Stormie, our 3 year old granddaughter was traveling this week with her parents by car when she asked, “Mom can you read me a story?” Mom replied, “No, not while we drive because it makes me nauseated when I read.” Stormie replied, “Oh just like Papa.” ( the grandkids call me Papa)
Yes, just like me. Due to the Chemo treatments I have not been feeling good and very nauseated all week and been trying to fight off vomiting and eating very little. Because of this I had little desire to write on the blog this week. January 4 is the day Chemo is done !!!!!!!!
We will soon enter a new year with an unknown outcome. Will you and I finish the year of 2012? I do not know, all these things are in Gods hand. The best advice I have is to hold His hand and follow Him, trusting Him fully each day. He knows what is best.
We must press on to the goal and that great prize, Jesus Christ, even when burdens weigh us down, when tears fall and when we are exhausted. Through each of these experiences we gain fuller knowledge of the Lord Himself. May our prayer for the New Year be: “So I run straight to the goal with purpose in every step” 1 Cor. 9:26
Wishing you and yours a very blessed and happy new year.
John
Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
In working or in waiting, another year with Thee.
Another year of progress, another year of praise,
Another year of proving Thy presence all the days.
Another year of mercies, of faithfulness and grace,
Another year of gladness in the shining of Thy face;
Another year of leaning upon Thy loving breast;
Another year of trusting, of quiet, happy rest.
Another year of service, of witness for Thy love,
Another year of training for holier work above.
Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be
On earth, or else in Heaven, another year for Thee.
Saturday 31 December 2011
Thursday 22 December 2011
Christmas 2011
Dear family and friends,
This year has been like no other for us, yet the Lord has been so good for us. He upheld us as we walked through the deep valleys of this life. He comforted us in many different ways and we have never fallen short of His Grace and Mercies. We want to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers, emails, well wishes, calls, visits and conversations. All I can say is, use your time well, time is short and “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near, “( Isaiah 55:6). Be close to your loved ones and tell each one that you love them.
The true joy in Jesus Christ comes from within; the world’s from without. God’s joy has deep roots in Himself; the world’s only on the surface. God’s joy fills us completely; the world’s only on the outside. God’s joy satisfies; the world’s does not.
May the true joy of Jesus fill your heart this Christmas season; after all it is Jesus who is the reason of this Christmas season. Wishing you a Merry Christmas.
With love, John and Henrietta
This year has been like no other for us, yet the Lord has been so good for us. He upheld us as we walked through the deep valleys of this life. He comforted us in many different ways and we have never fallen short of His Grace and Mercies. We want to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers, emails, well wishes, calls, visits and conversations. All I can say is, use your time well, time is short and “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near, “( Isaiah 55:6). Be close to your loved ones and tell each one that you love them.
The true joy in Jesus Christ comes from within; the world’s from without. God’s joy has deep roots in Himself; the world’s only on the surface. God’s joy fills us completely; the world’s only on the outside. God’s joy satisfies; the world’s does not.
May the true joy of Jesus fill your heart this Christmas season; after all it is Jesus who is the reason of this Christmas season. Wishing you a Merry Christmas.
With love, John and Henrietta
 |
| April 2011 |
Wednesday 21 December 2011
Home is where the heart is.
Today is the halfway mark on my chemo treatment and I can say that God has made all things well. Sure I feel a little different than normal, a little tired and eating is a little more difficult and again losing a few pounds, but overall it is good. I am so thankful for this and pray that it will continue like this for the duration of the treatment that ends on the 4th of January.
A few years ago I heard a story told by a missionary in China. Today this missionary is still actively sharing the Gospel in China. In a remote village, high in the mountains of Southern China the Gospel was brought a few years earlier. Most of the inhabitants of this village had come to know the Lord Jesus as their Saviour. On a certain day a doctor and this missionary received notice to come to the village as soon as possible. When they arrived they were told that three women were seriously ill. The doctor treated them the best he could and the missionary prayed fervently to spare the lives of these women. Sometime later the doctor and missionary returned to the village to see how things were going, upon entering the village they found the villagers in a state of joy and celebration. There was great joy because two of the women were healed but the third woman was going to die soon. The villagers rejoiced for the deathly ill woman because she would soon leave this earth to be with her Lord and Saviour while they had to stay behind. This very ill woman could truly say, Heaven is my home and that is where my heart is.
The question we should all ask ourselves, where is my home? Where will we spend Eternity? The Bible gives us clear directions "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” Acts 16:31. We can read in Proverbs 23:26; “My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.”
At this time of the year we are so busy with earthly treasures and the giving of gifts, often forgetting the real reason of Christmas. God’s word teaches us in Matthew 6:14; “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
May God bless you and keep you,
John
A few years ago I heard a story told by a missionary in China. Today this missionary is still actively sharing the Gospel in China. In a remote village, high in the mountains of Southern China the Gospel was brought a few years earlier. Most of the inhabitants of this village had come to know the Lord Jesus as their Saviour. On a certain day a doctor and this missionary received notice to come to the village as soon as possible. When they arrived they were told that three women were seriously ill. The doctor treated them the best he could and the missionary prayed fervently to spare the lives of these women. Sometime later the doctor and missionary returned to the village to see how things were going, upon entering the village they found the villagers in a state of joy and celebration. There was great joy because two of the women were healed but the third woman was going to die soon. The villagers rejoiced for the deathly ill woman because she would soon leave this earth to be with her Lord and Saviour while they had to stay behind. This very ill woman could truly say, Heaven is my home and that is where my heart is.
The question we should all ask ourselves, where is my home? Where will we spend Eternity? The Bible gives us clear directions "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” Acts 16:31. We can read in Proverbs 23:26; “My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes observe my ways.”
At this time of the year we are so busy with earthly treasures and the giving of gifts, often forgetting the real reason of Christmas. God’s word teaches us in Matthew 6:14; “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
May God bless you and keep you,
John
Monday 19 December 2011
Our relationship with Christ never ends.
The closest relation on earth—the marriage bond—has an end. Marriage is only "until death us do part." But the relation between Christ and the sinner who trusts in him, never ends. It lives when the body dies. It lives when flesh and heart fail. Once begun, it never withers. It is only made brighter and stronger by the grave. "I am persuaded," says Paul, "that neither life, nor death, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature—shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord!" (Romans 8:38, 39).
J.C. Ryle
J.C. Ryle
Tuesday 13 December 2011
Lesson of the Homeless Man
Recently I came across this touching story that I want to share this with you.
It was a cold winter's day that Sunday. The parking lot to the church was filling up quickly. I noticed as I got out of my car fellow church members were whispering among themselves as they walked in the church.
As I got closer I saw a man leaned up against the wall outside the church. He was almost laying down as if he was asleep. He had on a long trench coat that was almost in shreds and a hat topped his head, pulled down so you could not see his face. He wore shoes that looked 30 years old, too small for his feet, with holes all over them, his toes stuck out.
I assumed this man was homeless, and asleep, so I walked on by through the doors of the church.
We all fellowshipped for a few minutes, and someone brought up the man laying outside. People snickered and gossiped but no one bothered to ask him to come in, including me.
A few moments later church began. We all waited for the Preacher to take his place and to give us the Word, when the doors to the church opened. In came the homeless man walking down the aisle with his head down. People gasped and whispered and made faces.
He made his way down the aisle and up onto the pulpit where he took off his hat and coat. My heart sank. There stood our preacher...he was the "homeless man."
No one said a word.
The preacher took his Bible and laid it on his stand.
"Folks, I don't think I have to tell you what I am preaching about today. If you judge people, you have no time to love them."
It was a cold winter's day that Sunday. The parking lot to the church was filling up quickly. I noticed as I got out of my car fellow church members were whispering among themselves as they walked in the church.
As I got closer I saw a man leaned up against the wall outside the church. He was almost laying down as if he was asleep. He had on a long trench coat that was almost in shreds and a hat topped his head, pulled down so you could not see his face. He wore shoes that looked 30 years old, too small for his feet, with holes all over them, his toes stuck out.
I assumed this man was homeless, and asleep, so I walked on by through the doors of the church.
We all fellowshipped for a few minutes, and someone brought up the man laying outside. People snickered and gossiped but no one bothered to ask him to come in, including me.
A few moments later church began. We all waited for the Preacher to take his place and to give us the Word, when the doors to the church opened. In came the homeless man walking down the aisle with his head down. People gasped and whispered and made faces.
He made his way down the aisle and up onto the pulpit where he took off his hat and coat. My heart sank. There stood our preacher...he was the "homeless man."
No one said a word.
The preacher took his Bible and laid it on his stand.
"Folks, I don't think I have to tell you what I am preaching about today. If you judge people, you have no time to love them."
Friday 9 December 2011
"My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
Psalm 92:2 shows us where we need to go when we need a place of refuge, nothing else but God. As we visited the medical experts yesterday, it again became so obvious that God gives people the wisdom to make medicine and to give good sound advice, but when it comes to healing these medical experts are helpless. Only God can give healing and bless the means.
We had a very pleasant meeting with our regular Oncologist. He is a very nice and compassionate man with all the best intentions in the world. Again we went over the results of the CT scan and he asked many questions and how I would like to proceed from here. The best I could do is return the question to him and ask his advice which he gave me the best he could. He said that when I had my first round of Chemo he was very encouraged with the rapid response the cancer had to the chemo. He had hoped this would continue, however it did not. Right now I basically have fallen into the common area with most kidney cancer patients. Although, he was not giving up by any means, he suggested I start Chemo treatments right away today at 75% of the original strength. I agreed on that. If the Chemo proves to be still too powerful for my body and I get sick like the last round he will switch me to a different Chemo Therapy treatment. He also said that other types of Chemo treatments for Kidney cancer are becoming available down the line.
So as of December 8, I am back on Chemo treatments for the next 28 days and hope to be finished on January 4, 2012. I had hoped for a little more time off or maybe I was just looking to postpone treatments a little further down the road in order not to have to deal with the side effects of the Chemo.
We also visited the Homeopath whose services I used from the time I was diagnosed. I will continue to use his prescribed remedy. Every medical doctor we visit always comments on the healthy appearance that I have. This may be so, but inside it is a different story, not only physical but also spiritual. Each time I struggle with the fallout of Chemo the spiritual struggle becomes more intense. In those difficult times there is nobody that can comfort like Jesus. I have Henrietta and the children that comfort me so much, but ultimately God comforts as no other, we can read this in Psalm 119:50 this is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.
I hope that those who read this blog will also seek their Eternal comfort in Jesus. He is waiting for hearts that repent from sin and believe on Him.
Last night as we travelled back from Vancouver, Henrietta said, you know I have a real hard time to feel sad. We both agreed on that, it is amazing how good God is to us. We still have times that we can go away together when I feel good and be with our children and grand children. Church life and friends mean a lot to us and we love our walks and talks along Chilliwack River with its beautiful wild white water. Yes, life does have many blessings and we are thankful to see and enjoy them each day. We thank God often for His countless blessings day after day.
I want to thank you too; so many people send messages, emails and cards or pay personal visits. Thank you for your prayers. And as we get closer to Christmas I want to remind you of the true reason of Christmas, Jesus!
Wishing you and yours a good and Godly day.
John
We had a very pleasant meeting with our regular Oncologist. He is a very nice and compassionate man with all the best intentions in the world. Again we went over the results of the CT scan and he asked many questions and how I would like to proceed from here. The best I could do is return the question to him and ask his advice which he gave me the best he could. He said that when I had my first round of Chemo he was very encouraged with the rapid response the cancer had to the chemo. He had hoped this would continue, however it did not. Right now I basically have fallen into the common area with most kidney cancer patients. Although, he was not giving up by any means, he suggested I start Chemo treatments right away today at 75% of the original strength. I agreed on that. If the Chemo proves to be still too powerful for my body and I get sick like the last round he will switch me to a different Chemo Therapy treatment. He also said that other types of Chemo treatments for Kidney cancer are becoming available down the line.
So as of December 8, I am back on Chemo treatments for the next 28 days and hope to be finished on January 4, 2012. I had hoped for a little more time off or maybe I was just looking to postpone treatments a little further down the road in order not to have to deal with the side effects of the Chemo.
We also visited the Homeopath whose services I used from the time I was diagnosed. I will continue to use his prescribed remedy. Every medical doctor we visit always comments on the healthy appearance that I have. This may be so, but inside it is a different story, not only physical but also spiritual. Each time I struggle with the fallout of Chemo the spiritual struggle becomes more intense. In those difficult times there is nobody that can comfort like Jesus. I have Henrietta and the children that comfort me so much, but ultimately God comforts as no other, we can read this in Psalm 119:50 this is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.
