...I need you Jesus, to come to my rescue. Where else can I go? No other name by, which I am saved. Capture me with grace! I will follow you... ["Rescue"]
Absolutely one of my favorite songs - and like never before, these lyrics in church this morning brought me to my knees! This whole storm is just so intense - and "this world has nothing for me" - and as we approach His Cross on bended knee, we just plea that He comes to our Rescue. He is the Way, The Truth and The Life, and there is no other way to come to the Father, but through Him. Capture me with Grace Lord...and thank you Pastor Kent for an absolutely powerful message from James chapter 4! Talk about God speaking to and through you...
This weekend has been tough...good-byes with neighbors, cries of desperation, tough decisions regarding Jackson's surgery, finishing up repairs to the house with the home inspection, praying through this entire move, wondering where we are going, Carter and Jordyn struggling - and not fully understanding (Praise God) that their world is going to be rocked in a few days, exhausted, and many other emotions...BUT, in the midst of all that - check this out!
Move Update... So, we get the estimate from the moving company right, and between you and me -$4600 is crazy! And it would be absolutely poor stewardship on our part, and we have/had no peace that we were to spend that kind of money on packing and moving this house! And so as discouraging as that estimate was...here comes God! So we get a phone call yesterday afternoon from my Aunt, who had been in contact with a distant cousin who she is great friends with and owns a moving company in SC. Come to find out she has a brother-in law who co-owns a moving company here in the Pittsburgh area and they are sending out a crew on Tuesday to pack us, and then another crew on Wednesday to move us, and store our stuff if necessary - and the only expense to us is the "man hours"! How sweet is that! Talk about a huge blessing and what a weight that has been lifted! So we will do some "prelim" packing today and tomorrow and then full steam ahead on Tuesday and Wednesday! Now...if we only knew where to put our stuff! So please, continue to pray for peace, clarity and direction! We are praying through a couple of "leads"/options from friends and family...and hopefully will know where, real soon! He is our Everlasting God, Our Deliverer and remember "strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord!" And that is exactly what we will continue to do...wait upon the Lord, humbled before His Throne of Grace!
Jackson Update: Tomorrow morning, we have our weekly echo at Magee Womens Hospital and will be making the final decision as to "where" and set-up a preliminary game plan for the procedure/surgery. Please continue to hold this decision up in prayer and also our conversation with our team of doctors!
Again...thank you! Thank you for all your prayers, love, support, gifts, encouragement, dinners, time, energy and talent! Thank you for continuing to let God work in and through you, and please don't ever stop reflecting the Glory and Image of Christ in all you do! We love you...
All Eyes on Jesus!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Consider it Pure Joy...
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 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. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." [James 1:2-6]
Now that is a tough question...are you considering the trial you are facing with pure joy? Don't you just love James "phrasing here"? Come on, are you kidding me! Pure joy...wow, talk about needing to "put your helmet on" for that hit! And I will testify that I know in the midst of this storm, God is not only testing our faith, but testing the faith of those around us...and to consider it with pure joy - just does not seem to make sense...unless you know the overwhelming Love, Peace and Strength of our Heavenly Father! But then again, neither does love your enemy, turn the other cheek, to lose your life is gain, and that is the point...it is not about understanding, it is about "accepting" the Truth, the trials and the testing that the Lord will bring in our lives with pure joy so that our faith in Him as Creator, Almighty God, Savior, Redeemer and Restorer continues to be developed, and that we may become mature and complete not lacking anything, as we continue to reflect His Glory and Image! This trial and the one you may be facing is just another opportunity for Him to reveal Himself! How nuts is that...but, that is our God, and His Love for us is beyond measure! It is not the wisdom of earth that would allow one to consider this trial we are facing Pure Joy...but this morning - in the midst of the strongest storm we have ever faced, I can honestly say that we have an "overwhelming peace" in our soul that is beyond all understanding!
