Dear Family and Friends,
This past week, I had another honest conversation with God while I was doing dishes one afternoon. I looked out the window and asked God, "Lord, you knew there would be a flood this summer. You knew gas would be close to $4.00 a gallon, that food prices would significantly increase, that summer is the worst time to raise support, that our time to raise support is limited. I don't really understand your timing." Hours before, Dan and I decided to cancel four more support dinners. We are hearing, as we talk with people in Cedar Rapids, that many people have been impacted financially by the flood (whether it is their home or business or a loved one's home or business). A good many people are also involved with flood relief right now as well and their time is limited. We understand the urgency of this situation and respect the priorities that people are needing to make right now. However, this day I was struggling again just to understand what God was doing and how it is that He wants us to join Him in what He is doing.
After asking Him my questions and sharing with Him my doubts, I started to daydream as I looked out the window and my thoughts were directed to our move 6 years ago from Grand Rapids, MI to Cedar Rapids, IA. We were happy in MI and had no intentions of ever leaving. However, two weeks after we welcomed baby Will into our family, Dan was given notice that he and several hundred other employees would be losing their jobs within the year as a result of a bank merger. The year was 2001 and the economy in MI was struggling. This was another time in our lives when we were asking God about what He was doing. As we prayed and asked for direction, it became clear to us that we were at a crossroads and that God was directing us to leave Michigan and to pursue work in Iowa where my parents lived.
Two months before Dan's job would be eliminated; we had not yet sold our home and there seemed to be little interest in it; Dan did not yet have a job in Iowa (but had had several offers in MI which he did not take because we were certain God was calling us to move to Iowa); we were told on September 11 that Will would need to have surgery on the tube between his bladder and kidney in order to prevent permanent damage to his kidney; and our country was in crisis as a result of the terrorist attacks in New York City and Washington D.C. Three weeks before Dan's job was to be eliminated, he still did not have a job in Iowa but he had a possibility in Des Moines and one in Cedar Rapids. Our home had been sold at just the right time, allowing us to stay until we moved. Will's surgery was successful which meant the end of pokes and tests. Two weeks before our move to Iowa, the job in Des Moines offered Dan a position but after sleeping on it, he turned it down due to a concern about some business practices that he did not feel comfortable with. Days later, Aegon offered Dan a position. And the rest is history.
As I thought through the details of our move to Cedar Rapids, I recognized how similar our circumstances of 2001 are to those of 2008 - both include a major surgery in the midst of a move; a tragic crisis that impacted our community emotionally, spiritually, mentally, physically, and financially; both include financial recession; both include a call to leave a home and job; and both include a short period of time for many important details to fall into place. I believe what God was saying to me that afternoon was, "Lisa, remember who I am and what I have done." Sounds like something He often said to those hard headed Israelites - huh? How many times exactly did He say to the Israelites, "I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery." We hear God reminding the Israelites about who He is and what He has done throughout the Old Testament. In the New Testament, God uses people like Stephen to remind the people again of who He is and what He has done (Acts 7). Just as it is so easy to think we have it all together, it is also so easy to forget . . . just like those Israelites.
There are many reasons why I write these updates every week. One reason is to help our family to one day be able to remember who God is and what He has done. Life in Nicaragua will have it's challenges and there will be days when we will doubt His call. We will wonder, like the Israelites, if we just shouldn't turn right around and go back home where things are more familiar, more predictable. I've been journaling God's activity in my life for over 20 years now and can see how God has used this practice to strengthen my faith, especially when life was not making any sense. We share these updates publicly because your feedback confirms that we all live a similar story - our struggles and the ways we have come to know God in the midst of them are very similar even when the characters/the places/the events are different. It seems that sharing what God is doing in our lives helps others to remember who God is and what He has done in their lives - the same thing happens for us when you share your stories with us. Thank you for remembering who God is and what He has done along with us.
"I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds" Psalm 77:11,12
Praise:
1) My Dad is getting stronger. He starts cardiac rehab next week!
