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How Shall We Pray?

[…]thorns in the flesh and they are uncomfortable. But my conclusion concerning “How then shall we pray?” is that we pray for the strength to obey the Lord’s will, to fulfill His purposes, and to bring honor and glory to His holy name. Yes I want victory in the GWOT, safe keeping for those fighting this war, families reunited, the sick healed, peace for those who grieve, and relationships reconciled. But as I pray for those things, I pray first and foremost that the purposes of God be fulfilled and that glory be brought to our Lord and Savior, Jesus […]

First Bible Studies

[…]see the Pray, Discover and obey Leader’s guide). The obvious next step would be to schedule a “Pray and Obey” where you would draw aside for a “season” of prayer to ask God to show you how He sees your installation (the walls of Jerusalem), and in prayer, discern His leading as you progress from a concern for others in the military, to a burden, then to a vision and finally to a plan. Leader’s Preparation In preparation for a group Bible Study, the leader should first proceed as though studying the passage just for him or herself. Then, when […]

Home Front Holidays

[…]yes. As families who have faced this holiday scenario, here are a few lessons we learned: 1. Pray, pray, pray. Pray that the Lord will sustain you and that your heart will be drawn to your Savior and your spouse in a new way. Pray for all of the deployed service men and women, and for their families. Search the Scriptures and claim God’s promises for your children, your spouse, and yourself. 2. Be realistic about what you can do. A perfectly planned and executed holiday does not automatically make it a happy one. Do your best to make it […]

The Jungles of War

[…]of a North Vietnamese Army (NVA) regiment. I insisted before the Lord that I had to know what to pray for regarding the enemy. I had no problem praying for my men, for myself and for others on our side. But what about the enemy soldiers–God’s creation–who were wearing different badges and carrying different weapons? Praying for Prisoners After several hours before the Lord in spiritual agony, I told Him I couldn’t go on without His answer. In my mind He spoke very plainly “Pray for prisoners.” I was puzzled at first; then I understood. Pray that we can do […]

War on Spiritual Terrorism

[…]big part, in my mind, is moral, ethical, and spiritual strength. Most soldiers don’t pray. Most young leaders don’t pray. Not until they stand up to put that snap fastener on the anchor line cable do they start to try and get serious, because when they go out the door they know it’s them, that equipment, and the Lord. Or they don’t pray until they get a contingency mission. When they get to Green Ramp, suddenly the chaplain becomes the most important officer in the unit. They all want to see and talk to him… Most soldiers who fall into […]

A day in the life of OCF

[…]Partnerships/National Capital Region. Starting his day with the Lord at 0400, followed by a prayer breakfast and an intercessory prayer meeting, OCF’s rep for developing strategic partnerships with others passionate about ministry to the military society. He’s now at a meeting with other team members finalizing the logistics for the NCR Military Ministry Summit. Then it’s off to walk the dog of a wounded warriors family he’s helping.  The day is ending as it began for Dean Millard, with the untouched budget still on his desk. It does get done, but he will need to leave on time tonight. The […]

Child Evangelism

[…]be received if salvation is to be possessed. Remember, do not force a decision. Ask the child to pray out loud in her own words. Give her some things she could say if she seems unsure. Now be prepared for a blessing! (It is best to void having the child repeat a memorized payer after you. Let her think, and make it personal.)* After salvation has occurred, pray for her out loud. There is a good way to pronounce a blessing on her. 4. Lead your child into assurance. 5. Show him that he will have to keep his relationship […]

For All Leaders

[…]the hope and prayer that something included might help you bring glory to our Lord as you serve. Pray for wisdom. Your leadership will affect lives. The Bible tells us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). Don’t miss out on this indispensable asset for your kit bag. We all need it! Make quiet reflection alone each day a priority. It allows you time to think, pray, read the Bible, and hear God speaking to you. Leadership requires time to […]