I hope that those who read this blog will also seek their Eternal comfort in Jesus. He is waiting for hearts that repent from sin and believe on Him.
Last night as we travelled back from Vancouver, Henrietta said, you know I have a real hard time to feel sad. We both agreed on that, it is amazing how good God is to us. We still have times that we can go away together when I feel good and be with our children and grand children. Church life and friends mean a lot to us and we love our walks and talks along Chilliwack River with its beautiful wild white water. Yes, life does have many blessings and we are thankful to see and enjoy them each day. We thank God often for His countless blessings day after day.
I want to thank you too; so many people send messages, emails and cards or pay personal visits. Thank you for your prayers. And as we get closer to Christmas I want to remind you of the true reason of Christmas, Jesus!
Wishing you and yours a good and Godly day.
John
Monday 5 December 2011
Mixed feelings and mixed emotions on mixed results.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13: 8). To know and to experience that is a real blessing. This morning I did not really experience it that way. Yes, I know it is true for the Bible tells us so, yet the results we received from the Oncologist gave us mixed feelings.
My regular Oncologist was away and the Oncologist we met did not specialize in Kidney Cancer. She shared with us the results from the scan. It showed that the tumour on the left lung had shrunk a little. However more cancer nodules (cancer spots) are appearing on the lungs and some of the existing nodules are growing in size. The oncologist said that it will not affect my breathing immediately. I was given the choice what to do next, go on half strength Chemo treatments starting today or wait and think about it for a few days and see my regular Oncologist on December 8. We opted for the last one and plan to see him on December 8 in the afternoon because our regular Oncologist specializes in Kidney Cancer.
One thing is pretty well for sure, I will not be going on full strength Chemo anymore, at least not the kind I have been using because it makes me too sick. The hard part is what to do next. It is good that I have a few days to think this over and bring this in prayer to God, asking Him for guidance and wisdom.
Psalm 27 says it all, Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD! I wonder if God is talking about earthly things or eternal things or maybe both. Matthew Henry’s commentary gives the following explanation on this text.
“What was the belief which supported the psalmist? That he should see the goodness of the Lord. There is nothing like the believing hope of eternal life, the foresights of that glory, and foretastes of those pleasures, to keep us from fainting under all calamities. In the mean time he should be strengthened to bear up under his burdens. Let us look to the suffering Saviour, and pray in faith, not to be delivered into the hands of our enemies. Let us encourage each other to wait on the Lord, with patient expectation, and fervent prayer”.
Paul said in Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Oh how I know that, yet I need so much grace to be able to say that with my heart and mind. I pray that God will give me that grace when I need it as He has done already so many times under different circumstances. Someone said to me a little while ago “everybody wants to go to Heaven but no one wants to go now” isn’t that the truth, yet I also wonder why people want to go to heaven. Are we truly ready for Heaven? I hope many of you went to church yesterday. I did, and I heard the words from John 3:16 explained to me, making salvation possible for the biggest sinners walking on earth. Please don’t postpone seeking Jesus because today is the day of salvation. Will we see tomorrow? Are we going to see each other again? I do not know and can’t answer that, however, if we repent and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ we will see each other again in Heavenly glory. Oh, what a day that will be.
On December 9, I will write about the visit to our Oncologist and the decision we will make. In the mean time we ask you to pray for me and Henrietta that we will make the right decision on Thursday. We continue to pray for healing, by God all things are possible and we are praying that God will give us grace and help us to carry this load.
Sometimes people say, the news you receive is very discouraging. I think we should look at it in a different light. If this is going be used to Gods honour and glory and used for the saving of sinners it will be a great blessing. We should never forget John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. God’s love is so great that He gave His ONLY Son. If we had only one son would we do that?
God bless you and keep you.
John
My regular Oncologist was away and the Oncologist we met did not specialize in Kidney Cancer. She shared with us the results from the scan. It showed that the tumour on the left lung had shrunk a little. However more cancer nodules (cancer spots) are appearing on the lungs and some of the existing nodules are growing in size. The oncologist said that it will not affect my breathing immediately. I was given the choice what to do next, go on half strength Chemo treatments starting today or wait and think about it for a few days and see my regular Oncologist on December 8. We opted for the last one and plan to see him on December 8 in the afternoon because our regular Oncologist specializes in Kidney Cancer.
One thing is pretty well for sure, I will not be going on full strength Chemo anymore, at least not the kind I have been using because it makes me too sick. The hard part is what to do next. It is good that I have a few days to think this over and bring this in prayer to God, asking Him for guidance and wisdom.
Psalm 27 says it all, Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD! I wonder if God is talking about earthly things or eternal things or maybe both. Matthew Henry’s commentary gives the following explanation on this text.
“What was the belief which supported the psalmist? That he should see the goodness of the Lord. There is nothing like the believing hope of eternal life, the foresights of that glory, and foretastes of those pleasures, to keep us from fainting under all calamities. In the mean time he should be strengthened to bear up under his burdens. Let us look to the suffering Saviour, and pray in faith, not to be delivered into the hands of our enemies. Let us encourage each other to wait on the Lord, with patient expectation, and fervent prayer”.
Paul said in Philippians 1:21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Oh how I know that, yet I need so much grace to be able to say that with my heart and mind. I pray that God will give me that grace when I need it as He has done already so many times under different circumstances. Someone said to me a little while ago “everybody wants to go to Heaven but no one wants to go now” isn’t that the truth, yet I also wonder why people want to go to heaven. Are we truly ready for Heaven? I hope many of you went to church yesterday. I did, and I heard the words from John 3:16 explained to me, making salvation possible for the biggest sinners walking on earth. Please don’t postpone seeking Jesus because today is the day of salvation. Will we see tomorrow? Are we going to see each other again? I do not know and can’t answer that, however, if we repent and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ we will see each other again in Heavenly glory. Oh, what a day that will be.
On December 9, I will write about the visit to our Oncologist and the decision we will make. In the mean time we ask you to pray for me and Henrietta that we will make the right decision on Thursday. We continue to pray for healing, by God all things are possible and we are praying that God will give us grace and help us to carry this load.
Sometimes people say, the news you receive is very discouraging. I think we should look at it in a different light. If this is going be used to Gods honour and glory and used for the saving of sinners it will be a great blessing. We should never forget John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. God’s love is so great that He gave His ONLY Son. If we had only one son would we do that?
God bless you and keep you.
John
Saturday 3 December 2011
Friday 2 December 2011
The Benefit of Storms
Your trials may be many and great. Your cross may be very heavy. But the business of your soul is all conducted according to an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and sure. All things are working together for your good. Your sorrows are only purifying your soul for glory; your bereavements are only fashioning you as a polished stone for the temple above, made without hands. From whatever quarter the storms blow, they only drive you nearer to heaven! Whatever weather you may go through it is only ripening you for the garner of God. Your best things are quite safe.
J.C. Ryle
J.C. Ryle
Thursday 1 December 2011
10-Inches of water
I just wanted to tell you how well everything is going since I wrote last time. I feel so good and eat and sleep well. I thank the Lord for His amazing Grace. I did get my CT scan yesterday and hope to get the results on Monday December 5 from my Oncologist. I hope to write soon after the results are in.
We thank the Lord and continue to look to Him as we pray for complete healing. Psalm 81 speaks of it clearly " I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it". So I continue the daily journey, looking to Jesus Christ.
I came across a story that I want to share with you.
God Bless you.
John
A boy was sitting on a park bench with one hand resting on an open Bible. He was loudly exclaiming his praise to God.
"Hallelujah! Hallelujah! God is great!" he yelled without worrying whether anyone heard him or not.
Shortly after, along came a man who had recently completed some studies at a local university. Feeling himself very enlightened in the ways of truth and very eager to show this enlightenment, he asked the boy about the source of his joy.
"Hey," asked the boy in return with a bright laugh, "don't you have any idea what God is able to do? I just read that God opened up the waves of the Red Sea and led the whole nation of Israel right through the middle."
The enlightened man laughed lightly, sat down next to the boy and began to try to open his eyes to the "realities" of the miracles of the Bible.
"That can all be very easily explained. Modern science has shown that the Red Sea in that area was only 10-inches deep at that time. It was no problem for the Israelites to wade across."
The boy looked surprised. His eyes wandered from the man back to the Bible laying open in his lap. The man, content that he had enlightened a poor, naive young person to the finer points of scientific insight, turned to go.
Scarcely had he taken two steps when the boy began to rejoice and praise louder than before; "Hallelujah! Hallelujah! God is SO great!". The man turned to ask the reason for this resumed jubilation.
"Wow!" exclaimed the boy happily, "God is greater than I thought! Not only did He lead the whole nation of Israel through the Red Sea, He topped it off by drowning the whole Egyptian army in only 10-inches of water!"
We thank the Lord and continue to look to Him as we pray for complete healing. Psalm 81 speaks of it clearly " I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it". So I continue the daily journey, looking to Jesus Christ.
I came across a story that I want to share with you.
God Bless you.
John
A boy was sitting on a park bench with one hand resting on an open Bible. He was loudly exclaiming his praise to God.
"Hallelujah! Hallelujah! God is great!" he yelled without worrying whether anyone heard him or not.
Shortly after, along came a man who had recently completed some studies at a local university. Feeling himself very enlightened in the ways of truth and very eager to show this enlightenment, he asked the boy about the source of his joy.
"Hey," asked the boy in return with a bright laugh, "don't you have any idea what God is able to do? I just read that God opened up the waves of the Red Sea and led the whole nation of Israel right through the middle."
The enlightened man laughed lightly, sat down next to the boy and began to try to open his eyes to the "realities" of the miracles of the Bible.
"That can all be very easily explained. Modern science has shown that the Red Sea in that area was only 10-inches deep at that time. It was no problem for the Israelites to wade across."
The boy looked surprised. His eyes wandered from the man back to the Bible laying open in his lap. The man, content that he had enlightened a poor, naive young person to the finer points of scientific insight, turned to go.
Scarcely had he taken two steps when the boy began to rejoice and praise louder than before; "Hallelujah! Hallelujah! God is SO great!". The man turned to ask the reason for this resumed jubilation.
"Wow!" exclaimed the boy happily, "God is greater than I thought! Not only did He lead the whole nation of Israel through the Red Sea, He topped it off by drowning the whole Egyptian army in only 10-inches of water!"
Friday 25 November 2011
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
In Acts 20:35 we can read these words of Jesus Himself. This week I experienced this personally, that indeed, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”, however this time I was on the receiving end.
God has been so good to Henrietta and me this week. As I write this, it is exactly a week ago that I was in the hospital to receive an IV to settle down my body of the ravaging effects of Chemo therapy treatments. Oh, how sick I felt. Now one week later I feel like new again. I eat well, gained back my lost weight, we go for bike rides or walks and I feel like living again. What a great blessing we are enjoying together.
I was also on the receiving end when a group of Godly friends organized an evening of prayer and came to our home to pray for me, it could not have come at a better time. As these men carried our burdens to Christ it was as if He lifted me up, gave me renewed courage and strength. God is so merciful and full of compassion.
It is going remarkably well. Saturday we hope to visit with the medical person from the BC Cancer Clinic whom we met at the hospital. This compassionate man is going to tell us how God took him from the Muslim faith to Christ when he still lived in Iraq and he will tell us how to share the Gospel with Muslims. We are looking forward to meet him and his wife to hear about another of Gods miracles how he transforms lives from dead to LIFE.
On November 30, I hope to go for a CT scan and on December 5 I will get the results from the Oncologist. On that day we are going to hear what God is doing, no we are not anxious but often have much peace in our hearts, a peace that passes all understanding, as it is written in Philippians 4:7
Thank you for praying for me and for all the good wishes.
May God bless you and keep you.
In His care.
John
A friend shared a beautiful poem on this blog, I want to share it with you and hope you also receive comfort from it. Thanks Gerrit.
You have faced the mountains of desperation
You have climbed, you have fought, you have won
But this valley that lies coldly before you
Casts a shadow you cannot overcome
And just when you thought you had it all together
You knew every verse to get you through
But this time the sorrow broke more than just your heart
And reciting all those verses just won't do
When answers aren't enough, there is Jesus
He is more than just an answer to your prayer
And your heart will find a safe and peaceful refuge
When answers aren't enough, He is there
Instead of asking why did it happen
Think of where it can lead you from here
And as your pain is slowly easing, you can find a greater reason
To live your life triumphant through the tears
When answers aren't enough, there's still Jesus
He is more than just an answer to your prayer
And your heart will find a safe and peaceful refuge
When answers aren't enough, He is there
Scott Wesley Brown
God has been so good to Henrietta and me this week. As I write this, it is exactly a week ago that I was in the hospital to receive an IV to settle down my body of the ravaging effects of Chemo therapy treatments. Oh, how sick I felt. Now one week later I feel like new again. I eat well, gained back my lost weight, we go for bike rides or walks and I feel like living again. What a great blessing we are enjoying together.
