Riches of Grace Montessori Academy

4. *HOLY DAYS ARE SACRED*

In Nehemiah 8:10, Nehemiah reminds the people that “this day is holy to our Lord.” This emphasizes the importance of setting apart specific times for God, celebrating His holiness, and understanding the deeper meaning of such days. Here’s a detailed explanation:

a) Understanding Holiness

The term “holy” means set apart, sacred, or dedicated to God.

A holy day is a time designated for worship, reflection, and drawing closer to God, away from the distractions of daily life.

For the Israelites, this was a day to honor God’s word and rejoice in His presence.

b) The Role of Holy Days in Israelite Tradition

The Israelites observed holy days and festivals (e.g., the Sabbath, Passover, Feast of Tabernacles) as commanded by God.

These days were opportunities to remember God’s mighty acts, such as deliverance from Egypt, provision in the wilderness, and covenantal promises.

In Nehemiah 8, the day marked a spiritual renewal as the people listened to and understood God’s law after years of neglect.

c) Reflection and Repentance

Holy days often involve reflecting on one’s relationship with God and repenting of sins.

In the context of Nehemiah 8, the people initially grieved when they realized how far they had strayed from God’s commandments. However, Nehemiah urged them to move from grief to joy, as God’s grace and forgiveness were available.

d) Joyful Worship

While repentance is vital, holy days are also meant for joy and celebration of God’s goodness.

Nehemiah instructed the people not to grieve but to celebrate because the day was set apart to honor God.

This teaches that holy days are a balance of reverence and joy, focusing on God’s holiness and His blessings.

e) Strengthening Faith

Observing holy days renews spiritual strength by reminding believers of God’s faithfulness and promises.

These days serve as checkpoints in the spiritual journey, helping individuals and communities realign their focus on God.

f) Practical Application of Holy Days Today

1. Regular Worship:
Dedicate Sundays or other designated days for worship, prayer, and reflection.

2. Special Celebrations:
Observe Christmas, Easter, and other Christian holidays with a focus on their spiritual significance rather than just cultural practices.

3. Personal Retreats:
Set apart personal “holy days” for fasting, prayer, or Bible study to reconnect with God.

g) The Danger of Neglecting Holy Days

Failing to honor holy days can lead to spiritual complacency and disconnection from God.

In Isaiah 58:13-14, God emphasizes the importance of keeping the Sabbath holy, promising blessings to those who honor Him on sacred days.

Summary:
Holy days are sacred opportunities to worship, reflect, and celebrate God’s presence. They help believers draw closer to Him, align their lives with His purposes, and experience renewal in their faith journey. These times are both a reminder of God’s holiness and a call to live in reverence and joy before Him.

RICHES OF GRACE DAILY DEVOTION

*AUGUST 19 - 5. THE ROLE OF SUFFERING IN MISSION*

Suffering often accompanies the mission of those sent by God. Throughout the Bible, many of God’s chosen servants endured significant trials, hardships, and persecutions as part of their mission. These sufferings serve several purposes: they refine the character of the servant, bear witness to the truth of the message, and demonstrate the power of God’s grace in sustaining His people. Suffering is not a sign of failure but is often integral to fulfilling the mission God has given.

*2 Corinthians 11:23-28*
*"Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches."*

This passage is part of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where he recounts the immense sufferings he endured for the sake of his mission. It provides a vivid picture of the role of suffering in the life of a servant of God.

- *Endurance through Suffering*: Paul’s recounting of his trials—floggings, imprisonments, beatings, and shipwrecks—demonstrates his extraordinary endurance. Each of these hardships was a direct result of his commitment to spreading the gospel. Paul’s endurance in the face of such suffering shows that perseverance is crucial in fulfilling God’s mission. Suffering did not deter him; rather, it became a testament to his unwavering dedication.

