Greatly Loved | Daniel 9:23

 

🌿 Greatly Loved 🌿

 📖 Daniel 9:23 – “As soon as you began to pray, a word went out, and I have come to tell you, for you are greatly loved. Therefore, consider the word and understand the vision.”

✨ Who is Daniel?

Daniel was a young Hebrew taken captive to Babylon when King Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem (Daniel 1:1–7). Even in exile, Daniel remained faithful to God, refusing to defile himself with the king’s food (Daniel 1:8). He was gifted with wisdom and the ability to interpret dreams and visions, which placed him in high positions of influence in Babylon (Daniel 2:48).

Daniel 9:1-27

Yet, despite his wisdom and power, Daniel was most known for his faithfulness in prayer and unwavering devotion to God—even when threatened with the lions’ den (Daniel 6:10–23).

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✨ Greatly Loved

In Daniel 9, we find him praying earnestly for his people, confessing sins, and seeking God’s mercy. Before he could even finish, the angel Gabriel appeared with this powerful message: “You are greatly loved.”

This reveals three truths:

When Daniel prayed with sincerity, humility, and a repentant heart, God immediately heard him. The angel Gabriel was sent with a message of assurance: “You are greatly loved.”

✨ What does this mean for us today?

1. God Hears Our Prayers Quickly – Before Daniel even finished, God had already responded. Prayer doesn’t fall on deaf ears. 
   
   “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.” (Isaiah 65:24)

2. We Are Precious to God – Just as Daniel was called “greatly loved,” we too are beloved children of God through Christ (Romans 8:38–39).
   
   “Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you.” (Isaiah 43:4)

3. Love Gives Us Strength – Daniel was overwhelmed with visions and burdens, yet God’s reminder of love gave him courage to carry on.
   
   “The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.’” (Jeremiah 31:3)

💡 Reflection Questions:

• Do I truly believe that I am greatly loved by God? 
  Do I live each day knowing that I am greatly loved by God?

• How does the assurance of His love change the way I pray and live daily?
  How does God’s love give me courage in times of trials, like it did for Daniel?

• In what ways can I respond to His love with faithfulness, like Daniel did?
  In what ways can I respond to His love with faithfulness and prayer?

🙏 Prayer:
“Lord, thank You for reminding me that I am greatly loved in Your eyes. Help me to live each day with this assurance, to trust in Your plans, and to remain faithful in prayer just as Daniel did. Amen.”

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✨ Takeaway:
Whenever you feel weak, unworthy, or unnoticed—remember Daniel 9:23. Heaven sees you. Heaven hears you. You are greatly loved. ❤️

Daniel’s life shows us that no matter where we are—in exile, in trials, or in positions of power—God’s love is unchanging. You are seen. You are heard. You are greatly loved. ❤️

#GreatlyLoved, #Daniel923, #GodsLove, #BibleStudy, #FaithfulGod, #LovedByGod, #PrayerLife, #ChristianLiving, #GodsWord, #DailyDevotion, #istariray23moments,

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Foolish Compromise Judges 11–12

 
Bato ni Barang, Sta. Cruz, Zambales

Foolish Compromise – A Study on Jephthah (Judges 11–12)

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📖 Opening Prayer

Lord Almighty, open our hearts and minds as we study Jephthah’s life. Help us learn from his victories and his mistakes, that we may walk wisely and faithfully with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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📚 Main Text: Judges 11–12

Judges 11:1–2 (NIV):
“Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty warrior. His father was Gilead; his mother was a prostitute. Gilead’s wife also bore him sons, and when they were grown up, they drove Jephthah away.”

Rejected and cast out, Jephthah became an outcast. Yet when Israel was oppressed by the Ammonites, the elders turned to him for leadership. God gave him victory—but his rash vow and later conflict with his own people brought devastating consequences.

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In the Bible, Jephthah (the judge of Israel in Judges 11–12) is only mentioned as having one child — a daughter.

📖 Judges 11:34 – “When Jephthah came to his house at Mizpah, there was his daughter, coming out to meet him with timbrels and dancing; she was his only child. Besides her he had neither son nor daughter.”

👉 So the Bible is very clear: Jephthah had only one child, a daughter.

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✨ Key Reflections

1. God Uses the Unlikely (Judges 11:5–6)
   “When the Ammonites made war on Israel, the elders of Gilead went to get Jephthah… ‘Come,’ they said, ‘be our commander, so we can fight the Ammonites.’”
   👉 God can raise even the rejected and overlooked to fulfill His plans.

