God Is Good

Today is the 4th day since kemo; instructions warned that serious skin-related side effects could occur 3 - 5 days afterwards. I feel so well; I believe God has protected me from any effects at all this time. Thanks so much for your part in this.

We enjoyed a sunny day in the mountains (it was raining in Charlotte) and bought some crisp and tasty apples. We drove past the mountain home of some friends and were delighted to see their front door standing open, indicating they were there. They welcomed us in, unexpected though we were, and it was sweet to get caught up with them. Sadly, we learned that the husband had a stroke last month. He seems as bright as ever, but we understand that he still needs some healing, so we'll be praying.

More thoughts on the Shared Meal, which we call "The Lord's Supper." Peterson points out that in Paul's instructions regarding this celebration, Paul says that we both "remember" and "proclaim" the Lord's death until He returns. The "proclaim" implies an evangelistic function; those who don't yet know Jesus as their Savior should come to understand the wonder of His death for us and, hopefully, accept His salvation for themselves. All my experience with this Supper, in many different churches, is a hurried ceremony in which each person withdraws into private reflection (repentance) as the wafers and wine are distributed, gulps them down, and then walks out in a sober mood. I apologize to my children and friends who through the years must have been watching me for some evidence of the joy inherent in this celebration of the most amazing and effective sacrifice ever imagined. I'd love to participate in a service in which together we joyfully "remember" and "proclaim" and then celebrate His death for us and for our sins.

My childhood friend called me last evening. Her pain is unrelenting, her legs drain constantly, her kidneys are shutting down and her cardiologist says her heart can't survive the prep for dialysis. She continues to bless her family and so many others; I'm asking God for a miracle in her body. Also, tomorrow our Michigan friend has eye surgery; we pray for a steady hand for the surgeon.

Love,
Carol