Lead Your Child to Christ

[…]be received if salvation is to be possessed. Remember, do not force a decision. Ask the child to pray out loud in her own words. Give her some things she could say if she seems unsure. Now be prepared for a blessing! (It is best to void having the child repeat a memorized payer after you. Let her think, and make it personal.)* After salvation has occurred, pray for her out loud. There is a good way to pronounce a blessing on her. 4. Lead your child into assurance. 5. Show him that he will have to keep his relationship […]

Operation Iraqi Freedom

[…]Army troops and Marines lived. So, like many of you, we supported them the best way we could–in prayer. It really meant a lot to me to see the picture of a group of people–arms around each other–gathered in prayer. God really is everywhere. How amazing to meet in a chapel on a multinational base in Saudi Arabia to celebrate Easter, play Australian songs in a praise band led by a Scotsman, hear the sermon from an American while sitting next to a Brit, and write about it from Japan to friends in Colorado. It was the beginning of some […]

The Role of Faith

[…]this concept works wonders during deployment!”6 Sue Roberts advises separated families to “not pray for an easy life; pray to be a strong person.”7 Admiral Grady Jackson said, “In many ways I’ve never been closer spiritually to my family than when I’ve been away from them for extended periods, because those are the times I fully put them into the Lord’s hands. When we move out in the job that the Lord has called us to do, He will take care of our families, especially if His call requires separation.”8 Worry about the family back home is one of the […]

Time, Talent, Treasure: Retirees

[…]lives—family members in the military, illnesses, etc. During Heritage House’s construction, we prayed for the superintendent’s family member during deployment to Iraq and prayed him safely home. The superintendent had never experienced that on any other projects.   Your advice for getting involved in the ministry of OCF? Kit Vaughn: If you want to be an authentic Christian, your first priority is spending time with Jesus every day. Once you’ve checked in with Him, look for the people most open to a relationship with Jesus: the lonely, sad, new, sick or hurt. Progress gently, patiently. Be considerate of their school […]

What Are Parents to Do?

[…]be mentally tough for a period, we remained excited to hear of his work and his challenges. And we prayed, and prayed, and prayed. If you make the Most High your dwelling–even the Lord who is my refuge–then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. Darren returned, and was disappointed to find out his platoon had fought some significant battles during […]

From Mid to Married to Mom

[…]that we truly have nothing to fear.   Dear God, I come to you this day,To keep my husband safe I pray.Please protect him day and night,And bless him with the coming light. Be his rock, and shield, and strength,Deliver him at any length.And when he’s tired, tried, and weary,Help him see Your love so clearly. Lord, I pray for comfort too,For Your love and peace to shine right throughThe dark times when I’m feeling lonely,Missing my husband and wishing that only; While he’s gone that time would fly,And when he’s home that it’d creep by.I look to You Lord, […]

It Didn’t Surprise God

[…]swelled her neck with blood. But it was far more than just peace in the hospital. Many people have prayed for us and continue to pray for us today. Which brings me to the third blessing. God heard and responded to the prayers in very tangible ways. We had been warned of a multitude of potential complications, but Heather was protected. It hit home when a retired C-141 pilot contrasted Heather with his coworker who was in a remarkably similar situation. The only notable difference was the people who were praying for Heather. While his coworker suffered complications, Heather sailed […]

Leadership without Coercion

[…]permission to pray for him. I said, “I know you are a Muslim, and as a Christian I would like to pray for you.” He happily agreed and we shared a wonderful time of prayer at the foot of the cross in his office. We both cried. Was I coercive in my witness? Did I proselytize? I am sure some would say yes, but I don’t think so. Using common sense and sensitivity, it is possible to be an ambassador for Christ in […]

Professional Perspectives for Senior Officers

[…]not give you a vision for your entire military service, or even for your entire unit, but if you pray and ask, He will give you vision for a specific task He wants you to do. Then pray that your vision will grow as you continue to mature in your faith and walk with Him. Be a person of faith, although you cannot see all of the details. We encourage you to ask God for a spiritual vision that includes the unique opportunities and capabilities that your position and rank afford the Body of Christ in your military unit and […]
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Spiritual Battle Plans

[…]Word. Prayer Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication (ACTS). Also, make your prayer list realistic: split it into multiple parts and pray over one section per day. Ask God questions about your military leadership and everything on your heart; it reminds us to listen. When He answers it enables us to see His relevance in the practical aspects of our life. Journaling Capture God’s answers to prayer and His revelations of truth (Proverbs 29:18). This is how we actively listen, pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17), grow, and demonstrate to God that we can be trusted as faithful stewards of His […]

What Works for New Officers?

