Not sure what triggered this thought today, but it happened in staff meeting. Random thoughts do enter my head during meetings, at times. I was thinking about how some people criticize believers with comments like, “religion is just a crutch.” I would clarify my stand this way: Religion may be a crutch, but a pretty poor one. However, considering what I have been through this last year or so, a relationship with Jesus is not a crutch, it is a gurney! I am not leaning on Him, I am totally supported by Him.
Everyone leans on something, be it faith in Christ, religion, working hard, relationships, addictive substances, or self-reliance. Only Jesus will “never leave nor forsake us.” (Hebrews 13:5) Faith is only as good and as strong as that in which it is placed. Sometimes my faith may waiver, but Jesus never does. He “loves us with an everlasting love.” (Jeremiah 31:3) He is always interceding for us. (Hebrews 7:25). I’ll rest on Jesus.
What are you trusting in? Maybe a better way to ask, "Who are you trusting in?"
Shot…
Yesterday, I got my first round of immunizations. Other than sore arms and a bit of a headache (which could be just being allergic to Augusta), seems things are going well.
Pray that the immunities will build, and that the process won’t make me sick. :-)
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
What Is Your "House" Built On?
Matthew 7:24-27
Jesus gives the wonderfully visual picture of two men who build houses. Yet there is quite a contrast between them. We know the first man is wise because he builds his house on the rock—on a solid foundation. We know the second man is foolish because he builds his house on the sand.
In some west coast locations, people build houses on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean. They have incredible views and beautiful homes. I am sure some of those places are solid enough, but others are not. When the rains come, they slide down the mountain or cliff. Still, people keep building in the sand. At best, unwise.
This isn’t Jesus’ version of This Old House. He is giving a “life” course. Are you building on something that cannot be taken away or lost? Most of us in the west build our lives on wealth. You and I may not be wealthy by American standards, but we still trust in the funds we have, the paycheck that is still to come, or our retirement investments. Jesus knew the temptation to put our faith in what we have or what we could get would be strong. In fact it would compete right at the top with either trusting God or trusting in wealth. “You cannot serve God and money,” he said earlier. (Matthew 6:24) Most of what we trust in can be taken away.
There are lots of things our society puts high values on, and encourages you to trust in them: Looks, Intellect, Personality, Athleticism. But the rain of time, adversity or thievery still come, and we discover all are sand. The only rock solid foundation you can have is your relationship with God through Christ. If you really have it, nothing can take it away.
The wise man (and woman) builds his house (life) upon The Rock.
Update
I am doing well. Have gotten very busy. Relating to the above passage of scripture, I note that I am the beneficiary of some wonderful health care, but my trust is in the Lord. It has to be. As someone well said, “Doctors practice. God heals.” I am doing well because God is working through, around, and beyond all the medicine—and that is a result of your prayers.
Jesus gives the wonderfully visual picture of two men who build houses. Yet there is quite a contrast between them. We know the first man is wise because he builds his house on the rock—on a solid foundation. We know the second man is foolish because he builds his house on the sand.
In some west coast locations, people build houses on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean. They have incredible views and beautiful homes. I am sure some of those places are solid enough, but others are not. When the rains come, they slide down the mountain or cliff. Still, people keep building in the sand. At best, unwise.
This isn’t Jesus’ version of This Old House. He is giving a “life” course. Are you building on something that cannot be taken away or lost? Most of us in the west build our lives on wealth. You and I may not be wealthy by American standards, but we still trust in the funds we have, the paycheck that is still to come, or our retirement investments. Jesus knew the temptation to put our faith in what we have or what we could get would be strong. In fact it would compete right at the top with either trusting God or trusting in wealth. “You cannot serve God and money,” he said earlier. (Matthew 6:24) Most of what we trust in can be taken away.
There are lots of things our society puts high values on, and encourages you to trust in them: Looks, Intellect, Personality, Athleticism. But the rain of time, adversity or thievery still come, and we discover all are sand. The only rock solid foundation you can have is your relationship with God through Christ. If you really have it, nothing can take it away.
The wise man (and woman) builds his house (life) upon The Rock.
Update
I am doing well. Have gotten very busy. Relating to the above passage of scripture, I note that I am the beneficiary of some wonderful health care, but my trust is in the Lord. It has to be. As someone well said, “Doctors practice. God heals.” I am doing well because God is working through, around, and beyond all the medicine—and that is a result of your prayers.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Love Better Than A Tax Collector
Matthew 5:42-48
Jesus calls His followers to a very high standard for loving others. It is natural to love those who love you back. It is natural to love your family (although not guaranteed).
But Jesus calls us to “love your enemies, do good to those that hate you,” and “pray for those who spitefully use you.” It is interesting that Jesus says if we do this, then we become sons of our Father in Heaven. God loves the good and the bad, and both blessing and trouble come to both. Then He draws an interesting picture.
We have to love better than tax collectors. Now, almost none of us appreciate taxes or the work of tax collectors. But in Jesus’ day, a “tax collector” was what we might call the “scum of the earth,” or the dregs of humanity.” Tax collectors were Jews who had been employed by the Romans to collect their taxes. The Romans were occupiers of Israel, thus most of the Israelites saw these collectors as traitors. Some considered them “un-redeemable.” Matthew was one of those guys, so he knew what it was like to be shunned and probably spat upon. To say someone was acting like a tax collector was pejorative indeed.
To illustrate His point, Jesus noted “even tax collectors love their families and those who love them” [Lowry paraphrase]. His listeners likely response: “Well, I must certainly do better than a tax collector!” Yep, that is right. We all must.
There will always be people that are hard to love—some near impossible! But God loves every one of us, therefore I should as well. I am reminded of a comment of a friend who lives in another country where many folks of our "enemy" nations visit.
“Another thing we have learned is that we are very mistaken when we think of the people of nations being like their governments or the leaders in their country. We are sometimes guilty of feeling like it would be easier to wipe some peoples off the map rather than tolerate and risk having their countries exist. Believe us when we say, many of our faithful brothers and sisters in Christ are living in those countries and putting their lives on the line every day as they follow Jesus.”
I saw this I came to on my first trips into the Eastern Bloc. [Okay kids, “Eastern Bloc” is what we used to call the Satellite states (Romania, Poland, Bulgaria, etc) of the U. S. S. R. - The Union of Soviet Socialists Republics.] To lump all the Russians in the cold war period, or all citizens in another country today as enemies is wrong, dangerous, and, if you really think about it, ludicrous. Do you agree with everything our government does? You don’t, do you. No matter what side of the political fence you sit on, you don’t act like our government in every way, especially when it comes to foreign policy.
Loving other like Jesus outlines here starts at home, then church, office, and/or school; then those we see regularly, and ultimately—just keep extrapolating* this out—the people of the world. Yep, Jesus is giving us a missions message in Matthew 5:43-48.
[*”Extrapolate:” transitive and intransitive verb to use known facts as the starting point from which to draw inferences or conclusions about something unknown.]
Update:
I am sitting here in the doctor’s office, awaiting my latest weekly blood check report. These tests are to make sure the chemo I am taking don’t do me harm. They do not check the disease. Every few months is enough for that. Today’s blood work came back okay. The good numbers (white cells, platelets, hemoglobin) continue creeping up. Good.
Continue to pray that I will tolerate this medicine and that it will do its job. Something else you can pray about is discernment about schedules and commitments. I feel well enough now to easily get myself over committed to both projects and people, and I really need the discernment of God to know what really needs to be on my list.
Jesus calls His followers to a very high standard for loving others. It is natural to love those who love you back. It is natural to love your family (although not guaranteed).
But Jesus calls us to “love your enemies, do good to those that hate you,” and “pray for those who spitefully use you.” It is interesting that Jesus says if we do this, then we become sons of our Father in Heaven. God loves the good and the bad, and both blessing and trouble come to both. Then He draws an interesting picture.
We have to love better than tax collectors. Now, almost none of us appreciate taxes or the work of tax collectors. But in Jesus’ day, a “tax collector” was what we might call the “scum of the earth,” or the dregs of humanity.” Tax collectors were Jews who had been employed by the Romans to collect their taxes. The Romans were occupiers of Israel, thus most of the Israelites saw these collectors as traitors. Some considered them “un-redeemable.” Matthew was one of those guys, so he knew what it was like to be shunned and probably spat upon. To say someone was acting like a tax collector was pejorative indeed.
To illustrate His point, Jesus noted “even tax collectors love their families and those who love them” [Lowry paraphrase]. His listeners likely response: “Well, I must certainly do better than a tax collector!” Yep, that is right. We all must.
There will always be people that are hard to love—some near impossible! But God loves every one of us, therefore I should as well. I am reminded of a comment of a friend who lives in another country where many folks of our "enemy" nations visit.
“Another thing we have learned is that we are very mistaken when we think of the people of nations being like their governments or the leaders in their country. We are sometimes guilty of feeling like it would be easier to wipe some peoples off the map rather than tolerate and risk having their countries exist. Believe us when we say, many of our faithful brothers and sisters in Christ are living in those countries and putting their lives on the line every day as they follow Jesus.”
I saw this I came to on my first trips into the Eastern Bloc. [Okay kids, “Eastern Bloc” is what we used to call the Satellite states (Romania, Poland, Bulgaria, etc) of the U. S. S. R. - The Union of Soviet Socialists Republics.] To lump all the Russians in the cold war period, or all citizens in another country today as enemies is wrong, dangerous, and, if you really think about it, ludicrous. Do you agree with everything our government does? You don’t, do you. No matter what side of the political fence you sit on, you don’t act like our government in every way, especially when it comes to foreign policy.
Loving other like Jesus outlines here starts at home, then church, office, and/or school; then those we see regularly, and ultimately—just keep extrapolating* this out—the people of the world. Yep, Jesus is giving us a missions message in Matthew 5:43-48.
[*”Extrapolate:” transitive and intransitive verb to use known facts as the starting point from which to draw inferences or conclusions about something unknown.]
Update:
I am sitting here in the doctor’s office, awaiting my latest weekly blood check report. These tests are to make sure the chemo I am taking don’t do me harm. They do not check the disease. Every few months is enough for that. Today’s blood work came back okay. The good numbers (white cells, platelets, hemoglobin) continue creeping up. Good.
Continue to pray that I will tolerate this medicine and that it will do its job. Something else you can pray about is discernment about schedules and commitments. I feel well enough now to easily get myself over committed to both projects and people, and I really need the discernment of God to know what really needs to be on my list.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
A Billion Points of Light
Matthew 5:14-16
What if all of us in the world who profess a Biblical faith lived it? You know, a life of compassion and evangelism, joy and faith, obedience and hope. I remember a speech given by a presidential candidate a number of years ago. He spoke of people who helped others, and referred to them as “points of light.”
Jesus told his followers, “you are the light of the world.” All of us know that for many, even on a bright, hot sun shiny day, the world can be a dark place. Jesus is speaking of His light coming through us to penetrate the personal darkness of those who do not know or follow Him.
I cannot speak for you, but I want to be “light” for others. I cannot generate that good light myself. He does it through me.
What if all of us in my church reflected his light and life? Augusta—North Augusta would be different. What if the billion-plus Christ-followers all over the world shared His light and life?
Lord, shine through me today.
Been Awhile Update
I told someone the other day that I must be back pretty close to normal, because I have too many things going at one time again. So, I am feeling good, staying busy, and seeking to prioritize what are God things and what are Tom things. (The God things are higher on the list—at least, they are supposed to be!)
Keep praying. It is the prayers of the believers that have brought me to where I am.
What if all of us in the world who profess a Biblical faith lived it? You know, a life of compassion and evangelism, joy and faith, obedience and hope. I remember a speech given by a presidential candidate a number of years ago. He spoke of people who helped others, and referred to them as “points of light.”
Jesus told his followers, “you are the light of the world.” All of us know that for many, even on a bright, hot sun shiny day, the world can be a dark place. Jesus is speaking of His light coming through us to penetrate the personal darkness of those who do not know or follow Him.
I cannot speak for you, but I want to be “light” for others. I cannot generate that good light myself. He does it through me.
What if all of us in my church reflected his light and life? Augusta—North Augusta would be different. What if the billion-plus Christ-followers all over the world shared His light and life?
Lord, shine through me today.
Been Awhile Update
I told someone the other day that I must be back pretty close to normal, because I have too many things going at one time again. So, I am feeling good, staying busy, and seeking to prioritize what are God things and what are Tom things. (The God things are higher on the list—at least, they are supposed to be!)
Keep praying. It is the prayers of the believers that have brought me to where I am.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
“Melty” Salt
Matthew 5:13
Jesus calls his followers salt— salt of the earth. All my life I have heard that phrase “salt of the earth” to describe good people, usually in the past tense. (The past tense indicates what is probably the best time to laud folks and name buildings after them.) What does salt do? It preserves. It heals (albeit stingingly). It gives taste. It melts.
Needing to melt snow and ice would be exceedingly rare in the Middle East where Jesus spoke these words, but I do not think this function of salt escaped Jesus’ knowledge (since He created it). We should be “melters,” allowing God to use us in others' lives to warm cold hearts toward Him.
Wherever we are, we should seek to warm a heart, to bring spiritual or physical healing, to help protect and preserve, and, maybe, to just add fun (taste) or meaning to life.
Update:
I was supposed to go to Emory this week to get a report from the tests of two weeks ago. I got a call on Monday that said I did not need to come on Tuesday because, one, the doctor was out of town, and two, my numbers were good enough not to warrant the six hour drive for the ten minute appointment. (The caller didn’t say that last part. That’s my commentary.)
Now this was good news. It means the cancer is still at bay. Not gone. At bay. Good news.
The greatest concern of my doctors is that the maintenance chemo medicine, Revlimid, does not lower my immune system too much, and it has been a balancing act since I have started. Those numbers, I guess you could say, are “normal low” for folks on Revlimid. Still, it is the most effective post-transplant treatment, so I hope to stay on it. Pray we can make it work.