2) The kids and I have had opportunities to play with and love children who have lost their homes to the flood. Each of us were touched by this experience.
3) We are now officially appointed by New Covenant as one of their missionaries!
4) Our house has been up for sale for four days and we have had 7 showings so far, and I think 3 of them are second showings. We continue to pray for a quick sale!
Petition:
1) On Monday and Tuesday, Dan and I plan to get our support letters sent out. Due to our disrupted schedule this week, we are finding it difficult to complete this task. Please pray for focus and uninterrupted time.
2) On Wednesday, we do have a dinner with at least 3 couples attending. Please pray that God would empower us to connect with our guests as we work to build our team of partners.
3) On Friday, we will leave for Grand Rapids, MI for two weeks. We will attend orientation with CRC World Missions the 9th through the 16th; speak at a supporting church on the 6th; and are hoping to connect with friends and family members while we are there. Please pray for safe travel and for our time there to be both productive and enjoyable.
4) Would you pray for our kids? I think that leaving our home is going to be difficult for them. They told me this week that they are "homesick" as a result of being out of our home so often for showings. We love our home and neighborhood and this will be a great loss for all of us.
Thanks again for your prayers! Please let us know how we can pray for you!
Peace to you,
Lisa for The Van Zoest's
Monday, June 30, 2008
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
He is strong
Dear Family and Friends, June 18, 2008
This past Saturday I heard God speak. I was laying in bed that morning, feeling the weight of what was going on with my Dad and our city, and then I decided to tune into some condemning/negative thoughts. Sounds like a good time - huh? The condemning thoughts included the following: "How can you think of leaving Cedar Rapids for the mission field when this city is a mission field? How fair is it of you to ask people to support your mission when so many people need financial help right here? Is it really right for you to pursue this calling when your Dad is recovering from a major surgery? Then were worries about trying to sell a house in the midst of an historic flood along with other worries. Finally, I remembered what to do in situations like this and I cried out to God, "Lord, would you speak to me today/this weekend/this week about this? Would you show me again that this calling is of you and that you want us to continue pursuing it?"
I got out of bed and got on my exercise bike hoping an army of endorphins would come to my rescue. No change. So, then I picked up my Bible and journal. I'm reading Matthew with a goal to read the New Testament from start to finish. I "just happened" to be on chapter 19 this particular day. When I read verse 29, a wave of peace washed over me. It reads, "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life." This verse is very significant, as it is the same verse that God profoundly spoke through four years ago to nudge Dan and I toward taking our first steps on this journey to the mission field. Hearing that verse again on this particular day when I was hounded by doubt was very powerful. Dan and I, for many years of our lives, have recognized every environment that God has placed us in - school, work, community - to be a mission field. However, four years ago God made it very clear that His call this time involved us leaving our home, the security of a good job, our family, and our friends. And for the past four years, His call has been consistent. His words to me on Saturday again reaffirmed this call.
He spoke at other times during the weekend as well. Last Sunday at church, I talked with my friend Jane who said, "There are so many needs in this city, but what I've decided is that I need to focus on one or two and give my best to those needs." Jane's words also struck a cord with me as I thought about how overwhelming the big picture is, but how choosing one or two things can help mobilize us to fruitful action. Sunday night, I went with my Mom to my parent's church while Dan stayed with Dad. The pastor preached on the story of Samson and the mystery of how he shared with Delilah the secret of his strength even when she had proven herself to be less than trustworthy. The pastor said, "I believe the reason he shared this information was because he didn't really believe what he himself said. He no longer believed that his strength was dependent upon God." It is so easy, isn't it? To just believe that we have it together, that we are self-sufficient, that we will make it happen. Until some circumstance in our lives confronts us with the reality of our own weakness - a disease, a tragedy, open heart surgery, a natural disaster, raising children, a call to the mission field. And it is then that we have the opportunity to cry out to Him and to hear His comforting words and experience His peaceful presence.