[…]someone holds you accountable, you will pick up words you wish you hadn’t. 6. As a leader, PRAY DAILY, especially for wisdom (Phil. 4:6,7). Often we pray in a reactive sense instead of a preparatory sense. It doesn’t have to be formal or even done in private. Let God speak to you, cry out to Him, be honest, admit weakness, and plead for help (1 Thess. 5:17, Rom. 8:26). TIP: Set aside specific time to pray for coworkers, commanders, subordinates, and issues. 7. KNOW and DO your job well. Only then will you earn the respect of your peers and […]

Finishing Strong, in Iraq and Life

[…]passage: “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:3-6). Whether a military mission or in life itself, who doesn’t want to finish strong? Like the Iraqis, we have choices to make to ensure we finish our race with strength and dignity. There are some practical concepts […]

Getting Intentional in Your Marriage

[…]about what your husband or wife is learning through personal quiet time and study. How can I pray for you today? Be deliberate and discerning in praying for your spouse. Give permission to ask each other difficult questions. If you don’t, who will? Challenge, support, and encourage deeper spiritual growth: journaling, Scripture memory, extended time alone with God, fasting… Ask yourself: How am I serving my spouse today? Is he or she on my “calendar” or “to do” list? Extend grace- daily. Forgive and ask for forgiveness. Think the best of your spouse’s motives and intentions. In the Book of […]

Staying Up Late

[…]I asked that God would be with them throughout the night and help them stay awake and alert. I prayed for their families. And as always, I prayed that all of us would make it through this deployment safely and return home to the ones we love. We all said, “Amen” and with that, I climbed back down the ladder, and headed towards my hooch. As I was walking back, I was reminded of the famous scene in A Few Good Men where Lieutenant Weinberg asked Commander Galloway why she was so adamant about defending two Marines who were on […]

The Heartbeat of OCF

[…]officers and Christians in the Armed Forces of the USA, most every one of us can find a wingman to pray with about starting an OCF group.  Once you have a meeting day/time set up, you’re ready for the next step. If the group consists mostly of peers (age/rank/job location, etc.) or specific demographics (sex/marital status/retired, etc.), you should be well attuned to needs and preferences.  Check the OCF website home page for Small Group Resources and click on Leading Small Groups for an article with excellent advice by Jon Harris. Topics include prayer, Bible study, relationships and preparation to […]

Time, Talent, Treasure: Academies

[…]him through USNA OCF. Stepping out in faith, he leads a Bible study with other exchange students, praying that in addition to encouraging one another, they will also shine the light of Christ on those around them.  Austin: Seeing what OCF does, connecting people for life!  A couple years ago one of our senior girls led a group of plebes at our Tuesday night Bible study, and frequently met with each one outside of class. She would listen to their plebe year woes, record prayer requests, share Scripture, and bring them treats. And she’s continued, even sending them encouraging cards […]

Two Greedy Institutions

[…]some time with the family. Then, if necessary, return to the office to finish the day’s work. Pray together. Practice little expressions of love. Recognize your need for God’s grace. Pray for his grace to lead and love your family. Some things the officer wants from his spouse: Recognition that his role as an officer-Christian is a calling from God that he must do “heartily as unto the Lord” (Col 3:23). Her input on decision making-real opinions. When possible, a little wind-down time after returning home from work. Time and encouragement to pursue things personal. The similarities in many of […]

Unity of Command

[…]live in unity is to pray for our leaders. In 1 Timothy 2:1-2 the apostle Paul exhorts us to pray for those in authority over us. Through intercessory prayer for our leaders, believers unify with God and with each other against both military and spiritual forces. Here’s one last example to illustrate spiritual UOC. In a joint military environment, one commander commands bombers, tanks, and ships. One of those components is no better or worse than any other. They follow and trust the leadership of their one commander. So, too, the church: believers must be loyal to Jesus as the […]