God has given us Great Peace, Grace, Strength and Clarity that His Will is to move forward with the experimental procedure to save Jackson's life, and yesterday - we received news from Children's Hospital in Boston from their lead surgeon Dr. Wayne Tworetzky - who had the opportunity to study the echo/ultrasound reports yesterday afternoon - that Kelly and Jackson are a great candidate for this procedure. He also shared his encouragement that they found Jackson's condition so early and that he has a great confidence in our team of doctors/surgeons in Pittsburgh - with a great respect/regard for our Cardiologist, Dr. Fred Sherman and Pediatric Surgeon, Dr. Emery! So...with that information, we continue to be encouraged and will remain in prayer as make the final decision regarding "where" the procedure will take place within the next day or so!
As for the move...well, that is another story and a great need for your prayers...and this is where the second half of the verse above hits us in the gut! We received the estimate yesterday, and the total to pack and move us is around $4600 - and man did that take the wind out of the sails, and cause us to doubt! But, God is good, and we accept by faith that we must not waiver on the fact that God is moving us in 5 days! Truly, we don't have that kind of "financial margin" right now with everything we are facing - but, we know the promise of God and the incredible support we have around us in His hands and feet. So, we will pause here for a moment, pray and pursue His Peace and Clarity in the packing/move decision - and this just another opportunity for Him to reveal His Majesty, Power and Provision! Man of you are asking...and we still do not have clarity at this point regarding "where" to move in regards to what house/location God is leading us to. I know, we are 5 days out - but, consider it pure joy! And we will continue to walk in obedience to His Will, His Timing and His Provision and will wait upon the Lord for His clarity and direction!
So please pray - and pray hard, and do not doubt! Our God is an Awesome God, and we stand firm on His Promises, His Peace and His Grace as we accept this trial and know that He is developing our faith! Pray for the home, pray for the location, and pray for an overwhelming peace to fall upon us as we fervently pray for clarity and direction in the move!
All Eyes on Jesus...
Now that is a tough question...are you considering the trial you are facing with pure joy? Don't you just love James "phrasing here"? Come on, are you kidding me! Pure joy...wow, talk about needing to "put your helmet on" for that hit! And I will testify that I know in the midst of this storm, God is not only testing our faith, but testing the faith of those around us...and to consider it with pure joy - just does not seem to make sense...unless you know the overwhelming Love, Peace and Strength of our Heavenly Father! But then again, neither does love your enemy, turn the other cheek, to lose your life is gain, and that is the point...it is not about understanding, it is about "accepting" the Truth, the trials and the testing that the Lord will bring in our lives with pure joy so that our faith in Him as Creator, Almighty God, Savior, Redeemer and Restorer continues to be developed, and that we may become mature and complete not lacking anything, as we continue to reflect His Glory and Image! This trial and the one you may be facing is just another opportunity for Him to reveal Himself! How nuts is that...but, that is our God, and His Love for us is beyond measure! It is not the wisdom of earth that would allow one to consider this trial we are facing Pure Joy...but this morning - in the midst of the strongest storm we have ever faced, I can honestly say that we have an "overwhelming peace" in our soul that is beyond all understanding!
God has given us Great Peace, Grace, Strength and Clarity that His Will is to move forward with the experimental procedure to save Jackson's life, and yesterday - we received news from Children's Hospital in Boston from their lead surgeon Dr. Wayne Tworetzky - who had the opportunity to study the echo/ultrasound reports yesterday afternoon - that Kelly and Jackson are a great candidate for this procedure. He also shared his encouragement that they found Jackson's condition so early and that he has a great confidence in our team of doctors/surgeons in Pittsburgh - with a great respect/regard for our Cardiologist, Dr. Fred Sherman and Pediatric Surgeon, Dr. Emery! So...with that information, we continue to be encouraged and will remain in prayer as make the final decision regarding "where" the procedure will take place within the next day or so!
As for the move...well, that is another story and a great need for your prayers...and this is where the second half of the verse above hits us in the gut! We received the estimate yesterday, and the total to pack and move us is around $4600 - and man did that take the wind out of the sails, and cause us to doubt! But, God is good, and we accept by faith that we must not waiver on the fact that God is moving us in 5 days! Truly, we don't have that kind of "financial margin" right now with everything we are facing - but, we know the promise of God and the incredible support we have around us in His hands and feet. So, we will pause here for a moment, pray and pursue His Peace and Clarity in the packing/move decision - and this just another opportunity for Him to reveal His Majesty, Power and Provision! Man of you are asking...and we still do not have clarity at this point regarding "where" to move in regards to what house/location God is leading us to. I know, we are 5 days out - but, consider it pure joy! And we will continue to walk in obedience to His Will, His Timing and His Provision and will wait upon the Lord for His clarity and direction!