I was also on the receiving end when a group of Godly friends organized an evening of prayer and came to our home to pray for me, it could not have come at a better time. As these men carried our burdens to Christ it was as if He lifted me up, gave me renewed courage and strength. God is so merciful and full of compassion.
It is going remarkably well. Saturday we hope to visit with the medical person from the BC Cancer Clinic whom we met at the hospital. This compassionate man is going to tell us how God took him from the Muslim faith to Christ when he still lived in Iraq and he will tell us how to share the Gospel with Muslims. We are looking forward to meet him and his wife to hear about another of Gods miracles how he transforms lives from dead to LIFE.
On November 30, I hope to go for a CT scan and on December 5 I will get the results from the Oncologist. On that day we are going to hear what God is doing, no we are not anxious but often have much peace in our hearts, a peace that passes all understanding, as it is written in Philippians 4:7
Thank you for praying for me and for all the good wishes.
May God bless you and keep you.
In His care.
John
A friend shared a beautiful poem on this blog, I want to share it with you and hope you also receive comfort from it. Thanks Gerrit.
You have faced the mountains of desperation
You have climbed, you have fought, you have won
But this valley that lies coldly before you
Casts a shadow you cannot overcome
And just when you thought you had it all together
You knew every verse to get you through
But this time the sorrow broke more than just your heart
And reciting all those verses just won't do
When answers aren't enough, there is Jesus
He is more than just an answer to your prayer
And your heart will find a safe and peaceful refuge
When answers aren't enough, He is there
Instead of asking why did it happen
Think of where it can lead you from here
And as your pain is slowly easing, you can find a greater reason
To live your life triumphant through the tears
When answers aren't enough, there's still Jesus
He is more than just an answer to your prayer
And your heart will find a safe and peaceful refuge
When answers aren't enough, He is there
Scott Wesley Brown
Wednesday 23 November 2011
The Pastor and the Salesman.
A salesman selling cleaning supplies said to a Pastor: “What good does it do, to have a Bible or to believe in God? Look at all the misery and anguish in the world, after thousands of years it appears to have done little or no good. If God is so real why does this misery and anguish go on day after day?”
The Pastor was quiet, than took the cleaning supply salesman outside. There was a group of young boys playing soccer, each one covered in dust and dirt. “Look,” said the Pastor, “for many generations we have soap available for people like this, yet they are as dirty as pigs. What is the use to have soap?”
“Wait a minute Pastor,” said the cleaning supply salesman, “soap only works when it is used!”
“Exactly,” exclaimed the Pastor, “it is the same with Gods Word!”
The Pastor was quiet, than took the cleaning supply salesman outside. There was a group of young boys playing soccer, each one covered in dust and dirt. “Look,” said the Pastor, “for many generations we have soap available for people like this, yet they are as dirty as pigs. What is the use to have soap?”
“Wait a minute Pastor,” said the cleaning supply salesman, “soap only works when it is used!”
“Exactly,” exclaimed the Pastor, “it is the same with Gods Word!”
Saturday 19 November 2011
I lift up my eyes to the hills. Psalm 121
This week has been difficult to say the least. On Tuesday I started vomiting and each day it got worse to the point that I have been unable to take my Chemo pills. Even if I would take them they would not stay in. It is as if my body tells me, this is enough, no more pills of any kind.
Friday we discussed it with my oncologist and he advised me to stop taking chemo for now. This means that I am finished a week earlier than planned. No, it is not a good thing in regards to the chemo treatments because they are made to be taken for 28 days consecutively. He also suggested checking into the hospital to get an IV to settle down my stomach because I was unable to take in any food. We did this Friday afternoon, I do feel a little better now and hope that I can start eating a little again. Sometimes we are forced to make choices, in this case there was no option.
As I lay sick in bed this week I meditated much on the fact that if I would have to give up Chemo treatments the cancer would advance. At least that’s what crossed my mind. On the other hand I also know that I can’t continue this way, at least not for now. Then I thought, this is what God wants, He wants me to depend on Christ and not on man or chemo pills. Psalm 118: 8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
I need much faith to go forward, looking to Jesus Christ. I pray that I will not waiver in my faith although I have to admit it is difficult at times. The only thing left is God, this is a good thing because He is capable of doing great things, including healing me. No doctor or medicine would get the honour, just God.
Thank you for the outpouring of love in so many different ways, also for my birthday this week.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13
God bless you
John
Friday we discussed it with my oncologist and he advised me to stop taking chemo for now. This means that I am finished a week earlier than planned. No, it is not a good thing in regards to the chemo treatments because they are made to be taken for 28 days consecutively. He also suggested checking into the hospital to get an IV to settle down my stomach because I was unable to take in any food. We did this Friday afternoon, I do feel a little better now and hope that I can start eating a little again. Sometimes we are forced to make choices, in this case there was no option.
As I lay sick in bed this week I meditated much on the fact that if I would have to give up Chemo treatments the cancer would advance. At least that’s what crossed my mind. On the other hand I also know that I can’t continue this way, at least not for now. Then I thought, this is what God wants, He wants me to depend on Christ and not on man or chemo pills. Psalm 118: 8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
I need much faith to go forward, looking to Jesus Christ. I pray that I will not waiver in my faith although I have to admit it is difficult at times. The only thing left is God, this is a good thing because He is capable of doing great things, including healing me. No doctor or medicine would get the honour, just God.
Thank you for the outpouring of love in so many different ways, also for my birthday this week.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13
God bless you
John
Monday 14 November 2011
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
God’s Grace is indeed amazing. In the last week I had some difficult days due to the chemo treatments. It usually doesn’t make for a good day when the first thing I do is vomit. It is in those days that others come along side for encouragement.
I suppose many of you may have read the book by John Bunyan titled “Pilgrims Progress”. I have read it many times and each time I find it an amazing book. The main character in this book is Christian, a man that leaves his home to follow the call of following Christ and travels through life on his way to the Celestial City (Heaven). His journey is difficult and many a time he falls into sin, temptations or is led astray by Satan. The beauty about this story is that when Christian is faced with trials someone always comes along side him to guide him on the right path or to encourage him to go on his way to the Celestial City.
I find myself at times stumbling along the same way Christian did. I see so many imperfections and shortcomings in my own life, yet when times are difficult and I get bogged down somebody comes along side to encourage me as I travel life’s path. This last week I received an email from a friend on the other side of the country. He said, I listened to this message today and thought about you. Please listen to it here. I pray that it will encourage you too. Thank you Albert.
This is just one example. Many of you have done so personally or by sending cards, messages on this blog or email. I deeply appreciate your love and care. It is one of the ways God lifts me up and over the circumstances.
There are times I rejoice, times I shed some tears and there are times of thankfulness to God for all His blessings. Life has its challenges and the truth is I cannot get right with God on my own. I can only be right with God by receiving His gracious offer of forgiveness made possible by the blood of Jesus shed on the cross for me and you.
When the Lord said to Paul in 2 Cor.12:9 , “My grace is sufficient for you for my power is made perfect in weakness” he is saying “since you cannot come to me without sin on your own, I will come to you and make you complete, you will be spotless and pure because of my Grace. My power to save and forgive is made complete in your weakness.” Praise the Lord. When I am weak and not able to come to Him, God comes to me and offers forgiveness and healing. I thank God for His amazing grace that is sufficient.
On November 30, I will receive another CT scan to determine if the Chemo treatments were successful. On December 5, I hope to get the results from my Oncologist. We continue to pray for complete healing, please join us in the same. I am sorry for not posting sooner, when I don’t feel good I don’t have the energy to write.
Gods blessings to you,
John
I suppose many of you may have read the book by John Bunyan titled “Pilgrims Progress”. I have read it many times and each time I find it an amazing book. The main character in this book is Christian, a man that leaves his home to follow the call of following Christ and travels through life on his way to the Celestial City (Heaven). His journey is difficult and many a time he falls into sin, temptations or is led astray by Satan. The beauty about this story is that when Christian is faced with trials someone always comes along side him to guide him on the right path or to encourage him to go on his way to the Celestial City.
I find myself at times stumbling along the same way Christian did. I see so many imperfections and shortcomings in my own life, yet when times are difficult and I get bogged down somebody comes along side to encourage me as I travel life’s path. This last week I received an email from a friend on the other side of the country. He said, I listened to this message today and thought about you. Please listen to it here. I pray that it will encourage you too. Thank you Albert.
This is just one example. Many of you have done so personally or by sending cards, messages on this blog or email. I deeply appreciate your love and care. It is one of the ways God lifts me up and over the circumstances.
There are times I rejoice, times I shed some tears and there are times of thankfulness to God for all His blessings. Life has its challenges and the truth is I cannot get right with God on my own. I can only be right with God by receiving His gracious offer of forgiveness made possible by the blood of Jesus shed on the cross for me and you.
When the Lord said to Paul in 2 Cor.12:9 , “My grace is sufficient for you for my power is made perfect in weakness” he is saying “since you cannot come to me without sin on your own, I will come to you and make you complete, you will be spotless and pure because of my Grace. My power to save and forgive is made complete in your weakness.” Praise the Lord. When I am weak and not able to come to Him, God comes to me and offers forgiveness and healing. I thank God for His amazing grace that is sufficient.
On November 30, I will receive another CT scan to determine if the Chemo treatments were successful. On December 5, I hope to get the results from my Oncologist. We continue to pray for complete healing, please join us in the same. I am sorry for not posting sooner, when I don’t feel good I don’t have the energy to write.
Gods blessings to you,
John
Thursday 3 November 2011
And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations.
Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God. 2 Corinthians 3:5
Paul knew that if his ministry was to be effective for God he could not rely on human resources but on the supernatural power of God. Paul also realized that sharing the Gospel should not be taken lightly. Paul also knew his inadequacy for his God given work. He said in 2 Cor. 2:16 But who is adequate for such a task?
I experienced myself this past week how helpless we can feel when sharing the Gospel to people. I would like to come back to my visit with my Oncologist last week. I do have to tell you that certain important details of the story are left out due to confidentiality.
On October 5 we had an appointment to visit my oncologist and to receive my Chemo pills for the next 4 weeks. A month earlier when we visited him I really felt the need to share the Gospel with him. This Oncologist is a very caring, soft spoken and friendly doctor. First the Oncologist gave me the news that the cancer had advanced during the two months of no Chemo treatments and that I could possibly grow immune to the Chemo that is being used. I may have to switch to another kind of Chemo or clinical trials. I told him that I believed with all my heart that God could heal me, if that was His will, and that I believed in prayer.
I asked the Oncologist if he would accept a gift from me, he said he would. So I presented him with a story of a man that grew up in a non Christian home, yet through Gods directed circumstances he was saved. It is a touching story, the same story I have given to many other people. So we left him with this gift with the promise that we would talk again next time we visit.
As we walked out of his office and into the general reception area a woman that I have known for many years walked up to me. She has suffered from cancer for 6 years and was somewhat down from the latest news she received, that her cancer had spread further. She can also speak of God’s Grace in her life. As we were talking a nurse walked up to our small group, she knew the woman that I was speaking to, so she encouraged us to continue to look to Christ in our difficult circumstances. As we talked I asked all of those in our small group if they would pray for my Oncologist. As I was speaking, a medical person, some 20 feet away, stood up from behind a counter and walked up to our small group. He said, “I heard you speaking about sharing the Gospel with your doctor, I want to let you know that I pray daily for your Oncologist to be saved.” This man was so encouraged to hear that we shared the Gospel and we were all encouraged to hear that he was doing the same through prayer.
The precious time we spent in the hospital was such a great blessing that Henrietta and I left the hospital rejoicing, overshadowing the less than good news we received ourselves with His Grace. It was as if God said, don’t look at your circumstances, look at Me.
Many times we see Gods hand in so many beautiful ways and feel blessed beyond words. I ask that you will also remember this doctor in your prayers. Jesus said himself “without me you can do nothing.” I can often feel that inability and realize that we can only bring the word of God to peoples ears, it is God who opens eyes, ears and heart to save sinners by His Grace. Mark 1:15 Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."
In regards to my treatments, I am 6 days into my 4 week round of Chemo and still feel pretty good. The side effects so far have been minimal, what a blessing it is to be able to eat, sleep, and walk. We continue to pray for complete healing and believe that God can do this. We read in the Bible that Jesus called Lazarus out of his grave after he was dead for 3 days and many other such miracles, it would only take a few words from Jesus to heal me. He can still perform these same miracles today.
Thank you again for your prayers and many other ways of showing your care. May God’s blessings go with you each day.