- *Danger and Hardship*: Paul faced dangers from all directions—natural elements, enemies, and even false believers. The constant threat to his life highlights that suffering is often multifaceted. It can come from external sources (persecution from others) or from the inherent difficulties of the mission itself (physical dangers, exhaustion, hunger). Despite these challenges, Paul continued his mission, showing that suffering is an expected and accepted part of being sent by God.

- *Sacrificial Concern*: Beyond physical suffering, Paul also speaks of the "daily pressure" of his concern for the churches. This indicates that suffering in mission is not limited to physical pain but also includes emotional and spiritual burdens. Paul’s deep concern for the well-being of the churches he planted shows that suffering can also manifest as the heavy responsibility and care for others’ spiritual growth.

*Key Takeaways*:
- *Perseverance in Adversity*: Faithful servants of God often endure great suffering, but they persevere, seeing their trials as part of their mission.
- *Comprehensive Suffering*: Suffering can take many forms—physical, emotional, and spiritual—and is often an integral part of fulfilling God’s mission.
- *Burden for Others*: Part of the suffering in mission involves carrying the weight of concern for the spiritual well-being of others, reflecting a deep commitment to the mission.

*1 Peter 4:12-14*
*"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you."*

This passage from 1 Peter addresses the suffering experienced by early Christians and offers encouragement by reframing their suffering as participation in Christ’s own suffering.

- *Expecting Suffering*: The phrase "do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal" suggests that suffering is to be expected as part of the Christian life, especially for those engaged in God’s mission. This perspective helps believers understand that suffering is not a sign of God’s displeasure but is often a necessary part of the journey.

- *Participation in Christ’s Sufferings*: "Rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ" frames suffering as a form of fellowship with Christ. Believers are called to endure suffering as Christ did, seeing it as an honor to share in His experiences. This participation is not just about enduring pain but about aligning oneself with Christ’s mission, which inherently involves suffering for the sake of others.

- *Future Glory*: The promise of future glory—"you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed"—offers hope. Suffering is temporary, and the faithful completion of God’s mission will result in eternal joy and glory. This promise helps believers endure suffering with the knowledge that their present trials are not in vain but are preparing them for a greater reward.

- *Blessing through Suffering*: "If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed" turns the worldly view of suffering upside down. In God’s economy, suffering for His name is a mark of blessing, not disgrace. This indicates that those who suffer for their faith are under God’s special favor and that His Spirit is with them, empowering them to endure.

*Key Takeaways*:
- *Suffering as Expected*: Suffering should not come as a surprise but as a natural part of following Christ and fulfilling God’s mission.
- *Fellowship with Christ*: Suffering allows believers to share in the experiences of Christ, aligning them more closely with Him.
- *Hope of Glory*: The promise of future glory provides strength and encouragement, helping believers to endure present sufferings with joy.
- *Blessing in Suffering*: Suffering for Christ is a sign of blessing and God’s presence, not a mark of failure or disgrace.

*Conclusion*
The role of suffering in mission is significant in the biblical narrative. Suffering is not an indication that a mission is failing but is often a sign of its authenticity and effectiveness. God’s servants, like Paul and the early Christians, embraced suffering as part of their calling, seeing it as a way to participate in Christ’s own sufferings and as a necessary path to fulfilling God’s purposes. The Bible teaches that suffering in mission brings spiritual refinement, strengthens faith, and ultimately leads to glory. It is through enduring suffering with faithfulness that God’s servants testify to the power and truth of the gospel, demonstrating that His grace is sufficient to sustain them through all trials.

[ *RICHES OF GRACE DAILY DEVOTION* ]

1. *AUGUST 3 - God Can Bring Good Out of Evil*
- *Lesson:* Even when others intend harm, God can use those situations for a greater good.
- *Biblical Support:*
- *Romans 8:28:* "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
- *Jeremiah 29:11:* "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."