So please pray - and pray hard, and do not doubt! Our God is an Awesome God, and we stand firm on His Promises, His Peace and His Grace as we accept this trial and know that He is developing our faith! Pray for the home, pray for the location, and pray for an overwhelming peace to fall upon us as we fervently pray for clarity and direction in the move!
All Eyes on Jesus...
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Narrow Path...[continued]
[Sorry about the delay - talk about an inconvenience - but, it was definite reminder of how much we take for granted the technology of "electricity"...how did they function in "Walnut Grove"? And for whatever reason yesterday morning's post did not publish before the electricians cut the power - and I did not notice it until this morning. So, here's the rest of the story...Thanks Paul Harvey!]
"But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it..." [Matthew 7:14]
We received some great advice the other day via a Facebook message, and it read: "Pray-Decide-and Don't look back!" So many times in life - we pray, yield to the prompting of the Spirit, decide/choose to trust and obey...and when the path narrows (or in this case seems to be no path at all - maybe just a leaf that is moved out of the way) we turn back, and rely on and lean into the wisdom of earth or our own understanding to a place that is "comfortable" or a physical space that may provide a false sense of "security", or desperately search for a "way out" ... but, Christ is the way to life, peace, security, sanctuary, comfort, refuge, strength, sight, future, goodness, hope, joy, worth, provision, patience, compassion, courage, faith, rescue and foundation to stand on when there seems to be no way! Its all because of Jesus that I am alive - literally! Christ is the one who saves...and He is the one that provides for our every need - through the hands, feet, hearts and resources of His Body - the church! And man...have we been a witness to that provision!
Provision is not just "financial resource" as so many might think...and one of the greatest moments this past week was when we had the opportunity to meet one of Jackson's heros - Kristen. It was Christ working in and through Kristen, that Jackson even has the opportunity to a "medically" full life. Kristen is the youngest member of the ultrasound team at Magee Women's Hospital, who just had a baby of her own, and the technician/nurse that detected "something wrong" with Jackson's heart last Tuesday. So many times...a condition similar to Jackson's is missed on ultrasound - but, Christ worked through the eyes, hands and talent of Kristen to provide (provision) a "medical" option to save His life to the full...and there is great peace that the Spirit is leading us to allow the Glory and Majesty of Christ to be on display through this "experimental procedure"!
So within the next two weeks - the team of doctor's will go in through Kelly's abdomen, into her uterus, into Jackson's chest, into his heart, and into his aorta (which, is the currently about the thickness of a dime) with a needle and attempt to "balloon" open the aortic valve, to regain natural/better flow out of the left ventricle in hopes of creating bi-ventricle circulation.
The greatest risk to Jackson is pre-term delivery during the procedure - in which there would be nothing the doctor's could "medically" do to save his life. Baby's must be at least 5 pounds in order to attempt cardiac surgery...and at 20 -23 weeks - Jackson is no where near strong enough or developed enough to perform a life saving surgery in a pre-term delivery situation. The greatest risk to Kelly is complications during/from the surgery - hemorrhaging, infection, etc.
If the procedure is "technically successful" - Jackson will have bi-ventricle circulation upon full-term delivery in December...where there may be a less serious surgery performed such as a valve replacement, angioplasty, etc - avoiding the very serious "Norwood surgeries" (series of surgeries at 2 days, 2-3 months, and 2-3 years to bypass the left heart - which would collapse before delivery - and use only the right side of the heart to provide blood/oxygen to the lungs and body.
With the decision made to move forward with the experimental procedure...now the prayer turns to "Pittsburgh vs/ Boston". Now...if it were the Pirates vs/ the Red Sox...there is no prayer necessary, as we continue to "trade for talent" here in Pittsburgh! Guess McClouth and Sanchez aren't talented - come on! Sorry...A.D.D kicked in there for a second!