My prayer as people read our updates is that you would recognize a golden thread that runs through our sharing. And this thread is, "We are weak, but He is strong." And the only way to experience His powerful strength in our lives is to recognize our weakness and cry out to Him for help. It is how we begin a relationship with Him, but it is also how we maintain an intimate and passionate relationship with our Savior. A step of humility - absolutely. A step of faith - totally. A step that we will never regret - guaranteed.
Praise:
1) I've taken Jane's advice and spent Sunday thorough Thursday with my parents helping to organize medications/notebooks/their home to reduce stress. My Mom needs to keep track of 11 different medications and helps Dad maintain a disciplined schedule of taking insulin and doing cardiac exercises. Please do pray for stamina for both my Dad and Mom.
2) Dad is doing well. Progress is/will be slow, but his home health care nurse is encouraged by his progress. He will have another surgery in 6 to 8 weeks to open the artery that leads to his kidney.
3) We have three small group dinners scheduled for next week - on Tues., Thurs., and Saturday. We praise God for the opportunity to share with and get to know others at these dinners.
4) Praise for how God continues to confirm His call on our lives. He's reminded me that I felt the same overwhelmed feeling in Nicaragua when I recognized all of the many critical needs there - I have an opportunity now to learn how to manage this. He's also pointed out how not being able to use our water in Cedar Rapids will be a reality for us in Nicaragua as water shut off is a regular occurrence. Learning how to cope with this is also beneficial.
Petition:
1) My sister had her surgery on Tuesday. We are now praying for cancer free results! Should find out results in 2 weeks.
2) Please pray for our friends Tom and Val and their family. Tom is a police officer in Cedar Rapids and works 12 hour shifts without time off during this crisis. Pray too for all of the officers, some of whom have lost their homes in addition to working a demanding schedule.
3) Pray for friends, Scott and Andi, Steve and Ann, and Rich and Faye who's homes are flooded and in need of repair. Pray for peace for them and for hands that are available to help them.
4) Please pray for wisdom for Dan and I as we move forward with this process, while also taking into account the needs of those around us. We are sending many letters to family and friends and to churches this week. Please pray for God's provision through individuals and churches.
Thank you for keeping us and so many who are suffering right now in your prayers. We appreciate the time you take to read these updates. I am regularly stopped at church and receive many emails from you letting us know that you are reading these updates and are praying for us. The support raising process is one that has many ups and downs. So, your expressions of support and concern make a huge difference - encouraging us to continue to take steps forward even when the journey involves walking through valleys. We appreciate you and thank God for you!
Peace to you,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, and Will)
This past Saturday I heard God speak. I was laying in bed that morning, feeling the weight of what was going on with my Dad and our city, and then I decided to tune into some condemning/negative thoughts. Sounds like a good time - huh? The condemning thoughts included the following: "How can you think of leaving Cedar Rapids for the mission field when this city is a mission field? How fair is it of you to ask people to support your mission when so many people need financial help right here? Is it really right for you to pursue this calling when your Dad is recovering from a major surgery? Then were worries about trying to sell a house in the midst of an historic flood along with other worries. Finally, I remembered what to do in situations like this and I cried out to God, "Lord, would you speak to me today/this weekend/this week about this? Would you show me again that this calling is of you and that you want us to continue pursuing it?"
I got out of bed and got on my exercise bike hoping an army of endorphins would come to my rescue. No change. So, then I picked up my Bible and journal. I'm reading Matthew with a goal to read the New Testament from start to finish. I "just happened" to be on chapter 19 this particular day. When I read verse 29, a wave of peace washed over me. It reads, "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life." This verse is very significant, as it is the same verse that God profoundly spoke through four years ago to nudge Dan and I toward taking our first steps on this journey to the mission field. Hearing that verse again on this particular day when I was hounded by doubt was very powerful. Dan and I, for many years of our lives, have recognized every environment that God has placed us in - school, work, community - to be a mission field. However, four years ago God made it very clear that His call this time involved us leaving our home, the security of a good job, our family, and our friends. And for the past four years, His call has been consistent. His words to me on Saturday again reaffirmed this call.
He spoke at other times during the weekend as well. Last Sunday at church, I talked with my friend Jane who said, "There are so many needs in this city, but what I've decided is that I need to focus on one or two and give my best to those needs." Jane's words also struck a cord with me as I thought about how overwhelming the big picture is, but how choosing one or two things can help mobilize us to fruitful action. Sunday night, I went with my Mom to my parent's church while Dan stayed with Dad. The pastor preached on the story of Samson and the mystery of how he shared with Delilah the secret of his strength even when she had proven herself to be less than trustworthy. The pastor said, "I believe the reason he shared this information was because he didn't really believe what he himself said. He no longer believed that his strength was dependent upon God." It is so easy, isn't it? To just believe that we have it together, that we are self-sufficient, that we will make it happen. Until some circumstance in our lives confronts us with the reality of our own weakness - a disease, a tragedy, open heart surgery, a natural disaster, raising children, a call to the mission field. And it is then that we have the opportunity to cry out to Him and to hear His comforting words and experience His peaceful presence.
My prayer as people read our updates is that you would recognize a golden thread that runs through our sharing. And this thread is, "We are weak, but He is strong." And the only way to experience His powerful strength in our lives is to recognize our weakness and cry out to Him for help. It is how we begin a relationship with Him, but it is also how we maintain an intimate and passionate relationship with our Savior. A step of humility - absolutely. A step of faith - totally. A step that we will never regret - guaranteed.
Praise:
1) I've taken Jane's advice and spent Sunday thorough Thursday with my parents helping to organize medications/notebooks/their home to reduce stress. My Mom needs to keep track of 11 different medications and helps Dad maintain a disciplined schedule of taking insulin and doing cardiac exercises. Please do pray for stamina for both my Dad and Mom.
2) Dad is doing well. Progress is/will be slow, but his home health care nurse is encouraged by his progress. He will have another surgery in 6 to 8 weeks to open the artery that leads to his kidney.
3) We have three small group dinners scheduled for next week - on Tues., Thurs., and Saturday. We praise God for the opportunity to share with and get to know others at these dinners.
4) Praise for how God continues to confirm His call on our lives. He's reminded me that I felt the same overwhelmed feeling in Nicaragua when I recognized all of the many critical needs there - I have an opportunity now to learn how to manage this. He's also pointed out how not being able to use our water in Cedar Rapids will be a reality for us in Nicaragua as water shut off is a regular occurrence. Learning how to cope with this is also beneficial.
Petition:
1) My sister had her surgery on Tuesday. We are now praying for cancer free results! Should find out results in 2 weeks.
2) Please pray for our friends Tom and Val and their family. Tom is a police officer in Cedar Rapids and works 12 hour shifts without time off during this crisis. Pray too for all of the officers, some of whom have lost their homes in addition to working a demanding schedule.
3) Pray for friends, Scott and Andi, Steve and Ann, and Rich and Faye who's homes are flooded and in need of repair. Pray for peace for them and for hands that are available to help them.
4) Please pray for wisdom for Dan and I as we move forward with this process, while also taking into account the needs of those around us. We are sending many letters to family and friends and to churches this week. Please pray for God's provision through individuals and churches.
Thank you for keeping us and so many who are suffering right now in your prayers. We appreciate the time you take to read these updates. I am regularly stopped at church and receive many emails from you letting us know that you are reading these updates and are praying for us. The support raising process is one that has many ups and downs. So, your expressions of support and concern make a huge difference - encouraging us to continue to take steps forward even when the journey involves walking through valleys. We appreciate you and thank God for you!
Peace to you,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, and Will)
Friday, June 13, 2008
My Dad: Answer to Prayers
Dear Family and Friends,
Thank you again for praying for my Dad. They found that the infection was caused by the port in his neck. After they removed it, his fever returned to normal. Our family went to see him tonight for the first time since Monday night – it was good for us just to be there with him again. It is possible that he could come home this weekend – Happy Fathers Day Dad!
I will return to our weekly update routine. Thank you for your attentiveness to this need in addition to so many other needs, critical needs, that people have right now.
A friend has the following attached to the bottom of her emails: “Share each other’s troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” Gal. 6:2 and “The word fellowship has lost most of its Biblical meaning. “Fellowship” now usually refers to casual conversation, socializing, food, and fun. Real fellowship is experiencing life together.” (Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life) I am very on board with this definition of fellowship, believing that it is this kind of culture that God desires for His body. As I receive your responses to our emails, it seems to me that you value this kind of fellowship as well. It is a pleasure experiencing life with you.
Peace to you,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, and Will)
Thank you again for praying for my Dad. They found that the infection was caused by the port in his neck. After they removed it, his fever returned to normal. Our family went to see him tonight for the first time since Monday night – it was good for us just to be there with him again. It is possible that he could come home this weekend – Happy Fathers Day Dad!
I will return to our weekly update routine. Thank you for your attentiveness to this need in addition to so many other needs, critical needs, that people have right now.
A friend has the following attached to the bottom of her emails: “Share each other’s troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” Gal. 6:2 and “The word fellowship has lost most of its Biblical meaning. “Fellowship” now usually refers to casual conversation, socializing, food, and fun. Real fellowship is experiencing life together.” (Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life) I am very on board with this definition of fellowship, believing that it is this kind of culture that God desires for His body. As I receive your responses to our emails, it seems to me that you value this kind of fellowship as well. It is a pleasure experiencing life with you.
Peace to you,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, and Will)
Thursday, June 12, 2008
My Dad: Infection
Dear Family and Friends,
I was pretty long winded last night – this time will be short. Would you pray specifically for my Dad tonight? He has a fever and they are trying to locate the infection – suspecting it is in the kidney or lungs. They have found some areas in his lungs that they are concerned about.
It is overwhelming with all of the needs that people have here in Cedar Rapids and the rain keeps coming. Dan was downtown sandbagging this afternoon and evening – both hospitals are downtown and the focus of his and 100 other volunteer’s work was to try to protect the hospitals. Our basement will stay dry as long as the electricity stays on. We are being asked to use water only for drinking as the city water treatment system is functioning at 25%. The sky is still very dark and shows no promise at this time of relief, although it is supposed to clear by tomorrow. Our police force is working 12 hour days without days off to evacuate, rescue people, and attending to many other critical needs – a friend of ours is an officer and he and his family can use your prayers as well.
OK well, that is it for tonight. Thank you again for your prayers. We look forward to seeing how God will work in and through this.
Peace to you,
Lisa
I was pretty long winded last night – this time will be short. Would you pray specifically for my Dad tonight? He has a fever and they are trying to locate the infection – suspecting it is in the kidney or lungs. They have found some areas in his lungs that they are concerned about.
It is overwhelming with all of the needs that people have here in Cedar Rapids and the rain keeps coming. Dan was downtown sandbagging this afternoon and evening – both hospitals are downtown and the focus of his and 100 other volunteer’s work was to try to protect the hospitals. Our basement will stay dry as long as the electricity stays on. We are being asked to use water only for drinking as the city water treatment system is functioning at 25%. The sky is still very dark and shows no promise at this time of relief, although it is supposed to clear by tomorrow. Our police force is working 12 hour days without days off to evacuate, rescue people, and attending to many other critical needs – a friend of ours is an officer and he and his family can use your prayers as well.
OK well, that is it for tonight. Thank you again for your prayers. We look forward to seeing how God will work in and through this.
Peace to you,
Lisa
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
My Dad: Update
Dear Family and Friends,
I’ve not had internet access for a couple of days (long story), but am glad to be connected again tonight. It has been interesting here in Iowa these past few weeks. I was thinking yesterday – “Some people think we are taking a risk by moving to Nicaragua. Well, I’m thinking that staying here in Iowa may be more of a risk!” Waterloo/Cedar Falls (where my Dad is in the hospital) and Cedar Rapids (where we live) and many of the other surrounding communities are flooding and more rain is expected. Flood records are being broken from the 1920’s. And more rain is forecasted.
I went to my parent’s house late Monday night after the surgery because it is closer to the hospital. The kids and I set out on Tuesday morning to return there. We spent an hour driving around Cedar Falls/Waterloo trying to find a way to the hospital, but could not as it is located on the other side of the river and most bridges were blocked off. I am not real familiar with this area so I called Mom while I was stuck in traffic and she told me that she would feel better if we just went home to their house given that it was not very safe to be on the road. It rained again today and I did not even try to make it, as Mom told me that - from the only bridge that was open, you could see just the tops of houses above the water – not sounding too safe to cross.
Some of you have asked about our home and whether we are flooded and we wanted to let you know that we are OK. Kind of strange as we live next to a flood plain, but we do not live close to the river which is where the problem is. We have friends, though, who need to evacuate and have moved all of their basement furniture upstairs and have surrounded their homes with sand bags. Each time you hear about this on the news, would you pray for the many people in Iowa who have lost homes to tornados and are suffering flood damage right now? Please also pray for the prevention of more damage. I drove through Parkersburg for the first time since the tornado on our way home to my parent’s from the hospital yesterday and I could not stop the tears as we drove through town. It is true that it is so much worse than what pictures on TV can capture.
Two different times prior to Dad’s surgery, there were tornados spotted close enough to the hospital that all of the patients were taken out of their rooms and moved into the hallway – probably not the most helpful situation for heart patients to be in. Mom told me tonight that there is now a tornado watch. I’ll update below on how everybody is doing as of today:
Dad: He stayed in intensive care for an extra day due to his Creatin level reaching 2.2 hours after surgery. Last night he was moved to a private room and is gradually losing the many tubes that adorned his body after surgery. The kidney doctor says today that his kidney is doing fine and that some elevation after surgery can be expected. They tried to get him to walk today and the second time, his heart rate accelerated to high, so after that they gave him some medication to help with this problem which they said is not uncommon for heart patients to experience after surgery. One of their goals with walking is to get him to take deeper breaths to prevent pneumonia. He and Mom meet with someone tomorrow to discuss diabetes and how to manage this. Dan and I talked with Dad on the phone tonight (kids and I are home in CR tonight) and I started laughing when he was talking because he sounds a little tipsy (he’s on pain meds., obviously). It was good to talk with him though, to hear his voice. Mom said he is joking with the nurses and is quite funny. It was so sweet too when he was in intensive care, I held his hand and talked with him and he would shake his arm a little and shake his head back and forth as I was talking but could not make eye contact or would have his eyes closed. Mom said later that Dad could hear me and remembered what I said – quite remarkable.
Mom: She is a strong woman and is familiar with the medical field having worked as a respiratory therapist, home health aid, and as a result of the many years she spent caring for my grandparents/taking them to doctors appts./surgeries/etc. I think this has helped her throughout this process as she is familiar with some of the equipment/procedures etc. She told me that yesterday was hard because she was alone and Dad was still in ICU and not very responsive. The news was on in the waiting room with all of the flooding/damage/etc. and she said that she felt weepy for awhile. She decided that she needed to just not watch TV as it is all so overwhelming. She is sounding good today and enjoys being with Dad back in his room.
Dan: He is very glad that Dad seems to be doing so well. Eight years ago we were with Dan’s aunt at the hospital after his Uncle Gerry’s heart surgery (an Uncle who took Dan under his wing after Dan’s Dad passed away). There were many similarities between Uncle Gerry’s diagnosis and surgery and my Dad’s. Only Uncle Gerry passed away shortly after surgery. It was a memory both Dan and I needed to fight throughout this week. I’ve noticed how close Dan is to Dad as he wants to be with him as much as he can. Dan has also been communicating with World Missions letting them know that just as we got started with the support raising process, we have needed to stop while we spend time with my parents during this time. We cancelled our dinner last Monday night, but have another one scheduled this Monday night which we plan to do. We have also received word that another church is considering supporting us. Continued prayers for healthy balance in our lives are appreciated.
Lisa: I’m a little tired. But, still quite amazed at the miracle of this week. And so very thankful for my Dad’s life and future health. For those of you who have been praying for God to teach me more about forgiveness, I thought I would share something with you. After I finished praying before my breakfast the other morning, I pictured my Dad’s surgeon working on my Dad’s heart. And the words came to me, “Lisa, that’s forgiveness.” My Dad’s surgeon is African American. Our family is reading Sojourner Truth’s (a black woman who fought for the rights of black people and for women) biography right now so the horrors of slavery are fresh in my mind. Would Sojourner Truth have ever dreamed that a black man would be saving the life of a white man? Dad’s surgeon is also known to be one of the kindest and best surgeons around. It seems to me that he has had to have been touched by prejudice/injustice at some point in his life. And yet, he does not strike me as someone who harbors bitterness. I’m thankful for yet another lesson on what it means to live a life of total forgiveness.
Rebekah and Will: Rebekah is excited because we picked up her new glasses today. I’ve never seen a kid so excited about wearing glasses! She keeps comparing what she can see with glasses and cannot see without them. She is excited about how they look, how they work, and has cleaned them with her special cloth about 20 times tonight. Her vision is 60/20 and Will’s is 15/20, so no glasses for him which I think his is relieved about. So, everybody is happy there. Will did lose another tooth and as 3 others that are loose. Will be interesting to see what he looks like by the end of this month. Should get that picture for our prayer card done soon! He was also excited to find a new batch of baby kitties at Grandma’s house. They have been doing great through all of this. Has been good for them to just have each other – I see them bonding again and playing like they did before Rebekah went to school.
OK, well that is probably enough for tonight – eh? Thank you again for your prayers and your concern. We are doing well – we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us – we are recognizing the truth of these words. Please continue to share with us how we can pray for you!
Peace to you,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, and Will)
I’ve not had internet access for a couple of days (long story), but am glad to be connected again tonight. It has been interesting here in Iowa these past few weeks. I was thinking yesterday – “Some people think we are taking a risk by moving to Nicaragua. Well, I’m thinking that staying here in Iowa may be more of a risk!” Waterloo/Cedar Falls (where my Dad is in the hospital) and Cedar Rapids (where we live) and many of the other surrounding communities are flooding and more rain is expected. Flood records are being broken from the 1920’s. And more rain is forecasted.
I went to my parent’s house late Monday night after the surgery because it is closer to the hospital. The kids and I set out on Tuesday morning to return there. We spent an hour driving around Cedar Falls/Waterloo trying to find a way to the hospital, but could not as it is located on the other side of the river and most bridges were blocked off. I am not real familiar with this area so I called Mom while I was stuck in traffic and she told me that she would feel better if we just went home to their house given that it was not very safe to be on the road. It rained again today and I did not even try to make it, as Mom told me that - from the only bridge that was open, you could see just the tops of houses above the water – not sounding too safe to cross.
Some of you have asked about our home and whether we are flooded and we wanted to let you know that we are OK. Kind of strange as we live next to a flood plain, but we do not live close to the river which is where the problem is. We have friends, though, who need to evacuate and have moved all of their basement furniture upstairs and have surrounded their homes with sand bags. Each time you hear about this on the news, would you pray for the many people in Iowa who have lost homes to tornados and are suffering flood damage right now? Please also pray for the prevention of more damage. I drove through Parkersburg for the first time since the tornado on our way home to my parent’s from the hospital yesterday and I could not stop the tears as we drove through town. It is true that it is so much worse than what pictures on TV can capture.