2. *Forgiveness and Reconciliation*
- *Lesson:* Joseph’s response to his brothers teaches us the importance of forgiveness and the power of reconciliation.
- *Biblical Support:*
- *Ephesians 4:32:* "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
- *Matthew 6:14:* "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."

3. *God's Sovereignty and Providence*
- *Lesson:* Joseph’s life is a testament to God's sovereign control and providential care over all events.
- *Biblical Support:*
- *Proverbs 19:21:* "Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails."
- *Isaiah 46:10:* "I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’"

4. *Faithfulness to Family Responsibilities*
- *Lesson:* Joseph’s promise to care for his family highlights the importance of being responsible and caring towards family.
- *Biblical Support:*
- *1 Timothy 5:8:* "Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever."
- *Proverbs 22:6:* "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."

5. *The Blessing of Longevity and Legacy*
- *Lesson:* Joseph’s long life and witnessing multiple generations reflect the blessings of a righteous life.
- *Biblical Support:*
- *Psalm 128:6:* "May you live to see your children’s children—peace be on Israel."
- *Proverbs 17:6:* "Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children."

By integrating these lessons with supportive biblical references, we gain a deeper understanding of the enduring principles reflected in Joseph's story and their relevance to our lives today.

[ *RICHES OF GRACE DAILY DEVOTION* ]

Grateful to God 🙏

🧑‍🍼🤱🫄🧑‍🍼🤱🫄🧑‍🍼🤱

*MY CLASSROOM MY MINISTRY MY PULPIT*

*Involve Parents and the Community: Detailed Explanation*

Involving parents and the community in reading activities enriches students' reading experiences, provides additional support, and creates a collaborative environment that values literacy. Here’s a detailed explanation of how to effectively involve parents and the community:

1. *Parent Communication*:
- *Regular Updates*: Keep parents informed about their child's reading progress through regular updates, such as newsletters, emails, or progress reports. Highlight reading milestones and achievements.
- *Reading Tips*: Provide parents with tips and strategies for supporting reading at home. This can include reading aloud, discussing books, and creating a reading-friendly environment.

2. *Family Reading Programs*:
- *Reading Nights*: Organize family reading nights where parents and children come together to read and participate in literacy activities. This can include read-aloud sessions, book discussions, and literacy games.
- *Home Reading Projects*: Assign projects that involve both parents and students, such as creating a family book club, reading journals, or book-themed crafts.

3. *Parent Workshops and Training*:
- *Literacy Workshops*: Offer workshops for parents to learn about reading strategies, how to choose appropriate books, and ways to support their child's reading development.
- *Volunteer Training*: Provide training for parents who wish to volunteer in the classroom or library. Teach them how to assist with reading activities and support student learning effectively.

4. *Reading Challenges and Incentives*:
- *Family Reading Challenges*: Create challenges that encourage family involvement, such as reading a certain number of books together or exploring different genres.
- *Incentive Programs*: Develop programs where families can earn rewards or recognition for their participation in reading activities, such as certificates, small prizes, or public acknowledgment.

5. *Community Partnerships*:
- *Library Collaborations*: Partner with local libraries to promote reading programs, book clubs, and summer reading initiatives. Libraries can offer resources, space, and expertise to support literacy efforts.
- *Bookstores and Local Businesses*: Collaborate with local bookstores and businesses to host reading events, author visits, and book fairs. They can also provide sponsorships or donations for literacy programs.

6. *Guest Readers and Storytellers*:
- *Community Readers*: Invite community members, such as local authors, professionals, or leaders, to read to students. This introduces students to diverse perspectives and role models who value reading.
- *Storytelling Events*: Organize storytelling events where community members share stories, folktales, or personal narratives. This can be especially engaging and culturally enriching for students.

7. *Reading Buddies Programs*:
- *Cross-Age Reading Buddies*: Pair older students with younger students for reading buddy sessions. This not only enhances reading skills but also fosters mentorship and community within the school.
- *Parent-Student Reading Buddies*: Create opportunities for parents to read with students in the classroom, providing additional support and modeling positive reading behavior.