Follow Me

[…]gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). Second, we should seek God and His will every day. Daily prayer and meditation is key to remaining in God’s will for us. This can be done through the use of a “quiet time” or other method of prayer and scriptural meditation. Finally, by focusing on Jesus as our leadership example, we too can disregard the world’s idea of leadership and, like Him, have a clear, focused vision of what God would have us do. While we may never have to give our lives as a ransom for many, we should be prepared to do […]

Ice Cream in Iraq

[…]ours where we are free. 13. Have you ever gotten hurt? I have not been hurt so far and I hope and pray that I won’t get hurt during my time here. I want to come home the same way I left. And now for the most asked question of all… 14. What do the bad guys look like?This is a hard question to answer because the bad guys look very much like the good guys on the outside. They wear the same type of clothes, speak the same language, and live in houses and drive cars just like those […]

Impact Your Military Community!

[…]local church, few soldiers usually follow. The Chapel Challenge The challenge is to dedicate your prayers, time, and gifts to build your local chapel into something that makes a difference for the kingdom. Instead of complaining that the chapel does not have the programs or outreaches that you and your family want/need, do something about it. Sit down with the chaplain. You will be surprised by the results. My family used to worship and fellowship at local churches. However, a few years ago, upon arriving at a new duty location, God used a chaplain to make it clear that He […]

Interview with Chaplain Beach

[…]a friendship and maintain contact with the chaplain regardless of differences in theology. Pray for and with one another when you can. Find positive ways to express and discuss your differences. Make OCF or personal ministries part of the Command Religious Program by staff procedures that show you are acting openly in accord with military customs and regulations. Participate in the chapel if you can. If God leads you to a local church, try to find ways to serve and ways to participate in events at the chapel. Adapted from COMMAND magazine 1982. At that time, Chaplain Beach was commanding […]

Making the ‘no greater love’ sacrifice

[…]is one” (Deuteronomy 6:4). Chaplain Poling, a Reformed church pastor, was reciting the Lord’s Prayer while Chaplain Washington, a former New Jersey gang-member-turned Catholic priest, sang hymns of comfort. The strongest human instinct is for survival. Why didn’t these four men immediately head to the lifeboats and save themselves? Chaplain Fox, a Methodist minister, told his wife when the war broke out, “I’ve got to go. I know from experience what our boys are about to face. They need me.” In a letter to his dad Chaplain Poling wrote, “Just pray I shall do my duty… that I shall never […]

Members: Cast your vote now for OCF Council

[…]lay leader; Seacoast Community Church youth group leader (weekly Bible studies, special events, prayer meetings); street evangelism with the church.  Personal testimony: I trusted the Lord at a young age, but it was not until high school that I realized the radically selfless life that Jesus calls us to. At that time, I began to truly seek the Lord, and since have been blessed with godly mentors who have taught me and encouraged me to follow the Lord with all my heart.  What is the biggest challenge you see currently facing OCF right now? OCF faces social and political pressure […]

My Early Christmas Gift

[…]Heavenly Father and the birth of His Son! During this season of giving and celebration, we say a prayer of thanksgiving for you and your families and praise the Lord for men and women like you who have willingly answered the call to serve our nation and our Lord.  As we give thanks to our Heavenly Father who loves us so much that He would sacrifice His one and only Son for us, we also give thanks to you for your sacrificial gift of service!  May the Lord put a shield of protection around you and your families. We pray […]

OCF and Leadership

[…]in training leaders, or are we focusing on vision? Is the question going into an installation Pray, Discover, and Obey, “How many Bible studies do we need?” or is it,”How are we going to build Christian leaders…families…fellowships at our installation?” The first is a process question, the second is a vision-a leadership-question. Ephesians 4:11-16 talks about the leadership model of the church. God gifted some individuals to be apostles, others prophets, evangelists, or pastor/teachers. That is leadership. To what purpose? “…To prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up…” (v. 12). […]

