God's Amazing Grace

Yesterday, I shared about my son Josh's ordeal with a severe hand infection. Click here to read. God was so faithful in seeing us through this trial. He promises to never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), but I was also reminded of the reasons we endure trials and why our struggle to get through them is normal.

We cannot grow spiritually if our faith is not exercised. Spiritual growth doesn’t occur through mountaintop experiences. Furthermore, we’re impotent to feel empathy for others’ suffering if our life grazes along in the peaceful pastures while they pick their way up rocky cliffs.

It’s a fallacy to believe Christians are entitled to reside on the mountaintop more so than non-believers. God often blesses us with such moments, but the lack or presence of these experiences shouldn’t cause us or others to assign a faith quotient to our lives. Some of the most faithful people I know have suffered mightily. Hmmm. Maybe there’s a correlation between the two. J

No matter the size of the problem, our despair, or our faith—God works! His faithfulness is not dependent on some formula we try to barter with based on our perceived greatness or failure. God is God. Jesus said if we have faith the size of a mustard seed, we can move mountains. He didn’t say we need a mountain of faith for him to answer prayer. He can work with the tiniest faith we possess. As shown in the Gospels, Jesus always came through for those who gave what faith they had to him.

[The boy’s father said], “But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”

“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Mark 9:22b-24

Jesus healed the man’s son. And this brings me to my next observation.

God can handle our despair. He knows our human frailties. Even Jesus experienced despair in his prayers before crucifixion and while hanging on the cross.

Going a little farther, he [Jesus] fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Matthew 26:39

About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli,[a] lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”). Matthew 27:46

The key is to stay focused on God’s sovereignty and not the despair. We do this by remembering God’s grace.

God’s grace is sufficient. This is the toughest one for us to rely on totally. Yet it’s integral to growing our faith. We want the problem fixed. Now. Sometimes we succumb to bartering. Especially in fear. God has proven time and again to me that His grace is all I need during a trial.

Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:7b-9

Everything else God chooses to do is further blessing. My job is to hang onto that grace life raft while being tossed in the rapids and know it’s sufficient. Sure, I might be disheveled when I get back to dry, stable land, but I’ve survived. His grace not only sees me through the trial, but in his faithfulness, He restores me and makes my faith stronger than before.

The keys to staying the course in a trial are prayer and being grounded in God’s word. Satan’s attacks will come—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. We live in a fallen world—full of germs, disease, accidents, wars, famines, and so on. The only way we will survive spiritually during periods of suffering is to put on His armor.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:10-12

Josh is better. I’m grateful his trial is over. But even when I felt despair during it, God was there. I sensed his presence. I felt his touch. He bound up my heart and protected my son. I’m thankful for the outcome and never doubted God’s faithfulness.

Isn’t this the bottom line in all we do as Christians? When we can’t see the outcome, we can trust Him to get it right. It’s God’s amazing grace that sees us through.

He will never leave or forsake us. Praise God!

  

How many times have you heard me cry out

"God please take this"?

How many times have you given me strength to

Just keep breathing?

Oh I need you

God, I need you now.

(Plumb)

If you have a prayer need, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment or e-mail me confidential requests. The prayer list and updates for Sgt. Jesse McCart are at the top of the blog. Please remember to lift these folks up in prayer. 

Prayer Request: Betty asks for prayer for her Uncle Wayne who recently had a stroke. He is undergoing open heart surgery today.

Also, check out the Missions page at the top, as well, for an opportunity to lend support for a Sudan mission trip. Thanks! J

Shalom,

Laura ✞

©Laura Hodges Poole

Emily's Story: A Child's Battle Against Cancer

Emily

“Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” ~Winston Churchill

I’ve not seen a more remarkable attitude than that displayed by cancer warriors. Among these warriors is a 12-year-old young lady, Emily, who is battling Osteosarcoma, a bone cancer. You might recognize her name since we have been praying for her on this blog.

I’m privileged to share this update on Emily, the beautiful daughter of Steve and Nicki Kempen. Steve has graciously bared his soul and feelings regarding Emily’s progress and her future below. I'm sure his words will inspire you to lift this family up in your prayers. 

