Wherever You Go

by Chaplain Adele M. Gill

 “Be strong & courageous…Do not be discouraged,    for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

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God will be with you wherever you go. In today’s world, it takes radical faith to be able to believe in Jesus and stand up in faith for one’s Christianity. It takes great strength and courage, especially in times of adversity, to seek God’s help, and hand Him the reigns. But when we realize that He is with us wherever we go anyway, and is fighting our battles with us and for us for the asking, we can strive to follow Him to higher ground. It is when we believe that we are sons and daughters, heirs of God, in fact, empowered to follow Jesus and do His divine will, that we can rest assured we are not alone in this turbulent world—Jesus is with us. Beyond self-esteem, this understanding helps us know our worth in the eyes of God.

“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ,                     

 if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.”

Romans 8:17

Somehow, when we consider that God is with us everywhere we go, guiding, comforting, protecting, healing and saving us, it makes it easier to endure things. Through the Holy Spirit, we are able to harness Jesus’ extraordinary, unmatched strength, even when ours is depleted and we are overwhelmed by our limitations.

This scripture passage reminds us that we can be strong and courageous in Jesus, even when we are at our lowest point. We can rise above every circumstance, every disappointment, every failure, by simply calling upon Jesus’ holy name, trusting that He has our back, and He is in control despite our free will. Radical faith begins with what some may call outlandish trust in God; and it gives us reassurance that all is well, even when our human logic, and sensibilities, tell us otherwise.

With Jesus at the helm, we really are always in His care, never fully on our own at any given time. This is hard for some to believe, especially those who believe they are autonomous, self-made’ men or women. However, there can be tremendous comfort in trusting we are in Jesus’ loving care at all times. This high-level trust is the basis for the paradox of joy in adversity. Surely all of us know someone who seems to be able to endure significant challenges and obstacles. We watch them unexpectedly rise above enormous challenges, against all odds. It begs the question: How is that

they can live happy, full lives without being completely bogged down by their circumstances?

The answer is clear. It is only with God’s help that

we are able to endure great things, with gratitude to Him, reaping joy, and peace as a result of His holy intercession. His love for all of humanity is unending and unconditional, and His favor rests with those who seek him in earnest; those who believe that His Only Son, Jesus Christ, died and rose in atonement for our sins. God’s love never fades, regardless of how far we wander from His divine plan for us and our lives. His love is perpetual for us, even when we sin and wander far away from him, He tries to beckon us back into the fold.

 Yes, God’s flock is strong and courageous, even and especially in times of weakness, because of Him, rather than anything they can do on their own. They seek a relationship with Jesus Christ in earnest, trust in Him and serve Him as their Lord and Savior, and for that they are never disappointed.

‘Jesus answered, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.                   

No one comes to the Father except

through me. ⁷ If you really know me, you will know my Father, as well.  From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”’

John 14:6-7

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© Copyright 2020 | Adele M. Gill

The Miracle Card

                                                                             

 ^“ The Lord bless you and keep you! The Lord let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!                                      The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!”                                                                

The Holy Bible  |  Numbers 6:24

Gratitude is often reserved for Thanksgiving; but I contend that it is even more important at Christmas and Easter… So I have to ask: do you have your Miracle Card, yet?

Some time ago, in prayer, it occurred to me that I have had an abundance of miracles in every aspect of my life, all unexpected, against all odds—Physical healings, healing of depression and anxiety, protection from harm, healing of broken relationships, financial blessings, healing of memories relating to childhood trauma, etc…. Though I can’t list them all here, I will tell you that my miracle list is quite extensive, and goes on and on. And I am sure yours is too!

There is such power in the name of Jesus, so much in fact, that repeating His name alone, when not taken in vain, can be your fervent, frequent prayer. No need for eloquent speech when praying. Are you ready to have the Christmas spirit all year long in a way that will radically change your faith experience forever? If so, then consider this:

During this Christmas season, you likely have an empty Christmas card sitting on your kitchen table. Here is something you can easily do to make this Christmas more meaningful, and keep the ‘holiday spirit’ going all year long. All you need is an empty Christmas card and a pen:

1)      Find a Christmas card that you really like.

2)      With a permanent marker, write on the top of the front: of the card: ‘MIRACLE CARD.’

3)      Say a quick prayer, thanking Jesus for all the blessings and miracles he has given you.

4)      Begin by writing inside the card, in small print, a word or phrase that describes any time that Jesus interceded for you or answered your prayers over the past year. It could be anything. I say write small, as you may be rather surprised at all the things He has done for you over the years, and you may even run out of space on your Miracle Card!