We will no more today in this prayer point: as Children's Hospital in Boston will be reviewing the echo/utrasound reports this afternoon and letting us know their perspective on Jackson and Kelly as a canidate for this procedure.
As for the house/move situation...not so much peace there! Please continue to pray for strength, wisdom, PATIENCE, and clarity in this move! Even though we don't see the path right now...we will continue to obey and follow the leading of the Spirit in this move! We are getting estimates from moving companies in the area, working off the time line that they will finishing packing on Tuesday of next week, load/move on Wednesday (to where - we don't know yet), finish/clean on Thursday, close on the home Friday of next week! Talk about an adventure...can't wait to see the Lord's amusement park in Heaven! Forget a 5-point safety harness...think we will all need at least 10 points - hence the truth found in the FULL armour of God!
So that is the update...and sorry for not getting this out sooner! I know many of you have been "worrying"...but please remember what Christ taught us in Matthew 6: 33-34...“don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ [Where will we live?] These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
Again...you have no idea how much your prayers, encouragement, love, support, phone calls, messages, texts, and shoulders to cry on mean to us! And please know that if we don't get back in touch with you right away...that maybe, just maybe the "lights went out" in Pittsburgh - or at least the electricity was turned off for the day! Honestly...the way that you are demonstrating the love, care, and compassion of our Risen Lord and Savior - is awesome and we are so blessed because of His Great Love working in and through you! Please continue to the prayers for Jackson...for Carter and Jordyn...for Kelly and I...for our home...the move...and for peace, strength, wisdom, discernment and clarity as we continue to lean into the Apostle Paul's words: "Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, [we] press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us!" [Philippians 3]
All Eyes on Jesus...
"But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it..." [Matthew 7:14]
We received some great advice the other day via a Facebook message, and it read: "Pray-Decide-and Don't look back!" So many times in life - we pray, yield to the prompting of the Spirit, decide/choose to trust and obey...and when the path narrows (or in this case seems to be no path at all - maybe just a leaf that is moved out of the way) we turn back, and rely on and lean into the wisdom of earth or our own understanding to a place that is "comfortable" or a physical space that may provide a false sense of "security", or desperately search for a "way out" ... but, Christ is the way to life, peace, security, sanctuary, comfort, refuge, strength, sight, future, goodness, hope, joy, worth, provision, patience, compassion, courage, faith, rescue and foundation to stand on when there seems to be no way! Its all because of Jesus that I am alive - literally! Christ is the one who saves...and He is the one that provides for our every need - through the hands, feet, hearts and resources of His Body - the church! And man...have we been a witness to that provision!
Provision is not just "financial resource" as so many might think...and one of the greatest moments this past week was when we had the opportunity to meet one of Jackson's heros - Kristen. It was Christ working in and through Kristen, that Jackson even has the opportunity to a "medically" full life. Kristen is the youngest member of the ultrasound team at Magee Women's Hospital, who just had a baby of her own, and the technician/nurse that detected "something wrong" with Jackson's heart last Tuesday. So many times...a condition similar to Jackson's is missed on ultrasound - but, Christ worked through the eyes, hands and talent of Kristen to provide (provision) a "medical" option to save His life to the full...and there is great peace that the Spirit is leading us to allow the Glory and Majesty of Christ to be on display through this "experimental procedure"!
So within the next two weeks - the team of doctor's will go in through Kelly's abdomen, into her uterus, into Jackson's chest, into his heart, and into his aorta (which, is the currently about the thickness of a dime) with a needle and attempt to "balloon" open the aortic valve, to regain natural/better flow out of the left ventricle in hopes of creating bi-ventricle circulation.
The greatest risk to Jackson is pre-term delivery during the procedure - in which there would be nothing the doctor's could "medically" do to save his life. Baby's must be at least 5 pounds in order to attempt cardiac surgery...and at 20 -23 weeks - Jackson is no where near strong enough or developed enough to perform a life saving surgery in a pre-term delivery situation. The greatest risk to Kelly is complications during/from the surgery - hemorrhaging, infection, etc.