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The past couple of months have been extremely difficult mentally/emotionally...which is odd to me...considering that Emily has progressed extremely well. 

First, I'll update you on Emily's status, and then if you want to stick around for additional reading, I will try to add perspective to the past couple of months.

Emily is scheduled to have her Chemo Port removed from her chest and have a few of her leg wounds revised on Wednesday, October 10th, at 7:00 am EST. Even though this is supposed to be a minor procedure, compared to everything else she has endured, it is still scary, and has us (Nicki and I) nervous. As far as Emily is concerned, she is excited and ready to get the surgery finished. We would appreciate prayers for a safe surgery that does not have any complications, successfully removes the port, shows that there is NO CANCER, and revises her leg wounds so they can heal properly.

Her physical therapy has been going well. She is now placing about 40% of her weight on her left leg. Our therapist races her with his non-dominant leg, and she can hold her own pretty well...in fact she has won a couple of the walk-abouts. Her activity level increases every day.

Emily is keeping up with the 6th grade, and taking tests from her home bound teacher. I am extremely proud to report that she has passed all tests with high marks...even though she works and manages through chemo fog. Her spirit, kindness, and determination still amazes me! Oh, and she already has more hair than me. My kindred follicle spirit has moved on...and I am happy for her! We are now trying to guess if the treatment changed her hair color...

Britanny [Emily’s twin] is adjusting well to life in Middle School, as well. Her grades are outstanding, and she has scored well in her Advanced Placement classes. Soccer has been a little rough...a lot of players have turned over, and they are learning to play together. However, the chemistry of the team is fantastic. All of the girls get along well. Hopefully, the group will understand they are in a transition phase and stick together. The potential is great.

As mentioned above, the past two months have been odd. Hearing the "all clear" on the scans, and Emily completing chemo were two of the happiest moments we have ever experienced. However, it seems bittersweet. Our lives have a new normal...and we are still trying to figure out what normal is.

My mind obsesses with the lingering question: "How do we make sure more cancer or side effects never appear?" Prayer? Meditation? Stress Relief? Diet? Exercise? Vitamins? Lucky Pennies? Investigational stuff? What do we do? Where do we go? How do we help? How can we make sure the scans are always clear? 

Last Saturday (September 29th) at 11:00PM EST, most of the Osteosarcoma Board Members joined in prayer to heal, and help all of those impacted by this deadly disease. Osteosarcoma can take many things, but we can never let it take our spirit, our hope, or our will to win! That is easier said than done. Our prayer list contained over 200 children, brothers, sisters, husbands, fathers, mothers, and friends that have battled Osteosarcoma. Some battled bravely without success, many are still battling bravely despite a difficult prognosis, some have completed round one and are optimistically moving forward (Emily), several are just getting started in their treatment, and many have beaten Osteosarcoma.

The past two months, while positive for Emily, have been difficult for many. Several Osteo Warriors passed, and several (that we are close to) received news that Osteo spread to their lungs, or that the chemo was not working well. In addition, several children that we know battling other forms of cancer earned their Angel Wings.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death among children. It has been years since a new treatment has been approved for children with cancer...almost 20 years for Osteosarcoma.

Did you know that September was Childhood Cancer Awareness Month?

Did you know that only $1.00 of every $100.00 raised for cancer is directed toward children's cancer research? The $1.00 is then divided among the various forms of childhood cancer. I was shocked to learn of these statistics.

The past several months have been extremely busy with school, work, and activities. Some of the stuff we have experienced is so silly, trivial, goofy, utterly stupid, void of common sense, head scratching, shortsighted, or shallow...but somehow we still get caught in it...how is that? I have no idea...but in the story of life. I think you can expect this kind of stuff will happen...and it is just noise, filler, and part of being human...all I can say is don't let the little bumps rattle you too much...and if you can, stop and laugh at some of the goofiness...