5)      Continue writing in your Miracle Card throughout the year, going back over time as you remember all the times Jesus has helped you in ways that could not be explained.

6)      When you are done, you can revel in your new found joy, and the peace that comes with knowing you are loved unconditionally, by your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In essence, in doing this, you are giving Him all the credit for His many blessings!

Keep the card easily accessible. Maybe in your office, or near your bed. Continue throughout the year to write all your lifetime blessings and miracles in your Miracle Card, and continue to pray for whatever you need. For gratitude to God opens the door to His peace and joy, two things that far outlast the seasonal ‘Christmas spirit’ we have all come to know. This Christmas season, let’s acknowledge, and seek, the Great Healer, Comforter, Protector, and Savior, Jesus Christ, and give Him due credit, in gratitude, for all your miracles and blessings!

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” 

Nehemiah 10:8

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[ASK]  “Ask and you shall receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be open to you.”

Luke 11:9

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©    Copyright 2019   |   Adele M. Gill

A Christmas Story: THE GENEROUS HOMELESS MAN

by Chaplain Adele M. Gill

      “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing,                                                    

 so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” 

Romans 15:13

Something wonderful happened this week, at the Soup Kitchen/Community Outreach where I volunteer once a week. It involved a woman with special needs named Vicki, and a generous homeless man.

The woman who leads our clothing ministry brought in gifts for all 100+ guests in attendance to select from. Before our guests came, she carefully set the gifts out along 6 long tables in the back of the room, and eagerly anticipated the arrival of our guests. Shortly after we opened, a homeless man named Charlie, came over to talk with me as he does each week. He and his wife live in a camper with no running water, no bathroom facility, no electricity, but they say they feel blessed to “have a place with a roof over our heads.” Though they are homeless, Charlie is a hard worker, and has held down a full-time job for some time now. By the grace of God, they are soon moving into an apartment.

You can imagine how surprised I was when Charlie approached me at the Christmas celebration that day, and handed me a small, live, 10 inch small Christmas tree, a spruce, with the pot wrapped in burlap that he had just gotten from the gift table. “This is for you for helping me and my wife.” “Thank you” I said, adding, “I can’t take this from you—It’s so beautiful, and you and your wife should keep it for Christmas!” “No, I insist” he replied. At his urging, I did finally accept it, and was deeply touched by his very special gift.

Later, Charlie came over again to tell me he had another gift for me: A long necklace with a string of blinking Christmas lights. “Thanks! How about if we give these to someone here who would really enjoy them?” “Ok!” he said. “How about the woman over there with the special needs community in the purple top?  She waved to me twice earlier today.” “Great idea!” So we went over together right away to give them to her. Her name was Vickie. When I told her they were for her from Charlie, she started yelling, “Charlie! Charlie!” as she leaped out of her chair, with arms extended wide open, she hugged me with great fervor, then grabbed him tight and hugged him twice, too. “OMG! I can’t believe it! Why me?” “Everyone! Everyone! Look at my new Christmas necklace! Charlie gave it to me!” Hugging him tightly and enthusiastically again, he and I were jubilant too, we were deeply moved and speechless by her joy.

As Charlie and I were walking away from Vickie, side-by-side, I looked over and saw he was trying hard to hold back the tears, while trying to compose himself. “You know,” he said, “This is what Christmas is really all about…”

There is so much to learn from this story:

1)      Life is full of surprises.

2)      It really is the simple, little things in life that give us the greatest joy.

3)      Everyone has something to give others, regardless of finances or circumstances.

4)      There is great joy in giving to others.

5)      Sharing joy can be a life-changing event for all involved.

What a wonderful experience and a Christmas blessing! Through the power of the Holy Spirit, the joy we experienced will be with the 3 of us for many years to come. Believing in the power of God-given joy, I’m sure Vickie will wear her Christmas lights from Charlie for days, perhaps months, to come as long as they still light up and blink.

I’m sure that Charlie, in his generosity, experienced profound joy that day that the likes he has never known before. And me? I will plant my little Christmas tree from Charlie in the spring, and will always remember Charlie and Vickie with joy and gratitude, and all that transpired that day. The 3 of us now have a great, joy-filled Christmas memory. Those who witnessed what transpired, and those we share this story with, now have a new Christmas story to tell others. And so we see the ripple wave effect of generosity and joy in giving and receiving.

What happened that day at the community outreach was not random—it was clearly a series of God-events that remind us all that true joy is a God-given gift. We are so grateful to have a loving God of surprises who enables us to share with others and experience joy--even when we think we have precious little to give another person. Joy really is contagious. May you experience joy this Christmas in all things great and small. May you embrace the joy that only God can give!