Jesus calls his followers salt— salt of the earth. All my life I have heard that phrase “salt of the earth” to describe good people, usually in the past tense. (The past tense indicates what is probably the best time to laud folks and name buildings after them.) What does salt do? It preserves. It heals (albeit stingingly). It gives taste. It melts.
Needing to melt snow and ice would be exceedingly rare in the Middle East where Jesus spoke these words, but I do not think this function of salt escaped Jesus’ knowledge (since He created it). We should be “melters,” allowing God to use us in others' lives to warm cold hearts toward Him.
Wherever we are, we should seek to warm a heart, to bring spiritual or physical healing, to help protect and preserve, and, maybe, to just add fun (taste) or meaning to life.
Update:
I was supposed to go to Emory this week to get a report from the tests of two weeks ago. I got a call on Monday that said I did not need to come on Tuesday because, one, the doctor was out of town, and two, my numbers were good enough not to warrant the six hour drive for the ten minute appointment. (The caller didn’t say that last part. That’s my commentary.)
Now this was good news. It means the cancer is still at bay. Not gone. At bay. Good news.
The greatest concern of my doctors is that the maintenance chemo medicine, Revlimid, does not lower my immune system too much, and it has been a balancing act since I have started. Those numbers, I guess you could say, are “normal low” for folks on Revlimid. Still, it is the most effective post-transplant treatment, so I hope to stay on it. Pray we can make it work.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
"Blessed Are The Persecuted" or "How Bold Are We, Really?"
Matthew 5:10-12
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of God. Blessed are you when they revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in Heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
There will always be God haters, and people that hate the one true God will hate those who follow Him most closely. Those believers who walk with Christ in their hearts are already experiencing at least a bit of the Kingdom of God in their lives, and they are taking it to those they are around. Believers that care for others make a difference, and show the compassionate side of Christ that most outsiders never see or consider. (See “Teaching-Preaching-Healing” from 6/29).
“Theirs is the Kingdom.” The model prayer reminds us that the Kingdom is the Father’s. This tells us that it will one day belong to those who follow. Awesome promise.
Persecution or rejection comes to those who are living an unapologetic life for Christ. If there is not enough evidence showing, our lives get little attention. Perhaps it could be stated this way:
"Blessed are you when you get persecuted because you just won’t shut up about the Truth."
"Blessed are you when you are reviled (etc.) because you act and speak so much like Jesus that you make the anti-God ones a feel uncomfortable (or, possibly, convicted)."
This passage seems to imply the greater the persecution, the greater the reward. If so, that may mean believers in parts of the world hostile to the Way may well live in the “Beverly Hills” of heaven while us westerners may live in the Condo section – but they will be very nice condos.
The faith and boldness of believers in other parts of the world challenges me. I read yesterday of two Congolese pastors who go into the forest to share the gospel with rebel soldiers. Very dangerous, but they are certain God has called them to go. (I'll have more to say about this in my message tomorrow.) There is something about sharing your faith when it could cause you to get shot or your throat slit that is far beyond what I could imagine.
How bold are we, really?
Update
Numbers are still okay, so we may be on to something with the dosage of the maintenance chemo. My visit to both doctors, (Emory and Augusta) were mostly giving blood. I'll know my test results from Emory in about ten days. I see my local oncologist on Friday for my monthly visit. Overall, I feel good. That is a result of your prayers! Thank you.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of God. Blessed are you when they revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in Heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
There will always be God haters, and people that hate the one true God will hate those who follow Him most closely. Those believers who walk with Christ in their hearts are already experiencing at least a bit of the Kingdom of God in their lives, and they are taking it to those they are around. Believers that care for others make a difference, and show the compassionate side of Christ that most outsiders never see or consider. (See “Teaching-Preaching-Healing” from 6/29).
“Theirs is the Kingdom.” The model prayer reminds us that the Kingdom is the Father’s. This tells us that it will one day belong to those who follow. Awesome promise.
Persecution or rejection comes to those who are living an unapologetic life for Christ. If there is not enough evidence showing, our lives get little attention. Perhaps it could be stated this way:
"Blessed are you when you get persecuted because you just won’t shut up about the Truth."
"Blessed are you when you are reviled (etc.) because you act and speak so much like Jesus that you make the anti-God ones a feel uncomfortable (or, possibly, convicted)."
This passage seems to imply the greater the persecution, the greater the reward. If so, that may mean believers in parts of the world hostile to the Way may well live in the “Beverly Hills” of heaven while us westerners may live in the Condo section – but they will be very nice condos.
The faith and boldness of believers in other parts of the world challenges me. I read yesterday of two Congolese pastors who go into the forest to share the gospel with rebel soldiers. Very dangerous, but they are certain God has called them to go. (I'll have more to say about this in my message tomorrow.) There is something about sharing your faith when it could cause you to get shot or your throat slit that is far beyond what I could imagine.
How bold are we, really?
Update
Numbers are still okay, so we may be on to something with the dosage of the maintenance chemo. My visit to both doctors, (Emory and Augusta) were mostly giving blood. I'll know my test results from Emory in about ten days. I see my local oncologist on Friday for my monthly visit. Overall, I feel good. That is a result of your prayers! Thank you.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Blessed Are The Peacemakers
Matthew 5:9
Blessed are Those Who Make Peace, For They Shall Become Sons of God.
When we are making peace, we look like Jesus. Does this mean peace at any cost? Peace in spite of injustice? I don’t think so. But we are to bring peace to others.
For years, we served orphans in Romania. Part of that is an effort to bring God's peace to lives that have been disrupted by abandonment, neglect, abuse, and violence. They need peace—external and internal peace. That peace begins with love from others, but finds permanent roots in a relationship with Christ. Believers are to be agents of peace, but realizing that God is the author of that peace.
Update
I go back to Emory tomorrow for some more blood-letting. It was ten or eleven vials three months ago. Praise the Lord for the technology that allows them to stick you once for all rather than once per vial! This is my six-month-post-transplant follow-up visit. I'll also see the doctor or one of the Nurse Practitioners, for conversations about how I am doing. The test results won't be back for a couple of weeks, but you can pray that the results are good.
Your prayers are the best thing you can do for me.
Blessed are Those Who Make Peace, For They Shall Become Sons of God.
When we are making peace, we look like Jesus. Does this mean peace at any cost? Peace in spite of injustice? I don’t think so. But we are to bring peace to others.
For years, we served orphans in Romania. Part of that is an effort to bring God's peace to lives that have been disrupted by abandonment, neglect, abuse, and violence. They need peace—external and internal peace. That peace begins with love from others, but finds permanent roots in a relationship with Christ. Believers are to be agents of peace, but realizing that God is the author of that peace.
Update
I go back to Emory tomorrow for some more blood-letting. It was ten or eleven vials three months ago. Praise the Lord for the technology that allows them to stick you once for all rather than once per vial! This is my six-month-post-transplant follow-up visit. I'll also see the doctor or one of the Nurse Practitioners, for conversations about how I am doing. The test results won't be back for a couple of weeks, but you can pray that the results are good.
Your prayers are the best thing you can do for me.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Blessed Are The Pure-Hearted
Matthew 5:8
"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."
There is no impurity before God. His being is so untainted, without even a hint of impurity, that nothing contaminated with sin can be in his presence. It will not stand. We are born bent toward impurity. We have a natural leaning toward sin, and before we are very old, we have revealed that nature. We know this from our own children. The word we say most to our little, toddling offspring is “no,” not “yes.” That was true of our parent’s words to us. Isaiah said “All we like sheep have gone astray. Every one of us has turned to his on way.” (Isaiah 53:6, emphasis added.) Paul, in Romans 3:23, reminds us “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (emphasis added again)
Part of what makes God glorious is His total purity. I wonder what we would look like if every thought was pure, every action innocent, every word true? Hmm.
Truth is, we are not pure. How will we ever be able to stand before God? How can we get a pure heart? Isaiah finishes 53:6 with, “the Lord laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Paul tells us, “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8). Only through Christ can we be made pure. It is His gift, from the suffering and blood of the Cross, which makes us pure. “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NASB) Apart from Christ, I am hopelessly unrighteous. In Christ, I am made new. It is beyond my reckoning to understand all this, but my limited ability to comprehend does not make it less true.
Check out these additional passages of scripture to gain more insight. If you are reading this online, you should be able to click on each reference, as you can those above, and you'll be taken to the BibleGateway.com site, where you can read the scriptures, and look at them in their context.
Ephesians 2:1-10
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Hebrews 12:14
Revelation 22:3-4
1 John 3:2
Update: I am feeling well, perhaps a bit more tired than normal, but doing well. Keep the prayers going. They are everything.
"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."
There is no impurity before God. His being is so untainted, without even a hint of impurity, that nothing contaminated with sin can be in his presence. It will not stand. We are born bent toward impurity. We have a natural leaning toward sin, and before we are very old, we have revealed that nature. We know this from our own children. The word we say most to our little, toddling offspring is “no,” not “yes.” That was true of our parent’s words to us. Isaiah said “All we like sheep have gone astray. Every one of us has turned to his on way.” (Isaiah 53:6, emphasis added.) Paul, in Romans 3:23, reminds us “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (emphasis added again)
Part of what makes God glorious is His total purity. I wonder what we would look like if every thought was pure, every action innocent, every word true? Hmm.
Truth is, we are not pure. How will we ever be able to stand before God? How can we get a pure heart? Isaiah finishes 53:6 with, “the Lord laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Paul tells us, “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8). Only through Christ can we be made pure. It is His gift, from the suffering and blood of the Cross, which makes us pure. “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NASB) Apart from Christ, I am hopelessly unrighteous. In Christ, I am made new. It is beyond my reckoning to understand all this, but my limited ability to comprehend does not make it less true.
Check out these additional passages of scripture to gain more insight. If you are reading this online, you should be able to click on each reference, as you can those above, and you'll be taken to the BibleGateway.com site, where you can read the scriptures, and look at them in their context.
Ephesians 2:1-10
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Hebrews 12:14
Revelation 22:3-4
1 John 3:2
Update: I am feeling well, perhaps a bit more tired than normal, but doing well. Keep the prayers going. They are everything.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Blessed Are The Mercy Givers
Matthew 5:7
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."
However, according to James 2:13, the converse is also true:
"Judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful." However, the last part of that verse is good news, "Mercy triumphs over judgment!"
I have a hard time thinking about mercy without thinking about grace—God’s grace. If you are my age or close, that may elicit a memory of a hymn: The last verse says, "Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace, freely bestowed on all who believe. All who are longing to see His face, will you this moment His grace receive? Grace, grace, God’s grace. Grace that will pardon and cleanse within. Grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that is greater than all our sin.”
Jesus isn’t just speaking of the grace and mercy of God toward me, though. He is speaking of the mercy I am supposed to show others. I take that is spurts. It is very little trouble for me to show mercy to a little kid, even one that is somewhat annoying—at least for awhile. Drivers who pull out in front of me elicit a less merciful response. That isn’t right, but is the way I tend to react.
Think about Jesus and the times he showed mercy. He showed mercy to those he healed. Perhaps He was showing a rather painful mercy toward the religious leaders he confronted by telling them the truth and pointing out their errors. He showed mercy to those who killed Him. He could have called down fire from heaven, and vaporized them on the spot. However, His mercy toward you and me was so strong that he willingly died, showing mercy to his immediate accusers and to us sinners far away in the future.
That is a level of mercy I know little about. I should show mercy as He does, to the homeless, to the needy, to the small, to the orphans and widows (scripture has a LOT to say about this) and toward whomever he brings in my path.
Bottom line. If I want people to show me mercy, I have to be merciful toward others, first.
Update
Went to the doctor on Friday. I get to do that every week, but I only actually see the doctor once a month. The other times are just to check in with the local vampires, uhm..., phlebotomist. (Blood letting seems to be a part of my treatment). This week, my number were back up, so I am back on my maintenance chemo, but every other day. We'll see how I tolerate this level of dosing. I never felt bad, but my platelets and white cell count dropped too low.
The only side effect I began to experience before they took me off the Revlimid two weeks ago was a little light-headedness upon standing. Not empty-headedness, just light. So, now, when I stand up, especially if I am in the middle of a room rather than near a wall which would withstand my leaning against it, I stand, and wait for, say, a ten-count. If I have my wits and my legs about me, I will move away from my chair. If not, I sit back down. You have to see the humor where you can find it.
Overall, I feel good—very good most days. That is an answer to your prayers. Keep them going up.
Thanks!
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."
However, according to James 2:13, the converse is also true:
"Judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful." However, the last part of that verse is good news, "Mercy triumphs over judgment!"
I have a hard time thinking about mercy without thinking about grace—God’s grace. If you are my age or close, that may elicit a memory of a hymn: The last verse says, "Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace, freely bestowed on all who believe. All who are longing to see His face, will you this moment His grace receive? Grace, grace, God’s grace. Grace that will pardon and cleanse within. Grace, grace, God’s grace, grace that is greater than all our sin.”
Jesus isn’t just speaking of the grace and mercy of God toward me, though. He is speaking of the mercy I am supposed to show others. I take that is spurts. It is very little trouble for me to show mercy to a little kid, even one that is somewhat annoying—at least for awhile. Drivers who pull out in front of me elicit a less merciful response. That isn’t right, but is the way I tend to react.
Think about Jesus and the times he showed mercy. He showed mercy to those he healed. Perhaps He was showing a rather painful mercy toward the religious leaders he confronted by telling them the truth and pointing out their errors. He showed mercy to those who killed Him. He could have called down fire from heaven, and vaporized them on the spot. However, His mercy toward you and me was so strong that he willingly died, showing mercy to his immediate accusers and to us sinners far away in the future.
That is a level of mercy I know little about. I should show mercy as He does, to the homeless, to the needy, to the small, to the orphans and widows (scripture has a LOT to say about this) and toward whomever he brings in my path.
Bottom line. If I want people to show me mercy, I have to be merciful toward others, first.
Update
Went to the doctor on Friday. I get to do that every week, but I only actually see the doctor once a month. The other times are just to check in with the local vampires, uhm..., phlebotomist. (Blood letting seems to be a part of my treatment). This week, my number were back up, so I am back on my maintenance chemo, but every other day. We'll see how I tolerate this level of dosing. I never felt bad, but my platelets and white cell count dropped too low.