John
Paul knew that if his ministry was to be effective for God he could not rely on human resources but on the supernatural power of God. Paul also realized that sharing the Gospel should not be taken lightly. Paul also knew his inadequacy for his God given work. He said in 2 Cor. 2:16 But who is adequate for such a task?
I experienced myself this past week how helpless we can feel when sharing the Gospel to people. I would like to come back to my visit with my Oncologist last week. I do have to tell you that certain important details of the story are left out due to confidentiality.
On October 5 we had an appointment to visit my oncologist and to receive my Chemo pills for the next 4 weeks. A month earlier when we visited him I really felt the need to share the Gospel with him. This Oncologist is a very caring, soft spoken and friendly doctor. First the Oncologist gave me the news that the cancer had advanced during the two months of no Chemo treatments and that I could possibly grow immune to the Chemo that is being used. I may have to switch to another kind of Chemo or clinical trials. I told him that I believed with all my heart that God could heal me, if that was His will, and that I believed in prayer.
I asked the Oncologist if he would accept a gift from me, he said he would. So I presented him with a story of a man that grew up in a non Christian home, yet through Gods directed circumstances he was saved. It is a touching story, the same story I have given to many other people. So we left him with this gift with the promise that we would talk again next time we visit.
As we walked out of his office and into the general reception area a woman that I have known for many years walked up to me. She has suffered from cancer for 6 years and was somewhat down from the latest news she received, that her cancer had spread further. She can also speak of God’s Grace in her life. As we were talking a nurse walked up to our small group, she knew the woman that I was speaking to, so she encouraged us to continue to look to Christ in our difficult circumstances. As we talked I asked all of those in our small group if they would pray for my Oncologist. As I was speaking, a medical person, some 20 feet away, stood up from behind a counter and walked up to our small group. He said, “I heard you speaking about sharing the Gospel with your doctor, I want to let you know that I pray daily for your Oncologist to be saved.” This man was so encouraged to hear that we shared the Gospel and we were all encouraged to hear that he was doing the same through prayer.
The precious time we spent in the hospital was such a great blessing that Henrietta and I left the hospital rejoicing, overshadowing the less than good news we received ourselves with His Grace. It was as if God said, don’t look at your circumstances, look at Me.
Many times we see Gods hand in so many beautiful ways and feel blessed beyond words. I ask that you will also remember this doctor in your prayers. Jesus said himself “without me you can do nothing.” I can often feel that inability and realize that we can only bring the word of God to peoples ears, it is God who opens eyes, ears and heart to save sinners by His Grace. Mark 1:15 Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."
In regards to my treatments, I am 6 days into my 4 week round of Chemo and still feel pretty good. The side effects so far have been minimal, what a blessing it is to be able to eat, sleep, and walk. We continue to pray for complete healing and believe that God can do this. We read in the Bible that Jesus called Lazarus out of his grave after he was dead for 3 days and many other such miracles, it would only take a few words from Jesus to heal me. He can still perform these same miracles today.
Thank you again for your prayers and many other ways of showing your care. May God’s blessings go with you each day.
John
Wednesday 26 October 2011
And the Lord said unto Moses speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward.
Just a short note regarding our visit to the Oncologist yesterday.
Before we left home we had prayed that God would open hearts and doors. We were greatly encouraged by the events that took place that morning when we introduced our Oncologist to the Gospel. I would like to come back to our very special visit later this week because the story is too long to write right now. We are taking a few days away from home together to commemorate our anniversary and before I start Chemo treatments again on Friday.
The Oncologist gave us the results from the last scan taken on July 21 and the one taken at the end August. It showed that the cancer in the lungs did not decrease but that there was growth of the tumors in both lungs. This means that when I do not receive chemo treatments the cancer continues to grow. Again the Oncologist told us that there is no cure for this cancer and that lung surgery is not possible at this point. This gives me all the more reason to continue to look to Jesus Christ, to whom else can I go.
At this time we do not know what the chemo treatments did in the last 4 weeks or what they will do in the next 4 weeks. We continue to pray for complete healing because God is much greater and more powerful than any medication or doctor. Even though the news was different than what we had prayed and hoped for, we are encouraged by Gods Grace each day again. Remarkable events are taking place and God is opening more doors much wider than prayed for. Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us.
For closing I want to share a devotion with you that I found on my computer. I do not know the author, I can’t remember when I saved it, but I do know that it is timely.
And the Lord said unto Moses speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward Exodus 14:15
Now was the time for action-GO FORWARD. God gave them their marching orders as He said to Moses, “Speak unto the children of Israel that they go forward.” “Yes, I know, but I will make a path.” There was only one way to go forward. Their only way THROUGH was UP. They must trust God completely. Although their physical eyes were on the water, their spiritual eyes must see the One who would make a path for them through the sea. Self effort is not sufficient. It shuts God out. Faith enables us to stand still and let God into our needs. Then the need becomes His to solve. He can and will do for us what we cannot do for ourselves. Someone has said, “When you let God in, the supernatural becomes the normal.” At His command we can move forward even when it is not reasonable or logical, even when we are fearful, even when we are weak. God doesn’t show us the complete blueprint but leads us step by step. Progress is dependent on our obedience to Him. The way of victory is the way of faith. Faith expects from God what is beyond all expectation. As we face our needs of today we must be reminded to “stand still” until God says “go forward.” Then we will go forward in His power and strength, knowing He will lead us safely through. There comes a time when God tells us to move forward. Our part is to obey; His part is to remove the obstacle. It doesn’t require faith to begin a journey when we can see the way through. But to begin when we can only see the next step requires faith. Victory comes as we move forward. “And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith.” (1 John 5:4).
I hope to write again soon with the remarkable meeting we had yesterday. In the meantime I can only say to everyone, The way of victory is the way of faith, the Lord will make a path where we don't see one.
May God bless you abundantly.
John
This time I posted a video that is absolutely beautiful in picture and words. I am sorry that it is sung in the Dutch language, however it tells a story of a rescue at sea. The same as sinners are rescued by Christ. I know you will enjoy it, even though you may not speak or understand Dutch. Titled, "Even though great storms are all around us, Jesus is there to rescue, if we call on Him"
Before we left home we had prayed that God would open hearts and doors. We were greatly encouraged by the events that took place that morning when we introduced our Oncologist to the Gospel. I would like to come back to our very special visit later this week because the story is too long to write right now. We are taking a few days away from home together to commemorate our anniversary and before I start Chemo treatments again on Friday.
The Oncologist gave us the results from the last scan taken on July 21 and the one taken at the end August. It showed that the cancer in the lungs did not decrease but that there was growth of the tumors in both lungs. This means that when I do not receive chemo treatments the cancer continues to grow. Again the Oncologist told us that there is no cure for this cancer and that lung surgery is not possible at this point. This gives me all the more reason to continue to look to Jesus Christ, to whom else can I go.
At this time we do not know what the chemo treatments did in the last 4 weeks or what they will do in the next 4 weeks. We continue to pray for complete healing because God is much greater and more powerful than any medication or doctor. Even though the news was different than what we had prayed and hoped for, we are encouraged by Gods Grace each day again. Remarkable events are taking place and God is opening more doors much wider than prayed for. Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us.
For closing I want to share a devotion with you that I found on my computer. I do not know the author, I can’t remember when I saved it, but I do know that it is timely.
And the Lord said unto Moses speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward Exodus 14:15
Now was the time for action-GO FORWARD. God gave them their marching orders as He said to Moses, “Speak unto the children of Israel that they go forward.” “Yes, I know, but I will make a path.” There was only one way to go forward. Their only way THROUGH was UP. They must trust God completely. Although their physical eyes were on the water, their spiritual eyes must see the One who would make a path for them through the sea. Self effort is not sufficient. It shuts God out. Faith enables us to stand still and let God into our needs. Then the need becomes His to solve. He can and will do for us what we cannot do for ourselves. Someone has said, “When you let God in, the supernatural becomes the normal.” At His command we can move forward even when it is not reasonable or logical, even when we are fearful, even when we are weak. God doesn’t show us the complete blueprint but leads us step by step. Progress is dependent on our obedience to Him. The way of victory is the way of faith. Faith expects from God what is beyond all expectation. As we face our needs of today we must be reminded to “stand still” until God says “go forward.” Then we will go forward in His power and strength, knowing He will lead us safely through. There comes a time when God tells us to move forward. Our part is to obey; His part is to remove the obstacle. It doesn’t require faith to begin a journey when we can see the way through. But to begin when we can only see the next step requires faith. Victory comes as we move forward. “And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith.” (1 John 5:4).
I hope to write again soon with the remarkable meeting we had yesterday. In the meantime I can only say to everyone, The way of victory is the way of faith, the Lord will make a path where we don't see one.
May God bless you abundantly.
John
This time I posted a video that is absolutely beautiful in picture and words. I am sorry that it is sung in the Dutch language, however it tells a story of a rescue at sea. The same as sinners are rescued by Christ. I know you will enjoy it, even though you may not speak or understand Dutch. Titled, "Even though great storms are all around us, Jesus is there to rescue, if we call on Him"
Saturday 22 October 2011
Is this all ?
Is this all ?
A 6 minute video that "should" shatter all records at the Box-Office.
A must watch !
A 6 minute video that "should" shatter all records at the Box-Office.
A must watch !
Wednesday 19 October 2011
October 20, 2011 -- October 20, 1977
Yes it is true; today it is 34 years ago Henrietta and I got married. We are rejoicing that God has blessed us with so many years together. The pastor that married us used Psalm 37:5 in our marriage ceremony. “Commit your way to the Lord; Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass”
Looking back over the years, the Lord blessed us with 5 children, 6 grand children (and one on the way, due in February 2012 Lord willing). He blessed us with health in the years behind us, a home and we never fell short of anything. For this we can only thank God for His abundance of blessings. How many people in the world can say this? During our marriage we visited many (third world) countries, and upon our returns it always humbled us how God is looking after us, undeserved blessings, each day again.
As I write this Psalm 100 comes to mind, a song of praise, joy and thanks
giving.
1Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! 2 Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! 3 Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! 5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Yes we did commit our ways to the Lord, although with countless short falls. We trust in Him, but even that fails at times. Despite our short falls we can only say the Lord is faithful. He will bring it to pass, whatever we have committed to Him.
And so our lives carry on like footsteps in the sand, until the tide rises and they too will be washed away in due time. I sometimes wonder if God will add more years to the 34. We pray that it be so, however when I felt so sick in the last couple of weeks I wondered at times.
I am slowly recovering from this last Chemo treatment; recovery is taking longer than the last treatments. It is still difficult to walk due to sore feet. My appetite is slowly returning and amazingly I hardly lost any weight this time.
We hope to be together on Saturday with all our children and grand children to enjoy dinner together and to thank God for His countless blessings. On October 25 I will see my Oncologist again to get my next round of chemo. Time is going too fast now that I am off Chemo. I hope to post again after this visit.
I have posted the before and after pictures. Henrietta changed little, it's a different story for me. Fuzzy wuzzy has no hair!
Thank you for your support , cares and prayers. God be with you and bless you.
John
Looking back over the years, the Lord blessed us with 5 children, 6 grand children (and one on the way, due in February 2012 Lord willing). He blessed us with health in the years behind us, a home and we never fell short of anything. For this we can only thank God for His abundance of blessings. How many people in the world can say this? During our marriage we visited many (third world) countries, and upon our returns it always humbled us how God is looking after us, undeserved blessings, each day again.
As I write this Psalm 100 comes to mind, a song of praise, joy and thanks
giving.
1Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! 2 Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! 3 Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! 5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Yes we did commit our ways to the Lord, although with countless short falls. We trust in Him, but even that fails at times. Despite our short falls we can only say the Lord is faithful. He will bring it to pass, whatever we have committed to Him.
And so our lives carry on like footsteps in the sand, until the tide rises and they too will be washed away in due time. I sometimes wonder if God will add more years to the 34. We pray that it be so, however when I felt so sick in the last couple of weeks I wondered at times.
I am slowly recovering from this last Chemo treatment; recovery is taking longer than the last treatments. It is still difficult to walk due to sore feet. My appetite is slowly returning and amazingly I hardly lost any weight this time.
We hope to be together on Saturday with all our children and grand children to enjoy dinner together and to thank God for His countless blessings. On October 25 I will see my Oncologist again to get my next round of chemo. Time is going too fast now that I am off Chemo. I hope to post again after this visit.
I have posted the before and after pictures. Henrietta changed little, it's a different story for me. Fuzzy wuzzy has no hair!
Thank you for your support , cares and prayers. God be with you and bless you.
John
October 20, 1977
 |
| October 20, 2011 |
Wednesday 12 October 2011
Pressing onward.