© Copyright 2019   |   Adele M. Gill

Blessed Beyond Measure

Greetings from Adele's Inspiration Cafe!

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This Christmas season, I am collecting donations of toiletries, underwear, socks, and hand warmers for the local homeless at the Manna House Outreach in Bel Air, and the Epi-Center in Edgewood. Donations will be accepted until December 15^th. If interested in donating any of these items, please email me at: adelemgill@gmail.com or IM me to arrange a time for drop off.  Any of these items that you can donate will be most appreciated. Thanks! Adele

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Today’s blog post:

Blessed Beyond Measure

 [Jesus said:]

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Matthew 5:1-12   |   The Beatitudes

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ certainly has blessed, and continues to bless his flock beyond measure. For He freely gave His life in atonement for the sins of humanity. He did this not for just a few, but for all people. But do we recognize his unconditional, pervasive love, and care, in our lives? Today’s Holy Scripture reminds us that those who walk humbly in faith, particularly in times of vulnerability, have God’s full, undivided attention, compassion, and mercy. The poor, the oppressed, the grieving, the timid, those searching for truth while trying to do the right thing in God’s eyes. According to this scriptural WORD, the downtrodden, the merciful, the holy, and yes, even, and especially, the persecuted, find favor with God through Jesus Christ. Yes, He knows we are a flawed people; but He loves us profoundly and with complete abandon any way, as He tries to bring us closer to Him, and on to higher ground.

The Good Shepherd

Like a good shepherd or a dedicated classroom teacher, God’s attention is most focused on those in most need, those who ask for His help. Through this Bible passage today we learn that Jesus is ever present and aware of our frailties, and unspoken needs. And He is passionately and compassionately ever present to those in need—sometimes through other people.

Reaching Out

In these tumultuous times, He depends on us to reach out to others in need; to be His hands and feet here on earth. God needs us to clothe, feed and help support the poor, comfort the grieving, the lonely and the sick. He wants us to stand up for, and with, those persecuted for their beliefs and other reasons. None of us is in this alone. As the body of Christ we are called to be Light to in this world of darkness. Every life is a precious gift from God, and everyone goes through times of vulnerability and turmoil. As followers of Jesus Christ and the Gospel of Peace, we especially need to strive to protect the unfortunate, vulnerable, downtrodden and endangered among us--from the pre-born and the disadvantaged, to the aged, and everyone in between.

Jesus Has Overcome Persecution

In this Bible passage, Jesus also tells us you will be persecuted in this world because of emulating or sharing Him, and it is cause for celebration. If you’ve ever been insulted, taunted, hated, or tormented for your faith, surely you know how difficult enduring it can be. But you need to remember that when religious persecution occurs, it is only because of the witness you give, the witness you are, for Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. At that point, despite how it may feel, you truly are blessed beyond measure for your eternal reward is in Heaven.

~

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. ¹² Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Matthew 5:1-12

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© Copyright 2019   |   Adele M. Gill

http://theinspirationcafeblog.net/blog/

Convinced

^{By Adele M. Gill}

 ^“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 8:38-39   (NIV)

I am convinced that the love that God has for you and me is so far reaching, so extraordinary, so all-powerful, so merciful, that it is unconditional and unmatched. Despite what the world around us tells us, it is not based on what we have, what we do for a living, what we own, who we know…God’s love is freely given and for all of humanity, not just the faithful, as some may suggest. When we understand God’s love for us in a personal way, we also know, on some level, that ‘the ball is in our court’ so to speak. As scripture tells us:

“We love because he first loved us.” I John 4:19

As with any relationship, we decide what comes next, through our own God-given free-will, as to whether we move closer to Him, or turn away. In a sense, we can only depend on the scripture above, and similar ones like it, to enlighten us about God’s unconditional, unmatched love. God IS love. Once we try to realize the full extent of His love, we soon realize it is beyond our human comprehension because He loves us like no other. For even when we sin and walk away from Him, nothing can separate us from the love that God has for all of us. When you let the concept of God’s love for you really fully settle into your being, you may very well weep for joy!