Professional Excellence (Durfey)

[…]on a bike, one will see things never seen from a car. Leaders must force themselves to slow down. Prayer is designed by God to do just that! Prayer also puts things into perspective-God’s perspective! The Lord does not over-schedule our days. He does not demand so much of us that we do not have time to pray-slow down! In all things we are to turn to the Lord of lords and acknowledge His lordship. He does have some very strong opinions about how things should and should not be done. Some of His strongest feelings have to do with […]

Question Authority

[…]Scriptures and to pattern my questions and concerns after Jesus’ response while here on earth: Pray. When Jesus was anxious, He prayed. “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Mark 14:34). Desire God’s will. “Abba! Father! Everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will” (Mark 14:36). Rest confidently in Him. “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent […]

Rescue on the High Seas

[…]for other possible pirate attacks. While I didn’t always have time for a nap, I did have time to pray–and that’s what I did whenever I felt exhausted, frustrated, or doubtful about the future. In my need I turned back to God for help, and His encouragement was the same every time, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.” It was enough for me, and I felt God’s presence as much as I ever had before. The “Alabama Eighteen” group of technicians, specialists, and other sailors carried out their duties with uncompromising professionalism and diligence, manning their weapons […]

Service Separations

[…]of God’s care and faithfulness to them while their father is away, and encourage each of them to pray daily for their father. If you have a very young child who can’t comprehend why Daddy is gone, you might encourage your husband to select and gift wrap a number of inexpensive trinkets before he leaves, and these can be given out from time to time to reassure the child that Daddy is thinking of him. If your husband can correlate the giving of these gifts with appropriate comments on a tape or video at the same time, it will be […]

Share this spiritual gift with your teen

[…]in getting ready, packing his stuff. No hurry to rush, plenty of time. Great breakfast, wonderful prayer. Brian and some of the boys have befriended some of the camp volunteers. Good kids, clean cut, wholesome, helpful, and cheerful. They are all hanging out, exchanging contact information, taking departure pictures. I will miss this place. A few quiet moments near the spring to thank God for this time. Praise You for allowing us to be here, to know You better…to share. Telling Rick thanks. Words fall short. Hugging a new brother. “Chicago” peppers the gathering with humor, we all laugh. Goodbyes […]

Spiritual Success

[…]congregation, a Bible study, or para-church organization. Read the Bible and pray daily if possible. Do it like Physical Training. Find a prayer partner to get with every week. When you are given the opportunity to talk to your platoon/unit, tell them who you are and include in a matter of fact way that you are a Christian. Do not preach to them; you are not paid to do that. Just inform them of the “stuff” that helps you make decisions. Be physically fit and try to set the standard in military bearing and professionalism. Remember God will never give […]

Starting an OCF Small Group Fellowship

[…]thinking of a home Bible study. Find a like-minded Christian co-worker for a workplace study. 2. Pray about starting a group, about who to invite, what to study, where to meet, time/place, etc. Let the Holy Spirit speak before launching on your own strength. 3. Invite initial participants. Face-to-face invitations work best. Using flyers, bulletin board announcements, or e-mail works better after you have an established group going. 4. Be prepared. Take a look at the many resources available on this OCF website to help you–so take your time and look around! After the First Meeting After the first meeting you’ll […]

The Line Officer and the Chaplain

[…]our chapels! The words of Jesus call to us today. The fields are white unto harvest (John 4:35). Pray that the Lord will send forth laborers. (Luke 10:12). A spiritually live, praying chapel congregation is just such a disciple-making and disciple-sending ministry for the Lord Jesus Christ to use in expanding His Church throughout the military and throughout the world. The chapel offers you many opportunities to use your spiritual gifts and to express your commitment to Jesus Christ. All chaplains welcome volunteers to serve in their programs. The transient nature of military life insures a continual supply of places […]