The only side effect I began to experience before they took me off the Revlimid two weeks ago was a little light-headedness upon standing. Not empty-headedness, just light. So, now, when I stand up, especially if I am in the middle of a room rather than near a wall which would withstand my leaning against it, I stand, and wait for, say, a ten-count. If I have my wits and my legs about me, I will move away from my chair. If not, I sit back down. You have to see the humor where you can find it.
Overall, I feel good—very good most days. That is an answer to your prayers. Keep them going up.
Thanks!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Blessed Are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Spiritual Food
Matthew 5:6
I, and most westerners, do not have much idea what it means to be truly hungry. When I think I am hungry, that means that my stomach is empty. Hunger for survival is a foreign concept to me—and I like it that way. However, all of us, if we have been paying attention at all, have seen images of people that are desperately hungry – Haiti after the earthquake, South Asians after the Tsunami, refugees from the genocide in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Rwanda. They are hungry. They need to eat to survive.
I wish I were that hungry spiritually. Oh, I feed myself daily, but sometimes it is only a snack, not a meal. Sometimes I scarf it down rather than chewing it properly, savoring the flavor and getting the most out of it. I know lots of Christ followers that are spiritually anorexic. They starve themselves because they mistakenly assume that a little food on Sunday will get them by the rest of the week. Try that physically. Go eat Sunday dinner after church, and then don’t eat again until the next Sunday’s lunch. Same principle applies.
I need to be in the Word each day, and I need God to increase my appetite for food and drink spiritual. He can do that a number of ways. During the last nine months, I have been hungrier for Him than hardly any other time in my life. Being diagnosed with an illness that ends with seeing Him face to face should make me want to know Him better. But, I would suggest that you avoid this type of appetite inducement if at all possible. Allow God to work in your life to, and take time to eat every day. The more you eat, the more likely your appetite will grow.
Update
Last week I had to deal with one of my "bi-annual sinus/chest infections," What I call "the Lowry Crud." Usually, before Stem Cell Transplant (SCT) I could get my antibiotic and any other meds over the phone. Now, post-SCT, never again will I get "doctored" over the phone. I do appreciate my allergist coming in early to see me. Not many docs will do that. My chemo has left some of my counts low, so my oncologist has asked me to hold off the chemo pill until I see him on Friday. I have. So, the infection is on retreat, and hopefully the counts are coming up.
Ask God to give my doctors wisdom as they work to keep me healthy and to find what keeps the cancer very unhealthy. Your prayers are still the critical ingredient in my treatment. Don't let up.
I, and most westerners, do not have much idea what it means to be truly hungry. When I think I am hungry, that means that my stomach is empty. Hunger for survival is a foreign concept to me—and I like it that way. However, all of us, if we have been paying attention at all, have seen images of people that are desperately hungry – Haiti after the earthquake, South Asians after the Tsunami, refugees from the genocide in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Rwanda. They are hungry. They need to eat to survive.
I wish I were that hungry spiritually. Oh, I feed myself daily, but sometimes it is only a snack, not a meal. Sometimes I scarf it down rather than chewing it properly, savoring the flavor and getting the most out of it. I know lots of Christ followers that are spiritually anorexic. They starve themselves because they mistakenly assume that a little food on Sunday will get them by the rest of the week. Try that physically. Go eat Sunday dinner after church, and then don’t eat again until the next Sunday’s lunch. Same principle applies.
I need to be in the Word each day, and I need God to increase my appetite for food and drink spiritual. He can do that a number of ways. During the last nine months, I have been hungrier for Him than hardly any other time in my life. Being diagnosed with an illness that ends with seeing Him face to face should make me want to know Him better. But, I would suggest that you avoid this type of appetite inducement if at all possible. Allow God to work in your life to, and take time to eat every day. The more you eat, the more likely your appetite will grow.
Update
Last week I had to deal with one of my "bi-annual sinus/chest infections," What I call "the Lowry Crud." Usually, before Stem Cell Transplant (SCT) I could get my antibiotic and any other meds over the phone. Now, post-SCT, never again will I get "doctored" over the phone. I do appreciate my allergist coming in early to see me. Not many docs will do that. My chemo has left some of my counts low, so my oncologist has asked me to hold off the chemo pill until I see him on Friday. I have. So, the infection is on retreat, and hopefully the counts are coming up.
Ask God to give my doctors wisdom as they work to keep me healthy and to find what keeps the cancer very unhealthy. Your prayers are still the critical ingredient in my treatment. Don't let up.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Blessed Are The Self-Controlled
Matthew 5:5
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
Meekness, I have read, is not weakness, but Spirit empowered self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The phrase, “shall inherit the earth” is quoted from Psalm 37:11.
Self-control has to be Spirit empowered, because the huge majority, if not all of us, do not have any! Oh, we do most of the time, but those are the times that any of us would be in control of ourselves. It is times of frustration, temptation, stress, grief, or even joy that we can be out-of-control.
Maybe the self-controlled will inherit the earth because they are the ones that will be able to function when others cannot, will not, or do not. It takes relying on the Spirit, being filled with the Spirit, and controlled by the Spirit for it to happen.
Update
I am feeling good. Pushed it pretty hard this week, so I am taking it a bit easier today. My biggest fear is that many will see how well I am doing, and will stop praying. Don't! Every day, something—even if it is just taking the pills—reminds me that I have cancer, and that reminds me that God is in control, and I can trust Him, with me.
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
Meekness, I have read, is not weakness, but Spirit empowered self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The phrase, “shall inherit the earth” is quoted from Psalm 37:11.
Self-control has to be Spirit empowered, because the huge majority, if not all of us, do not have any! Oh, we do most of the time, but those are the times that any of us would be in control of ourselves. It is times of frustration, temptation, stress, grief, or even joy that we can be out-of-control.
Maybe the self-controlled will inherit the earth because they are the ones that will be able to function when others cannot, will not, or do not. It takes relying on the Spirit, being filled with the Spirit, and controlled by the Spirit for it to happen.
Update
I am feeling good. Pushed it pretty hard this week, so I am taking it a bit easier today. My biggest fear is that many will see how well I am doing, and will stop praying. Don't! Every day, something—even if it is just taking the pills—reminds me that I have cancer, and that reminds me that God is in control, and I can trust Him, with me.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Blessed Are Those Who Know Sin is Serious
Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
Perhaps in the same breath that he spoke the words about knowing you are needy, Jesus speaks of mourning over your personal condition. This isn’t sorrow over getting caught, or fear of being found out. What does God not already know? (Perhaps we fear earthly repercussions more than heavenly ones.) It is sorrow over sin—sorrow that leads to repentance. Paul amplified it this way in 2 Corinthians 7:10:
The comfort he speaks of is comfort of forgiveness. If you repent—turn away from your sin and turn toward God—then you will be comforted. 1 John 1:9 reminds us “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins.” Confess means “to say the same” and in this context means to say the same thing about a thought or action that God says about it. If He says it is sin, then call it sin. Do you ever have trouble calling something you know is wrong “sin”? I do. Seems I can call it a flaw, shortcoming, something stupid, or whatever, much easier than agreeing with God that it is “sin.” But that is the starting point to forgiveness. Confession is acknowledging what God has already said about something. It is letting myself know that I agree with God about it.
Speaking of the day when Jesus would come and make this forgiveness possible, Isaiah 40:1-2 says,
Those were words to the entire Jewish nation of the coming Messiah. He would pay for their sins, once for all. That payment is now effective for every Christ follower.
1 Peter 3:18 says it this way, “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;” (NASB) Notice that first phrase. Christ died once for all sins. He didn’t deserve it, we did. He was completely innocent. We are completely guilty. He died in order that we might be brought to God. That is comforting.
An Update
I continue to feel well. People even tell me that I look good. (Yes, that rarely happened before I was sick.) Anyway, in spite of my "good" looks and feelings, I still desperately need your prayers. Unless it has been removed by the Father and we have not yet discovered that, the cancer still lurks in my bone marrow, awaiting an opportunity to rear its ugly head. More than the meds, your prayers keep it at bay. Please don't let up. Those prayers mean more than you know.
Oh, here's a view from a home I recently visited with friends up in the NC mountains. Soooo Nice!
The front porches of the house were right on this stream.
Perhaps in the same breath that he spoke the words about knowing you are needy, Jesus speaks of mourning over your personal condition. This isn’t sorrow over getting caught, or fear of being found out. What does God not already know? (Perhaps we fear earthly repercussions more than heavenly ones.) It is sorrow over sin—sorrow that leads to repentance. Paul amplified it this way in 2 Corinthians 7:10:
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
It is sorrow that brings about change.The comfort he speaks of is comfort of forgiveness. If you repent—turn away from your sin and turn toward God—then you will be comforted. 1 John 1:9 reminds us “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins.” Confess means “to say the same” and in this context means to say the same thing about a thought or action that God says about it. If He says it is sin, then call it sin. Do you ever have trouble calling something you know is wrong “sin”? I do. Seems I can call it a flaw, shortcoming, something stupid, or whatever, much easier than agreeing with God that it is “sin.” But that is the starting point to forgiveness. Confession is acknowledging what God has already said about something. It is letting myself know that I agree with God about it.
Speaking of the day when Jesus would come and make this forgiveness possible, Isaiah 40:1-2 says,
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,
and proclaim to her
that her hard service has been completed,
that her sin has been paid for,
that she has received from the LORD's hand
double for all her sins. (NIV)
and proclaim to her
that her hard service has been completed,
that her sin has been paid for,
that she has received from the LORD's hand
double for all her sins. (NIV)
Those were words to the entire Jewish nation of the coming Messiah. He would pay for their sins, once for all. That payment is now effective for every Christ follower.
1 Peter 3:18 says it this way, “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;” (NASB) Notice that first phrase. Christ died once for all sins. He didn’t deserve it, we did. He was completely innocent. We are completely guilty. He died in order that we might be brought to God. That is comforting.
An Update
I continue to feel well. People even tell me that I look good. (Yes, that rarely happened before I was sick.) Anyway, in spite of my "good" looks and feelings, I still desperately need your prayers. Unless it has been removed by the Father and we have not yet discovered that, the cancer still lurks in my bone marrow, awaiting an opportunity to rear its ugly head. More than the meds, your prayers keep it at bay. Please don't let up. Those prayers mean more than you know.
Oh, here's a view from a home I recently visited with friends up in the NC mountains. Soooo Nice!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Blessed Are Those Who Know They Are Needy
Matthew 5:1-3
Jesus saw the multitudes and took the opportunity to teach them many things. I think it pretty appropriate that his first words to them are both and encouragement and an affirmation. To imaginatively paraphrase, “Happy are those who know they are needy. You know you don’t know everything there is to know. You know you need more for life. Well, you are in the right place at the right time. Listen to what I have to say hear, apply it, and you will find yourself a part of the kingdom of heaven.”
This hits me at the core of my American-Western self-sufficiency. The “I can do it” attitude has to eventually understand there are some things it cannot do. We Americans have accomplished some amazing things, but that doesn’t mean we are all knowing and able to fix everything. Other nationals developed lots of the things we enjoy, and even with their help we still cannot put everything right. What has happened, I am afraid, is that we have chosen to ignore or explain away those things we cannot fix—the things of the spirit. We have achieved much in the physical realm, from manufacturing to medicine. We have learned, through drugs, to alter or numb some of the disorders of the soul. But the realm of the spirit is God’s realm. Only He can do the work that needs to be done in every person’s life.
I would posit that the spirit of a man or woman is the foundation upon which they live, move, and have their being. If that spirit is not rightly related to God, then there is a very weak foundation indeed. My physical maladies of late remind me how fragile this body is, and how things can be going terribly wrong inside without the first “check body” warning light illuminating on the mind’s dashboard. Soul maladies—the things of the mind, will and emotions are more challenging. Why do I think the way I do? Why do I act the way I act? Why do I feel the way I feel? If my spirit is estranged from the Creator, then my answers will be at least somewhat in error.
Paul helps us understand this better in Acts 17:24-31. He is in Athens, expounding the good news to the elite: “In Him we live, move, and have our being” (emphasis added). Jesus said blessed are those who know they are needy—spiritually needy, spiritually poor—for they will seek the truth, find it, and become a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven.
How needy am I? Plum needy—completely needy. I may find treatment for some of my physical issues or challenges. I may be able to treat some of the maladies of my soul. Yet, I cannot fix my spirit. It is the deepest part of who I am. Only the designer-creator knows how it works. Only He can fix it—if I allow Him to.
Health Update:
I am feeling well. So far, the maintenance chemo is not making me feel any ill effects. Keep praying that is the case. There are other side-effects that can only be followed by doing blood work, so I will be going to the doctor on a weekly basis for a tiny bit of blood letting. You can pray those tests show the chemo having minimal impact on my body while at the same time doing their job.
Jesus saw the multitudes and took the opportunity to teach them many things. I think it pretty appropriate that his first words to them are both and encouragement and an affirmation. To imaginatively paraphrase, “Happy are those who know they are needy. You know you don’t know everything there is to know. You know you need more for life. Well, you are in the right place at the right time. Listen to what I have to say hear, apply it, and you will find yourself a part of the kingdom of heaven.”
This hits me at the core of my American-Western self-sufficiency. The “I can do it” attitude has to eventually understand there are some things it cannot do. We Americans have accomplished some amazing things, but that doesn’t mean we are all knowing and able to fix everything. Other nationals developed lots of the things we enjoy, and even with their help we still cannot put everything right. What has happened, I am afraid, is that we have chosen to ignore or explain away those things we cannot fix—the things of the spirit. We have achieved much in the physical realm, from manufacturing to medicine. We have learned, through drugs, to alter or numb some of the disorders of the soul. But the realm of the spirit is God’s realm. Only He can do the work that needs to be done in every person’s life.