It has been a couple of difficult weeks, often spending a lot of time in bed with headaches, nausea, vomiting and many other discomforts. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel, this Thursday, October 13, will be the last Chemo pill followed by a 14 day break before I start the next round of chemo.
This round of Chemo that lasted 4 weeks has been particularly difficult. Doctors can’t explain why but I am told that each treatment is unpredictable, even though I use the same treatment as before. I had some good days in between and even felt good enough to go to church last Sunday. However each day is like a roller coaster right now, every morning I awake I am thankful but also wonder what the day may bring.
Even though I feel that each day is like a roller coaster, God remains faithful through this all. I often think of the poem” footprints in the sand”, looking back I often see only one set of footprints and that is a great comfort knowing that God is carrying me through.
On October 6, we visited the kidney specialist that did the surgery at the end July. He was happy with the results and gave me some more “old” news about the kidney and tumour that was removed. He informed us that 90% of the tumour had died due to the chemo treatments. This was good news and we continue to pray for complete healing.
In the last 4 weeks I had many opportunities to speak to people for which I am very thankful to God. One conversation really stands out and is still very much on my mind. After I was asked how I was doing, I explained my situation. However I really felt that I should ask this person a question in return, so I did and asked the following. How would you deal with it if your doctor told you that you had terminal cancer and only a year to live? It was quiet, than finally the answer came. I would pray like crazy and hope for the best. But what about if you would die in the next 30 minutes from a heart attack or accident, what then? Are you ready to meet God?
So now I ask you the same question and how would you react to that? Are you ready to meet your Creator? Do you have the assurance that all will be well? Where will you spend Eternity? John 3:16 gives the answer in a few words ”16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him”
I pray that all who read this and have not reconciled with God will waste no time. We can be summoned before God any moment.
We read in John 10:5 (Jesus said) I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came (Jesus) that they may have life and have it abundantly.11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
Thank you for the personal visits, prayers, cards and emails. Please remember Henrietta in your prayers that she will have the strength to go on each day caring for her 90 year old mother and me.
God be with you all,
John
This round of Chemo that lasted 4 weeks has been particularly difficult. Doctors can’t explain why but I am told that each treatment is unpredictable, even though I use the same treatment as before. I had some good days in between and even felt good enough to go to church last Sunday. However each day is like a roller coaster right now, every morning I awake I am thankful but also wonder what the day may bring.
Even though I feel that each day is like a roller coaster, God remains faithful through this all. I often think of the poem” footprints in the sand”, looking back I often see only one set of footprints and that is a great comfort knowing that God is carrying me through.
On October 6, we visited the kidney specialist that did the surgery at the end July. He was happy with the results and gave me some more “old” news about the kidney and tumour that was removed. He informed us that 90% of the tumour had died due to the chemo treatments. This was good news and we continue to pray for complete healing.
In the last 4 weeks I had many opportunities to speak to people for which I am very thankful to God. One conversation really stands out and is still very much on my mind. After I was asked how I was doing, I explained my situation. However I really felt that I should ask this person a question in return, so I did and asked the following. How would you deal with it if your doctor told you that you had terminal cancer and only a year to live? It was quiet, than finally the answer came. I would pray like crazy and hope for the best. But what about if you would die in the next 30 minutes from a heart attack or accident, what then? Are you ready to meet God?
So now I ask you the same question and how would you react to that? Are you ready to meet your Creator? Do you have the assurance that all will be well? Where will you spend Eternity? John 3:16 gives the answer in a few words ”16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him”
I pray that all who read this and have not reconciled with God will waste no time. We can be summoned before God any moment.
We read in John 10:5 (Jesus said) I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came (Jesus) that they may have life and have it abundantly.11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
Thank you for the personal visits, prayers, cards and emails. Please remember Henrietta in your prayers that she will have the strength to go on each day caring for her 90 year old mother and me.
God be with you all,
John
Tuesday 4 October 2011
The love of God
Romans 8: 38 For I am persuaded , that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present , nor things to come. 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Monday 3 October 2011
With the eye of tenderest love!
It was my plan to post much sooner on my blog; however the Chemo treatments have kept me from doing so. I have spent much of my time in bed the last 5 days with bad headaches, vomiting, muscle pain and a host of other side effects. I hope and pray that these side effects will lighten up a little because I am just over the halfway mark and have another 11 days to go. Thank you for remembering us in your prayers.
I hope to write again soon if my body and brains allow it. For now I want to share a devotion I read yesterday, for me a great comfort and if you find yourself in difficult circumstances I hope you will also find comfort in it.
God be with you, John
(J.R. Miller, "Daily Bible Readings in the Life of Christ" 1890)
"He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them." Mark 6:48
Jesus always sees our toils and distresses in this world. We do not see Him--and sometimes we think that He has forgotten us; but that is never true. He never forgets us, nor is He indifferent for a moment.
On the heights, while the battle was in progress, stood a group of men watching the struggling armies on the plain below. In this group was the American general Sheridan, who watched the mighty strife with the keen eye of a soldier. King William was also there; but his interest was different from Sheridan's. His son was in the thick of the fight--and he watched the battle with the eye of a father, as well as of a king.
Just so, Christ looks down upon our struggles in this world. He sees us straining and toiling; He beholds all our battles and strives. He sees us in the waves and in the storm. He sees us, not merely with the eye of the calm spectator--but with the eye of tenderest love!
This is a great thought! If we can only get it into our hearts--it will give us wondrous courage in the hour of toil, sorrow, or struggle. Jesus knows . . .
when the battle is hard,
when the night is dark,
when the temptation is more than we can bear.
The winds were against His disciples--even though Christ sent them out to sea. We learn here, that even when we are doing the things God which has bidden us do--we may encounter great opposition and difficulty. We may even be beaten back, and find the trial too great for our strength. Many of the Lord's disciples have to make their voyage over very stormy seas--on their way to glory. For some, duty is often very hard. Indeed, a true, noble, courageous, holy life--must always exist in the face of opposition and contrary winds.
I hope to write again soon if my body and brains allow it. For now I want to share a devotion I read yesterday, for me a great comfort and if you find yourself in difficult circumstances I hope you will also find comfort in it.
God be with you, John
(J.R. Miller, "Daily Bible Readings in the Life of Christ" 1890)
"He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them." Mark 6:48
Jesus always sees our toils and distresses in this world. We do not see Him--and sometimes we think that He has forgotten us; but that is never true. He never forgets us, nor is He indifferent for a moment.
On the heights, while the battle was in progress, stood a group of men watching the struggling armies on the plain below. In this group was the American general Sheridan, who watched the mighty strife with the keen eye of a soldier. King William was also there; but his interest was different from Sheridan's. His son was in the thick of the fight--and he watched the battle with the eye of a father, as well as of a king.
Just so, Christ looks down upon our struggles in this world. He sees us straining and toiling; He beholds all our battles and strives. He sees us in the waves and in the storm. He sees us, not merely with the eye of the calm spectator--but with the eye of tenderest love!
This is a great thought! If we can only get it into our hearts--it will give us wondrous courage in the hour of toil, sorrow, or struggle. Jesus knows . . .
when the battle is hard,
when the night is dark,
when the temptation is more than we can bear.
The winds were against His disciples--even though Christ sent them out to sea. We learn here, that even when we are doing the things God which has bidden us do--we may encounter great opposition and difficulty. We may even be beaten back, and find the trial too great for our strength. Many of the Lord's disciples have to make their voyage over very stormy seas--on their way to glory. For some, duty is often very hard. Indeed, a true, noble, courageous, holy life--must always exist in the face of opposition and contrary winds.
Saturday 24 September 2011
Time..........
Time is an interesting factor in our lives. If we are enjoying ourselves, time seems to fly by. If we are in pain, time seems to literally creep by. Something important happens, and we remember that; then endurance sets in until the next big happening. We do not remember the time in between, only the big happenings.
Someone asked me some time ago, do you get used to having cancer? I had to give an honest answer and had to say yes, it does become part of your life. The doctor visits, the treatments, the side effects of the treatments, the sleepless hours and the list goes on, all become part of daily life.
One thing however that has not become part of the things that I get used to, and that is time; it is an ever present thought. No, not that it makes me afraid or anxious or still wanting to do the things I never had a chance to do. I have to confess that at times I wonder how much more time God will give me on this earth and how I can best use this precious time. Never in this life has time become so important to me than now.
Ecclesiastes 3 always made an impression on me, even in my youth when my father would read this chapter when seated around the table. When I was young I sometimes questioned some of these truths, wondering if they were true. Now that I have more years behind me I understand more of what these verses mean.
A time for everything.1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: 2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; 3 a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6 a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7 a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8 a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace..
The time I have been talking about above is the time table God has for us to use here on earth. The only occasion that time is important to God is in His dealings with us. You see in eternity (where God dwells) time will not have a cycle like we have here on the earth, but will be everlasting. There will be no days, months or years and no clocks or calendars.
Are you ready to face this Eternity? I invite you to watch the movie clip below and get more details on time and what God wants us to do with this precious gift of time.
It has been one week ago that I started Chemotherapy treatment again. The first week is usually good until the side effects start to appear in the second week. I am praying that I will not get these side effects, or at least less of them. So far it is going well, except for the sleepless hours during the night. But even those hours can be a blessing, not to count sheep, but to talk to the Shepherd. We so often have so much to pray for, which is good; however please take time to listen to what God has to say to you, through His word and Holy Spirit.
Thank you for your compassion and cares, your greetings and well wishes.
May God be with you, always.
John
Someone asked me some time ago, do you get used to having cancer? I had to give an honest answer and had to say yes, it does become part of your life. The doctor visits, the treatments, the side effects of the treatments, the sleepless hours and the list goes on, all become part of daily life.
One thing however that has not become part of the things that I get used to, and that is time; it is an ever present thought. No, not that it makes me afraid or anxious or still wanting to do the things I never had a chance to do. I have to confess that at times I wonder how much more time God will give me on this earth and how I can best use this precious time. Never in this life has time become so important to me than now.
Ecclesiastes 3 always made an impression on me, even in my youth when my father would read this chapter when seated around the table. When I was young I sometimes questioned some of these truths, wondering if they were true. Now that I have more years behind me I understand more of what these verses mean.
A time for everything.1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: 2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; 3 a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6 a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7 a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8 a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace..
The time I have been talking about above is the time table God has for us to use here on earth. The only occasion that time is important to God is in His dealings with us. You see in eternity (where God dwells) time will not have a cycle like we have here on the earth, but will be everlasting. There will be no days, months or years and no clocks or calendars.
Are you ready to face this Eternity? I invite you to watch the movie clip below and get more details on time and what God wants us to do with this precious gift of time.
It has been one week ago that I started Chemotherapy treatment again. The first week is usually good until the side effects start to appear in the second week. I am praying that I will not get these side effects, or at least less of them. So far it is going well, except for the sleepless hours during the night. But even those hours can be a blessing, not to count sheep, but to talk to the Shepherd. We so often have so much to pray for, which is good; however please take time to listen to what God has to say to you, through His word and Holy Spirit.
Thank you for your compassion and cares, your greetings and well wishes.
May God be with you, always.
John
Saturday 17 September 2011
Smooth seas do not make skilled sailors.
This African Proverb has a lot of truth in it. When we go through adversity, we can have a lot of questions. One of those questions could be, Lord why are my prayers taking so long to answer? Are we really to question God? The answer is no. Do we at times question God? The answer is yes. In fact, most Biblical characters that we hold in high esteem, at one time or another questioned God. Job is the classic example.
Jesus faced a man in Mark 9 who believed in Him, and His ability to heal his son. You remember the occasion in Mark 9:23 And Jesus said to him, "'If you can'! All things are possible for one who believes."24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, "I believe; help my unbelief!" 25 And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, "You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again."26 And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, "He is dead." 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose.
At times I have to confess to God these words "I believe; help my unbelief!" I know and believe that God can heal me, yet at times satan can be so over powering when sowing the seed of unbelief in my heart. However when I look back at the last 5 ½ months I can only praise God for His mercy as in Psalm 150, Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD! We serve an amazing God who heals bodies and souls.
God has given me an amazing recovery from my kidney surgery and I gained my weight back (and some). Yesterday, September 16, I started my Chemo Therapy treatments again. No, I am not looking forward to it because I know what lies ahead in regards to side effects. On the other hand I know that the Lord blessed these treatments far beyond expectation. Even the doctors had no explanation for it, however I do. My faith is in Christ, I look to Him for perfect and complete healing, knowing that He can do it.
With today’s modern technologies we are able to track many things. I can see the amount of people visiting this blog, the countries they are from and the comments that are made either on this blog or to me personally. I welcome each one and pray that God will be glorified through it all, and if I fail or if I am wrong don’t hesitate to correct me.
