Distractions

Distractions
Friday, September 30, 2011
from Bob

1 Peter 4:11 - "... by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified in Jesus Christ."

It's been a good week!

I think we've made some progress with respect to my dialysis treatments. They have raised my "dry" weight (the weight they try to get me down to by removing fluids). Because they are removing less fluid, I have not passed out this week from dehydration. Unfortunately, I continue to have intense muscle spasms in my low back, but I'm praying that is going to resolve itself soon. I have had to take some heavy duty pain meds this week to keep the pain manageable.

Since contracting this nasty little disease, some people have responded to me as if I had done something noble or honorable in contracting this disease. It is my belief that because we live in a fallen world, there are illness and diseases which people contract for no apparent reason. This week as I read my Bible, the thought came to me that while there is nothing noble about being diagnosed with this disease, my response to this illness is extremely important. I must find God's peace and God's provision for every day. My belief is that in the midst of my suffering, if I hold firm to my faith, then THAT will bring honor and glory to God. All I desire is to be faithful to Him and obedient to His will.

We had a good weekend. Emily came home for a visit, so we had all our kids and grandchildren here. Below is a photo of Patra and I with the 6 grandchildren. Please note that it was harder to get that picture than it would be to nail Jello to a tree. As we tried to take the picture, one baby needed to be fed, another child didn't want to take pictures, another had a meltdown and grandpa wasn't feeling very well either. For our friends who have more than 6 grandchildren, I wish you the best if you try to get a picture of them all at the same time.



We have also apparently entered the stage where the little girls are going to start performing for us. Below is a 30 second excerpt from their dance performance for us on Saturday night.



Truly, our grandchildren are a blessing and have been a great distraction from this disease. They make me laugh all the time.


Dear God,
Thank you for a good week and for our family. Thank you for the times we are able to share with each other. I pray that the memories of these happy times will stay in our hearts forever. I also continue to pray for so many of our friends who are walking through the tall weeds. I specifically pray for their comfort though your presence.
In Jesus name
Amen

Until next Friday,
God willing
Bob