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Power of Prayer

 As I lie here in my recliner, which Lilyan and Gavin coordinated to have at home before I was released from the hospital, I am moved by emotion. I am wrapped in my blankets and ice machine healing cocoon, while I wait for the pain meds to kick in so I can sleep a few more hours.  I have a lot of pain and nausea and I feel absolutely helpless. I don't feel well most of the time and have developed a rash around my chest and stomach. My arms can't extend very far without pain so I am like T-Rex unable to scratch an itch, reach for a cup of water or brush my hair. 


My boobie grenades (aka drains that look like transparent grenades) are not only gross and annoying but also painful. I am appreciative of an amazing husband who is capable of managing the drains and tells me silly jokes or performs goofy dances to distract me from it all. Sidenote, I am also grateful for sutures that do their job but protip do not drop the boobie grenades, son of a biscuit eater it stings.


Yet, as I find all these things challenging I am reminded that suffering is expected in this life. I can endure this with Jesus’ help and even though I don't want to continue to ache or feel like throwing up all day long I know God is using this time to teach me so much about following Him.


I believe in the power of prayer and I know a praying community has surrounded me all across the world. A military family has the luxury of meeting people from all walks of life and we become each other's family. We move away and may lose contact but those people are still the ones you call in crisis. I know because I am experiencing the love of my community that stretches beyond state lines and country borders. 


 I am learning about allowing others to help and letting my weakness surface and tears flow. Prayer is the most powerful tool to healing. So, thank you for the prayers you have poured out for my family and I so far. We are grateful and continue to need them as we are at the beginning of this cancer-curing journey. We have more surgery ahead and treatment plans to make. However, I am reminding myself of Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.


I also know my cup of suffering is easier to bear than most. My prayer list is filled with people struggling in so many ways. Then tonight, I learned of the little girls at Camp Mystic in Texas who are unaccounted for due to flash flooding. The suffering their families are contending with is so much more gutwrenchingly painful than my healing journey. 


I cannot fathom the grief and burdens these families are carrying today. So, let’s lift up these beautiful daughters of the Most High King and ask Him to protect those sweet little souls. May He bring their families comfort and peace in the waiting and the grief. Join me in praying for these families impacted by flooding and ask God to show His love in mighty ways.


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