I know I get caught up in the silliness at times...yet perspectives change quickly when you realize a 12-year-old can't sleep because she is so excited to get a port removed from her chest or wants to visit children on the Cancer Floor she absolutely hated because she knows those children need friends. I am not sure how to verbalize or write the rest of my thoughts here, so I will leave the conclusion for your interpretation.

As always...THANK YOU for supporting us through prayer, support, and your kindness!

Steve, Nicki, Emily and Britanny Kempen 

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“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…” Ephesians 3:20

Father God, we lift up Emily to your grace and mercy. Place your hand upon Emily, her surgeons, and the operating room staff today. Thank you for the healing mercy you’ve already extended to her. Wrap her family in your comfort and peace during this difficult time. We admit we don’t understand the whys of cancer and other trials on this earth, but we know Who walks with us and strengthens us despite them. We give you all the praise, glory, and honor through your Son Jesus. Amen.

If you would like to leave a word of encouragement for Emily’s family, please do so. I know they would appreciate it!

Do you have a personal prayer need? I'd love to hear from you. Please share your requests in the comments section or email me confidential requests.

God bless,

Laura

Words That Heal

Writing Encouragement

“As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you or forsake you…Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:5b,9

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!

Before I share a few words for Writers’ Corner, I want to start with an update from yesterday’s prayer blog. We’ve been praying for Courtney, a young mother battling a cancerous brain tumor. She’s had brain surgery, gamma knife radiation surgery after the cancer showed new growth, and chemotherapy all in the last year. She has MRIs every two months to check treatment progress. July’s MRI was very encouraging as it showed the tumor was responding to treatment.

After yesterday’s MRI and appointment with her oncologist, this is an update from Courtney’s Caring Bridge site written by her sister Lauren:

“So Dr. Peters came in the room carrying 2 images. One was from previous MRI and other from today's. She had a huge smile on her face and excitement in her voice! She said Courtney's scan looked BEAUTIFUL! There was no enhancement shown on today's MRI which means there is no active tumor that can be seen! Chemo and radiation have killed the tumor that was left behind after surgery! Awesome news! She will continue her chemo regimen for a year in an attempt to keep any new growths from appearing. We will repeat the MRI in November. Basically, today the scan could not have looked any better. Our prayers have been answered! Thank you for praying with us! :)” 

Again, I say, Praise God! Thank you to everyone who has been faithful in lifting up Courtney (and others) in prayer through our weekly prayer blog. As a reminder, the prayer list is accessible all the time on the page above.

Now to Writers’ Corner.

I’ve nursed a migraine for the past twenty-four hours, so I’m behind on a few things—this blog post being one. So I'll share a simple word of encouragement.

We all experience periods of discouragement, whether from sickness, writer’s block, or doors that just don’t seem to be opening in our careers. This is when it’s most important to remind ourselves of why we write. We’re Christian writers because God gave us a talent and then a calling to share His message with others.

My good friend and colleague, Cindy Sproles, co-founder of Christian Devotions and Writers Advance! Bootcamp, shared this final thought at this year’s bootcamp held at The Cove (Billy Graham Training Center) in North Carolina.

“When you are discouraged—write; because in discouragement there is strength to be found. When you are joyous—write; because in joy there is encouragement. When you are broken—write; because in brokenness there is growth…Your words will break through barriers, heal wounds, and guide the lost. Your words are fueled by the whispers of God.” 

I’ll share more about 2013 Writer’s Advance! Bootcamp in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, check out the website for more information.

Now, it’s your turn. I want to hear about your writing successes or hurdles you’ve overcome this week.

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

Facing Death

“Here is the test to find whether your mission on Earth is finished: if you're alive, it isn't.” Richard Bach, author

We’re often confronted with the reality that life is short for some folks. God’s plans are not ordered by our human thoughts, and so, while early death is a reality, it remains a mystery to humans.

The Psalmist said, “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” Ps. 139:16. So whether or not you embrace Richard Bach’s philosophy, we have to trust God’s plan for our life. 

No one knows this better than my friend, guest blogger, and cancer survivor Venita McCart. Today, she shares the moment when she confronted the reality of death.