I would posit that the spirit of a man or woman is the foundation upon which they live, move, and have their being. If that spirit is not rightly related to God, then there is a very weak foundation indeed. My physical maladies of late remind me how fragile this body is, and how things can be going terribly wrong inside without the first “check body” warning light illuminating on the mind’s dashboard. Soul maladies—the things of the mind, will and emotions are more challenging. Why do I think the way I do? Why do I act the way I act? Why do I feel the way I feel? If my spirit is estranged from the Creator, then my answers will be at least somewhat in error.
Paul helps us understand this better in Acts 17:24-31. He is in Athens, expounding the good news to the elite: “In Him we live, move, and have our being” (emphasis added). Jesus said blessed are those who know they are needy—spiritually needy, spiritually poor—for they will seek the truth, find it, and become a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven.
How needy am I? Plum needy—completely needy. I may find treatment for some of my physical issues or challenges. I may be able to treat some of the maladies of my soul. Yet, I cannot fix my spirit. It is the deepest part of who I am. Only the designer-creator knows how it works. Only He can fix it—if I allow Him to.
Health Update:
I am feeling well. So far, the maintenance chemo is not making me feel any ill effects. Keep praying that is the case. There are other side-effects that can only be followed by doing blood work, so I will be going to the doctor on a weekly basis for a tiny bit of blood letting. You can pray those tests show the chemo having minimal impact on my body while at the same time doing their job.
Friday, July 23, 2010
God's Anti Anxiety Provision
Matthew 6:34
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (NIV)
"Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof." (KJV)
How many times have I said to others, and myself, “One day at a time”? If you needed a scriptural basis for that thought, this is it. Along with the verses about how God takes care of the lilies and the birds comes this one. The verse just prior reminds me to “seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things [that I worry about] will be taken care of by God. Awesome. Easy to preach—hard to live out.
I try not to be negative about things, but being a “contemplative” by personality, I am usually able to see the small negative in the midst of overwhelming positives. (Other similar personality systems may designate my personality type as a “Conscientious,” or “Beaver,”—as in “busy as a…” It basically means I am most happy to be behind the scenes with a task that I like.) When I got the VGPR—Very Good Partial Response—report from my hundred-day-post-transplant test, I focused on the word “partial.” The doctor, and most others, focused on the words “very good.”
Jesus hits right where I and my personality live. I have to take each day as He brings it to me. I cannot do anything about tomorrow. Worrying doesn’t fix anything, and it usually focuses on things that do not happen. Looking into the future to find things to worry about is counter-productive at best. The chief thing I must do is “not worry about tomorrow” but “seek first His kingdom” and trust Him to add whatever else I need for today. Is another way of saying to God, “I trust You, with me.”
Update On Things Medical...
Today I went to my local oncologist. He is a very good doctor, and he has a very good staff. We got the ball rolling on what I call my maintenance chemo, and some bone strengthening meds too. I will start the bone stuff (its an IV) next Friday, and the chemo (it’s a pill) when the specialty pharmacy gets it to me.
Pray that:
1. God will be glorified.
2. That I will be patient, trusting, and faithful.
3. That treatment will be effective
4. That side effects will be minimized.
Addendum
*If your interest has been piqued about this personality thing, you can find out a bit more at Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DISC_assessment
There are tons of DISC type evaluations out there. Some are in books and others are administered by professionals for a fee. It is valuable to understand your personality type, but it is not the only variable in who we are and how we deal with life. A relationship with Christ deals with our bent toward sin and many of the hard edges of our personalities. Spiritual gifts given to us by God often compensate or augment our personalities. Rick Warren speaks of how five things determine how we are “SHAPEd” for ministry:
[Boy this was long!]
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (NIV)
"Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof." (KJV)
How many times have I said to others, and myself, “One day at a time”? If you needed a scriptural basis for that thought, this is it. Along with the verses about how God takes care of the lilies and the birds comes this one. The verse just prior reminds me to “seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things [that I worry about] will be taken care of by God. Awesome. Easy to preach—hard to live out.
I try not to be negative about things, but being a “contemplative” by personality, I am usually able to see the small negative in the midst of overwhelming positives. (Other similar personality systems may designate my personality type as a “Conscientious,” or “Beaver,”—as in “busy as a…” It basically means I am most happy to be behind the scenes with a task that I like.) When I got the VGPR—Very Good Partial Response—report from my hundred-day-post-transplant test, I focused on the word “partial.” The doctor, and most others, focused on the words “very good.”
Jesus hits right where I and my personality live. I have to take each day as He brings it to me. I cannot do anything about tomorrow. Worrying doesn’t fix anything, and it usually focuses on things that do not happen. Looking into the future to find things to worry about is counter-productive at best. The chief thing I must do is “not worry about tomorrow” but “seek first His kingdom” and trust Him to add whatever else I need for today. Is another way of saying to God, “I trust You, with me.”
Update On Things Medical...
Today I went to my local oncologist. He is a very good doctor, and he has a very good staff. We got the ball rolling on what I call my maintenance chemo, and some bone strengthening meds too. I will start the bone stuff (its an IV) next Friday, and the chemo (it’s a pill) when the specialty pharmacy gets it to me.
Pray that:
1. God will be glorified.
2. That I will be patient, trusting, and faithful.
3. That treatment will be effective
4. That side effects will be minimized.
Addendum
*If your interest has been piqued about this personality thing, you can find out a bit more at Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DISC_assessment
There are tons of DISC type evaluations out there. Some are in books and others are administered by professionals for a fee. It is valuable to understand your personality type, but it is not the only variable in who we are and how we deal with life. A relationship with Christ deals with our bent toward sin and many of the hard edges of our personalities. Spiritual gifts given to us by God often compensate or augment our personalities. Rick Warren speaks of how five things determine how we are “SHAPEd” for ministry:
- Spiritual Gifts – Received when we become a Christ follower
- Heart – What do you love to do?
- Abilities – These can be natural (talents that have been honed) or acquired (stay in school)
- Personality – (see above)
- Experience – What have you learned in life already?
[Boy this was long!]
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Pre-Toddling
I have been reading When Life Falls Apart, by David Jeremiah. A friend gave me the book shortly after my cancer diagnosis. In the book, Jeremiah relates his struggle with cancer and what he learned from it. I started this book last fall, and then put it down about halfway through. (I am able to put almost any book down.) A week or so ago, I picked it up and began reading again. I came upon an illustration (page 122) that really resonated with me. Here is the short version.
The story revolved around a very proud grandfather and his little granddaughter. She was at the beginning stages of learning to walk. She was a "pre-toddler." You know, she crawls over to the couch, pulls herself up, and then stands there, wanting to move around like all the taller people around her, but not quite sure about the wisdom of attempting such locomotion. Grandpa did what almost every parent and grandparent has done. He got down on the floor and called to her to “come to papa.” [I don’t know why we so encourage our kids to learn to walk, because when they begin to walk, we begin to chase!]
After a bit of coaxing, she would leave her steadying grip on the sofa and head his way, only to fall each time. After a couple of attempts, grandpa arose and went over and took his little granddaughter’s hands in his. He helped her stand. Next, he raised her up just a little and positioned his feet under her feet. Then, together, grandpa and granddaughter proceeded across the room with little baby steps. She really wasn’t walking. Grandpa was doing all the work. She was completely dependent upon her grandpa’s ability and strength to get across the room. She was attempting to do what for her (at least at this stage of her development) was impossible.
I am a spiritual pre-toddler, and I must rely on my Heavenly Father to get me to the other side of this and whatever else life may bring. I am dependent upon His grip, dependent on His ability to guide my feet, and dependent on His strength to hold me up. Here are a couple of verses I hang on to (especially the first one). Proverbs 3:5-6 – "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths [my personal application: guide my feet]. Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Health and Prayer Requests:
Your prayers still are the most important ingredient in treatment of my cancer. Doctors practice. God heals.
The story revolved around a very proud grandfather and his little granddaughter. She was at the beginning stages of learning to walk. She was a "pre-toddler." You know, she crawls over to the couch, pulls herself up, and then stands there, wanting to move around like all the taller people around her, but not quite sure about the wisdom of attempting such locomotion. Grandpa did what almost every parent and grandparent has done. He got down on the floor and called to her to “come to papa.” [I don’t know why we so encourage our kids to learn to walk, because when they begin to walk, we begin to chase!]
After a bit of coaxing, she would leave her steadying grip on the sofa and head his way, only to fall each time. After a couple of attempts, grandpa arose and went over and took his little granddaughter’s hands in his. He helped her stand. Next, he raised her up just a little and positioned his feet under her feet. Then, together, grandpa and granddaughter proceeded across the room with little baby steps. She really wasn’t walking. Grandpa was doing all the work. She was completely dependent upon her grandpa’s ability and strength to get across the room. She was attempting to do what for her (at least at this stage of her development) was impossible.
I am a spiritual pre-toddler, and I must rely on my Heavenly Father to get me to the other side of this and whatever else life may bring. I am dependent upon His grip, dependent on His ability to guide my feet, and dependent on His strength to hold me up. Here are a couple of verses I hang on to (especially the first one). Proverbs 3:5-6 – "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths [my personal application: guide my feet]. Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Health and Prayer Requests:
- I got a haircut this week. Yep, its short and gonna stay that way. I have decided that I like getting up in the morning and my hair is "done."
- Found my notes from my meeting with the oncologist in Atlanta on July 6, and was reminded that along with the low-dose chemo (pray that side effects are minimized, please) I will be taking something to strength my bones. That will be by IV, but may only be monthly, and takes an hour to get it in. (Side effects of this one are minimal, but you can still pray that they really are.)
- I feel really good. Have lots of energy. One more prayer request: Pray that I will be able to keep this energy level or close to it, once I start the chemo. I have an appointment with my oncologist here on Friday. Then I'll know when I will start and what my schedule will be with it.
Your prayers still are the most important ingredient in treatment of my cancer. Doctors practice. God heals.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Backing God into a Corner is Not a Good Idea
Matthew 4:5-7
The devil starts off like he did with the first temptation. “If you are the son of God…” trying, perhaps, to instill a bit of doubt in the head of Jesus. This time though, the devil even quotes scripture related to the Son of God. However, he takes verses about God’s protection and trusting Him and twists them into an invitation to presume on or test God.
Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 6:16 this time. “You shall not tempt [test] the Lord your God.” This passage is recalling the Israelites grumbling against God when water was in short supply. They got the water, but Moses named the location Massah (“test”) and Meribah (“quarrel). It will always be known for the people’s doubting of God: “Is the Lord among us, or not?” (See Exodus 17:1-7)
Presuming on God’s protection, provision, blessing, and deliverance is a bad idea. The “One time won’t matter,” or, “He’ll forgive me anyway,” mode of thinking is very dangerous spiritually and physically. Sort of the spiritual and physical equivalent to, “Hey Bubba, watch this.” The Israelites got water, but they’ll always be known as a whiny, quarrelsome bunch.
The Report from the Doctor (Tuesday, July 6)
My evaluation was “VGPR-Very Good Partial Response.” That means I am not healed, nor am I in remission. It means I will start a regular low-dose chemo to keep it beaten down.
How do I feel about all this? Mixed. I was hoping and trusting for healing, or at least remission. However, I am glad the response was good. The doctor likes my numbers, and that is encouraging. I continue to walk this road, trusting God for each day, and relying on you to continue to lift me up in prayer. Thanks!
The devil starts off like he did with the first temptation. “If you are the son of God…” trying, perhaps, to instill a bit of doubt in the head of Jesus. This time though, the devil even quotes scripture related to the Son of God. However, he takes verses about God’s protection and trusting Him and twists them into an invitation to presume on or test God.
Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 6:16 this time. “You shall not tempt [test] the Lord your God.” This passage is recalling the Israelites grumbling against God when water was in short supply. They got the water, but Moses named the location Massah (“test”) and Meribah (“quarrel). It will always be known for the people’s doubting of God: “Is the Lord among us, or not?” (See Exodus 17:1-7)
Presuming on God’s protection, provision, blessing, and deliverance is a bad idea. The “One time won’t matter,” or, “He’ll forgive me anyway,” mode of thinking is very dangerous spiritually and physically. Sort of the spiritual and physical equivalent to, “Hey Bubba, watch this.” The Israelites got water, but they’ll always be known as a whiny, quarrelsome bunch.
The Report from the Doctor (Tuesday, July 6)
My evaluation was “VGPR-Very Good Partial Response.” That means I am not healed, nor am I in remission. It means I will start a regular low-dose chemo to keep it beaten down.
How do I feel about all this? Mixed. I was hoping and trusting for healing, or at least remission. However, I am glad the response was good. The doctor likes my numbers, and that is encouraging. I continue to walk this road, trusting God for each day, and relying on you to continue to lift me up in prayer. Thanks!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Teaching-Preaching-Healing
Matthew 4:23-25
I am probably going to open a can of worms here…
Jesus began his ministry with a focus on the region of Galilee. The primary foci of his ministry was teaching, preaching, and healing. OK, Southern Baptist born and bred Tom, healing was one-third of his ministry. Even MacArthur agrees with that three-fold focus. If this was His focus on earth, why should it not be His focus, and the focus of the church (uh oh) in this present time? You know, it is just way too easy to say the manifestation of healing was given during Jesus’ ministry and the early church, but is no longer for today. I have never bought such explanations for the God who is “the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8). How God chooses to do the healing is up to Him: Medicine, Miracle or Meeting. I have heard of or seen all three.
Healing is more than an outdated (“not for the church age”) visual aid to display the power of God. It is a necessity. Most places in the world do not have the medical advances that we do, so believers must look to God for healing. There are limits to medicine. I know this to be true in my own experience. Obviously, healing Multiple Myeloma is beyond the reach of current medical ability, and so are the aggravating allergies that have coexisted with me for nearly the entire time I have lived in Augusta. (I call this place “The Allergy Capital of the World.” The newspaper has put us in the top five worst places to live as far as allergies are concerned.) Medicine can only do so much. We tend to trust it far more than we should. I am very thankful for the medical care and expertise I have received over the last nine months. I expect it to continue for a long time! But healing comes from God.