Jesus faced a man in Mark 9 who believed in Him, and His ability to heal his son. You remember the occasion in Mark 9:23 And Jesus said to him, "'If you can'! All things are possible for one who believes."24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, "I believe; help my unbelief!" 25 And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, "You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again."26 And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, "He is dead." 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose.
At times I have to confess to God these words "I believe; help my unbelief!" I know and believe that God can heal me, yet at times satan can be so over powering when sowing the seed of unbelief in my heart. However when I look back at the last 5 ½ months I can only praise God for His mercy as in Psalm 150, Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD! We serve an amazing God who heals bodies and souls.
God has given me an amazing recovery from my kidney surgery and I gained my weight back (and some). Yesterday, September 16, I started my Chemo Therapy treatments again. No, I am not looking forward to it because I know what lies ahead in regards to side effects. On the other hand I know that the Lord blessed these treatments far beyond expectation. Even the doctors had no explanation for it, however I do. My faith is in Christ, I look to Him for perfect and complete healing, knowing that He can do it.
With today’s modern technologies we are able to track many things. I can see the amount of people visiting this blog, the countries they are from and the comments that are made either on this blog or to me personally. I welcome each one and pray that God will be glorified through it all, and if I fail or if I am wrong don’t hesitate to correct me.
Wherever you are in the world, I want to ask you to attend church tomorrow. The Lord is waiting for you with open arms. Luke 13: 29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.
I look forward seeing you in church tomorrow.
John
I look forward seeing you in church tomorrow.
John
Friday 2 September 2011
All who sail the sea of faith
Just a short posting to tell you that all is well, I am still gaining strength and each day is better than the last. The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. Lord willing, on September 16, I will start Chemotherapy treatments again. I am going to take a break from posting on my blog for a couple of weeks and hope to write again around the time I start my treatments again. Thank you for showing your care in so many different ways, a big thank you from my heart.
God be with you.
John
Friends emailed me this poem, I thought it be worthwhile to post it on my blog. They too experience Gods grace often in a very real way.
All who sail the sea of faith
Find out before too long
How quickly blue skies can grow dark
And gentle winds grow strong
Suddenly fear is like white water
Pounding on the soul
Still we sail on knowing
That our Lord is in control
Sometimes He calms the storm
With a whispered peace be still
He can settle any sea
But it doesn't mean He will
Sometimes He holds us close
And lets the wind and waves go wild
Sometimes He calms the storm
And other times He calms His child
He has a reason for each trial
That we pass through in life
And though we're shaken
We cannot be pulled apart from Christ
No matter how the driving rain beats down
On those who hold to faith
A heart of trust will always
Be a quiet peaceful place
Scott Krippayne
God be with you.
John
Friends emailed me this poem, I thought it be worthwhile to post it on my blog. They too experience Gods grace often in a very real way.
All who sail the sea of faith
Find out before too long
How quickly blue skies can grow dark
And gentle winds grow strong
Suddenly fear is like white water
Pounding on the soul
Still we sail on knowing
That our Lord is in control
Sometimes He calms the storm
With a whispered peace be still
He can settle any sea
But it doesn't mean He will
Sometimes He holds us close
And lets the wind and waves go wild
Sometimes He calms the storm
And other times He calms His child
He has a reason for each trial
That we pass through in life
And though we're shaken
We cannot be pulled apart from Christ
No matter how the driving rain beats down
On those who hold to faith
A heart of trust will always
Be a quiet peaceful place
Scott Krippayne
Friday 26 August 2011
Till the Storm Passes By
God is in control even when nothing in the world appears to be. Another hurricane is on its way to leave a path of devastation in its wake. Countless people are dying in the Horn of Africa. An earthquake struck this week in the Eastern US and Canada. People were gunned down in senseless murder scenes.
I remember the catastrophic day of September 11, 2001 and the impact it made to the world. The Sundays that followed people crowded into churches to grieve and seek God for comfort in time trouble. I truly believe that God used this event to save people.
Have you had storms in your life? What have they done to you? Do they worry you? Have they angered you? Do you think that God has lost control or did you seek the LORD who will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
Sadly, when we are facing storms in our lives, we tend to forget that God is in full control. That is why it is so important for us to constantly remind ourselves that our God still sits on His throne in heaven. It may do us much good to constantly remind ourselves of this fact before the next storm strikes. Storms are inevitable, for we live in a fallen world. Nevertheless, we can still feel blessed when we are faced with storms because we have a God who is in ultimate control of everything that happens in our lives.
I have my difficult moments when I wonder; Lord do you still know that I am here. Have you forgotten me? Yet when I look back in my 57 years of life and especially the last 6 months since I was diagnosed with cancer I can only say as written in Nahum 1:7 The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.
It's so important to have a heart of gratitude. It's even more important to maintain a heart of gratitude. When we are in the midst of storms, we can be so consumed by them that we do not realize there could be a lot of people out there who are suffering even more than us. So, if you are currently facing a storm in your life, why not take the focus off it and reach out to those who are suffering a worse fate than you? You may soon realize how blessed you are!
Presently I am reading “When your world falls apart” by Dr David Jeremiah. When life suddenly turns upside down, there, in the midst of your trials and in the center of your pain, is God comforting, guiding encouraging, teaching and sustaining. If you find yourself in the midst of a trial you should read this book. Thank you Hendrika for this wonderful gift, it arrived just in time.
It is now just over 4 weeks ago that I had my surgery. Healing is taking time and progressing steadily. On September 16 I will resume Chemo treatments and I pray that I will again gain my full strength to face these harsh treatments. I again want to thank you so much for showing your love and care in so many different ways. Thank you for your prayers, God is good, all the time.
John
I remember the catastrophic day of September 11, 2001 and the impact it made to the world. The Sundays that followed people crowded into churches to grieve and seek God for comfort in time trouble. I truly believe that God used this event to save people.
Have you had storms in your life? What have they done to you? Do they worry you? Have they angered you? Do you think that God has lost control or did you seek the LORD who will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
Sadly, when we are facing storms in our lives, we tend to forget that God is in full control. That is why it is so important for us to constantly remind ourselves that our God still sits on His throne in heaven. It may do us much good to constantly remind ourselves of this fact before the next storm strikes. Storms are inevitable, for we live in a fallen world. Nevertheless, we can still feel blessed when we are faced with storms because we have a God who is in ultimate control of everything that happens in our lives.
I have my difficult moments when I wonder; Lord do you still know that I am here. Have you forgotten me? Yet when I look back in my 57 years of life and especially the last 6 months since I was diagnosed with cancer I can only say as written in Nahum 1:7 The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.
It's so important to have a heart of gratitude. It's even more important to maintain a heart of gratitude. When we are in the midst of storms, we can be so consumed by them that we do not realize there could be a lot of people out there who are suffering even more than us. So, if you are currently facing a storm in your life, why not take the focus off it and reach out to those who are suffering a worse fate than you? You may soon realize how blessed you are!
Presently I am reading “When your world falls apart” by Dr David Jeremiah. When life suddenly turns upside down, there, in the midst of your trials and in the center of your pain, is God comforting, guiding encouraging, teaching and sustaining. If you find yourself in the midst of a trial you should read this book. Thank you Hendrika for this wonderful gift, it arrived just in time.
It is now just over 4 weeks ago that I had my surgery. Healing is taking time and progressing steadily. On September 16 I will resume Chemo treatments and I pray that I will again gain my full strength to face these harsh treatments. I again want to thank you so much for showing your love and care in so many different ways. Thank you for your prayers, God is good, all the time.
John
Thursday 25 August 2011
Don't waste your life.
Psalm39: 4 LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am.
Friday 19 August 2011
Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! For He has done marvellous things. Psalm 98:1
This is indeed a day to sing praises to our Lord, He is doing great things. Yesterday, Henrietta and I spent our day visiting the Oncologist and Homeopath. It was a busy and tiring day, but also a day to rejoice because of God’s blessings.
The visit with the Oncologist was amazing to say the least. He told us that when we met with him the first time, three months ago, that in his opinion there was little hope for me in regards to the cancer. He informed us again that under normal circumstances Renal Cell Carcinoma (Kidney Cancer) does not respond to Chemotherapy treatments very well. He said however that there was an above normal and unusual necrosis (dying of cancer cells) to be seen on the new scan. He was very pleased with that and said that the cancer is responding well to the Chemo treatments. The necrosis was also visible on the kidney that was removed. This doesn't mean that a tumour actually shrinks but cells die, which is what they are looking for. When I heard these words I found it hard to keep my composure, the goodness of the Lord just overwhelmed me.
With thankful hearts we rejoice in God’s blessing. When I was diagnosed beginning of March there were times that I said, “Lord why me?” that same thought came back to me yesterday, Lord why me? Why do you so undeservingly bless me? As I left the hospital I said to Henrietta, if I could skip right now I would, but the healing process from surgery kept me from it.
On September 16 Lord willing, I will resume Chemotherapy treatments for two times 28 days. I can’t resume treatments until I am completely healed from surgery. The Oncologist suggested we see the Lung Specialist again after these treatments to see if another surgery could possibly be done, this time on the left lung to remove a large tumour.
In the afternoon we visited the Homeopath that is giving me treatments. He too was amazed at the progress made. These blessings humble me to the point that at times I can just sit down and let my tears run free course. Words fall short of the thankfulness that overflows my heart and so we go forward day by day looking to Christ the author of our Faith.
Lord help me to stay strong, help me to glorify Your name, help me to be more Christ like each day. Lord just walk with me and help me to grow in Faith.
Thank you for praying for me, God is listening. God has great promises in His word, are you listening to God? He is watching and waiting for sinners to repent and to believe on Him. Thank you for keeping in touch and encouraging me in many different ways. Just never forget that He has done (and is doing) marvellous things; His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory. Psalm 98:1
God bless you richly,
John.
A friend emailed me today and included this Hymn; I want to share it with you. What a blessing and comfort it is if this is true in our lives.
Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me, and I am His child.
Refrain
Under His wings, under His wings,
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort, and there I am blessed.
Refrain
Under His wings, oh, what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me,
Resting in Jesus, I’m safe evermore.
The visit with the Oncologist was amazing to say the least. He told us that when we met with him the first time, three months ago, that in his opinion there was little hope for me in regards to the cancer. He informed us again that under normal circumstances Renal Cell Carcinoma (Kidney Cancer) does not respond to Chemotherapy treatments very well. He said however that there was an above normal and unusual necrosis (dying of cancer cells) to be seen on the new scan. He was very pleased with that and said that the cancer is responding well to the Chemo treatments. The necrosis was also visible on the kidney that was removed. This doesn't mean that a tumour actually shrinks but cells die, which is what they are looking for. When I heard these words I found it hard to keep my composure, the goodness of the Lord just overwhelmed me.
With thankful hearts we rejoice in God’s blessing. When I was diagnosed beginning of March there were times that I said, “Lord why me?” that same thought came back to me yesterday, Lord why me? Why do you so undeservingly bless me? As I left the hospital I said to Henrietta, if I could skip right now I would, but the healing process from surgery kept me from it.
On September 16 Lord willing, I will resume Chemotherapy treatments for two times 28 days. I can’t resume treatments until I am completely healed from surgery. The Oncologist suggested we see the Lung Specialist again after these treatments to see if another surgery could possibly be done, this time on the left lung to remove a large tumour.
In the afternoon we visited the Homeopath that is giving me treatments. He too was amazed at the progress made. These blessings humble me to the point that at times I can just sit down and let my tears run free course. Words fall short of the thankfulness that overflows my heart and so we go forward day by day looking to Christ the author of our Faith.
Lord help me to stay strong, help me to glorify Your name, help me to be more Christ like each day. Lord just walk with me and help me to grow in Faith.
Thank you for praying for me, God is listening. God has great promises in His word, are you listening to God? He is watching and waiting for sinners to repent and to believe on Him. Thank you for keeping in touch and encouraging me in many different ways. Just never forget that He has done (and is doing) marvellous things; His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory. Psalm 98:1
God bless you richly,
John.
A friend emailed me today and included this Hymn; I want to share it with you. What a blessing and comfort it is if this is true in our lives.
Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me, and I am His child.
Refrain
Under His wings, under His wings,
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort, and there I am blessed.
Refrain
Under His wings, oh, what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me,
Resting in Jesus, I’m safe evermore.
Tuesday 9 August 2011
Grace and Grace alone
The Lord has again has been so gracious to me and my family, undeserving Grace. This is indeed true in many aspects. Although the care I received at Surrey Memorial Hospital was exceptional, the care at home is served with mountains of love and care. It is much quieter and I don’t have to put up with room partners that snore like Harley motor bikes. It appears that healing works much better in the home environment. All in all I am glad and thankful to the Lord to be home.