Thoughts We Remember To Forget

By Venita McCart

“He has set eternity in the hearts of men.” Ecclesiastes 3:11 NLT

Here’s the thought: I want to live forever. Here’s the other thought: That’s not going to happen. Here’s the other-other thought…

I’m a writer; a thought-keeper. I journal, make lists, scribble on sticky notes, and paper scraps. I shall not forget anything profound. (Or more likely, slightly sensible.) I may need these thoughts for an article, devotion, or best seller. Okay, so I’m an optimist, too.

Do I want all my thoughts? No. When I changed doctors recently the little girl in scrubs said, “Be sure to list your medical history on these forms, especially details about your cancer.” I would rather just forget all the cancer stuff and I never really want to write it down. But I must.

I would rather forget other things too, like death. I once was an expert at forgetting it. Then the diagnosis came and death was in my face, but I ached so to live. My conflict within brought other thoughts I didn’t want: Aren’t you supposed to be a Christian? Shouldn’t you be okay with this? I am a Christian. But I had never been a dying Christian before. I was afraid. 

I called out to God, the best prayer ever: “Help me!”

Then I remembered Jesus spent much time and many tears in a garden praying, facing death he knew was coming. His soul was crushed with grief, like mine. He pleaded for life, like me. He anguished for release, like I did.

In prayer, with eternity in his heart, He found peace about dying…and the keys to peace for me. Jesus Christ went to the dreaded cross to give me the eternal life I crave.

Here’s the thought: I want to live forever. Here’s the other thought: That’s not going to happen. Here’s the other-other thought: Oh, yes it is!

Jesus knows your dilemma. If you are struggling with the fear of death because of cancer, remember the Creator and Saver of your eternity. Ask Him for His thoughts, for they are eternal, and they are for you. If you call, He will answer.

Venita McCart and the group she founded, Faith Force Cancer Support Ministries, has ministered to hundreds of patients since 2005 through group meetings, personal contacts, writing, and speaking. She is currently working on materials to comfort and encourage cancer patients, their loved ones, and to help others create support ministries. She and her husband live in central Illinois. Venita may be reached at venitamccart@yahoo.com.

If you have a prayer need, please share in the comments section or email me with confidential requests. Would you also take a moment to pray for other requests? 

Our prayer list for today includes several battling cancer. Please pray for comfort, healing, and strength. While you’re at it, pray for their families, as well.

·       Courtney, young mother with brain tumor

·       Emily, 12-year-old with bone cancer. Her body has responded well to the initial phase of treatment.  She still has a long road ahead.

·       Sally, who continues a 12-year battle against breast cancer

·       Lori, my cousin’s wife, with metastatic cancer

·       TC’s father-in-law, not doing well

Also:

Please lift up Karen Redding’s husband and children as they are grieving her death.

U.S. soldier Jesse McCart whose information is on a separate page above. Please visit that page for updates including contact info for him and other GIs recovering and rehabbing in the same military hospital in Texas. It would mean a great deal to these servicemen to receive encouragement. Pre-stamped postcards from the post office are a great method to do so on a regular basis.

Jesse McCart and men from his unit

I selected our worship song today as a tribute to our armed forces who have paid the ultimate sacrifice so we may enjoy the freedoms we have. "Finally Home," by MercyMe.

 

 God bless,
Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

Just A Closer Walk With Thee

Daily walking close to Thee

“I am weak, but Thou art strong; Jesus, keep me from all wrong; I’ll be satisfied as long; As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.”

Recognize the words to this old hymn? I love hymns because of their encouragement and theology.

I’m not a person who freely shares my struggles with others. Since I’ve started this weekly prayer post, a few followers have emailed me and asked, “How can I pray for you?” I appreciate this and those who silently pray because I feel it. I’m so humbled by the support. So perhaps you’ll indulge me for a few minutes while I share. 

I’ve never been what you’d consider athletic, though I try to stay physically active. I believe in taking responsibility for your own health as far as you’re able. Some people are blessed with better health than others, and this changes as we go through different seasons in life. 