2. Victory Belongs to the Lord (Judges 11:32)
   “Then Jephthah went over to fight the Ammonites, and the Lord gave them into his hands.”
   👉 Success does not come from human strength, but from God’s power and grace.

3. The Folly of Rash Vows (Judges 11:30–31, 34–35)
   “And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord: ‘If you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me… will be the Lord’s, and I will sacrifice it.’ … When Jephthah returned… who should come out to meet him but his daughter… He tore his clothes and cried, ‘Oh no, my daughter! You have brought me down and I am devastated.’”
   👉 Jephthah’s compromise between zeal and wisdom brought needless sorrow. His words cost him dearly.

4. Pride Leads to Division (Judges 12:2, 4, 6)
   “The men of Ephraim said to Jephthah, ‘Why did you go to fight the Ammonites without calling us to go with you? We’re going to burn down your house over your head.’ … Jephthah then called together the men of Gilead and fought against Ephraim.”
   👉 Internal strife weakened Israel because of pride and lack of unity.

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📝 Life Application

• Be careful with your words. Pray before making commitments (Ecclesiastes 5:2).

• Trust in God’s promises instead of bargaining with Him.

• Remember, zeal without wisdom can destroy more than it builds.

• Pursue unity with others—division only weakens God’s people.

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💡 Takeaway Verse

Proverbs 19:2 (NIV):
“Desire without knowledge is not good—how much more will hasty feet miss the way!”

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🙏 Closing Prayer

Father, help us avoid foolish compromises. Teach us to walk in faith, guided by Your wisdom, not by our emotions or rash decisions. May our words and actions glorify You always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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📌 Tagline to Live By

“Zeal without wisdom leads to foolish compromise.”

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🔖 Hashtags for Sharing

#FoolishCompromise, #Jephthah, #BookOfJudges, #WisdomInFaith, #BibleStudy, #GuardYourWords,
#istariray23moments,

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Good Morning 🌞

"Good morning from this side of the metro 🌞✨

Sending you a cup of positivity and a plateful of good vibes to start your day right! Let’s make today count! 💛🚶‍♀️🚗

 #GoodMorning, #MetroVibes, #HelloSunshine,

 


🌸🌸🌸
"Mornings are not just about waking up—it’s about waking your dreams to life."
-iSTariray23
🌸🌸🌸🌸

🌅🌅🌅
"Each morning is a blank page, write today’s story with kindness, courage, and hope."
-iSTariray23
🌅🌅🌅🌅

☕☕☕
"Start your day with gratitude, and everything else will fall into place."
-iSTariray23
☕☕☕☕

#GoodMorning, #RiseAndShine, #MorningVibes, #HelloSunshine, #MetroVibes, #PositiveStart, #NewDayNewBlessings, #GratefulHeart, #MorningMotivation, #DailyInspiration,
#istarriay23moments, #istariray23photography,

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💔 A Heartbreaking Reminder & A Call for Action

💔 A Heartbreaking Reminder & A Call for Action

Yesterday (12 August 2025 Tuesday), I was deeply wounded by another tragic loss—a volleyball player at Rizal Technological University (RTU) took her/his own life after being unable to graduate. According to a bonafide student who witnessed the incident, the pain it caused was profound, yet it went largely unreported on social media, as if to hide the reality. But the sorrow remains.

Sadly, this is not the first time RTU has faced such tragedy. In October 2023, a Grade 7 student, Yuwan Lorenzo Magdato, died by suicide on campus following an alleged incident involving cheating and disciplinary action. The case generated public outcry and was investigated with calls for transparency and accountability.MediumPhilstar.com

This post is not just a message of sympathy—it’s a plea to RTU’s management: please act now. These tragedies should not be incidents to sweep under the rug. Our students’ mental and emotional well-being depends on real support, meaningful policies, and open dialogue—not just reactive statements.

It reminds us of a timeless truth: trials are real, but so is hope—especially when rooted in faith.

📖 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
📖 “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
📖 “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

To anyone who feels overwhelmed—please reach out. Don’t face darkness alone. Talk to a friend, a mentor, or run to God. He is our refuge and strength, even when we can’t see it now.