The Role of the Chaplain

[…]opposition in order to make their lot more livable. Will die with you and will not run away. Will pray for and with you as you lie dying or wounded–willingly go where needed, no matter how dangerous that place may be. Knows the different religious practices and beliefs of the people in your unit Is an enthusiastic contributor to the mission and morale of your organization, but one who will let you know when there are problems with its mission or morale. Those are some of the basic expectations that should be met by your chaplains. If they are not […]

Time, Talent, Treasure: OCF small group fellowships

[…]together to provide meals, take care of children, and provide comfort and encouragement through prayer, Scripture and time spent together. Every Wednesday, Naval Base Kitsap OCFers gather at the aptly named Anchor of Hope church, filling long tables with delicious smelling casseroles, crockpots and salads. The kids eat quickly so they can get back to playing and chasing each other. The adults enjoy the meal while chatting, laughing, and catching up on one another’s lives, relishing the chance to finally rest from work or taking care of kids all day. Then they settle down to learn from God’s Word and […]
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Time, Talent, Treasure: ROTC

[…]time and resources, and what ministry activities are already in progress in your area. Then pray about how you might lead, join, follow, or stay out of the way, paying particular attention to areas you may be well disposed to go into. Be deliberate, intentional, prayerful and patient.  College ministry has ebbs and flows, and it is easy to get discouraged, especially if you are a nose counter.   Enos: It’s so worth it to see how God can use your faithfulness as you give of your time, energy and resources to make His name known—even with late nights (and […]

Walking

[…]we honestly have done all we can, but are stuck–we cannot even know what to say or how to say in prayer the right thing–well, it is then that the Spirit steps in just at the right time and along with us, from His end He takes hold of the situation or problem and lifts it up to God in a very able, clear, definite and acceptable way. Meanwhile all we can do during that time is to groan in response to his burden upon our hearts. God understands and answers! Therefore, if we respond properly to God, nothing is […]

War Eagle, Iraq

[…]guard our steps as we seek to do the right thing (Psalm 91:5). b) It’s always a good thing to pray with the knowledge that the Lord hears the prayers of the righteous, casting all our cares upon Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective (James 5:16). c) Always wear your Kevlar with the Helmet of Salvation (Ephesians 6:17). P.S. The soldier recovered well and attended the next chapel […]

We Honor Them

[…]We then entered the plane, moved to the flag-draped transfer cases, and the chaplain offered a prayer. The Commander and I then returned, in step, to the tarmac where the Army Honor Guard was waiting. As we all stood at attention, the Honor Guard moved to lift each case. At this time the Commander and I saluted (ceremoniously-a slow, three-second move) as they moved the case to the open doors of the hearse. We did this for each soldier being honored. Then one last salute as the hearse started to drive away. We all then followed, in step, the slow […]

What is Required of Me?

[…]officers for biblical fellowship.” You have the right to and need to: Meet in fellowship, pray without ceasing, stay in the Word, worship together, and come alongside your chaplains. Practice your religious beliefs as you wish while maintaining sensitivity and respect for those of different faiths or denominations. Share your convictions. “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). Ambassadorship 301 Influence the organization; show respect and impartiality. You will develop and eventually be promoted to the point where you can only communicate […]

What you do and how you lead does matter

[…]Christ may be ashamed of their slander” (1 Peter 3:13-18).  Be Ready! Philemon 1:6 says, “I pray that your partnership with us in the faith may be effective in deepening your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ.” Then be ready to respond to everyone who asks. This is important—one man’s evangelism is another man’s proselytizing. But when you are asked, what seeds of faith are you prepared to plant? It highlights the importance of walking in the Spirit and having a tightly crafted personal testimony, of developing habits of scripture memory, of staying in […]

Whose Arm Doth Reach

[…]floor Dive with our men beneath the sea Traverse the depths protectively Lord, hear us when we pray and keep Them safe from peril in the deep. Its hauntingly beautiful melody gave me my first inkling of the risks involved in sea service. The second was when Dad began taking us to the aquarium…where it first occurred to me that there were places in the ocean so dark that the creatures living there possessed their own bioluminescence as a substitute for sunlight.… We learned that there were many strange creatures in the deepest, uncharted parts of the ocean where no […]
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