For years I’ve dealt with sciatic nerve problems. Exercise helps, though finding the right balance can be a challenge, especially as I grow older. Sitting at a computer for long stretches doesn’t help and sometimes causes back and hip pain. I’m sure those of you who sit at a desk for long periods can relate. I’m fortunate to work from home, so I’m able to move around often, and this helps. 

However, within the last six months, the discomfort has started to disrupt my sleep, which in turn increases the problems during the day. So far it hasn’t slowed my productivity. I’ve learned to work around the unpleasant nature of the situation. 

Instead of going to the YMCA to work out, I’ve started walking in the mornings. After adjusting to the outdoor climate, especially in this South Carolina heat, I discovered something really neat. 

While the Y is bustling and noisy—outdoors it’s just God and me dwelling in nature! Genesis 3:8 describes God walking in the Garden of Eden in the cool of the day. I find it remarkable that Eve chose to jeopardize this relationship. If only she’d taken God at His word instead of learning the hard way, but that’s a topic for another post. J

I return from my morning walk hot and sweaty, but also refreshed physically and spiritually. Since my change in exercise, finding a comfortable sleep position has improved, and I don’t wake up as hobbled in the mornings. 

Through this and other trials, I’ve learned to appreciate Paul’s testimony of his “thorn.”

“Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:8-9a

I praise God for the pain that drove me into the comfort of His solitude each morning. I know He will sustain me through anything. 

Just a closer walk with Thee,

Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,

Daily walking close to Thee,

Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

I’d love to hear your praise reports about how God has worked in your life to remedy a difficult situation or walk with you through it.

Please share your prayer requests in the comment section or email me confidentially. I’ve created a separate page above to give updates on the U.S. soldier we’ve been praying for, Sgt. Jesse McCart. As I get news and photos of his progress, I’ll share on that page. Take a moment to check out the photos and his status, as well as a mailing address for him and other GIs in the same hospital who could use encouragement during their long recoveries. 

We’ve been praying for Karen Redding who was in hospice care with leukemia. She passed away this week. Praise God she’s no longer in pain, but pray for her husband and children as they deal with their grief and loss. 

Remember these folks battling cancer:

Courtney, young mother with brain tumor

TC’s father-in-law

Emily, 12-year-old with bone cancer

Lori, my cousin’s wife with terminal cancer

Sally continues to fight a 12-year battle with breast cancer

Would you also lift up the folks who visit this blog—that they would be ministered to at their point of need? God knows what this is.

Are you seeking a closer walk with God? Or perhaps a revelation about where to go or what to do in your life? Take a moment to worship with Third Day’s “Revelation” before we go to the Lord in prayer. 

Thank you for your faithful prayer support.

God bless,

Laura

 © Laura Hodges Poole

A New Normal

Sgt. Jesse McCart

“O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.” Psalm 30:2

Normally in this spot each week, I post Writers’ Corner—encouragement and tips for aspiring writers. We all have days where life doesn’t cooperate, and this was one of those days for me. God works everything for our good and His glory, so I felt led to set aside what I had started writing and instead share an update on the U.S. soldier we’ve been praying for.

In a span of a few seconds, Sgt. Jesse McCart’s life and that of his family changed forever. 

Jesse and two other U.S. soldiers stepped on an IED in Afghanistan on July 30, and were seriously injured. Jesse lost part of both legs. He arrived in the United States on a ventilator and in critical condition. He has made remarkable progress in the last week and a half. 

His family has graciously shared these photos of him.

According to the latest family update today, Jesse will be moved into a private room from ICU as soon as the room is ready. He slept last night the whole night which they rejoice for since he has had difficulty sleeping. Sleep is so important for his recovery. His pain is still an issue and the doctors are trying different medications to see what will be effective. He has continued physical therapy and is able to get in and out of a wheelchair. To quote his wife, “We definitely have a long road in front of us, but we have gotten a great start!”

We all face uncertainty in our lives, and none of us are guaranteed tomorrow. Hug someone you love. Forgive someone who doesn’t deserve it. Ask God to help you love that person you feel is unlovable.

