Sunday, May 23, 2010

News from each of you appreciated

We really are enjoying the cards, letters, emails that tell us about what's happening in YOUR lives. We have enjoyed the stories about your kids,their struggles,the job searches, others who are sick,how the squash in the garden is doing, graduations, weddings, trips planned, etc.

Please keep 'em coming!

2 comments:

  1. Larry and Michelle GillespieMay 24, 2010 at 9:37 AM

    Hey Vern & Deb,

    Good morning to each of you. May you be at rest in our Lord today. Be encouraged, even as you encourage us, that our heavenly Father has complete authority over each of us and even though we suffer for a while, He has great, magnificent plans for us both in the here and the here after.

    I have just re-read your blog again. Thank you for being so candid. It is hard, even for me, to relive my treatment as you speak of your daily sufferings. Be assured though, that even in your suffering and brokenness He is honored. Jesus learned from His suffering (Hebrews 5:8.) and so do we. I do not like to suffer but I can testify how it has humbled me and helped me surrender to God’s ways instead of my own.

    I am reminded of King David’s words that the sacrifice that our Lord wants is a broken spirit and a contrite heart (Psalm 51:16-17.) Take pleasure, find significance and be comforted in the fact that you are learning, worshipping and getting closer to our Maker in your suffering. Your brokenness magnifies Him.

    Even though some may assume that they are simply ministering to you, I submit that you are also ministering to us. Keep up the good work. Study, share, speak His words. Faith comes from hearing His words. They will grow hope in you and others. Jesus said “Heaven and earth will disappear but my words will remain forever.” (Matthew 24:35.)

    Deb, as much as we think of you. we pray for you. May you grow even closer to God, let His words echo in your mind as you go through your treatment. Praise His name and give Him credit for His grace and mercy your every waking hour. Thank Him anew everyday you wake up breathing for another day to feel his love, especially from your wonderful husband, it is no mistake that he is there by your side. Remember, as sweet as our time is here on earth, our eternity in heaven will be better than all the joy that we have felt here. One of the wonderful things God did for me during the last 18 months was to not only take away the fear, the sting of death if you will, but to give me a foretaste of heaven by making His presence known. Now I genuinely look forward to seeing Him in heaven.

    Forgive me for running on and on but I am compelled to tell what He has done for me. Thank you for your friendship and love. Your light for our Lord shines brightly and influences us all.

    In Christian love,

    Larry & Michelle Gillespie

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  2. Vern,

    You may have posted this somewhere already but can you tell me where the best mailing address is for you right now?

    <3 Kristi

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