The other two foci of his ministry are critically important. Physical healing relieves distress, pain, suffering, aggravation, and postpones death. But, for us, even God’s healing is rather temporary. Unless Jesus returns while we remain, we will, eventually, die. Ask Lazarus. Salvation comes through the “foolishness” of preaching (1 Corinthians 1:18, 21 KJV). Discipleship comes through the teaching. All are important.
Now, whether God chooses or has chosen to heal me is his realm. Whether I am healed on earth, or even in long-term remission, is up to Him. I know that when I am in heaven I will be completely healed. However, that does not mean we should not pray for healing, learn more about healing, and leave the faith door wide open to God’s working in ways we are not used to.
Update
THE APPOINTMENT is at 9:30 AM tomorrow, and they are usually running late. We will hear the report of the hundred days after the transplant. This is big. It will tell us what they have accomplished and what God has done. Just keep praying for a good report. We'll update you as soon as we can. God being glorified is what we desire (right along with a miraculous report)!
Soon I hope I'll have some cool July 4 pics up for you, but for now, just words. :-)
I am probably going to open a can of worms here…
Jesus began his ministry with a focus on the region of Galilee. The primary foci of his ministry was teaching, preaching, and healing. OK, Southern Baptist born and bred Tom, healing was one-third of his ministry. Even MacArthur agrees with that three-fold focus. If this was His focus on earth, why should it not be His focus, and the focus of the church (uh oh) in this present time? You know, it is just way too easy to say the manifestation of healing was given during Jesus’ ministry and the early church, but is no longer for today. I have never bought such explanations for the God who is “the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8). How God chooses to do the healing is up to Him: Medicine, Miracle or Meeting. I have heard of or seen all three.
Healing is more than an outdated (“not for the church age”) visual aid to display the power of God. It is a necessity. Most places in the world do not have the medical advances that we do, so believers must look to God for healing. There are limits to medicine. I know this to be true in my own experience. Obviously, healing Multiple Myeloma is beyond the reach of current medical ability, and so are the aggravating allergies that have coexisted with me for nearly the entire time I have lived in Augusta. (I call this place “The Allergy Capital of the World.” The newspaper has put us in the top five worst places to live as far as allergies are concerned.) Medicine can only do so much. We tend to trust it far more than we should. I am very thankful for the medical care and expertise I have received over the last nine months. I expect it to continue for a long time! But healing comes from God.
The other two foci of his ministry are critically important. Physical healing relieves distress, pain, suffering, aggravation, and postpones death. But, for us, even God’s healing is rather temporary. Unless Jesus returns while we remain, we will, eventually, die. Ask Lazarus. Salvation comes through the “foolishness” of preaching (1 Corinthians 1:18, 21 KJV). Discipleship comes through the teaching. All are important.
Now, whether God chooses or has chosen to heal me is his realm. Whether I am healed on earth, or even in long-term remission, is up to Him. I know that when I am in heaven I will be completely healed. However, that does not mean we should not pray for healing, learn more about healing, and leave the faith door wide open to God’s working in ways we are not used to.
Update
THE APPOINTMENT is at 9:30 AM tomorrow, and they are usually running late. We will hear the report of the hundred days after the transplant. This is big. It will tell us what they have accomplished and what God has done. Just keep praying for a good report. We'll update you as soon as we can. God being glorified is what we desire (right along with a miraculous report)!
Soon I hope I'll have some cool July 4 pics up for you, but for now, just words. :-)
Friday, June 25, 2010
Words That Count
This morning I got up and put out the trash so the North Augusta waste warriors could come pick it up. While at the curb I decided to pick up the free paper tossed weekly in the driveway (can you say “unsolicited litter”?) as well as today’s edition of the newspaper.
I came in, got my coffee, and had a seat in my Quiet Time spot, but first I read the papers. Probably spent thirty minutes or more scanning through them and getting a fix on what was going on around the world and in the community. I read about a number of things and felt like a better-informed citizen. I was also entertained, since I always read the comics, or “funny papers,” as my granddad used to call them.
Then, I picked up my Bible. My reading was Matthew 4:1-4. This is the start of the passage about Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. The devil’s temptation and Jesus’ response grabbed my attention.
We, in the “information age,” are inundated with words. Many of us could spend all day answering emails, updating Facebook or Twitter, texting and talking on the phone, listening to music, talk radio or TV, and (when we can fit it in) conversing with people—thousands of words every day. Most of these words will make little difference a week from now, much less years from now, but they demand our time, and may keep us from the words that count: God’s words.
Jesus' response to the tempter, quoting Deuteronomy 8:3: saying, “Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” God’s words are the words that count.
Here are some things I try to practice that help me give God the proper place:
Quick Health Update
I feel great. All the poking and prodding on Tuesday went fine. I do wonder if blood-letting may be a secret part of the treatment. So many vials... We get the report on July 6.
Thanks for your prayers. They are the most important part of the treatment and my healing.
I came in, got my coffee, and had a seat in my Quiet Time spot, but first I read the papers. Probably spent thirty minutes or more scanning through them and getting a fix on what was going on around the world and in the community. I read about a number of things and felt like a better-informed citizen. I was also entertained, since I always read the comics, or “funny papers,” as my granddad used to call them.
Then, I picked up my Bible. My reading was Matthew 4:1-4. This is the start of the passage about Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. The devil’s temptation and Jesus’ response grabbed my attention.
We, in the “information age,” are inundated with words. Many of us could spend all day answering emails, updating Facebook or Twitter, texting and talking on the phone, listening to music, talk radio or TV, and (when we can fit it in) conversing with people—thousands of words every day. Most of these words will make little difference a week from now, much less years from now, but they demand our time, and may keep us from the words that count: God’s words.
Jesus' response to the tempter, quoting Deuteronomy 8:3: saying, “Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” God’s words are the words that count.
Here are some things I try to practice that help me give God the proper place:
- Bible first. No other media before it.
- If you use your computer along with your Bible as I do, stay away from your email inbox. Email has a way of getting my workday started, and that gets me distracted from the most important thing.
- Write. You may use a notebook. You may use a computer. Writing helps me process what I am reading, and to dwell on it a little while. Many times as I write, God will open my eyes to a new truth about himself or a truth about me—both of which I need.
- Make the time to let God speak to you. That may mean getting up earlier, which probably means going to bed earlier. Give God you best brain time, when your thoughts are uncluttered and you’re the least sleepy.
Quick Health Update
I feel great. All the poking and prodding on Tuesday went fine. I do wonder if blood-letting may be a secret part of the treatment. So many vials... We get the report on July 6.
Thanks for your prayers. They are the most important part of the treatment and my healing.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Testing 1-2-3
Haven't put anything here for awhile. The last couple of weeks have been both great and busy. Last week our church had vacation Bible School, and I was assisted by a crew of teenage guys shooting video of the week. It was fun. We put together a highlight video for the week, which is more meaningful to folks in our church that many other readers. I will say that if you are near my age and went to VBS as a kid, it has come a long way!
VBS Highlights, June 14-18, 2010 from Curtis Church Media on Vimeo.
Saturday, I was out running a few errands when I got a call from our Personnel Team chairman, who told me my Sr. Pastor was really sick (sinus junk - I know about that!) and could I preach Sunday morning. I agreed, and all my way to Walmart, I prayed and said, "Okay, God, what would you like to say tomorrow." God gave me a direction which sort of turned into a Father's Day/Missions message. No video, but if you want to listen, you can do that at the link below.
Testing 1-2-3 - Health Update
Well tomorrow is a the big day, day 100-ish after my Stem Cell Transplant. It is actually day 96, but the Emory folks said that is close enough. So tomorrow we'll be having some tests at 1:00 PM, see some Medical Professionals (Usually a Nurse Practitioner, and possibly a Doctor) at 2:00, and then a Bone Marrow Aspiration at 3:00 PM. Not fun, but they give you some meds to make it far more tolerable. We won't get results until July 6. We are praying and trusting God for a great report. Pray with us.
As far as how I feel... I feel great. Like I could hop on a plane and go anywhere. But, for now, that has to wait on God's timing.
VBS Highlights, June 14-18, 2010 from Curtis Church Media on Vimeo.
Saturday, I was out running a few errands when I got a call from our Personnel Team chairman, who told me my Sr. Pastor was really sick (sinus junk - I know about that!) and could I preach Sunday morning. I agreed, and all my way to Walmart, I prayed and said, "Okay, God, what would you like to say tomorrow." God gave me a direction which sort of turned into a Father's Day/Missions message. No video, but if you want to listen, you can do that at the link below.
Testing 1-2-3 - Health Update
Well tomorrow is a the big day, day 100-ish after my Stem Cell Transplant. It is actually day 96, but the Emory folks said that is close enough. So tomorrow we'll be having some tests at 1:00 PM, see some Medical Professionals (Usually a Nurse Practitioner, and possibly a Doctor) at 2:00, and then a Bone Marrow Aspiration at 3:00 PM. Not fun, but they give you some meds to make it far more tolerable. We won't get results until July 6. We are praying and trusting God for a great report. Pray with us.
As far as how I feel... I feel great. Like I could hop on a plane and go anywhere. But, for now, that has to wait on God's timing.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Psalm 91
I love this song, and this Psalm. I hope this will get you to the video. (I am experimenting).
Psalm 91 from Curtis Church Media on Vimeo.
Psalm 91 from Curtis Church Media on Vimeo.
Friday, June 11, 2010
God Travelers Revisited
Back in June of 2008, I wrote a post entitled "God Travelers" about college and graduate students who travel to distant places because they want to serve the Lord and be used by Him. (You can go back and read that post if you like by clicking on the title above.)
This summer one of my own, is traveling along with a few others I know. It is hard to see them leave, but it is great to know why they are going, and that they are being obedient about going. Jesus told his disciples five times to "go." (Once in each gospel and once in Acts) That is ample reason enough.
Pray for R, J, J, E and R this summer as they travel, to serve others, to glorify God, and share the Truth and freedom that only Jesus provides.
Quick Health Update - I am doing great! I feel like I could hop on the plane with these travelers, but I don't think the doctor will let me. Later this month I'll have a big test. Then early next month we'll hear the results. So pray that the doctors will get a God-sized surprise that I am healed.
Blessings,
Tom
This summer one of my own, is traveling along with a few others I know. It is hard to see them leave, but it is great to know why they are going, and that they are being obedient about going. Jesus told his disciples five times to "go." (Once in each gospel and once in Acts) That is ample reason enough.
Pray for R, J, J, E and R this summer as they travel, to serve others, to glorify God, and share the Truth and freedom that only Jesus provides.
Quick Health Update - I am doing great! I feel like I could hop on the plane with these travelers, but I don't think the doctor will let me. Later this month I'll have a big test. Then early next month we'll hear the results. So pray that the doctors will get a God-sized surprise that I am healed.
Blessings,
Tom
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Audio and Video Links
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Preaching Tomorrow
I am preaching tomorrow, both morning services. First time in a long time. What I don't have time for, I guess I'll have to blog. So much to share. We're planning to post the message video sometime next week, but don't expect it by Monday. :-) The audio podcast should be up by sometime Monday though.
My prayer is that it will be God speaking and not just Tom talking.
As far as an update goes. I am getting stronger, sleeping better, and the best news of the week: the bone pain has gone. Praise the Lord.
More later.
My prayer is that it will be God speaking and not just Tom talking.
As far as an update goes. I am getting stronger, sleeping better, and the best news of the week: the bone pain has gone. Praise the Lord.
More later.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Immense, Immeasurable Prayers
In her introduction to Voices of the Faithful, Book 2, Beth Moore states, “Never lose sight of the fact that your prayers matter immensely. The fact is, they matter immeasurably.” I don’t know about you, but sometimes it is easy to wonder just how much my prayers matter. Moore continues, “When I wonder if my prayers for others are accomplishing anything at all, my mind often turns to Paul’s words in the first chapter of 2 Corinthians.”
Take some time to read 2 Corinthians 1:8-11, but notice these two sentences. “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure so that we despaired even of life… On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, as you help us with your prayers.”
If there is anything of which I am convinced, it is that your prayers have helped me immeasurably and immensely. I will probably never fully comprehend exactly how much until I am in Heaven, but I know they have made a huge difference. Never underestimate the importance or the effectiveness of your prayers.
Now that I have been back in Augusta for a couple of weeks, I am trying to work half days or a bit more. Not sure I am doing a half-day's work yet, but I am present anyway. One of the Physician's Assistants we saw has made it simple: "The chemo is out of your system, but the side effects are not. Some of those will take weeks or months to go away." Well, I didn't give him the "Barnabas Award" for encouragement, but I do appreciate his honesty.
I am getting stronger, and occasionally have a full nights sleep. Learning to pace myself is perhaps the most difficult thing, although my body has a couple of ways of letting me know if I am overdoing it. And, I am very glad to be back home!
Here are some specific things you can pray for me:
Remember, your prayers matter immensely and immeasurably.
Take some time to read 2 Corinthians 1:8-11, but notice these two sentences. “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure so that we despaired even of life… On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, as you help us with your prayers.”
If there is anything of which I am convinced, it is that your prayers have helped me immeasurably and immensely. I will probably never fully comprehend exactly how much until I am in Heaven, but I know they have made a huge difference. Never underestimate the importance or the effectiveness of your prayers.
Now that I have been back in Augusta for a couple of weeks, I am trying to work half days or a bit more. Not sure I am doing a half-day's work yet, but I am present anyway. One of the Physician's Assistants we saw has made it simple: "The chemo is out of your system, but the side effects are not. Some of those will take weeks or months to go away." Well, I didn't give him the "Barnabas Award" for encouragement, but I do appreciate his honesty.
I am getting stronger, and occasionally have a full nights sleep. Learning to pace myself is perhaps the most difficult thing, although my body has a couple of ways of letting me know if I am overdoing it. And, I am very glad to be back home!
Here are some specific things you can pray for me:
- The test that will tell me where I stand with this cancer will be done on June 22, and we’ll get the results on July 6. Pray that the test will show that I am healed or am in complete remission.
- Pray for me as I begin to become more involved in my ministry responsibilities again. I want to be sure I am doing what He wants me to do as I serve Him and my church.