Thank you to all the prayer warriors who’ve joined in prayer for Jesse and his family. I will keep you posted as I get updates. If you have a prayer request, please leave it in the comment section or email me. My contact info is above. I’ve love to pray for your needs. 

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

What Is Your Legacy?

Life's Sunset

“I look back on my life like a good day's work, it was done and I am satisfied with it.” Grandma Moses (American folk artist)

If you were given paper and pen to write a final statement about your life before your death, what would you write? The Apostle Paul wrote this passage in the shadow of impending execution. 

“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Paul had committed egregious sins prior to becoming a Christian. Formerly a Jewish zealot who persecuted Christians, he was equally fervent in leading people to the Christ he knew intimately. He instructed the early Christians, not only in behavior but in their life’s purpose.

One might say this final recorded statement reflected Paul’s legacy. Yet nothing in his closing remarks mentions punishment for past sins. 

Why?

Because he’d been forgiven. And once we’re forgiven, the only direction to go is forward. Paul’s ministry was the best example we have of the Christian faith manifested through works—bringing action to his testimony.

So, back to the piece of paper in front of you—the one that will hold your legacy. Can you write that you’ve fought the good fight? Finished the race? Kept the faith? 

Very few Christians can measure up to Paul’s accomplishments, but do we earnestly try? Regardless of man’s assessment, when we stand before God, will we hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant?”

Our legacy before God and man is created by living a life worthy of being remembered. 

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Father God, as we lift up the requests from many burdened hearts, we ask you to shine a light into our ministries, our lives, and our fellowship. Show us where we need more sacrificial living and dying to self. May your priorities be our priorities. Strengthen us for this service through your Son Jesus. 

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Please access last week’s post for a list of prior requests. For a comprehensive update on Sgt. Jesse McCart since being severely injured in Afghanistan, click here. Add your prayer needs in the comments section below so others can pray for you, as well. If you have a confidential request, leave it anonymously or email me. My contact info is above. 

Please pray for healing, comfort, and strength for the people listed below:

·       Latest from U.S. soldier Sgt. Jesse’s McCart’s family: Prayers, prayers and prayers on top of prayers are being answered for Jesse. His ventilator is out. He’s eating regular food and started physical therapy. He was up today in what his wife Cassie refers to as a 'wheelchair bed' doing some of the work of getting into it himself, doing exercises on his own to keep his body in shape, and received his Purple Heart.

·       TC’s father-in-law is battling cancer and isn’t doing well. He has lost more weight and is in a great deal of pain.

·       Sally Manning from Lexington as she continues to fight a 12-year battle with breast cancer.

·       Karen Redding with leukemia in hospice care, not doing well.

As we bring our petitions and praise to God, join me in worship with Matthew West’s “My Own Little World.”

"Start breaking my heart for what breaks Yours

Give me open hands and open doors"

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

Update on Injured Soldier

But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9(NIV)

For those of you who follow this blog, you’re familiar with my weekly prayer post. Last week, soldier Jesse McCart’s aunt requested prayer for him. Since a few of you have asked for updates and due to the length of updates, I decided to share the news I’ve received and not wait until Wednesday. This is a timeline as it transpired since last Monday paraphrased from his family updates.

July 30: U.S. soldier Jesse McCart, age 26, was severely wounded in Afghanistan. He lost both legs (amputation of right leg at knee and left leg below knee) and part of an arm. Stabilized in a base hospital in Afghanistan with plans to move him to Germany. He has a wife Cassie, twin babies, and a toddler.

August 3: Jesse is on his way stateside tonight! He is in the air right now. He is responsive and following commands. They are telling us his hearing and motor skills are good. Another injured soldier sent a message that he talked to Jesse on the plane: Jesse knows where he is and what is going on, but can't respond verbally because of ventilator, but blinks his answers. He can hear and see and follow commands.

August 5: Jesse arrived in Texas safely in the middle of the night, last night. Cassie, his wife, his mom, and dad all arrived there safely today and are with him. He is still on life support and is sedated but knows everyone. Smiled once today when his oldest niece told him he is still good-looking.