Now that I am home I have to take it very easy, I get tired quickly and don’t sleep like I use too, at least not yet. Again I lost 10 Lbs during my week in the hospital. However, my appetite is again returning and I am again starting to gain weight slowly. I am often amazed how that the Lord is blessing me in so many ways, also in preparing me again for the next step of treatments.
On August 5 we met with the surgeon who did the surgery. He removed all the staples (it looked like a zipper). One of my first questions was if I could drive again, he looked at Henrietta then at me, hesitated and then said to my relief, sure, start with short distances only. He was happy with the results and told us that he was able to remove the Kidney with the tumour and Adrenal gland. To remove them he had to make a 12 inch cut. Due to the nature of the surgery it will take 4-6 weeks for recovery. Although he was happy with the results, he told us in carefully chosen words that he as Urologist had completed his task, but that the cancer still remains in my lungs at stage 4 and still the fastest growing cancer there is. I was aware of that, yet it is good to be reminded of the seriousness of the cancer that remains in me.
On August 18 I will be visiting the Oncologist again to hear about further treatments. I have already been told that most likely more Chemotherapy treatments will be given. Not something I am looking forward to, however I don’t believe there is another choice at this point. We continue to pray for complete healing and when God gives that, no other treatments will be necessary.
During my hospital stay the Lord comforted me in special ways in the darkest hours. I was not scared or nervous before or after surgery, yet it is amazing how that Satan can try to drive a wedge between ones faith and God. I can tell you though that when these trials came the Lord again gave me light on my path in the middle of the night when I read 1 Peter 1. I suggest you read this chapter or at least the first 12 verses. The Lord is Gracious and full of compassion. Thank you for those who visited me or contacted us in many other ways. Thank you for your prayers.
John
Now that I am home I have to take it very easy, I get tired quickly and don’t sleep like I use too, at least not yet. Again I lost 10 Lbs during my week in the hospital. However, my appetite is again returning and I am again starting to gain weight slowly. I am often amazed how that the Lord is blessing me in so many ways, also in preparing me again for the next step of treatments.
On August 5 we met with the surgeon who did the surgery. He removed all the staples (it looked like a zipper). One of my first questions was if I could drive again, he looked at Henrietta then at me, hesitated and then said to my relief, sure, start with short distances only. He was happy with the results and told us that he was able to remove the Kidney with the tumour and Adrenal gland. To remove them he had to make a 12 inch cut. Due to the nature of the surgery it will take 4-6 weeks for recovery. Although he was happy with the results, he told us in carefully chosen words that he as Urologist had completed his task, but that the cancer still remains in my lungs at stage 4 and still the fastest growing cancer there is. I was aware of that, yet it is good to be reminded of the seriousness of the cancer that remains in me.
On August 18 I will be visiting the Oncologist again to hear about further treatments. I have already been told that most likely more Chemotherapy treatments will be given. Not something I am looking forward to, however I don’t believe there is another choice at this point. We continue to pray for complete healing and when God gives that, no other treatments will be necessary.
During my hospital stay the Lord comforted me in special ways in the darkest hours. I was not scared or nervous before or after surgery, yet it is amazing how that Satan can try to drive a wedge between ones faith and God. I can tell you though that when these trials came the Lord again gave me light on my path in the middle of the night when I read 1 Peter 1. I suggest you read this chapter or at least the first 12 verses. The Lord is Gracious and full of compassion. Thank you for those who visited me or contacted us in many other ways. Thank you for your prayers.
John
Wednesday 3 August 2011
God the Lord is my strength…
A few days ago I was really struck by my devotion for the day. I know that at all times God directs everything, also that I would be reading this devotion from Habakkuk 3:19. GOD, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places.
Here Habakkuk compares his feet to deer’s feet by which he was able to climb above discouraging circumstances and walk on higher spiritual levels. God charts the path of His will before us. As the deer’s front feet mark the steps in which their rear feet follow, so God marks out the steps of His will before us. I found this so beautiful; we are to put our feet in HIS steps that he has placed before us. Walking by faith believing that the Lord is doing it for our good.
The Lord has not promised anyone a journey through this life without trials but He has promised those that are His a safe arrival in heaven. This should warm and encourage every Christian to a whole hearted service for the Lord. For those who do not know the Lord as their Savior, I pray that you will repent from your sin and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and come to know Him as your Savior. The world has nothing to offer you that will give you lasting peace.
John has been home since Saturday and is doing fairly well. He is finding that it takes time to heal and much rest is needed. The Lord has provided abundantly as we see progress each day. Last night we walked around the block, last week we would not have thought he would be able to do this one week later. God is good and we are thankful for each day.
John will get his stiches out this Friday, then we will hear from the surgeon the next course of action after the healing period, which they say is 4-6 weeks.
A special “thank you” to all the visitors and a special “thank you” to our dear children and grandchildren for their special love and support, you have all been a real blessing to us and thank you for taking the time to Blog. Thanking you all for the prayers, cards, emails, comments on the Blog and some of you just a tight hug or squeeze when there were no words. It all is appreciated so much!
Henrietta
Here Habakkuk compares his feet to deer’s feet by which he was able to climb above discouraging circumstances and walk on higher spiritual levels. God charts the path of His will before us. As the deer’s front feet mark the steps in which their rear feet follow, so God marks out the steps of His will before us. I found this so beautiful; we are to put our feet in HIS steps that he has placed before us. Walking by faith believing that the Lord is doing it for our good.
The Lord has not promised anyone a journey through this life without trials but He has promised those that are His a safe arrival in heaven. This should warm and encourage every Christian to a whole hearted service for the Lord. For those who do not know the Lord as their Savior, I pray that you will repent from your sin and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and come to know Him as your Savior. The world has nothing to offer you that will give you lasting peace.
John has been home since Saturday and is doing fairly well. He is finding that it takes time to heal and much rest is needed. The Lord has provided abundantly as we see progress each day. Last night we walked around the block, last week we would not have thought he would be able to do this one week later. God is good and we are thankful for each day.
John will get his stiches out this Friday, then we will hear from the surgeon the next course of action after the healing period, which they say is 4-6 weeks.
A special “thank you” to all the visitors and a special “thank you” to our dear children and grandchildren for their special love and support, you have all been a real blessing to us and thank you for taking the time to Blog. Thanking you all for the prayers, cards, emails, comments on the Blog and some of you just a tight hug or squeeze when there were no words. It all is appreciated so much!
Henrietta
Saturday 30 July 2011
An Oldie (1979?)
My wonderful parents who have not stopped loving me since the day I was born.
I love you both.
I hope you don't mind that this oldie is on your blog! You have been loving me for 32 1/2 years now and this was soon after it all started! Thank you for being the best parents that a child could have.
Love Soph
Home Again
Dad is glad to be home again. So far everything is going well with his recovery from the surgery. It will be nice to be able to sleep at home and get lots of rest. He is very tired after the trip home.
We are thankful once again that the Lord has provided for dad. We don't know what the future will hold but so far He has given dad and mom strength to continue every day. These times are so draining on the body but faith has brought us through another week.
We have to carry on with our daily tasks but a large burden lies within. So many questions and thoughts we have about the future for dad. My heart cries every day. Maybe one can't see the tears that I would like to cry but they are there. I pray that God will give me the strength to continue on. To see your parent suffer with illness is very difficult. Every day is precious and even though I can't see my family every day they are in my thoughts.
Thank you to everyone for your prayers and thoughtfulness. It means alot to us as a family.
I will end with a couple of verses that help me through each day:
The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside still waters.
Psalm 23:1, 2
Sophia (daughter)
We are thankful once again that the Lord has provided for dad. We don't know what the future will hold but so far He has given dad and mom strength to continue every day. These times are so draining on the body but faith has brought us through another week.
We have to carry on with our daily tasks but a large burden lies within. So many questions and thoughts we have about the future for dad. My heart cries every day. Maybe one can't see the tears that I would like to cry but they are there. I pray that God will give me the strength to continue on. To see your parent suffer with illness is very difficult. Every day is precious and even though I can't see my family every day they are in my thoughts.
Thank you to everyone for your prayers and thoughtfulness. It means alot to us as a family.
I will end with a couple of verses that help me through each day:
The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside still waters.
Psalm 23:1, 2
Sophia (daughter)
Friday 29 July 2011
Small Strength
"If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your strength." Prov.24:10
When I first heard of Dad's cancer, I was terribly upset to say the least. Why my Dad? I've been blest with a wonderful family, parents that love us more than words can say, and siblings that love each other no matter what. I struggled with this for 2 weeks, I couldn't think about anything else. I was completely consumed by Dad's illness.
This week, however; I feel such peace. Peace that passes all understanding. God knew we would have trouble in this world. He knew this and has prepared us for this. I read a devotion the other day and they used the following story. "Newly manufactured products are often given a stress test. A pressure test, so that their strength can be verified. God does the same for us, as painful as it is. He's not testing our strength, but our inclination to depend on His strength. His power is the only power that can carry us thru."
This is so true. I feel so helpless as I stand beside Dad's bed and see him suffer. There's comfort in the fact that I can pray and know that God hears me. He provides everything we need for every moment.
I still continue to pray for a miracle. I read the story out of Luke 13:11-16 where there was a women who had a "spirit of infirmity" for 18 years. Jesus healed her. I still believe these miracles happen.
Today Dad was doing quite well. He went for a walk with us and sat outside for a bit to enjoy the sunshine. It was a beautiful time. The last time we saw him he was in too much pain to talk. The boys (Seth and Luke) were quite happy that Papa was goofing off with them again. Tonight they were going to take out the epidural (it was already unhooked) and tomorrow hopefully he will come home! We are very excited about this and so is he!
Thank you for continuing to pray for Dad. We are thankful for all the kindness shown to us!
"Where we are weak, He (God) is strong"
"Small strength allows room for God's power"
Love, Stephanie (daughter)
When I first heard of Dad's cancer, I was terribly upset to say the least. Why my Dad? I've been blest with a wonderful family, parents that love us more than words can say, and siblings that love each other no matter what. I struggled with this for 2 weeks, I couldn't think about anything else. I was completely consumed by Dad's illness.
This week, however; I feel such peace. Peace that passes all understanding. God knew we would have trouble in this world. He knew this and has prepared us for this. I read a devotion the other day and they used the following story. "Newly manufactured products are often given a stress test. A pressure test, so that their strength can be verified. God does the same for us, as painful as it is. He's not testing our strength, but our inclination to depend on His strength. His power is the only power that can carry us thru."
This is so true. I feel so helpless as I stand beside Dad's bed and see him suffer. There's comfort in the fact that I can pray and know that God hears me. He provides everything we need for every moment.
I still continue to pray for a miracle. I read the story out of Luke 13:11-16 where there was a women who had a "spirit of infirmity" for 18 years. Jesus healed her. I still believe these miracles happen.
Today Dad was doing quite well. He went for a walk with us and sat outside for a bit to enjoy the sunshine. It was a beautiful time. The last time we saw him he was in too much pain to talk. The boys (Seth and Luke) were quite happy that Papa was goofing off with them again. Tonight they were going to take out the epidural (it was already unhooked) and tomorrow hopefully he will come home! We are very excited about this and so is he!
Thank you for continuing to pray for Dad. We are thankful for all the kindness shown to us!
"Where we are weak, He (God) is strong"
"Small strength allows room for God's power"
Love, Stephanie (daughter)
Pictures!
Here are just a few pictures of different visits we had with dad. Steph will post later again to tell you how things are going.
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| Dad and Mom- July 28 |
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| Ashlee and Blake with Papa and the blanket and birdhouse they made for him |
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| Papa with Isla and Stormie singing hymns on the computer a few days before surgery |
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| Luke and Seth with Papa- Luke bought the pirate hat for Papa (who doesn't need a pirate hat when you're hospitalized?) Seth brought Papa a pen and paper just in case he wanted to make notes |
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| Hans, Stormie and Isla with Grandma and Papa- July 27 |
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| Tamara, Isla and Papa July 26 |
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| Papa and Isla |
Thursday 28 July 2011
Responding to Trials
First, a little update on Dad. Tonight we showed up at the hospital and Dad had just gotten in from the patio where he was getting some fresh air and sunshine. He seems to be doing better than Wednesday. His pain is under control and they are slowly weaning him off of his IV and epidural. The doctor says he might be able to come home on Saturday. All in all he is healing well and his progress seems steady.