- Pray for the bone aching to come to an end. My legs ache most of the time, because the bone marrow is working hard to regenerate. It doesn’t stop me from doing most things. It just nags.
- Pray for full nights of sleep. We all know how that helps.
Remember, your prayers matter immensely and immeasurably.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
More Than Forgiveness
I was reading earlier this week, and was reminded that the requirement to get into heaven is more than just forgiveness. Jesus said it this way in the Sermon on the Mount, “For I say to you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall not enter the kingdom of God” (Matthew 5:20). In Isaiah 64:6, we are reminded that our righteousness is “as filthy rags.” Paul, in Romans 3:10 reminds us that there is “none righteous, no, not one.” This puts us in a real mess.
Where can such righteousness come from? Jesus provided it for every believer at the cross. Praise the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says the “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God.” Paul tells us in Romans 3:22 that we receive the “righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.” All of this comes from being in Christ. It is hard to get my head around the fact that when the Father looks at me, He sees me as righteous as the Son, because I know me. But God has provided everything a believer needs for this life and the next. Praise Him.
Medical Update:
Here is something else to praise about. Yesterday, I mentioned to a few folks in email that I had a doctor’s appointment this morning at Emory, and to pray that all my numbers were “better than or equal to” what they expected. Well, they were. As a consequence, we are free to roam. We will be in Augusta this weekend, and then back for another appointment and an outpatient procedure to remove the central line. As far as the weekend goes, I do not know if I will be at church or not, since there will be lots of people and I have a “newborn’s” immune system.
Don’t stop believing and praying. As you know, there is no earthly cure for Multiple Myeloma. Our best hope is to get it into remission and keep it there. On or near day 100 post-transplant (Saturday, June 26 is the actual day) I will return to Emory for some tests that will tell us if the cancer is in remission, and what to expect from there. So keep praying that God’s healing hand work, and it be gone. If not that, pray for it to at least be in long-term remission.
I cannot say enough how much we appreciate, feel, and see the result of the thousands of prayers that you have prayed. On top of that the cards, calls, visits and emails have been wonderful.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Freely Giving
Tomorrow is Easter. We celebrate the resurrection of the Lord. What a God we serve. What a Savior we have!
This morning, Romans 8:32 was stuck in my head. “He who did not spare his own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all things?” God is going to take care of His children. The preceding verse ends with, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Now in my seventh month of this cancer reality, I can say God has freely given many times. He has given me hope when the clouds of despair and doom were gathering. He has spared me many of the terrible side effects of treatment. There have been some miserable days, bad moments, and hate-this-stuff hours. But there have been many more good days. My family blesses me with their love and care. My church prays and supports me in countless ways. I am the recipient of excellent medical care. Most of all, I am being prayed for by thousands of people around the world. His presence has never left me for a moment. I have never felt abandoned. Praise the Lord.
I have been out of the hospital for two full days now. I am able to walk outside, and each day I feel a little stronger and can go a little farther. I also get to enjoy the flowers. Things are just starting here, but I have enjoyed the large "Tulip tree" in my Mom's front yard. Thursday, it was beautiful. Today, almost all the petals are on the ground, but that is its time. Below are a couple of pics I took of that tree.
Thanks for your prayers! Don't let up!
This morning, Romans 8:32 was stuck in my head. “He who did not spare his own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all things?” God is going to take care of His children. The preceding verse ends with, “If God is for us, who can be against us?”
Now in my seventh month of this cancer reality, I can say God has freely given many times. He has given me hope when the clouds of despair and doom were gathering. He has spared me many of the terrible side effects of treatment. There have been some miserable days, bad moments, and hate-this-stuff hours. But there have been many more good days. My family blesses me with their love and care. My church prays and supports me in countless ways. I am the recipient of excellent medical care. Most of all, I am being prayed for by thousands of people around the world. His presence has never left me for a moment. I have never felt abandoned. Praise the Lord.
I have been out of the hospital for two full days now. I am able to walk outside, and each day I feel a little stronger and can go a little farther. I also get to enjoy the flowers. Things are just starting here, but I have enjoyed the large "Tulip tree" in my Mom's front yard. Thursday, it was beautiful. Today, almost all the petals are on the ground, but that is its time. Below are a couple of pics I took of that tree.
Thanks for your prayers! Don't let up!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Moving on Thursday
(Day 13 post transplant)
This will be a brief update, but wanted you all to know that we are scheduled, barring any unforeseen surprises of curve balls, we will leave the hospital and move to my mom's for what figures to be the next couple of weeks. This is a huge indicator of progress as the would not let me out if my numbers were not coming up like needed. No big crowds, and no flowers, but familiar territory and a place to get outside and enjoy some Spring before it becomes Summer.
This will be a brief update, but wanted you all to know that we are scheduled, barring any unforeseen surprises of curve balls, we will leave the hospital and move to my mom's for what figures to be the next couple of weeks. This is a huge indicator of progress as the would not let me out if my numbers were not coming up like needed. No big crowds, and no flowers, but familiar territory and a place to get outside and enjoy some Spring before it becomes Summer.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Music That Ministers
(Day +7 after transplant)
Wednesday, I was feeling a bit low while checking email and such, and I realized I was sort of getting down. I decided to launch iTunes and listen to some Praise and Worship music. On laptop computer speakers there isn’t a lot a sound quality but the message came through clearly, and it was what I needed. I needed to be reminded that God was in control, because He is. I was reminded that while I might falter, He never will. I heard again that those who wait would renew their strength. I was reminded that God is big, never surprised and good.
Update
I have felt pretty yucky the last few days, which is normal. Maybe, though, today is a notch back in the right direction. While the counts are still low (white count so low they cannot measure it) the Doctor said that some monocytes are beginning to appear from the transplanted cells. Very good news. I do not know if that means I am progressing faster, but it does mean I am progressing. Now if the digestive system can get the message. Still taking Imodium and Anti-Nausea stuff as well. Another bit of news: Blue Powerade actually has some taste today. Yay!
Walked a mile today (by 11:00 AM) and want to do at least one more.
Please continue your prayers. They are the essential part of my attitude through the struggle, and the key to my healing.
Wednesday, I was feeling a bit low while checking email and such, and I realized I was sort of getting down. I decided to launch iTunes and listen to some Praise and Worship music. On laptop computer speakers there isn’t a lot a sound quality but the message came through clearly, and it was what I needed. I needed to be reminded that God was in control, because He is. I was reminded that while I might falter, He never will. I heard again that those who wait would renew their strength. I was reminded that God is big, never surprised and good.
Update
I have felt pretty yucky the last few days, which is normal. Maybe, though, today is a notch back in the right direction. While the counts are still low (white count so low they cannot measure it) the Doctor said that some monocytes are beginning to appear from the transplanted cells. Very good news. I do not know if that means I am progressing faster, but it does mean I am progressing. Now if the digestive system can get the message. Still taking Imodium and Anti-Nausea stuff as well. Another bit of news: Blue Powerade actually has some taste today. Yay!
Walked a mile today (by 11:00 AM) and want to do at least one more.
Please continue your prayers. They are the essential part of my attitude through the struggle, and the key to my healing.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Big God
(Day +3 after transplant)
Today has been pretty good. Walked a couple of miles (one mile each time) and hiccupped a whole lot. Counts were a bit more stable today than yesterday. However, they should drop over the next day or two. This is normal.
This morning I was reading a little about one of God’s names, “Jehovah-Sabaoth.” It is translated “The Lord of Hosts." This name of God meets failure and offers deliverance. The Lord of Hosts delivered Goliath into David’s hand. It is good to be reminded that God is huge. He can handle whatever we encounter, if we are right with Him and following Him. He isn’t my “cosmic bellhop” to do my bidding, but He IS in control.
Possibly when you saw the title of this post, you thought something amazing had occurred in my treatment. Well, not yet. But everyone says I am on schedule. Pray that I will continue to sense His presence in the daily routines here, my time alone with him, and other opportunities I may have. Pray that God will be glorified in it all.
I am anxious to get back in the saddle, but know that patiently waiting, praying, listening, and growing may be exactly what God desires to put me in the right saddle, on the right horse, and headed in the right direction. It will all come together in His time.
Thank you all for your continued prayers, notes, emails, and thoughts. You guys are great!
Today has been pretty good. Walked a couple of miles (one mile each time) and hiccupped a whole lot. Counts were a bit more stable today than yesterday. However, they should drop over the next day or two. This is normal.
This morning I was reading a little about one of God’s names, “Jehovah-Sabaoth.” It is translated “The Lord of Hosts." This name of God meets failure and offers deliverance. The Lord of Hosts delivered Goliath into David’s hand. It is good to be reminded that God is huge. He can handle whatever we encounter, if we are right with Him and following Him. He isn’t my “cosmic bellhop” to do my bidding, but He IS in control.
Possibly when you saw the title of this post, you thought something amazing had occurred in my treatment. Well, not yet. But everyone says I am on schedule. Pray that I will continue to sense His presence in the daily routines here, my time alone with him, and other opportunities I may have. Pray that God will be glorified in it all.
I am anxious to get back in the saddle, but know that patiently waiting, praying, listening, and growing may be exactly what God desires to put me in the right saddle, on the right horse, and headed in the right direction. It will all come together in His time.
Thank you all for your continued prayers, notes, emails, and thoughts. You guys are great!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Another Quick Update 3/20
This is a short post just to bring you up to date. At least I think it is going to be short. I never know when I start these things.
I got my stem cells back yesterday. We celebrated. They put balloons on my door. They sang to me the Stem Cell Birthday Song. (I do not know the official name.) So now we wait. The doctor that came in this morning told me I would have about a week, starting in a day or two, that one of the other doctors calls the “miserable phase.” This is the period of time we will be waiting for my stem cells to kick in and start replacing the blood cells that just normally die. So, while perhaps not much to look forward to, it helps to know what to expect. During this period, the staff will keep a very close eye on me to make sure I stay okay. The staff, by the way, has been great here at Emory.
Just keep lifting April and I up. We are doing well and moving through each thing and each day as God opens it to us. Your prayers mean more than you know, and are the key to God being glorified and my being healed.
I got my stem cells back yesterday. We celebrated. They put balloons on my door. They sang to me the Stem Cell Birthday Song. (I do not know the official name.) So now we wait. The doctor that came in this morning told me I would have about a week, starting in a day or two, that one of the other doctors calls the “miserable phase.” This is the period of time we will be waiting for my stem cells to kick in and start replacing the blood cells that just normally die. So, while perhaps not much to look forward to, it helps to know what to expect. During this period, the staff will keep a very close eye on me to make sure I stay okay. The staff, by the way, has been great here at Emory.
Just keep lifting April and I up. We are doing well and moving through each thing and each day as God opens it to us. Your prayers mean more than you know, and are the key to God being glorified and my being healed.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Bored on Rest Day
Today was my rest day between big chemo yesterday and getting stem cells tomorrow. However, to keep me from being bored in one sense, I got bored in another. Getting me in the program here at Emory was sort of rushed, and they had never done a bone marrow biopsy on me here. They need one as a base line for another a hundred days out (something to look forward to) to see if the cancer is truly in remission or not. Today’s test came with a little sedation, so that made it more tolerable. A visiting medical student from Bangalore did the procedure under several watchful eyes. He told me he had done ten already, and I will say his eleventh one was done very well. He is on my “A” list of bone marrow biopsy givers. Now, it still is not my favorite way to spend an hour or two, but the folks here made it quite tolerable.
The rest of “rest” day has been pretty normal. I went and walked a mile—just 21 laps around our triangularly shaped unit. I usually start questioning my lap count between ten and twenty, so I do an “extra” to be sure I get it all in. I hope I can keep that up.
Grateful! So far no major side effects from yesterday’s big chemo blast. It is sort of strange that it took less than an hour to get it inside me. To reduce the possibility of mouth sores, I ate ice for about four hours. I started thirty minutes before and kept it up at least two hours after. Keeping the mouth cold reduces the blood supply to those tissues, so less of the medicine floats by. Plausible to me! The only side effect I am having right now is hiccups. I have had that before with another chemo drug. They just come and go.
Tomorrow, I will get my stem cells. They treat it like a birthday, and in a way, it is. If I didn’t get them back, and they didn’t start working, I wouldn’t be here long. So I guess it will be my third birthday. First birthday was way back in 1950, the next in 1961 when I received Christ into my life, and tomorrow will be the third. (If they do come in and sing, I hope to have my little point & shoot camera set on go to record the video.)
Please keep the prayers coming. They tell me that day three has the best potential to be a lousy day. Now, day zero is tomorrow (Friday), when I get the stem cells. Today is day -1. That is just how they count it. Day three is a day when some of the effects of the chemo I got on day -2 can show up. Also, counts are dropping and such. So please keep praying.
God our Banner
I have been working through Lord I Want to Know You, by Kay Arthur. It is a study of the names of God used in Scripture. (It is an excellent study, by the way). Today I was reading about “God Our Banner,” or “Jehovah-nissi.” He is the One we follow. We are under his authority. As we obediently follow, we will see Him work, and He will be glorified. Praise the Lord.
The rest of “rest” day has been pretty normal. I went and walked a mile—just 21 laps around our triangularly shaped unit. I usually start questioning my lap count between ten and twenty, so I do an “extra” to be sure I get it all in. I hope I can keep that up.
Grateful! So far no major side effects from yesterday’s big chemo blast. It is sort of strange that it took less than an hour to get it inside me. To reduce the possibility of mouth sores, I ate ice for about four hours. I started thirty minutes before and kept it up at least two hours after. Keeping the mouth cold reduces the blood supply to those tissues, so less of the medicine floats by. Plausible to me! The only side effect I am having right now is hiccups. I have had that before with another chemo drug. They just come and go.
Tomorrow, I will get my stem cells. They treat it like a birthday, and in a way, it is. If I didn’t get them back, and they didn’t start working, I wouldn’t be here long. So I guess it will be my third birthday. First birthday was way back in 1950, the next in 1961 when I received Christ into my life, and tomorrow will be the third. (If they do come in and sing, I hope to have my little point & shoot camera set on go to record the video.)
Please keep the prayers coming. They tell me that day three has the best potential to be a lousy day. Now, day zero is tomorrow (Friday), when I get the stem cells. Today is day -1. That is just how they count it. Day three is a day when some of the effects of the chemo I got on day -2 can show up. Also, counts are dropping and such. So please keep praying.
God our Banner
I have been working through Lord I Want to Know You, by Kay Arthur. It is a study of the names of God used in Scripture. (It is an excellent study, by the way). Today I was reading about “God Our Banner,” or “Jehovah-nissi.” He is the One we follow. We are under his authority. As we obediently follow, we will see Him work, and He will be glorified. Praise the Lord.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
The Night Before The Big Day
These three days getting a medication that is to alleviate some of the reactions that go with the treatment I am to receive on Wednesday have gone okay, but I certainly missed some of the side effects when I was reading about this. I am pink, as in flushed. Face is red, maybe a touch puffy. My hands and fingers (palm-side especially) are very sensitive to hot. You should have seen me taking hot clothes out of the dryer awhile ago. Mouth is dry, and feels “oily.” Strange stuff, this med.
I just got off the phone with my daughter. We had a good conversation, and I was fine until I began to talk about what was going to happen tomorrow. As long as I was dealing with facts, I was fine, but as I began to talk about feelings, the emotions just spilled over. I so wish I didn’t have to do this. I hate cancer. I hate what it does to me and what it does to so many people that I know. Just today, a high school friend wrote me and told me he has been diagnosed with colon cancer, and is having surgery on Friday.
I have a lot of feelings about all this. Fear? Yes. I know that “He has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7) I want it to be over already, but I am reminded, “those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength.” (See Isaiah 40:28-31). The problem is I am not very good at waiting. Yet, I know I have to. I know that part of my just-barely-under-the-surface emotions can be attributed to my fitful sleep the last few weeks. Maybe my fitful sleep is a result of my emotions. Don’t know. God does, and I certainly need His presence and grace to be almost tangible right now… or at least by tomorrow. I choose to trust Him, because “He will keep in perfect peace those who trust in Him” (Isaiah 26:3). He promises “peace that surpasses all understanding” if I choose to be thankful and pray rather than worry (Philippians 4:4-7).
At times like this, when I am feeling overwhelmed, I am so glad that God is bigger than my understanding of Him, and that He has all of this under His control. I want to glorify Him.
Please continue to pray. Do not think that “Tom is so strong, he’ll get through this.” It is God who is strong. Pray that I will do well. Pray for this treatment to get the cancer in remission. Pray for God’s strength to come through. Pray that God gets the glory.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
The Next Big Thing
Being Bald has its positives and negatives…
Well, I have finally, it appears, arrived at the front end of all that we have been doing has been moving toward. This is a very large hurdle in the treatment process. To pick up the analogy of several posts back (see: “As Long Climb Up A Big Hill,” — February 7), we are about to begin the final assault on this mountain to get to the top, the summit, where hope and a future reside. I look forward to getting the hard days behind me, and I look forward to recovering and being back doing what God has called me to do for however long He has that for me.
Ephesians 5:16 tells us to “redeem, or make the most of, our time, because the days are evil.” Not only that. They may be fewer than we think. Medically speaking, the doctor’s goal is to beat this Multiple Myeloma into remission and keep it there as long as possible. We hope that is at least five or ten (or more) years. I have already mentioned to God and the doctor that during my time of remission, it would be great if they developed the cure!
Only God knows how much longer any of us have. (Psalm 139:16) Suppose you knew you only had five more years. How would you use it for God’s glory? What would you do different? What would you keep the same? What relationships would you focus on? What sort of legacy would you like to leave? What would you stop doing? (Sometimes the “stop” list is more important than the “start” list, because there are many good things that suck time and resources from being able to do the best.)
It is too easy to get into a routine that gets us by but has far less meaning and impact than God intended or our lives. Taking time to re-focus, refine, and re-tune life is always a good thing, if we do it under God’s leadership. This applies first to our spiritual lives, but all other areas as well. Don’t wait until some circumstance forces you into reevaluation mode. Set aside time to do it now, starting with a prayer that goes something like, “Lord, I want to reflect you in every area of my life. I place everything on the table for you to deal with. What changes do you want me to make?” Have your pen and paper ready!
The Final Assault
Here is a bit about my schedule (tentative) during the stem cell transplant process.
Prayer Requests:
Thanks everyone. Your prayers are the essential ingredients in my recovery, because God is the Great Physician. Healing will come from Him.
- I have been told that I look younger (No hair, thus, no gray hair)
- I have been told I look taller (more forehead I suppose)
- I am told I can get a job at six flags if the other guy in the commercial retires. (I do not think I am that agile).
- I was talking to a grade school child in our church the other day, and he was confused. The voice he recognized was not coming out of the head it should have.
- I am told I have a “good head” for baldness. Who knew?
- Low maintenance is still the biggest plus to me!
Well, I have finally, it appears, arrived at the front end of all that we have been doing has been moving toward. This is a very large hurdle in the treatment process. To pick up the analogy of several posts back (see: “As Long Climb Up A Big Hill,” — February 7), we are about to begin the final assault on this mountain to get to the top, the summit, where hope and a future reside. I look forward to getting the hard days behind me, and I look forward to recovering and being back doing what God has called me to do for however long He has that for me.
Ephesians 5:16 tells us to “redeem, or make the most of, our time, because the days are evil.” Not only that. They may be fewer than we think. Medically speaking, the doctor’s goal is to beat this Multiple Myeloma into remission and keep it there as long as possible. We hope that is at least five or ten (or more) years. I have already mentioned to God and the doctor that during my time of remission, it would be great if they developed the cure!
Only God knows how much longer any of us have. (Psalm 139:16) Suppose you knew you only had five more years. How would you use it for God’s glory? What would you do different? What would you keep the same? What relationships would you focus on? What sort of legacy would you like to leave? What would you stop doing? (Sometimes the “stop” list is more important than the “start” list, because there are many good things that suck time and resources from being able to do the best.)
It is too easy to get into a routine that gets us by but has far less meaning and impact than God intended or our lives. Taking time to re-focus, refine, and re-tune life is always a good thing, if we do it under God’s leadership. This applies first to our spiritual lives, but all other areas as well. Don’t wait until some circumstance forces you into reevaluation mode. Set aside time to do it now, starting with a prayer that goes something like, “Lord, I want to reflect you in every area of my life. I place everything on the table for you to deal with. What changes do you want me to make?” Have your pen and paper ready!
The Final Assault
Here is a bit about my schedule (tentative) during the stem cell transplant process.
- Sunday, Monday, & Tuesday, March 14-16 - Outpatient at Emory each day to get an IV med that is supposed to help with the mouth sores that could come with the big chemo I will get on Wednesday.
- Wednesday, March 17 I am to be admitted to the hospital and receive the chemo that will wipe out my bone marrow.
- Thursday, I rest. (I hope that is true. Pray.)
- Friday, I will receive my stem cells back. I will get them like getting a blood transfusion.
- I will be in the hospital another couple of weeks so they can watch me very carefully since my immune system will be compromised and some of my blood products will likely get low. When/if that happens, they will give me some.
- Once I am stable enough – Stem cells are working and important levels are stable or moving toward normal – I’ll get out of the hospital, but have to stay in Atlanta for another couple of weeks to go to the clinic for regular blood work. Whenever I achieve the desired level for everything, I will be able to come back to Augusta and be followed by my oncologist here.
Prayer Requests:
- That God be glorified in and through it all, and that he would use us to share His grace with others.
- That the side effects will be minimal as the medications do their necessary work.
- That my stem cells would start working rapidly so that my levels would move quickly toward normal.
- That my strength will increase even while in the hospital.
- That the doctors wouldn’t practice but would know what to do each and every step of the way.
Thanks everyone. Your prayers are the essential ingredients in my recovery, because God is the Great Physician. Healing will come from Him.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Slick Top
When I look in the mirror, there is a bald guy staring back at me. It isn't completely gone, but it has come out rather patchy and so it was more fashion conscious to go ahead and shave the little that was left. So, another milestone, or at least a step.
The Bible doesn't have a lot to say about being smooth on top. Leviticus 13:40 says, "And the man whose hair is fallen off his head, he is bald; yet is he clean." Then there is a rather graphic incident about some young toughs who made fun of a bald-headed prophet in 2 Kings 2:22-24. Let me spare you the details, but making a public mockery of a bald prophet is a very bad idea.
A friend sent me this poem on facebook:
“God is great, God is fair,
To some He gave brains and others hair."
Positively, this new hairstyle is very low maintenance. Negatively, I feel every cold breeze on my head, be it ever so slight. Hats are my friend.
Here is a look...
By the way, that basket to my right contains the cards and notes many of you have sent. If I printed out all the encouraging emails so many have sent, the room would be full. Your words mean more than you know, and your prayers, well, they make all the difference. Thanks!
I'll be updating you more about the next steps as we near the end of the week and we go back to Emory.
Blessings,
Tom
The Bible doesn't have a lot to say about being smooth on top. Leviticus 13:40 says, "And the man whose hair is fallen off his head, he is bald; yet is he clean." Then there is a rather graphic incident about some young toughs who made fun of a bald-headed prophet in 2 Kings 2:22-24. Let me spare you the details, but making a public mockery of a bald prophet is a very bad idea.
A friend sent me this poem on facebook:
“God is great, God is fair,
To some He gave brains and others hair."
Positively, this new hairstyle is very low maintenance. Negatively, I feel every cold breeze on my head, be it ever so slight. Hats are my friend.
Here is a look...
I'll be updating you more about the next steps as we near the end of the week and we go back to Emory.
Blessings,
Tom
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
A New Schedule
Today, we went to the clinic for blood work, and then received some potassium and magnesium. The chemo and such does lots to imbalance things like this so it was good to get what I needed. Afterwards, we met with the Stem Cell transplant nurse coordinator and my doctor. We signed the consent form for the stem cell transplant after my doctor went over the scary page (all the side effects and things that could go wrong.)
We also got a schedule that is quite a bit different from what we have been thinking. There has to be four weeks between the intense chemo I received two weeks ago and the start of the transplant process. The good news is that we get to go home to North Augusta for a couple of weeks, and then come back for the transplant mid-March. It will be nice to have a break.
Today, as I was receiving my magnesium and potassium, April asked me something about Psalm 139. After answering her question, I took the time to read the whole Psalm and was reminded just how intimately aware our creator is of each of us. He knows how we are made. He knows what we are going to say before we say it. He is aware of every one of us all the time. In spite of what we face in this life, we do not go it alone. He is with me as I go through this treatment and seek to deal with this disease. He is with my wife as she takes on the role of caregiver (extraordinaire, I might add). He is with you no matter what you are facing.
Thank you for your continued prayers. They continue to be the essential element in all of this.
We also got a schedule that is quite a bit different from what we have been thinking. There has to be four weeks between the intense chemo I received two weeks ago and the start of the transplant process. The good news is that we get to go home to North Augusta for a couple of weeks, and then come back for the transplant mid-March. It will be nice to have a break.
Today, as I was receiving my magnesium and potassium, April asked me something about Psalm 139. After answering her question, I took the time to read the whole Psalm and was reminded just how intimately aware our creator is of each of us. He knows how we are made. He knows what we are going to say before we say it. He is aware of every one of us all the time. In spite of what we face in this life, we do not go it alone. He is with me as I go through this treatment and seek to deal with this disease. He is with my wife as she takes on the role of caregiver (extraordinaire, I might add). He is with you no matter what you are facing.
Thank you for your continued prayers. They continue to be the essential element in all of this.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Collection Day
The day started off with a discovery that I have begun to shed (losing my hair). That whole process should not take too long.
At the clinic, after initial blood work, we were told we might not have enough stem cells mobilized, and might not get to do the collection. The more definitive test would take about three hours. So April and I went to the lobby (much more comfortable chairs there) and did Internet (imagine that). I first sent out a request to the prayer chain and then posted on Facebook the need to pray that we could do this today.
After the three hour wait, we went back up to the collection place, and they told me that the test was very good and they might be able to get all they needed (10 million) today! Since it would take about an hour to get the machine and stuff ready, they told us to go to lunch, and we did.
They did the collection, and it took about four-and-a-half hours. We left the hospital at 5:00 or so, and they just called from the lab and said they got seventeen million cells! When God answers a prayer, sometimes he answers very loudly. PTL!
Tomorrow we go for appointments and find out exactly when the next step is and when. April and I think we may be confused on when they will do the transplant. Hopefully tomorrow we will be able to let you know more accurately what is ahead.
Again, thanks for your prayers!
At the clinic, after initial blood work, we were told we might not have enough stem cells mobilized, and might not get to do the collection. The more definitive test would take about three hours. So April and I went to the lobby (much more comfortable chairs there) and did Internet (imagine that). I first sent out a request to the prayer chain and then posted on Facebook the need to pray that we could do this today.
After the three hour wait, we went back up to the collection place, and they told me that the test was very good and they might be able to get all they needed (10 million) today! Since it would take about an hour to get the machine and stuff ready, they told us to go to lunch, and we did.
They did the collection, and it took about four-and-a-half hours. We left the hospital at 5:00 or so, and they just called from the lab and said they got seventeen million cells! When God answers a prayer, sometimes he answers very loudly. PTL!
Tomorrow we go for appointments and find out exactly when the next step is and when. April and I think we may be confused on when they will do the transplant. Hopefully tomorrow we will be able to let you know more accurately what is ahead.
Again, thanks for your prayers!
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Vulnerable
First, a few pictures. Left, the view from the Emory window last week (2.8-2.12). Atlanta's skyline is in the background. Nice view. Center, similar view on the Friday of the big snow. Right, I still have what little hair I have. It may be gone tomorrow, but for now, it is hanging on. Now, to more important things...
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that His life may also be revealed in our mortal body.”
2 Corinthians 4:7-11
This disease makes me very aware that this body is just a jar of clay. You can talk about “abs of steel” all you want, but nobody really has those. They are an illusion of strength over a very vulnerable body.