If the procedure is "technically successful" - Jackson will have bi-ventricle circulation upon full-term delivery in December...where there may be a less serious surgery performed such as a valve replacement, angioplasty, etc - avoiding the very serious "Norwood surgeries" (series of surgeries at 2 days, 2-3 months, and 2-3 years to bypass the left heart - which would collapse before delivery - and use only the right side of the heart to provide blood/oxygen to the lungs and body.
With the decision made to move forward with the experimental procedure...now the prayer turns to "Pittsburgh vs/ Boston". Now...if it were the Pirates vs/ the Red Sox...there is no prayer necessary, as we continue to "trade for talent" here in Pittsburgh! Guess McClouth and Sanchez aren't talented - come on! Sorry...A.D.D kicked in there for a second!
We will no more today in this prayer point: as Children's Hospital in Boston will be reviewing the echo/utrasound reports this afternoon and letting us know their perspective on Jackson and Kelly as a canidate for this procedure.
As for the house/move situation...not so much peace there! Please continue to pray for strength, wisdom, PATIENCE, and clarity in this move! Even though we don't see the path right now...we will continue to obey and follow the leading of the Spirit in this move! We are getting estimates from moving companies in the area, working off the time line that they will finishing packing on Tuesday of next week, load/move on Wednesday (to where - we don't know yet), finish/clean on Thursday, close on the home Friday of next week! Talk about an adventure...can't wait to see the Lord's amusement park in Heaven! Forget a 5-point safety harness...think we will all need at least 10 points - hence the truth found in the FULL armour of God!
So that is the update...and sorry for not getting this out sooner! I know many of you have been "worrying"...but please remember what Christ taught us in Matthew 6: 33-34...“don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ [Where will we live?] These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
Again...you have no idea how much your prayers, encouragement, love, support, phone calls, messages, texts, and shoulders to cry on mean to us! And please know that if we don't get back in touch with you right away...that maybe, just maybe the "lights went out" in Pittsburgh - or at least the electricity was turned off for the day! Honestly...the way that you are demonstrating the love, care, and compassion of our Risen Lord and Savior - is awesome and we are so blessed because of His Great Love working in and through you! Please continue to the prayers for Jackson...for Carter and Jordyn...for Kelly and I...for our home...the move...and for peace, strength, wisdom, discernment and clarity as we continue to lean into the Apostle Paul's words: "Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, [we] press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us!" [Philippians 3]
All Eyes on Jesus...
Thursday, July 16, 2009
The Narrow Path...
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." ... [Jesus' words found in Matthew 7:13-14]
As we sat in the waiting room yesterday morning, we opened 'The Journey"...a book written by Billy Graham about walking by faith in uncertain times...and the crazy thing about this is that the book was sent to me from the BGEA the day we found out about Jackson's condition. And as we sat there and read about "narrow is the gate that leads to life" - the prayer conversation that followed was one that I will never forget.
It was full day of conversation - we dropped Carter and Jordyn off at Uncle Greg and Aunt Mel's at 9:00am and never got back home until almost 5:00pm. It was an intense day of prayer, discernment, knowledge and information overload - and we still debriefing all that was shared! The morning started with another ultrasound to make sure that Jackson's heart was stable, looking to make sure that the left ventricle was still enlarged, and that his physical development shows no sign of heart failure. We will be having weekly echos and ultrasounds to monitor Jackson's condition - and ensure that the left side of his heart is not beginning to collapse. If the left side collapses (becoming Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome) the experimental procedure is then not an option to save Jackson's life.
And so after many conversations and hours of prayer - Kelly and I have decided to move forward with the experimental procedure. And now are in prayer whether or not to have the procedure completed in Pittsburgh or Boston...
[Sorry...going to have to pick it up here later - the electricians are here to finish the electrical work for the home inspection repairs and just informed me they will be cutting the power for the rest of the day! ]
All Eyes on Jesus...
As we sat in the waiting room yesterday morning, we opened 'The Journey"...a book written by Billy Graham about walking by faith in uncertain times...and the crazy thing about this is that the book was sent to me from the BGEA the day we found out about Jackson's condition. And as we sat there and read about "narrow is the gate that leads to life" - the prayer conversation that followed was one that I will never forget.