8. *School-Wide Reading Events*:
- *Book Fairs*: Host book fairs where families can purchase books and participate in literacy activities. This can be a fun and interactive way to promote reading.
- *Reading Festivals*: Organize reading festivals with activities such as author readings, book signings, storytelling sessions, and literacy games. These events can draw in the wider community and create a festive atmosphere around reading.

9. *Digital and Online Resources*:
- *Online Portals*: Set up online portals where parents can access resources, book lists, and reading activities. These portals can also serve as platforms for communication and sharing reading achievements.
- *Virtual Book Clubs*: Create virtual book clubs where parents and students can discuss books together, even if they cannot meet in person. This can be facilitated through video conferencing tools or online forums.

10. *Reading Incentive Programs*:
- *Reading Logs and Charts*: Provide students with reading logs or charts to track their reading at home. Parents can sign off on these logs, reinforcing the importance of regular reading.
- *Recognition and Awards*: Acknowledge and celebrate the efforts of families who participate actively in reading programs. This could be done through certificates, public recognition, or small rewards.

11. *Community Literacy Campaigns*:
- *Awareness Campaigns*: Launch campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of reading and literacy. This can involve posters, social media campaigns, and community events.
- *Literacy Grants and Donations*: Seek grants or donations from community organizations to support literacy programs. These funds can be used to purchase books, resources, or technology to enhance reading instruction.

12. *Cultural and Language Diversity*:
- *Multilingual Resources*: Provide reading materials and resources in multiple languages to support families who speak languages other than English. This ensures inclusivity and values cultural diversity.
- *Cultural Events*: Celebrate cultural diversity through events that highlight stories, folktales, and books from different cultures. Involve community members in sharing their cultural heritage through reading.

By involving parents and the community in these ways, you create a supportive network that values and promotes reading, enhances student learning, and fosters a lifelong love of literacy.

[ *David Adu-Gyamfi Junior CEO RICHES OF GRACE MONTESSORI ACADEMY-ODUMASE* ]

DAY 2: *DILIGENCE AND HARD WORK*

*Biblical Foundation:*
- *Proverbs 10:4*: "Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth."

*Explanation:*

1. *The Principle of Diligence:*
- Diligence refers to careful and persistent effort or work. In the Bible, diligence is consistently praised as a virtue that leads to prosperity and success. The contrast made in Proverbs 10:4 between lazy hands and diligent hands highlights that hard work is directly associated with achieving wealth and avoiding poverty.

2. *Understanding Biblical Work Ethic:*
- The Bible places significant value on a strong work ethic. Work is not only a means of earning a living but also a way to honor God and serve others. Colossians 3:23-24 says, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters... It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

3. *Avoiding Laziness:*
- Laziness is depicted as a path to poverty because it leads to unfulfilled potential and missed opportunities. Proverbs 6:9-11 provides a vivid warning against laziness: "How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man."

4. *Diligence as a Path to Prosperity:*
- The diligent person is characterized by consistency, hard work, and attention to detail. This attitude is essential for achieving financial stability and success. Diligent workers are more likely to find favor with employers, seize opportunities for advancement, and manage their resources effectively.

*Practical Steps to Cultivate Diligence:*

1. *Set Clear Goals:*
- Establish specific, achievable goals for your personal and professional life. Clear goals provide direction and motivation, making it easier to stay diligent.

2. *Develop a Routine:*
- Create a daily routine that prioritizes productive activities. Structure helps to build habits that support diligence and reduce the temptation to be idle.

3. *Seek Continuous Improvement:*
- Commit to lifelong learning and skill development. Whether through formal education or self-study, improving your skills enhances your ability to work diligently and effectively.

4. *Stay Accountable:*
- Find a mentor or accountability partner who can encourage you to maintain a strong work ethic. Regular check-ins can help you stay focused and motivated.