Paul is speaking of all the things he has experienced in his recent ministry, much of which I know very little about. But I get the clay jar image. That is the reality for all of us. The key in this passage for me is at the end. I am here so that His life may be revealed in my (very) mortal body. The only way for this to happen is reliance on the Spirit that lives in me to come through. If I am doing this by “Tom’s strength,” that is what will come through, and it likely will not be very positive. I want His life to come through this mortal body and life.
It is a revelation in some ways to discover just how vulnerable we are. In our culture, we tend to believe that we can fix anything, given enough time and resources, but sometimes things really are beyond our control, period. Whether it be a disease, or some life circumstance, it is an opportunity for God to show Himself faithful, if we will rely on Him and trust him to work.
Update:
Thursday I was having lots of trouble with dizziness, and went to the clinic of a regular appointment. The appointment went fine, but they determined I was low on fluid (dehydrated) so after two liters I was re-juice-i-nated and things have not spun around nearly as much. I still have to be careful when I stand, because some of the meds make you a bit dizzy anyway, but it is way better.
We have to make a quick visit to the lab on Sunday morning to check my blood levels in preparation for stem cell collection to begin on Monday morning, but hopefully that will not take much time, even if they have to give me some juice or blood or something.
Prayer requests: Continue to pray that God is glorified in all of this, that stem cell collection will go smoothly and quickly (a couple of days rather than three or four) and that I will tolerate that procedure well.
Thanks! Your prayers are the essential ingredient in the treatment I receive.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Goliaths
A week or so ago, I heard from a pastor friend in another country that he and his congregation were praying 1 Samuel 17:47 for me. When I looked it up, I found it right in the middle of David’s words to Goliath. The key phrase here is “the battle is the Lord’s.”
We all have our Goliaths. Most of us face numerous ones in our lives. It may be dealing with a relationship, a challenge at school or work, a disease, or some other thing that seems impossible to resolve or work through. But, for the Christ-follower, we have the Lord. This does not mean we don’t do anything and God does it all. David selected the stones, and knew how to use that sling, but the outcome was in the Lord’s hands.
Realizing that we do not face these trials alone is great comfort. It might be nice for God to remove them, or never allowing them to happen in the first place, but it is adversity that causes us to grow (see James 1) and prepares us to be able to help others in similar circumstances (see 2 Corinthians 1). I don’t know about you, but for me, God always has more of my attention when I am in “adverse” or “out-of-my-comfort-zone” situations. It is in those times that I learn most of Him and His ways.
Update:
For me, the chemo, except for the big dose to wipe out my bone marrow and immune system, is done. I feel pretty good today. Joints are a little achy, but they told me to expect that from the injections that mobilize my stem cells from the bone marrow into the blood stream. So far, it is not nearly as bad as they may ache when you have the flu. (That was the worst-case scenario they told me about.)
Today is a clinic free day, so it is nice. I have been able to do a little work, a little reading, and some resting. I have to go tomorrow, and then Monday they start the collection of the stem cells. You can pray that they get all they need in a day or two, rather than three or four. That would either give me a few more rest days before the transplant week, or speed the process up a tad. Either would be okay.
Thanks for your prayers. They are the most important ingredients in all of this.
We all have our Goliaths. Most of us face numerous ones in our lives. It may be dealing with a relationship, a challenge at school or work, a disease, or some other thing that seems impossible to resolve or work through. But, for the Christ-follower, we have the Lord. This does not mean we don’t do anything and God does it all. David selected the stones, and knew how to use that sling, but the outcome was in the Lord’s hands.
Realizing that we do not face these trials alone is great comfort. It might be nice for God to remove them, or never allowing them to happen in the first place, but it is adversity that causes us to grow (see James 1) and prepares us to be able to help others in similar circumstances (see 2 Corinthians 1). I don’t know about you, but for me, God always has more of my attention when I am in “adverse” or “out-of-my-comfort-zone” situations. It is in those times that I learn most of Him and His ways.
Update:
For me, the chemo, except for the big dose to wipe out my bone marrow and immune system, is done. I feel pretty good today. Joints are a little achy, but they told me to expect that from the injections that mobilize my stem cells from the bone marrow into the blood stream. So far, it is not nearly as bad as they may ache when you have the flu. (That was the worst-case scenario they told me about.)
Today is a clinic free day, so it is nice. I have been able to do a little work, a little reading, and some resting. I have to go tomorrow, and then Monday they start the collection of the stem cells. You can pray that they get all they need in a day or two, rather than three or four. That would either give me a few more rest days before the transplant week, or speed the process up a tad. Either would be okay.
Thanks for your prayers. They are the most important ingredients in all of this.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Not Knowing Where You Are Going
"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." - Hebrews 11:8
This verse was quoted in another blog I keep up with, and when I read it, I thought, "that is the way I feel right now." We have come through week one with intense chemo, and now we are doing something different, at least to some degree, every week, and I don't know what it is going to be like, feel like or whatever. An adventure, for sure. This week is mobilizing the stem cells. Next week is collecting ten million or so of those little fellas.
Instead of me shooting people with a Canon (camera) my wife (an RN, for those who don't know) is shooting me. She gave me two shots this morning. Happy Valentines Day! She is a great wife and a great nurse.
So how am I doing? Overall, pretty well. I have sort of an underlying nausea feeling, but, with proper medication, it is livable. Appetite is suppressed somewhat, but that will not likely hurt me either. Energy level isn't very high, but I am getting around and doing what needs to be done. Much of the time I am sort of in slow motion.
God is still God, and He is in control. Like Abraham, I cannot see around the corner to know what is ahead. But I know that God knows, and that is who counts. He is the one who will bring us up this hill and to the destination He desires.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers and your encouragement during these days. It means more than you know.
This verse was quoted in another blog I keep up with, and when I read it, I thought, "that is the way I feel right now." We have come through week one with intense chemo, and now we are doing something different, at least to some degree, every week, and I don't know what it is going to be like, feel like or whatever. An adventure, for sure. This week is mobilizing the stem cells. Next week is collecting ten million or so of those little fellas.
Instead of me shooting people with a Canon (camera) my wife (an RN, for those who don't know) is shooting me. She gave me two shots this morning. Happy Valentines Day! She is a great wife and a great nurse.
So how am I doing? Overall, pretty well. I have sort of an underlying nausea feeling, but, with proper medication, it is livable. Appetite is suppressed somewhat, but that will not likely hurt me either. Energy level isn't very high, but I am getting around and doing what needs to be done. Much of the time I am sort of in slow motion.
God is still God, and He is in control. Like Abraham, I cannot see around the corner to know what is ahead. But I know that God knows, and that is who counts. He is the one who will bring us up this hill and to the destination He desires.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers and your encouragement during these days. It means more than you know.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Friday, Feb. 12 Morning Update
Just to get the word out...
Day four of intense chemo is a tad shorter. They are hoping to get us out of the hospital by 8:00 PM, when we will head back to my mom's - provided we are not stuck here by the blizzard. Part one just about complete.
This has been intense, even though the side effects have not, and that is a praise. All the meds have done a number on me, so that I had to have two packs of red blood cells yesterday, along with additional potassium and magnesium. I am also learning a little about bone pain (not real bad) and the pain medication to deal with it.
Next week begins "mobilization" where April will give me shots that will cause my bone marrow to expel my stem cells so they can be collected the next week. That is the next step.
Again, thank you all for your prayers. Continue to pray that God will be glorified, adn that my body will respond as He desires to treatment. On a very practical level, pray that the predicted snow for Atlanta today will not hinder us from getting from the hospital to my mom's this evening.
Philippians 4:13, 19!
Day four of intense chemo is a tad shorter. They are hoping to get us out of the hospital by 8:00 PM, when we will head back to my mom's - provided we are not stuck here by the blizzard. Part one just about complete.
This has been intense, even though the side effects have not, and that is a praise. All the meds have done a number on me, so that I had to have two packs of red blood cells yesterday, along with additional potassium and magnesium. I am also learning a little about bone pain (not real bad) and the pain medication to deal with it.
Next week begins "mobilization" where April will give me shots that will cause my bone marrow to expel my stem cells so they can be collected the next week. That is the next step.
Again, thank you all for your prayers. Continue to pray that God will be glorified, adn that my body will respond as He desires to treatment. On a very practical level, pray that the predicted snow for Atlanta today will not hinder us from getting from the hospital to my mom's this evening.
Philippians 4:13, 19!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Growing Seed
Mark 4: 26-29
He also said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come."
I think about all the places I have been allowed to go, and how often we were limited to simply sowing seed, and not being able to speak openly about the most important thing. Sometimes that has been very difficult, because you want to tell them, and you cannot return to report big numbers to our results-oriented American mindsets. Many do not understand who have never been in such situations. But I love this line about once the seed is sown, “all by itself the soil produces grain.” The seed has to be sown, and once in the heart-ground of the recipient, it begins to sprout and grow. We are not allowed in on the timetable for such. We just have to trust.
Update: (2.10.2010)
Here at Emory, I had my central line installed on Monday, and Monday night began my 96 hour continuous chemo deal. Side effects so far are minimal. I feel pretty good. I am able to read, write on the computer, do a few little doodads for work, go for some walks, and watch a bit of TV from time to time. And of course, there are naps.
The staff here is wonderful. They are pleasant, efficient, helpful and encouraging.
Please continue to lift us up to the Father as we work through this phase and then start the next related to my stem cell transplant. If you are in the neighborhood, we are open to company, if you are open to wearing a mask, are over 16, and not contagious with anything.
He also said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come."
I think about all the places I have been allowed to go, and how often we were limited to simply sowing seed, and not being able to speak openly about the most important thing. Sometimes that has been very difficult, because you want to tell them, and you cannot return to report big numbers to our results-oriented American mindsets. Many do not understand who have never been in such situations. But I love this line about once the seed is sown, “all by itself the soil produces grain.” The seed has to be sown, and once in the heart-ground of the recipient, it begins to sprout and grow. We are not allowed in on the timetable for such. We just have to trust.
Update: (2.10.2010)
Here at Emory, I had my central line installed on Monday, and Monday night began my 96 hour continuous chemo deal. Side effects so far are minimal. I feel pretty good. I am able to read, write on the computer, do a few little doodads for work, go for some walks, and watch a bit of TV from time to time. And of course, there are naps.
The staff here is wonderful. They are pleasant, efficient, helpful and encouraging.
Please continue to lift us up to the Father as we work through this phase and then start the next related to my stem cell transplant. If you are in the neighborhood, we are open to company, if you are open to wearing a mask, are over 16, and not contagious with anything.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
A Long Climb Up A Big Hill
Psalm 120-136 – The Psalms of Ascent
It seems whatever I am reading regarding pain or struggle the writers often come back to this series of Psalms. These are Psalms of Ascent, sung by Hebrew pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem (elevation 2700 feet) three times per year for feasts (Unleavened Bread, Weeks, Booths–according to MacArthur). Many of these journeys started from as far as Asia Minor and Arabia (121:5a and 5b, respectively) so it was a long trip.
Here is what struck me about these Psalms:
1. They speak of the struggle. Travel to Jerusalem took determination. Most were on foot, and it took days, not hours.
2. They focus on the goal, not the journey: standing in the House of the Lord, being in Jerusalem.
3. They recount the previous blessings, provision and protection of the Lord.
These are all good things to do when faced with a big uphill climb. Whether it be a physical hill, a spiritual or emotional one, focusing on the Lord and his help in the past.
This Stem Cell thing sounds like a long hill to ascend. But I must remember that it is the hill, not the destination. My Jerusalem is long-term remission. Climbing isn’t fun, but being at the top of the mountain is great!
I remember my first trip to Romania. It was dreary every day of that trip in October 1991. Near the end of the trip I was in Brasov with friends. They took us up the mountain, and we took the cable car up to the top of Poiana Brasov. On the way up, we broke through the clouds. We got off the cable car and climbed to the peak. Just beyond the mountains, on the opposite side from the clouds, was the most beautiful view: a green, sun lit valley, complete with a tiny village at the bottom. From our high perch, everything appeared small, but beautiful. But the view was awesome.
Starting tomorrow, I am going for the peak. The climb may be difficult. But God is with me through it all. He knows all of it already. So pray that my focus stays on Him and the goal, not the climb. I am trusting Him to get me all the way to the peak! That is where there will be rejoicing.
It seems whatever I am reading regarding pain or struggle the writers often come back to this series of Psalms. These are Psalms of Ascent, sung by Hebrew pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem (elevation 2700 feet) three times per year for feasts (Unleavened Bread, Weeks, Booths–according to MacArthur). Many of these journeys started from as far as Asia Minor and Arabia (121:5a and 5b, respectively) so it was a long trip.
Here is what struck me about these Psalms:
1. They speak of the struggle. Travel to Jerusalem took determination. Most were on foot, and it took days, not hours.
2. They focus on the goal, not the journey: standing in the House of the Lord, being in Jerusalem.
3. They recount the previous blessings, provision and protection of the Lord.
These are all good things to do when faced with a big uphill climb. Whether it be a physical hill, a spiritual or emotional one, focusing on the Lord and his help in the past.
This Stem Cell thing sounds like a long hill to ascend. But I must remember that it is the hill, not the destination. My Jerusalem is long-term remission. Climbing isn’t fun, but being at the top of the mountain is great!
I remember my first trip to Romania. It was dreary every day of that trip in October 1991. Near the end of the trip I was in Brasov with friends. They took us up the mountain, and we took the cable car up to the top of Poiana Brasov. On the way up, we broke through the clouds. We got off the cable car and climbed to the peak. Just beyond the mountains, on the opposite side from the clouds, was the most beautiful view: a green, sun lit valley, complete with a tiny village at the bottom. From our high perch, everything appeared small, but beautiful. But the view was awesome.
Starting tomorrow, I am going for the peak. The climb may be difficult. But God is with me through it all. He knows all of it already. So pray that my focus stays on Him and the goal, not the climb. I am trusting Him to get me all the way to the peak! That is where there will be rejoicing.
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