Two other G.I.'s were injured by the IED at the same time. We are asking for prayer for them also.

August 5: Jesse is OFF THE VENTILATOR, is talking, and knows what's going on—is even cutting up a little bit (like Jesse does).

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Folks, God hears our prayers and cares about our needs. Please continue to pray for Jesse’s recovery, and his wife, children, and parents during this long, difficult healing process. Pray for strength, comfort, and wisdom for all involved, including the medical staff. I will share any more updates received on the regular weekly prayer post on Wednesday. 

Praise to our Father whose grace is sufficient to meet all our needs!

God bless,

Laura

A Praise Report

I wanted to share some news for those of you who have been praying for Courtney during the past several months. As many of you know, she is a young mother with a cancerous brain tumor. She has been undergoing rigorous chemotherapy after brain surgery. Subsequently, she had follow-up gamma knife radiation surgery a few months ago and has continued with chemotherapy. Every two months, a repeat MRI is performed to check treatment progress. She had her MRI today and met with her doctors at Duke University for results. Her sister posted this report on Courtney's Caring Bridge website page about the visit.

"Wow, we are really feeling good!. Dr. Peters came in with a huge smile on her face and said she was soooo happy with the MRI. The area recently radiated looks even better than it did 2 months ago. The other small area they were watching looks exactly the same, which is good news! There is zero swelling now and the cavity has a defined border which all translates to good news! Dr. Peters was beaming and literally had tears on her eyes because she was so happy with the MRI. She was very pleased with her speech and her ability to adapt with her loss of sensation on right side. We couldn't ask for a better team of doctors and nurses. We even found out that she was considered a "special" patient by Dr. Friedman who did her surgery. Court's 1 year surgery anniversary will be July 25th. Looking back to where she was a year ago, she has since retaught herself to walk and talk and basically do everything she did before the surgery. That is a credit to Courtney's determination, faith and God's ability to heal along with the encouragement and prayers from special people like you all! We feel so blessed today and Courtney and our family thank you all for standing with us!"

There's not much I can add except praise God from whom all blessings flow! Thanks to all the faithful prayer partners who've prayed and will continue to pray.

God bless,
Laura

Live Out Loud

“Every man dies. Not every man really lives.” William Wallace (Scottish commander)

Jesus spent more than three years patiently teaching his disciples in preparation for their individual ministries. After the Last Supper and before his crucifixion, Jesus gave final instructions and then spent his last hours in prayer. 

Although Jesus admonished the disciples and Jewish leaders often about their dense minds and hearts, his delight leaps off the page when, at last, the disciples have their “aha” moment.

“Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God.” (John 16:30)

“You believe at last!” Jesus answered. “But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me. I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:31-33)

Jesus lived out loud. His time on earth was limited, and he knew this. He didn’t have time to mince words or worry about political correctness. Everything he did served a purpose.

In his final hours, Jesus prayed for the disciples and then prayed for all believers. 

“I pray also for those who will believe in me through their [disciples] message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” (John 17:20b-23)

Jesus believed in the power of prayer. He believed in making the most of whatever time you’re given on this earth for His Father’s service. 

Are you living out loud for Christ? Does the world see His glory in your actions?

As we go to the Lord in prayer, please share your prayer requests in the comments section or email me confidentially. 

Please pray for healing, comfort, and strength for: 

·       Lori, my cousin’s wife, who has been diagnosed with metastatic cancer and given six months to live.

·       Courtney, young mother with cancerous brain tumor, receiving treatment through Duke. She will have repeat MRI this month to check treatment progress.

·        Emily, a 12-year-old with bone cancer.

·        TC’s father-in-law with cancer.

·        Betty’s father-in-law with Alzheimer’s.

·        Karen with leukemia in hospice care. 

Also:

·       A friend trying to find work and her unemployment benefits have run out. She is down to her last $100. Pray specifically she will find a job this week.

·       Those dealing with difficult family situations, mental illness, depression, health problems, and employment issues.  

Take a moment to enjoy this song from Steven Curtis Chapman, “Live Out Loud.”

God bless,
Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole