent and the opportunity to immerse myself in the meaning of the season.

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Elizabeth's avatar

I've walked this same journey as you have. Over the last two years, I have come back to my faith stronger than ever before. It feels like home.

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Matthew Nash's avatar

Really loved your thoughts here Amanda! I’m also journeying through Malcolm’s Advent book this year as well!

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Lori Schweers's avatar

I used to get oranges and apples and usually some nuts in my stocking when I was a kid. I always wondered why. I love the story about your granny and the oranges and their history. Beautiful.

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Amanda Held Opelt's avatar

I love that!

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Ian Harber's avatar

This is wonderful. Thank you, Amanda.

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Amanda Held Opelt's avatar

Thank YOU!

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Liv Holloway's avatar

Love this and love you. Thank you for your labor of love in writing this through. And the playlist! Gah! I am so into it. What a gift.

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Amanda Held Opelt's avatar

yay, so glad you love the playlist!!!

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Michael D. Warden's avatar

Loved Tara Isabella Burton's book! It really helped me map the spiritual landscape beyond the boundaries I grew up in.

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Amanda Held Opelt's avatar

Yes! I think it's a must-read for folks trying to navigate life in a post-Christian world

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Bethany Clark's avatar

This is the only Advent-y thing I've been able to bring myself to read so far this year. Thank you. It was a good, gentle reminder.

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Amanda Held Opelt's avatar

Glad it resonated with you!

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