It was full day of conversation - we dropped Carter and Jordyn off at Uncle Greg and Aunt Mel's at 9:00am and never got back home until almost 5:00pm. It was an intense day of prayer, discernment, knowledge and information overload - and we still debriefing all that was shared! The morning started with another ultrasound to make sure that Jackson's heart was stable, looking to make sure that the left ventricle was still enlarged, and that his physical development shows no sign of heart failure. We will be having weekly echos and ultrasounds to monitor Jackson's condition - and ensure that the left side of his heart is not beginning to collapse. If the left side collapses (becoming Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome) the experimental procedure is then not an option to save Jackson's life.
And so after many conversations and hours of prayer - Kelly and I have decided to move forward with the experimental procedure. And now are in prayer whether or not to have the procedure completed in Pittsburgh or Boston...
[Sorry...going to have to pick it up here later - the electricians are here to finish the electrical work for the home inspection repairs and just informed me they will be cutting the power for the rest of the day! ]
All Eyes on Jesus...
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Day of Prayer and Decision...
Good morning! Just wanted to write quickly with a huge prayer request and update!
Yesterday was an awesome day! Not just beautiful in creation, as the sun was shining bright with a cool breeze in the air at "Idlewild Park and Soak Zone" - but, it was amazing to just be able to spend the day together as a family in celebration of Carter's 5th birthday! Can you believe he is five already...and what awesome faith he continues to demonstrate in Jesus! When we shared the news with Carter about Jackson being sick a couple of days ago, Carter's first response was "why?" - of course - and after we explained that Jackson had a problem with his heart and that God is taking care of him, Carter responds, "well I want to get in your belly mom and take care of him too!" Talk about an awesome big brother!
Yesterday was a day that we desperately needed - just a day to remind us what life is all about! Funnel Cakes and Ferris Wheels - with a fit in between from Jordyn! Just kidding - that is all true, but the day was a reminder that life on this earth is to reflect the Glory and Image of our Lord and Savior, as individuals, family, community and church! It is that simple...and there were so many things that happened yesterday that brought us to tears through shouts of praise as God continues to reveal himself in the midst of this "earthquake"!
Today is a day of decision - and I ask that you please join us in prayer for wisdom, strength, unity, and clarity as we discuss plans with Dr. Speer, Dr. Sherman, Dr. Emery and Michelle Clemens (Coordinator of the FDTC at UPMC) this morning at 10:00am.
We are leaning towards having the experimental procedure done in the next week or so...and I will be able to share more details later this afternoon/evening with you here on the blog!
Thank you again for allowing God to work in and through you...as your encouragement, prayer, support and reflection of our Lord and Savior have been "seriously ridiculous!" We love you!
All Eyes on Jesus...
"God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High. God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed. From the very break of day, God will protect it. The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.
Come, see the glorious works of the Lord: See how he brings destruction upon the world. He causes wars to end throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; he burns the shields with fire.
“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.”
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. " [Psalm 46]
Yesterday was an awesome day! Not just beautiful in creation, as the sun was shining bright with a cool breeze in the air at "Idlewild Park and Soak Zone" - but, it was amazing to just be able to spend the day together as a family in celebration of Carter's 5th birthday! Can you believe he is five already...and what awesome faith he continues to demonstrate in Jesus! When we shared the news with Carter about Jackson being sick a couple of days ago, Carter's first response was "why?" - of course - and after we explained that Jackson had a problem with his heart and that God is taking care of him, Carter responds, "well I want to get in your belly mom and take care of him too!" Talk about an awesome big brother!
Yesterday was a day that we desperately needed - just a day to remind us what life is all about! Funnel Cakes and Ferris Wheels - with a fit in between from Jordyn! Just kidding - that is all true, but the day was a reminder that life on this earth is to reflect the Glory and Image of our Lord and Savior, as individuals, family, community and church! It is that simple...and there were so many things that happened yesterday that brought us to tears through shouts of praise as God continues to reveal himself in the midst of this "earthquake"!
Today is a day of decision - and I ask that you please join us in prayer for wisdom, strength, unity, and clarity as we discuss plans with Dr. Speer, Dr. Sherman, Dr. Emery and Michelle Clemens (Coordinator of the FDTC at UPMC) this morning at 10:00am.
We are leaning towards having the experimental procedure done in the next week or so...and I will be able to share more details later this afternoon/evening with you here on the blog!
Thank you again for allowing God to work in and through you...as your encouragement, prayer, support and reflection of our Lord and Savior have been "seriously ridiculous!" We love you!
All Eyes on Jesus...
"God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!
A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High. God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed. From the very break of day, God will protect it. The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.
Come, see the glorious works of the Lord: See how he brings destruction upon the world. He causes wars to end throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; he burns the shields with fire.
“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.”
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. " [Psalm 46]
Monday, July 13, 2009
Fetal Disorder Treatment Center Update...
Just a quick update regarding our conversations this morning with Fetal Disorder Treatment Center (FDTC) of UPMC and Dr. Speer - who get this...attends the same church, NorthWay Christian Community as we do! Talk about a blessing and and an opportunity to see that God is in every detail!
We had a great conversation and we have an appointment Wednesday morning at 10am to sit down with FDTC and our team of doctors to discuss in depth the experimental "Fetal Aorta Balloon Valvoplasty" procedure. Just for your prayers...it looks like we will have weekly hospital/doctor visits for both Kelly and Jackson through the end of the pregnancy, beyond the experimental procedure or Norwood surgeries to save Jackson's life at his birth. Our life has drastically changed in a matter of three days - and we are doing alright with this, but are just now really beginning to realize the severity of "life change" we are experiencing! Please continue to pray for strength, energy, peace and wisdom today - as we still need to talk with our realtor and PA Land Titles regarding the closing on July 24.
I also had an awesome conversation this morning with a great brother in Christ who shared this verse with me and hope it encourages you as much as it has us:
[David] sang:
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me from violence. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies." [2 Samuel 22:2-4]
Continue to sing praise to Him...and Keep your Eyes on Jesus! Love you all so much...
We had a great conversation and we have an appointment Wednesday morning at 10am to sit down with FDTC and our team of doctors to discuss in depth the experimental "Fetal Aorta Balloon Valvoplasty" procedure. Just for your prayers...it looks like we will have weekly hospital/doctor visits for both Kelly and Jackson through the end of the pregnancy, beyond the experimental procedure or Norwood surgeries to save Jackson's life at his birth. Our life has drastically changed in a matter of three days - and we are doing alright with this, but are just now really beginning to realize the severity of "life change" we are experiencing! Please continue to pray for strength, energy, peace and wisdom today - as we still need to talk with our realtor and PA Land Titles regarding the closing on July 24.
I also had an awesome conversation this morning with a great brother in Christ who shared this verse with me and hope it encourages you as much as it has us:
[David] sang:
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me from violence. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies." [2 Samuel 22:2-4]
Continue to sing praise to Him...and Keep your Eyes on Jesus! Love you all so much...
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Day of Wisdom...
I just want you to know right off the bat that our prayers are being answered! We have been praying for wisdom and peace over the last three days - and here is the promise heard this morning at church during Pastor Jay's sermon: "But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness." [James 3:17-18]
Now how awesome is that Word from the Lord! Over the last two days, there have been so many prayers lifted and so many decisions made - but, as Kel and I have stated from the beginning of this journey months ago, the only decision we need to make is to pursue Christ in all that we do! Seek Him, Go After Him, Lean into Him - for in Him lies hidden the treasure of wisdom and peace! And I have to tell you...to see His Body rallying around us these last couple of days has been amazing and so humbling - but, two phone calls early this morning from two great brothers in Christ started off a day that was full of amazing blessings! I once heard Tony Evans describe blessing as "enjoying and extending the favor and provision of God" - and man that is exactly what these guys did this morning!
First, let me update you quickly on the move. After seeking wise counsel, and talking with a real estate attorney - ...and yielding and surrendering to the Spirit, which is leading us to continue in the move! We have decided that in light of all that is happening a legal battle or more financial strain is a battle that the Lord is not leading us into! So...we will be looking to the support and services of a moving company to help relieve the stress of packing and moving. We are still without a home at this point - but, after talking with several friends, our pastor and elders at NorthWay Christian Community - several homes have been offered to us as a temporary place to "hunker down" in the midst of all we are going to face in the next several months! How awesome is our God and the way He reveals himself through the Body!