🕊 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

Let’s continuously lift up the student’s family, friends, and the entire RTU community in prayer. May God’s peace surround them, and may this tragic moment spark lasting change—that no student ever faces this alone again.

#RTU, #RizalTechnologicalUniversity, #StopStudentSuicide, #MentalHealthAwareness, #FaithOverFear, #HopeInChrist, #YouAreNotAlone, #EndTheSilence, #CampusMentalHealth, #PrayForRTU, #BreakTheStigma, #SuicidePrevention, #ComfortInChrist, #HopeAndHealing, #StudentsMatter, #RTUCommunity, #ChooseHope, #LifeIsPrecious, #LetGodIn, #istariray23moments,

#WakasanAngSuicide, #MentalHealthSaRTU, #PagAsaKayCristo, #HindiKaNagIisa, #TigilNaAngKatahimikan, #BuhayAyMahalaga, #KapwaKoAalagaanKo, #MagdamayanTayo, #KaligtasanSaKampus, #PananaligSaDiyos, #RTUCommunity, #LabanEstudyante, #TulongHindiHusga, #PagIbigNiLord, #MayPagAsaPa, #KapayapaanSaPuso, #HawakTayoNiLord,

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Goto + Tokwa’t Baboy is 🩷

🥣 My All-Time Comfort Food: Goto & Tokwa’t Baboy 🐷

There are many dishes in the Filipino food scene that can warm your heart, but for me, nothing comes close to the comforting duo of goto and tokwa’t baboy. This pair has been my go-to (pun intended!) for years — whether it’s a rainy afternoon, a late-night craving, or even just one of those days when you need a warm hug in the form of food.

Goto is not just rice porridge. It’s a hearty, gingery broth slow-cooked until the flavors meld beautifully. The beef tripe (or sometimes beef brisket) is tender, the rice is perfectly soft, and the aroma alone can make your shoulders relax after a long day. One spoonful instantly reminds me of home — that kind of comfort you can’t really explain, only feel.

And then there’s the perfect partner: tokwa’t baboy. The golden-brown fried tofu brings that satisfying crunch, while the pork, usually from the face or ears (maskara), adds a chewy, savory bite. All of this is soaked in a tangy, salty, slightly spicy sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, onions, and sometimes a hint of chili. It’s that burst of flavor that cuts through the richness of the goto, creating a balance that makes you want “just one more bite” — over and over again.

This combination isn’t just food — it’s part of Filipino street food culture. You’ll find it in humble carinderias, roadside stalls, and even at special family gatherings. For me, every serving is like revisiting old memories:

• Late-night trips with friends to a small goto stand after a long day.
• Sunday merienda with family while it rains outside.
• That first sip of hot broth after coming home tired and hungry.

Best way to enjoy? Add a squeeze of calamansi, a sprinkle of chopped spring onions, and a bit of chili if you like it spicy. Pair it with an ice-cold drink or just plain water — because trust me, the flavors will be enough to make you smile.

It’s simple. It’s hearty. It’s home. ❤️

#FilipinoFood, #Goto, #TokwâtBaboy, #PinoyComfortFood, #RainyDayEats, #FoodBlog,#FoodieLife, #ComfortFood, #Goto, #TokwatBaboy, #PinoyEats, #RainyDayFavorites, #istariray23foodphotography,#istariray23moments,

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Camp Rock Forever 🎶💖

 

"Just watched the Jonas Brothers concert and guess who showed up? 🎤 DEMI LOVATO! 😭 They sang those unforgettable Camp Rock hits and my inner Camp Rock kid is screaming with joy! 🎶💖 #CampRockForever #JonasBrothers #DemiLovato"

"Camp Rock nostalgia unlocked! 🤩 The Jonas Brothers brought Demi Lovato on stage and they sang our favorite Camp Rock classics together. My childhood heart is SO full right now! 🥹🎶 #CampRockVibes #JonasBrothers #DemiLovato"

#CampRockForever, #JonasBrothers, #DemiLovato,
#istariray23moments,

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✨A Birthday Blessing✨

✨ A 70th Birthday that Shines God’s Love ✨

There are birthdays filled with flowers, balloons, and grand celebrations — and then there are birthdays that bloom into something far greater: a living testimony of God’s love.

