A day that will live in infamy

Five years ago today we received the report on Carol’s pleural effusion…”fluid contains adeno carcinoma cells”…yes, we were dealing with cancer! Carol entered in our log that evening; “a day that will live in infamy.” December 7th became our day of infamy just as Pearl Harbor had for our country on that day years earlier. As I was thinking about that this weekend, my mind raced to those final hours thirty-one months later when Carol took her last breath on this earth, passing through that curtain of death escorted by the angels and her Lord that had so tenderly watched over her during those months. That moment as I stood by her bed was something that I had never before experienced. The tremendous feeling of loss and grief coupled with an amazing joy knowing without any doubt that Carol was safely home, free of all pain and disease and certain that we will be together again.

As we prepare for Christmas with all of the rushing around and preparations for the big day, I continue to be amazed at the goodness of our God that sent Jesus into this world to transform history as well as our very lives as we respond to His message of love. It is my desire to focus this season on Him rather than the many other trappings of the season. I like Dr. John Munro’s prayer for those hearing the Good News during this season: “Let’s pray for God’s great light to shine into many hearts replacing sadness with joy, restlessness with peace, distrust with love, and spiritual death with spiritual life!”

These next days will be filled with many programs, parties, gatherings and preparations. I trust that I can keep my focus on the One whose birth we celebrate this month… Remembering not only the babe in the manger, but the Man with the message that came into this world to transform lives.

As some of you are aware, I have been dealing with some health issues lately and appreciate your continued prayers for wisdom for both the doctor and myself as we may have to make some critical decisions after an ultrasound scheduled for Thursday. I was overwhelmed last evening when daughter Karin called to say that she is flying here tomorrow to be with me on Thursday. What a blessing to have such a loving family!

Thanks so much for your prayers and love,

Chuck