Body: It has been quite some time since my last blog entry and there's a reason....this last treatment was a tough one. I've been laying low for a week with assorted side effects, etc. Right now the key issue is blood levels. They have been low and getting lower since Tuesday. Friday, I received platelets and I will be going back tomorrow morning for another blood test to see how things are progressing.
What is next on the agenda is stem cell collection which, believe it or not, could begin on Monday morning! If blood levels are right, I will be hooked up to a machine which draws my blood out, filters out stem cells, and returns the blood...all in one smooth motion. I can only imagine the cost of that machine...and this treatment. (Thankfully, I only have to imagine...the church has provided us with great insurance coverage!) It could take one to four days of stem cell collection to have "enough" (whatever that correct amount is). These will be frozen and kept for a later date when the chemo is completed and they are ready to "plant" these "seeds" back in my bone marrow for "sprouting."
So, the key prayer request I would share is for blood levels to build back up to normal and that the stem cell collection would go smoothly this week. Pray too for opportunities to represent Jesus well. Thanks to so many who have expressed the fact that they are praying for us regularly. Your support has been a key part of our encouragement and strength during these challenging days.
Spirit: "Even Now" Joel 2:12
God's character traits of holiness and righteousness are clearly seen in Scripture in some remarkable places - - the precision of the Tabernacle and sacrificial system; the detail of the priests' approach to God; His judgments; etc.
But His character traits of love, grace and mercy are equally clear and revealed in special ways, even in the Old Testament. Joel 2:12 is one of those places and it takes the form of two words, "Even now..." From Joel 1:1 -- 2:11, God is ready to judge severely. Notice Joel 2:11, "The day of the Lord is great; it is dreadful. Who can endure it?" The Day of the Lord is a dreadful day of judgment. But it all changes from Joel 2:12 -- 3:21 for Israel. If Israel repents, God will forgive and spare them. And it all begins with those two words of transition, "even now."
"Even now" means it's not too late.
"Even now" says there is a future in spite of the failures of the past.
"Even now" says don't give up no matter how bad the past has been.
"Even now" offers hope to repentant souls.
Am I ever glad for "even now!" I have needed it this week as emotions bounce, as plans change, as physical strength wanes. My reactions have not always been "pastoral" and I've needed "even now." Probably some of you need those words today, too. He is so good! We are so blessed!
"Lord, I rejoice that You are a God who says, "Even now..." a lot!! Because I need it a lot! Praise Your Name!"
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Dear Pastor Dave,
ReplyDeleteI do rejoice that our God does say "Even now"... a lot!! So many times in my life I have needed that encouragement from Him and He always provides it regardless of my insufficiencies! I pray for your health and treatment daily as does my Mom, Laura and Rob.
Thank you for sharing that message with us inspite of all your are going through. You are a blessing!
In His Name,
Moraig Gawlitza
I do rejoice that His compassion fails not....... "even now" ...... when I whine or complain and there's really nothing much happening. Thank you Pastor Dave for being you and for being transparent and for letting us know that you are "leaning" on the everlasting arms.
ReplyDeleteI've learned that physical issues really impact emotional and spiritual well being. You have been a trooper, hang in there, when we are "weak" then He is strong. Let Him carry you now. We love you and continue to pray for God's healing touch.