We still are feeling led to look into securing a home of our own - but, the burden/pressure of a timeline in finding a place has been lifted tremendously with the options that have been presented - and thank you so much to all of you who have offered and supported us with the resources He has blessed you with! You all have been "seriously ridiculous" - that is my new phrase for saying thank you - and we are eternally grateful!
Tomorrow, Monday, is going to be a big day - and we need your prayers for continued wisdom, strength and discernment! We have had a great day of rest today...but, tomorrow is a day of decision. We will be talking with the Fetal Disorder Treatment Center of UPMC and making many decisions regarding the experimental procedure. Please pray specifically for our ears/hearts to be open to the wisdom from heaven, and for His peace to overwhelm us as we walk through many conversations with the doctors/hospitals. Also, we will be coordinating/preparing all the "closing details and papers"...just in case we are not able to attend the closing July 24th. We will also be talking with several banks regarding financing/mortgage options - and so prayers through all of those conversations will me much appreciated!
I want to share a scripture and great promise that the Lord laid on Kelly's heart today from 2 Kings 20:5 - and this will be the Word/Promise we will be standing firm in over the next serveral weeks/months/years: "I have heard your prayers, I have seen your tears. Surely, I will heal you!" Praise God for the Victory we have in our Lord and Savior! He is Jesus Messiah, Redeemer, Restorer, Rescue, King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we accept it by faith that He has gone before us and He is our Strength and Refuge!
All Eyes on Jesus...
Now how awesome is that Word from the Lord! Over the last two days, there have been so many prayers lifted and so many decisions made - but, as Kel and I have stated from the beginning of this journey months ago, the only decision we need to make is to pursue Christ in all that we do! Seek Him, Go After Him, Lean into Him - for in Him lies hidden the treasure of wisdom and peace! And I have to tell you...to see His Body rallying around us these last couple of days has been amazing and so humbling - but, two phone calls early this morning from two great brothers in Christ started off a day that was full of amazing blessings! I once heard Tony Evans describe blessing as "enjoying and extending the favor and provision of God" - and man that is exactly what these guys did this morning!
First, let me update you quickly on the move. After seeking wise counsel, and talking with a real estate attorney - ...and yielding and surrendering to the Spirit, which is leading us to continue in the move! We have decided that in light of all that is happening a legal battle or more financial strain is a battle that the Lord is not leading us into! So...we will be looking to the support and services of a moving company to help relieve the stress of packing and moving. We are still without a home at this point - but, after talking with several friends, our pastor and elders at NorthWay Christian Community - several homes have been offered to us as a temporary place to "hunker down" in the midst of all we are going to face in the next several months! How awesome is our God and the way He reveals himself through the Body!
We still are feeling led to look into securing a home of our own - but, the burden/pressure of a timeline in finding a place has been lifted tremendously with the options that have been presented - and thank you so much to all of you who have offered and supported us with the resources He has blessed you with! You all have been "seriously ridiculous" - that is my new phrase for saying thank you - and we are eternally grateful!
Tomorrow, Monday, is going to be a big day - and we need your prayers for continued wisdom, strength and discernment! We have had a great day of rest today...but, tomorrow is a day of decision. We will be talking with the Fetal Disorder Treatment Center of UPMC and making many decisions regarding the experimental procedure. Please pray specifically for our ears/hearts to be open to the wisdom from heaven, and for His peace to overwhelm us as we walk through many conversations with the doctors/hospitals. Also, we will be coordinating/preparing all the "closing details and papers"...just in case we are not able to attend the closing July 24th. We will also be talking with several banks regarding financing/mortgage options - and so prayers through all of those conversations will me much appreciated!
I want to share a scripture and great promise that the Lord laid on Kelly's heart today from 2 Kings 20:5 - and this will be the Word/Promise we will be standing firm in over the next serveral weeks/months/years: "I have heard your prayers, I have seen your tears. Surely, I will heal you!" Praise God for the Victory we have in our Lord and Savior! He is Jesus Messiah, Redeemer, Restorer, Rescue, King of Kings and Lord of Lords and we accept it by faith that He has gone before us and He is our Strength and Refuge!
All Eyes on Jesus...
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