5. *Balance Work and Rest:*
- While diligence is important, it is equally crucial to rest and recharge. The Bible also teaches the principle of Sabbath rest (Exodus 20:8-11), emphasizing the need for balance to maintain long-term productivity and health.

*Prayer:*
- "Lord, grant me the diligence and dedication to work hard in all that I do. Help me to be productive and to use my talents and abilities for Your glory and my financial stability. Keep me from the temptation of laziness and guide me in making the most of every opportunity You provide. Amen."

*Application in Daily Life:*

- *Work Ethic*: Approach your daily tasks with a commitment to excellence, viewing your work as a service to God.
- *Time Management*: Prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively to maximize productivity.
- *Financial Stewardship*: Apply diligence to your financial planning, budgeting, and saving efforts, ensuring that you manage your resources wisely.
- *Career Development*: Pursue opportunities for growth and advancement in your career, demonstrating diligence in your current responsibilities to open doors for future success.

By embracing these principles and practices, you can harness the power of diligence to overcome financial constraints and build a prosperous and fulfilling life.

[ *RICHES OF GRACE DAILY DEVOTION* ]

🏇🏇🏇🏇🏇🏇🏇🏇

*MY CLASSROOM MY MINISTRY MY PULPIT*

Point 6, "*Cultural Competence,*" highlights the importance of developing students' ability to effectively interact with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. *Understanding Cultural Norms*: Cultural competence involves understanding the cultural norms, values, beliefs, and practices of different cultural groups. This includes awareness of differences in communication styles, social customs, and etiquette.

2. *Adapting Communication Styles*: Culturally competent individuals are able to adapt their communication styles to effectively interact with people from diverse backgrounds. This may involve using language that is inclusive, respectful, and sensitive to cultural nuances.

3. *Respecting Cultural Differences*: Cultural competence entails demonstrating respect for cultural differences and avoiding stereotypes, prejudices, or assumptions based on cultural background. It involves valuing diversity and treating individuals with dignity and equality.

4. *Navigating Cross-Cultural Situations*: Culturally competent individuals are skilled at navigating cross-cultural situations with sensitivity and understanding. This includes being aware of potential cultural misunderstandings or conflicts and seeking to bridge cultural gaps through open-mindedness and empathy.

5. *Promoting Inclusivity*: Cultural competence fosters an inclusive environment where all individuals feel respected, valued, and included. By recognizing and affirming cultural diversity, culturally competent individuals contribute to creating a sense of belonging for everyone.

6. *Facilitating Cross-Cultural Learning*: Culturally competent individuals are effective facilitators of cross-cultural learning experiences. They create opportunities for students to explore and appreciate diverse cultural perspectives, engage in meaningful dialogue, and learn from each other's experiences.

7. *Preparing for Global Citizenship*: In an increasingly interconnected world, cultural competence is essential for preparing students to be responsible global citizens. It equips them with the skills and attitudes needed to engage with diverse individuals and communities, both locally and globally.

8. *Fostering Empathy and Understanding*: Culturally competent individuals demonstrate empathy and understanding towards others, recognizing the complex interplay of culture, identity, and experience. They seek to build bridges of understanding and promote mutual respect and cooperation.

By promoting cultural competence in the classroom, teachers empower students to navigate a multicultural world with confidence, empathy, and respect, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious society.

[ *David Adu-Gyamfi Junior,CEO -RICHES OF GRACE MONTESSORI ACADEMY, ODUMASE* ]

🇬🇭 *MY CLASSROOM MY MINISTRY MY PULPIT* 🇬🇭

*Traveling*:

1. *Cultural Immersion*: Traveling to new places allows teachers to immerse themselves in different cultures, languages, and customs. Experiencing new ways of life firsthand can broaden their perspective and deepen their understanding of cultural diversity, which they can then bring back to the classroom to enrich their students' learning experiences.

2. *Global Awareness*: Exposure to different countries and regions fosters global awareness and empathy among teachers. By witnessing firsthand the challenges and opportunities faced by people around the world, teachers can develop a more nuanced understanding of global issues and encourage their students to become informed and compassionate global citizens.

3. *Professional Development*: Traveling can also serve as a form of professional development for teachers. Visiting historical sites, museums, and educational institutions relevant to their subject area can provide valuable insights and inspiration for lesson planning and curriculum development. Teachers can incorporate their travel experiences into their teaching to make learning more engaging and relevant for students.

4. *Personal Growth*: Traveling offers teachers opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. Stepping out of their comfort zone, navigating new environments, and overcoming challenges while traveling can build resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills that are valuable both in and out of the classroom.

5. *Renewal and Inspiration*: Taking a break from the routine of daily life through travel can rejuvenate teachers and reignite their passion for teaching. Experiencing new sights, sounds, and cultures can spark creativity and inspiration, helping teachers return to the classroom with fresh ideas and energy.

6. *Networking and Collaboration*: Traveling often involves interacting with people from diverse backgrounds and professions. Teachers can use this opportunity to network with educators from other parts of the world, exchange ideas, and collaborate on educational projects or initiatives, fostering professional connections that can benefit their teaching practice in the long term.

Overall, traveling during vacation time can provide teachers with valuable opportunities for cultural immersion, global awareness, professional development, personal growth, and renewal. By embracing travel as a form of experiential learning, teachers can enrich their own lives and bring new perspectives and experiences back to the classroom, ultimately enhancing the educational experience for their students.

[ *David Adu-Gyamfi Junior CEO RICHES OF GRACE MONTESSORI ACADEMY ODUMASE* ]

DAY 6: Point 2 highlights the significance of *rebuilding trust* between teachers and students after a strike. Here's a detailed explanation:

*Reestablish Trust:*

1. *Acknowledge Past Issues:* Start by acknowledging any issues or grievances that led to the strike. Recognizing past challenges demonstrates empathy and validates students' experiences.

2. *Apologize if Necessary:* If the strike resulted from actions or decisions by school administration or teachers, offering a sincere apology can be a crucial step in rebuilding trust. Taking responsibility shows humility and a commitment to positive change.

3. *Commit to Improvement:* Clearly communicate your commitment to addressing the underlying issues that contributed to the strike. Outline concrete steps or initiatives aimed at improving the learning environment, resolving conflicts, and enhancing communication channels.

4. *Consistency and Reliability:* Be consistent and reliable in your actions and words. Follow through on promises and commitments made to students, demonstrating integrity and accountability.

5. *Empathy and Understanding:* Show empathy and understanding towards students' feelings and concerns. Take the time to listen to their perspectives, validate their emotions, and reassure them that their well-being is a top priority.

*Benefits:*

- *Rebuilding Relationships:* Reestablishing trust lays the foundation for rebuilding positive relationships between teachers and students. When students feel confident in their teachers' intentions and integrity, they are more likely to engage positively in the classroom.

- *Creating a Supportive Environment:* Trust fosters a supportive and nurturing classroom environment where students feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and participate actively in their learning.

- *Enhancing Communication:* Trusting relationships facilitate open and honest communication between teachers and students. Students are more likely to voice their concerns and seek assistance when they trust their teachers to listen and respond empathetically.

- *Promoting Academic Success:* A supportive and trusting classroom environment is conducive to academic success. When students feel supported and valued, they are more motivated to learn, participate, and strive for excellence.

In summary, rebuilding trust between teachers and students after a strike is essential for fostering positive relationships, creating a supportive learning environment, and promoting academic success. By acknowledging past issues, committing to improvement, and demonstrating empathy, teachers can lay the groundwork for rebuilding trust and fostering a positive school culture.

[ *David Adu-Gyamfi Junior, CEO - RICHES OF GRACE MONTESSORI ACADEMY, ODUMASE* ]