Though no one has actually seen the face of God, we have seen Him through His Only Son, Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for you and for me. Both God and man, Jesus suffered unmercifully on our behalf, as he bore our sins on the cross, thus helping to obtain for those who believe in Him eternal life. Anyone who knows Jesus Christ knows God, as the two are one, through the power of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Weep for Joy

Understanding God’s timeless love naturally leads us to recognize that our strength comes from and through Him, even and especially in times of adversity and weakness. We are fully undeserving of this love—which is how we know we have been given God’s grace. Grace is ‘undeserved merit,’ that only He can provide. It is God’s gift to us when we are healed of infirmity, daily and after many years, against all odds, for the asking. Grace is ours when He provides generously and mercifully for our every need: Physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually—even financially, as we grow in our trust in Him.

Joy is the Byproduct of Gratitude

This is where gratitude comes in…When you are grateful to God for the abundant blessings He has bestowed on you each day, joy is the byproduct of that gratitude. There is no quicker way to true, lasting happiness, peace and joy, than by expressing gratitude to God through heartfelt prayer. When you realize that everything you have, and everything you are, every talent and every treasure you possess comes from Him, your life changes forever. And it becomes easier and easier to try to depend on Him in every circumstance. It is at that point that you may begin to place your focus, gratitude, and trust in Almighty God, and depend on Him daily to fill all your needs. Joy and peace will be yours, as you begin to place your trust in Him.

As I said, I am convinced that the love that God has for you and me is so far reaching, so extraordinary, so all-powerful, so merciful, that it is unconditional and unmatched. Truly, I am convinced that this scripture is good and right and true:

 ^“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,^[a] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 8:38-39   (NIV)

© Copyright 2019   |   Adele M. Gill

http://theinspirationcafeblog.net/blog/

Adele M. Gill, BSN, RN, CPC is the author of 3 inspirational books including ‘From Broken to Blest: Embracing the Healing that Awaits You,’ written with Dr. Verna Benner Carson. From Broken to Blest is now available on Amazon, and at Barnes at Noble, in print, Nook, and Kindle versions.

The Bible: Simply Stories or Indisputable Truth?
by Adele M. Gill

http://theinspirationcafeblog.net/blog

“Therefore, put on the armor of God…So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all [the] flaming arrows of the evil one

…and take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.”

Ephesians 6:13-17

New American Bible (NABRE)

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I have a friend who mistakenly believes that the Bible is nothing more than a collection of stories, a series of parables not to be taken literally. However, I believe it is a grave mistake in being dismissive of the Bible; as it provides indisputable truth, Light in darkness, and divine guidance. Moreover, the Bible is our primary source of encouragement, and unlocks our direct power source, the Holy Spirit. It is one of our greatest, blessed gifts from God, not to be minimized. 

The Bible: Our Best Help

The Bible is our best how-to help in dealing with everything from mind-body infirmity to enemies to temptation. The New Testament, in particular, is chock-full of God’s promises, Jesus’ timeless directives, designed to help us to follow Him. It provides practical help for every day, as well as, in times of need. Far beyond being simply a book of stories, it is a God-inspired treasure that we should read daily to access the blessed life, healing, and love God has for us in, and through, Jesus Christ. There is good reason why scripture calls the Bible ‘the Word of God' and ‘the Sword of the Holy Spirit.’ The above scripture about the armor of God  tells us it is our sword of protection.

Holy Scripture: Central to Christianity

In a way, being dismissive of the Bible as irrelevant, believing that it is just a series of stories from long ago, sorely misses the Message of Jesus Christ. In fact, it discourages one from reading the Bible, and enables them to entirely miss seeing the value of the knowledge and wisdom it imparts. Of course Jesus’ parables provide insight, and He often used them to explain divine truths. However, disavowing holy scripture gives one reason—actually, permission--to avoid reading the Bible, which is so central to Christianity. In minimalizing scripture, one can find the perfect excuse to avoid reading it, and sadly, discourage others from reading it as well, particularly if they are in a position of leadership.

Definitive Truth

One of the first things a Christian must do is determine if the Bible contains authority through indisputable truth, or not. Yes, the Old Testament has many stories, but the Psalms and the New Testament are highly instructional, and vitally important, for Christians in the here and now. I rarely, if ever, open my Bible without coming away stronger, refreshed, and more prepared to face life on its terms with new fervor. Reading holy scripture helps give our lives new meaning and direction. It provides life-giving discernment, enabling us to look past the present circumstances and mayhem of this world, to see God working on our behalf and in and through others.

Reading the Bible enables us to focus directly, and squarely, on our personal relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Other books we may read about Jesus often go off on tangents and are riddled with opinions of the authors who write them, This further dilutes Jesus' divine message. Instead, the Bible itself provides much needed insight, wisdom and knowledge that cannot be gotten from any other source.

