Five Months

Five months ago today we said good-bye to our husband, dad, son, brother, friend.  I can't say it is getting easier to deal with the pain.  I so want him to come home and yet I know that he is home.  One of the hardest parts of this trial is the torn feeling in my heart.  Eric is safe at home in the presence of his Creator.  What better place is there to be?  As my brother in Christ I rejoice with him.  But, I am lonely and want him back.  I wish that he could wrap his arms around me and comfort me as I know he would if he were here.  

As I deal with these emotions I have been called to come to the side of my dear sister in Christ and friend, Kendra.  What a privilege to be able to do more than empathize with her pain.  I know it full well and can confidently stand by her side and encourage her.  

We had some very good news regarding baby Joe.  They were able to give him a feeding tube today and he has been urinating well.   We chuckle about the fact that we are actually happy that this kid is wetting his diapers and getting irritated by the nurses poking and prodding him.  Who knew this would be such a blessing!

We marvel at what the Lord has allowed our church to face over the past year.  We have had one of our elders have problems with his heart.  That same elder's wife almost miscarried their eighth child at 24 wks.  She was on bedrest for the rest of the pregnancy.  This little one was born the day before Eric died.  She then ended up in the hospital with RSV.  The month before Eric died another little one was born to another family in our church and then spent 25 days in ICU.  The day after Eric's memorial this little sweetie was rushed to the Children's hospital with RSV.   Then, we had another child come down with RSV and spend a few nights in the hospital.   Of course, losing Eric was the hardest physical blow to our congregation and we are all still working through that sorrow.  

Our church is fairly well off financially and spiritually we are a very strong church body.  We have incredible leaders and a love that abounds freely in our fellowship.  Physically though we are being tested.  Our community is learning to serve frequently.  God is being exalted.  His name is being glorified.  His church is being sanctified.

So, if you feel like your christian walk is dull and needs a bit of excitement we challenge you to come join us....just make sure you have insurance!

****Fletch ( my elder and friend and dentist) commented on the many other afflictions that have come our way.  Sheesh did I forget a lot!  If you are curious read the second comment.

~Lazyd