On the outside, dad really does look healthy. And I think for me that's decieving. Just the other day I had someone ask me how I was dealing with Dad's illness. To be honest, the question caught me off guard but it really got me thinking. How am I dealing with this situation? Do I just think that Dad's just going to pull through and be healed? Am I just trying to avoid reality? Am I trying to busy myself with the everyday things of life so that I don't have to face the fact that I have a seriously ill dad? I still don't think that I've found the answer to that question and it bothers me. I care so much about Dad and his struggles but I think deep down I'm trying to cope by approaching it the way I approach many things--through a black and white, matter-of-a-fact mentality. And I think that's why I'm having a hard time with this. Situations like Dad's don't fit my comfortable molds. I think I am responding to this trial in the same way that Dad is struggling with cancer.
On the outside everything seems as it should, normal; but on the inside there's a battle going on that nobody else sees.
And isn't that so human? To get busy, to fill our time, to get caught up in the routine of life? Not to say that the things of life are wrong or bad, but just that they often keep us from stopping and facing reality. Reality is a Dad with cancer. Reality is a famine in Somalia. Reality is a friend that gets in a car accident. Reality is a child running away from home. And eventually, reality is death.
Don't try to run or hide from reality, take time to think about it because it is in the middle of suffering that we meet God. Romans 5:3-5 says that "we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." In short, suffering draws us closer to God. And it is the kindness of God through these trials that leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4).
I'm not telling you to go out and find suffering, I'm just saying that we need to respond in the right way--faith... something my Dad is an example of.
Jeremy Van Woerden
On the outside, dad really does look healthy. And I think for me that's decieving. Just the other day I had someone ask me how I was dealing with Dad's illness. To be honest, the question caught me off guard but it really got me thinking. How am I dealing with this situation? Do I just think that Dad's just going to pull through and be healed? Am I just trying to avoid reality? Am I trying to busy myself with the everyday things of life so that I don't have to face the fact that I have a seriously ill dad? I still don't think that I've found the answer to that question and it bothers me. I care so much about Dad and his struggles but I think deep down I'm trying to cope by approaching it the way I approach many things--through a black and white, matter-of-a-fact mentality. And I think that's why I'm having a hard time with this. Situations like Dad's don't fit my comfortable molds. I think I am responding to this trial in the same way that Dad is struggling with cancer.
On the outside everything seems as it should, normal; but on the inside there's a battle going on that nobody else sees.
And isn't that so human? To get busy, to fill our time, to get caught up in the routine of life? Not to say that the things of life are wrong or bad, but just that they often keep us from stopping and facing reality. Reality is a Dad with cancer. Reality is a famine in Somalia. Reality is a friend that gets in a car accident. Reality is a child running away from home. And eventually, reality is death.
Don't try to run or hide from reality, take time to think about it because it is in the middle of suffering that we meet God. Romans 5:3-5 says that "we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." In short, suffering draws us closer to God. And it is the kindness of God through these trials that leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4).
I'm not telling you to go out and find suffering, I'm just saying that we need to respond in the right way--faith... something my Dad is an example of.
Jeremy Van Woerden
The Lord's Care
Here I am using the word "care" again but it is just so real in our lives and it is worth sharing.
To my surprise John was up and walking today when I got to the hospital.
Doesn’t matter what you have been through movement is important so they get
you out of bed. John had more pain today and it was just a real tiring day for him.
I had a lot of quiet time sitting in the hospital today. This morning before I headed
to the hospital I was reading in my Bible out of Psalm 112 and verse 7 really hit me.
"He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.
As we go forward from here we can trust in the Lord to supply our needs even in the midst
of the unknown, we do not know what lies ahead. We have had 33 years of a very blessed
marriage blessed with loving and caring children, blessed with 6 grandchildren (another on the way) the Lord has always provided for our needs and still daily provides. As we experience the Lord’s
daily provision for us it humbles us. I am realizing more and more how helpless we human beings are when someone we love is suffering, we cannot take the pain away. We can cast all our cares on Him for He cares for us.
I Peter 5:7 it says, "Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." The comfort
of knowing that we can take all our cares to the Lord that is such a blessing. These words are
for everyone, if you are suffering in one way or another you may also “cast your cares upon
him.”
We thank you all for your prayers, emails, cards, visits (even though John may have been sleeping)
and willingness to help in one way or another it is very much appreciated.
Henrietta
To my surprise John was up and walking today when I got to the hospital.
Doesn’t matter what you have been through movement is important so they get
you out of bed. John had more pain today and it was just a real tiring day for him.
I had a lot of quiet time sitting in the hospital today. This morning before I headed
to the hospital I was reading in my Bible out of Psalm 112 and verse 7 really hit me.
"He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.
As we go forward from here we can trust in the Lord to supply our needs even in the midst
of the unknown, we do not know what lies ahead. We have had 33 years of a very blessed
marriage blessed with loving and caring children, blessed with 6 grandchildren (another on the way) the Lord has always provided for our needs and still daily provides. As we experience the Lord’s
daily provision for us it humbles us. I am realizing more and more how helpless we human beings are when someone we love is suffering, we cannot take the pain away. We can cast all our cares on Him for He cares for us.
I Peter 5:7 it says, "Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." The comfort
of knowing that we can take all our cares to the Lord that is such a blessing. These words are
for everyone, if you are suffering in one way or another you may also “cast your cares upon
him.”
We thank you all for your prayers, emails, cards, visits (even though John may have been sleeping)
and willingness to help in one way or another it is very much appreciated.
Henrietta
Tuesday 26 July 2011
Peace
Today was a hard. There is no other way to explain it. I went with Isla to visit this afternoon.
Dad was doing well and was taking a little nap when I came. Mom said they had him up sitting in the a chair to eat breakfast which tired him out.
Dad looked healthy, with the exception of laying in a hospital gown, with an IV in his arm. If you blocked those things out then you would say my dad looked healthy. Except for the fact that there is cancer in him. I don't know when it's going to become a reality for me. So that's why I say today was hard. There is no other way to explain it.
On the drive home I had a long hard cry. It was like I had all these emotions bottled up in me and they had to come out. So I cried.
Cried because it's hard to watch dad go through this, but still realizing that it's God's plan.
As I got closer to home I felt a peace in my heart. The peace that is spoken of in Phillipians 4:6-7
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
The peace of God. That is what I felt. The peace that comes only through knowing Christ as your Savior. Knowing that He loves and cares for us and gives us exactly what we need. Both trials and grace to endure them. God is in control, He is sovereign. He is faithful. God will take care of us.
Thankyou for all your continued prayers for dad and all of us.
In Christ,
Tamara (daughter of John & Henrietta)
Dad was doing well and was taking a little nap when I came. Mom said they had him up sitting in the a chair to eat breakfast which tired him out.
Dad looked healthy, with the exception of laying in a hospital gown, with an IV in his arm. If you blocked those things out then you would say my dad looked healthy. Except for the fact that there is cancer in him. I don't know when it's going to become a reality for me. So that's why I say today was hard. There is no other way to explain it.
On the drive home I had a long hard cry. It was like I had all these emotions bottled up in me and they had to come out. So I cried.
Cried because it's hard to watch dad go through this, but still realizing that it's God's plan.
As I got closer to home I felt a peace in my heart. The peace that is spoken of in Phillipians 4:6-7
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
The peace of God. That is what I felt. The peace that comes only through knowing Christ as your Savior. Knowing that He loves and cares for us and gives us exactly what we need. Both trials and grace to endure them. God is in control, He is sovereign. He is faithful. God will take care of us.
Thankyou for all your continued prayers for dad and all of us.
In Christ,
Tamara (daughter of John & Henrietta)
Monday 25 July 2011
God Cares for us...
The Lord has blessed us all again today. He has spared life and made all things so well. John was in
surgery for two hours and his recovery was two hours. He actually called me from the recovery room,
can you imagine that! He is doing very well and had a full dinner this evening, he is also enjoying some sleep. During the night when I was pondering about this day of surgery and what lie ahead a song came to mind and gave so much comfort for me to leave all things in God's hand. The Lord has
provided so abundantly for us thus far that I know He will also guide along the path that lies ahead.
The song is from Psalm 68:
Let God be praised with reverence deep;
He daily comes our lives to steep
In bounties freely given.
God cares for us, our God is He;
Who would not fear His majesty
In earth as well as heaven?
Our God upholds us in the strife;
To us He grants eternal life,
And saves from desolation.
He hears the needy when they cry,
He saves their souls when death draws nigh,
This God is our salvation.
Dr. Andreou who did the surgery spoke with us after surgery. He said the tumor on the kidney was very large. The kidney was removed and the adrenal gland. The other adrenal gland is a bit enlarged but whether or not it is cancerous has not been determined. They will keep an eye on that adrenal gland to see what it does. Dr. Andreou stated also that after the Chemo treatments there hasn't been much improvement. This obviously is still a concern but the Lord has provided that at this point the diseased kidney was able to be removed and now we go forward in faith knowing that the Lord has all things in His control. As we read our devotion yesterday it stated how sometimes we do not see the way but if we trust in our guide we will get to our destination, He gives light on our path. Faith is not always seeing but more often just trusting. The Lord has given quiet and peaceful hearts and we cherish all that He gives us.
We thank you all for the prayers and concern shown to our family. It has been so appreciated.
Henrietta
surgery for two hours and his recovery was two hours. He actually called me from the recovery room,
can you imagine that! He is doing very well and had a full dinner this evening, he is also enjoying some sleep. During the night when I was pondering about this day of surgery and what lie ahead a song came to mind and gave so much comfort for me to leave all things in God's hand. The Lord has
provided so abundantly for us thus far that I know He will also guide along the path that lies ahead.
The song is from Psalm 68:
Let God be praised with reverence deep;
He daily comes our lives to steep
In bounties freely given.
God cares for us, our God is He;
Who would not fear His majesty
In earth as well as heaven?
Our God upholds us in the strife;
To us He grants eternal life,
And saves from desolation.
He hears the needy when they cry,
He saves their souls when death draws nigh,
This God is our salvation.
Dr. Andreou who did the surgery spoke with us after surgery. He said the tumor on the kidney was very large. The kidney was removed and the adrenal gland. The other adrenal gland is a bit enlarged but whether or not it is cancerous has not been determined. They will keep an eye on that adrenal gland to see what it does. Dr. Andreou stated also that after the Chemo treatments there hasn't been much improvement. This obviously is still a concern but the Lord has provided that at this point the diseased kidney was able to be removed and now we go forward in faith knowing that the Lord has all things in His control. As we read our devotion yesterday it stated how sometimes we do not see the way but if we trust in our guide we will get to our destination, He gives light on our path. Faith is not always seeing but more often just trusting. The Lord has given quiet and peaceful hearts and we cherish all that He gives us.
We thank you all for the prayers and concern shown to our family. It has been so appreciated.
Henrietta
Friday 22 July 2011
O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His steadfast love endures forever.
Psalm 118 Speaks of Gods faithfulness and love that endures forever. Again we saw His faithfulness and love in answering prayers. With thankful hearts we can tell you that although yesterday was a very busy day, it was a day where we again saw Gods faithfulness. We visited two hospitals and an Outpatient and Surgery Centre. I went through all the necessary tests and spoke to many people to make final preparations for surgery.
What a great God we serve to take care of me. I see this as an answer to prayer, not just prayers from me, but also from family, friends and blog readers. I can never thank you enough for all these prayers and best wishes I receive. We stand amazed at the outpouring of love and care. Thank you so much.
Lord willing on Monday morning I will undergo surgery to remove the left kidney at Surrey Memorial Hospital. I have been told to expect a 5-7 day hospital stay before going home. I place myself in Gods care; He knows the beginning from the end and the end from the beginning.
Henrietta and our children will be posting daily during my hospital stay. I want to thank you again for your prayers and thank the Lord above all for all His blessings. May the Lord bless you and keep you in His Fatherly care.
John
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
Thy wings shall my petition bear
To Him whose truth and faithfulness
Engage the waiting soul to bless.
And since He bids me seek His face,
Believe His Word and trust His grace,
I’ll cast on Him my every care,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!
What a great God we serve to take care of me. I see this as an answer to prayer, not just prayers from me, but also from family, friends and blog readers. I can never thank you enough for all these prayers and best wishes I receive. We stand amazed at the outpouring of love and care. Thank you so much.
Lord willing on Monday morning I will undergo surgery to remove the left kidney at Surrey Memorial Hospital. I have been told to expect a 5-7 day hospital stay before going home. I place myself in Gods care; He knows the beginning from the end and the end from the beginning.
Henrietta and our children will be posting daily during my hospital stay. I want to thank you again for your prayers and thank the Lord above all for all His blessings. May the Lord bless you and keep you in His Fatherly care.
John
Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!
Thy wings shall my petition bear
To Him whose truth and faithfulness
Engage the waiting soul to bless.
And since He bids me seek His face,
Believe His Word and trust His grace,
I’ll cast on Him my every care,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!
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