Bar none, there is no other book that can replace the wisdom and knowledge, peace and joy, that comes with reading the Bible, the Word of God, the Word of Truth. We need to treat the Bible with the reverence it deserves and embrace it for the God-given gift that it is.

According to scripture, here is some of what The Bible, says about ‘the Word of God:’

• Hebrews 4:12 New American Bible (NABRE) 

Indeed, the Word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart.

• 2 Corinthians 4:2 New American Bible (NABRE)

“We do not use deception, nor do we distort the Word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly, we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.

• Luke 11:28 New American Bible (NABRE)

²⁸ He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the Word of God and obey it.”

• 2 Timothy 2:15 New American Bible (NABRE)

¹⁵ Be eager to present yourself as acceptable to God, a workman who causes no disgrace, imparting the Word of Truth without deviation.

Copyright 2019    |   Adele M. Gill

Adele M. Gill, BSN, RN, CPC is the author of 3 inspirational books including ‘From Broken to Blest: Embracing the Healing that Awaits You,’ written with Dr. Verna Benner Carson. From Broken to Blest is now available on Amazon, and at Barnes at Noble, in print, Nook, and Kindle versions.

PART II: The New York Travesty: The Reproductive Health Act

Life and Motherhood Begin at Conception

One can only wonder if proponents of The Reproductive Health Act abortion bill that was passed by the New York legislature on January 22^nd, 2019 understand the dire physical, emotional, mental, and most importantly, spiritual ramifications of their actions. Have they actually witnessed first-hand, personally, or experientially through others, what they just voted in? It is doubtful, as some find it is easy to stand tall for what they ideologically believe, avoiding the harsh realities of what they consider to be truth. In this case, it is a common strategy many legislators are using to circumvent this simple scientific truth: Life and motherhood begin at conception rather than what some mistakenly believe, at birth.

Birth: The First Civil Right

At this juncture, it would be folly to underestimate the everyday workings of the lucrative abortion industry at-large, and the resulting fallout from their ending lives before they even get started. It is critically important not to confuse ignorance with evil in all of this. There is a huge difference, and it seems that the latter prevails in this calculated legislative decision made by New York law makers, that denies the unborn their first and most basic civil right: The right to be born. The right to be born is a universal, God-given right, and life and motherhood begin at conception.

Abortion, PTSD and Depression

I have met too many women who have aborted their babies, then went on to suffer with unrelenting, untreated PTSD, depression and unresolved, vague medical issues for the rest of their lives as a result of having made the traumatic life-ending decision to abort their babies. Mind-body illnesses can be the direct or indirect result of experiencing traumatic events such as a late-term abortion. Many mothers need to be encouraged to seek help to heal after an abortion.

My heart is broken for the pregnant mothers who feel they have no other option but to abort when they unexpectedly become pregnant. However, I am heartened by the use of ultrasound machines at Pro-life Women’s Center’s to introduce pregnant women to their pre-babies, thereby helping them decide against abortion. Fortunately, there is a program called Rachel’s Vineyard that can help women heal after having a abortion.

I grieve and pray for those swept up in the wake of this tragic legislation, thinking that the merciless killing of their baby is the only way out of motherhood. My heart aches for the pain the infants suffer as they are violently killed and painfully dismembered in the womb, never to have the privilege of experiencing the life God intended for them.

Judeo-Christian Perspective

Who will tell the proponents and followers of this legislation that they are setting a national, even international, trend that is in direct opposition to Judeo-Christian teaching? Would they care? The Bible tells us we will reap what we sow, and that judgement belongs to God alone. It is not our job to judge anyone. That job is already taken. But discernment says that it is time to revisit Row vs Wade, as we step up the ladder of depravity on this slippery slope fueled by the lucrative abortion industry that preys on vulnerable pregnant women and preborn babies.

Certainly there will be contagion with this unfortunate, devastating legislation, as this policy and practice catches on and is adopted by other states and countries. Who will tell these New York legislators, and their like-minded 'progressive' compadres, that they have the blood of holy innocents on their hands? We serve an all-powerful, omnipotent, and forgiving God. Our nation must turn to Him now, and seek Him while He can be found.

“If my people… will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

2 Chronicles 7:14

© Copyright 2019   |   Adele M. Gill, RN, BSN, CPC

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Adele M. Gill, RN, BSN, CPC is the author of 3 books including “From Broken to Blest: Embracing the Healing that Awaits You,’ written with Dr. Verna Benner Carson. ‘From Broken to Blest’ is now available on Amazon and at Barnes at Noble in print, Nook & Kindle versions.                                    For more info:  https://amzn.to/2pNt9Sk