This is exactly what Tita Nena Rius chose for her 70th year of life.
Before her actual outreach, Ate Nena celebrated her birthday in advance with her family, relatives, and friends. But instead of requesting the usual gifts, she made a humble yet powerful request:

“Please give in monetary form — not for me, but for those who cannot help themselves.”

 

Her vision was clear. She wanted to gather enough resources to bless Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Las Piñas — particularly those who have been unable to receive aid from the local government.

With the unwavering support of her loving husband Allan Rius and their entire family, this vision came to life. They organized an outreach program that not only met physical needs, but also poured out love, compassion, and the reminder that God has not forgotten them.

"Every act of kindness is a reflection of God’s love shining through us."-iSTariray23

I was deeply honored to be invited to give an encouragement speech that day. But truth be told, I left with my own heart encouraged — inspired by the way God uses ordinary people for extraordinary kindness.

Watching Tita Nena, Allan, and their family serve side by side reminded me of what Christian generosity truly looks like. It is not limited to church walls. It flows to relatives, friends, and strangers alike. It reaches those society often overlooks. And it points all glory back to the One who gave us every good gift in the first place.

"The best birthday gift is to be God’s hands and feet to those in need."-iSTariray23

Tita Nena’s life is a living testimony that our years are best counted not by how long we live, but by how much love we give.

"When we give, we do not lose — we multiply what God has entrusted to us."

#GloryToGod, #BlessedToBeABlessing, #FaithInAction, #ReturnToTheLord, #ServingWithLove, #70YearsOfGrace, #LasPinas, #PWDOutreach, #ChristianGenerosity, #BirthdayForTheLord, #GodsLoveInAction, #NenaRius, #AllanRius, #istariray23moments,

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“Living Faith” James 2:17

 

📖“Living Faith”

Scripture: "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." – James 2:17

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🛐 Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of life and the gift of faith. As we study Your Word today, open our hearts and minds to understand what living faith truly means. Teach us to not only believe in You but to live in a way that reflects Your love, mercy, and truth. May this message transform us into doers of the Word, not hearers only. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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📜 Introduction

Faith is one of the most precious gifts we receive from God. It’s the foundation of our relationship with Him. But James challenges us with a hard truth: faith without works is dead. In other words, saying “I believe” is not enough—our lives must show it.

Living faith is active, vibrant, and visible. It reaches beyond words and feelings into tangible actions—helping the needy, forgiving those who wrong us, serving without seeking recognition, and obeying God even when it’s hard.

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📖 Main Text

James 2:17 – "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."

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💡 Points of Reflection & Application

1. Faith Without Action is an Illusion
We can say we believe all we want, but if our lives show no evidence, it’s like claiming to have a lamp with no light. True faith will always lead to action.
    1. Patay ang Pananampalatayang Walang Gawa
    Maari nating sabihin na tayo’y naniniwala, ngunit kung walang nakikitang ebidensya sa ating buhay,     para itong lamparang walang ilaw. Ang tunay na pananampalataya ay laging may kasamang aksyon.

2. Living Faith Bears Fruit
Just as a healthy tree naturally produces fruit, a heart rooted in Christ will naturally produce acts of love, kindness, generosity, and service.
    2. Ang Buhay na Pananampalataya ay Namumunga
    Tulad ng puno na malusog at nagbubunga, ang pusong nakaugat kay Cristo ay natural na namumunga     ng pagmamahal, kabutihan, kababaang-loob, at paglilingkod.

3. Works are the Evidence, Not the Cause of Salvation
We are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9), but works are the proof that our faith is real. Our actions confirm that Christ is alive in us.
    3. Ang Mabubuting Gawa ay Patunay, Hindi Sanhi, ng Kaligtasan
    Tayo ay naliligtas sa pamamagitan ng biyaya sa pamamagitan ng pananampalataya (Efeso 2:8–9),         ngunit ang mabubuting gawa ay patunay na ang ating pananampalataya ay tunay at buhay.

4. Faith in Action Impacts Others
When we serve, love, forgive, and give generously, others see Christ through us. Our lives become living testimonies of God’s goodness.
    4. Ang Pananampalatayang May Gawa ay Nag-iiwan ng Epekto sa Iba
    Kapag tayo’y naglilingkod, nagmamahal, nagpapatawad, at nagbibigay nang bukal sa puso, nakikita     ng iba si Cristo sa atin. Ang ating buhay ay nagiging patotoo ng kabutihan ng Diyos.

