Sunday, September 9, 2007

Update

We are by God’s grace redesigning our schedules. This weekend has been more relaxing. Jack continues to walk several miles each day; on the order of 4-6 miles/day. He says he wants to do this as long as he is able, as do we.

We actually went out for pizza last evening at a local restaurant. Since his stitches were taken out on Friday - complete with the glue that was used to keep the incision closed - the shaved spot on his head is barely noticeable. Thankfully, his head was not shaved just the area near the incision. When the Dr. was removing the glue, I told Jack that I always knew he was glued together now I could actually see the glue!

Jack still has a lot of difficulty speaking as well as use of his left hand. The physical therapist gave him some hand exercises to do with a rubber band. He said it is not possible to describe how difficult that is. That part of his brain has been impaired by the biopsy so it is as though he wants to do something that he remembers how to do but can't yet physically do.

Our pastor, Gordon Hugenberger visited us yesterday. We had an enjoyable and blessed time spending part of the afternoon with him. Jack commented to him that from the moment he was told there was a mass in his brain, that he has only felt calm. He told our pastor that if someone 2 months ago told him that they had his diagnosis that he would have thought how horrible that would be. With his diagnosis, he has felt none of that horror. I am so thankful. It brings to mind a verse from Philippians 4:4-7: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

As Jack said yesterday, this tumor is not about me, it is about HIM, our Lord. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

I read this many years ago and copied it. The author is unknown. “Remember this, had any other condition been better for you than the one in which you are, divine love would have put you there. You are placed by God in the most suitable circumstances. Be content with such things as you have, since the Lord has ordered all things for your good.”

We are in the most suitable place by His grace for His glory and our good. May you have a wonderful week mindful of our mighty Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.