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📌 Takeaway

True faith is not just spoken—it is lived out daily. A living faith moves, serves, forgives, and loves without limits.

Ang tunay na pananampalataya ay hindi lang binibigkas—ito ay isinasabuhay araw-araw. Ang buhay na pananampalataya ay kumikilos, naglilingkod, nagpapatawad, at nagmamahal nang walang hangganan.

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🛐 Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for teaching us that real faith is alive and active. Forgive us for the times we claimed to believe but failed to show it in our actions. Help us to live out our faith every day—serving others, loving sincerely, and obeying You wholeheartedly. May our lives be a reflection of Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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💬 Tagline to Live By

“Faith that works is faith that lives.”

“Ang pananampalatayang may gawa ay pananampalatayang buhay.”

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#LivingFaith, #James217, #FaithInAction, #BibleStudy, #ChristianLiving, #DailyDevotional, #WalkTheTalk, #FaithThatWorks, #ServingWithLove, #ScriptureReflection, #istariray23moments,

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Ayala Malls Manila Bay

 

🌇 Ayala Malls Manila Bay – A Grand Haven for Shopping, Leisure, and Nature

Ayala Malls Manila Bay isn’t just another shopping destination—it’s a vibrant lifestyle hub that blends elegance, comfort, and nature in the heart of the city. Known for its spacious and well-organized parking area, it’s a breath of relief for shoppers who usually dread the hunt for a parking spot in busy Manila.

From the moment you step in, you’ll notice how nature is seamlessly woven into the design—lush plants, landscaped outdoor spaces, calming water fountains, and playgrounds that make it family-friendly. Whether you’re strolling with friends, enjoying a romantic date, or spending a weekend with kids, there’s always a spot to relax and breathe in the open air.

Inside, the high-class façade and interiors create a sophisticated atmosphere. The mall is a sprawling space filled with a wide variety of shops—from international and local clothing brands, to tech stores, beauty and wellness shops, and specialty boutiques. Food lovers will never run out of options, with an extensive selection of fast food joints, casual dining spots, and specialty restaurants catering to every craving.

What sets Ayala Malls Manila Bay apart is its ability to feel both grand and welcoming. The open-air spaces invite you to linger, the fountains soothe you as you pass by, and the architectural design offers a sense of luxury without being intimidating.

Whether you’re here for shopping, dining, or simply to take a leisurely walk surrounded by beautiful landscapes, Ayala Malls Manila Bay proves to be more than a mall—it’s an experience.

#AyalaMallsManilaBay, #ShoppingInStyle, #NatureInTheCity, #FamilyDayOut, #ManilaLifestyle, #istariray23laboy, #istariray23travel, #istariray23moments, #istariray23photography,

#AyalaMallsManilaBay, #ShoppingInStyle, #NatureInTheCity, #FamilyDayOut, #ManilaLifestyle, #istariray23laboy, #istariray23travel, #istariray23moments, #istariray23photography,

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CheezLers Station 🧀

🧀✨ CHEESE ALERT! ✨🧀

Grabe mga ka-foodie, kung mahilig ka sa keso, CheezLers Station sa 3rd Floor ng Ayala Malls Manila Bay ang bagong paraiso mo! 😍

Kumain kami dito recently at OMG — cheese toast na sobrang gooey, cheese tarts na creamy at tamang-tama ang tamis, at basque cheesecakes na parang yakap sa bawat kagat. 😋 At ang pinaka-good news? Sulit at abot-kaya!

💛 Cheese Toast – comfort food goals 🥹
💛 Cheese Tarts – creamy happiness in a bite
💛 Basque Cheesecake – soft, rich, at mapapa-“isa pa nga!”

📸 Perfect sa snack time, pang-dessert, o kahit cheat day mo!

“Happiness is a warm cheese toast in your hands.”
“Life is better with cheesecake… swear!”
“Good cheese, good mood, great day.”

📍 3rd Floor, Ayala Malls Manila Bay — hanapin mo na at magpa-cheese overload! 🧀💛

#CheezLersStation, #AyalaMallsManilaBay, #CheeseLoversPH, #BasqueCheesecake, #CheeseTartLovers, #CheeseToast, #SulitDesserts, #FoodiePH, #CheeseGoals, #MasarapAtSulit, #DessertLoversPH, #istariray23laboy, #istariray23travel, #istariray23foodphotography, #istariray23moments,

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