Two different times prior to Dad’s surgery, there were tornados spotted close enough to the hospital that all of the patients were taken out of their rooms and moved into the hallway – probably not the most helpful situation for heart patients to be in. Mom told me tonight that there is now a tornado watch. I’ll update below on how everybody is doing as of today:
Dad: He stayed in intensive care for an extra day due to his Creatin level reaching 2.2 hours after surgery. Last night he was moved to a private room and is gradually losing the many tubes that adorned his body after surgery. The kidney doctor says today that his kidney is doing fine and that some elevation after surgery can be expected. They tried to get him to walk today and the second time, his heart rate accelerated to high, so after that they gave him some medication to help with this problem which they said is not uncommon for heart patients to experience after surgery. One of their goals with walking is to get him to take deeper breaths to prevent pneumonia. He and Mom meet with someone tomorrow to discuss diabetes and how to manage this. Dan and I talked with Dad on the phone tonight (kids and I are home in CR tonight) and I started laughing when he was talking because he sounds a little tipsy (he’s on pain meds., obviously). It was good to talk with him though, to hear his voice. Mom said he is joking with the nurses and is quite funny. It was so sweet too when he was in intensive care, I held his hand and talked with him and he would shake his arm a little and shake his head back and forth as I was talking but could not make eye contact or would have his eyes closed. Mom said later that Dad could hear me and remembered what I said – quite remarkable.
Mom: She is a strong woman and is familiar with the medical field having worked as a respiratory therapist, home health aid, and as a result of the many years she spent caring for my grandparents/taking them to doctors appts./surgeries/etc. I think this has helped her throughout this process as she is familiar with some of the equipment/procedures etc. She told me that yesterday was hard because she was alone and Dad was still in ICU and not very responsive. The news was on in the waiting room with all of the flooding/damage/etc. and she said that she felt weepy for awhile. She decided that she needed to just not watch TV as it is all so overwhelming. She is sounding good today and enjoys being with Dad back in his room.
Dan: He is very glad that Dad seems to be doing so well. Eight years ago we were with Dan’s aunt at the hospital after his Uncle Gerry’s heart surgery (an Uncle who took Dan under his wing after Dan’s Dad passed away). There were many similarities between Uncle Gerry’s diagnosis and surgery and my Dad’s. Only Uncle Gerry passed away shortly after surgery. It was a memory both Dan and I needed to fight throughout this week. I’ve noticed how close Dan is to Dad as he wants to be with him as much as he can. Dan has also been communicating with World Missions letting them know that just as we got started with the support raising process, we have needed to stop while we spend time with my parents during this time. We cancelled our dinner last Monday night, but have another one scheduled this Monday night which we plan to do. We have also received word that another church is considering supporting us. Continued prayers for healthy balance in our lives are appreciated.
Lisa: I’m a little tired. But, still quite amazed at the miracle of this week. And so very thankful for my Dad’s life and future health. For those of you who have been praying for God to teach me more about forgiveness, I thought I would share something with you. After I finished praying before my breakfast the other morning, I pictured my Dad’s surgeon working on my Dad’s heart. And the words came to me, “Lisa, that’s forgiveness.” My Dad’s surgeon is African American. Our family is reading Sojourner Truth’s (a black woman who fought for the rights of black people and for women) biography right now so the horrors of slavery are fresh in my mind. Would Sojourner Truth have ever dreamed that a black man would be saving the life of a white man? Dad’s surgeon is also known to be one of the kindest and best surgeons around. It seems to me that he has had to have been touched by prejudice/injustice at some point in his life. And yet, he does not strike me as someone who harbors bitterness. I’m thankful for yet another lesson on what it means to live a life of total forgiveness.
Rebekah and Will: Rebekah is excited because we picked up her new glasses today. I’ve never seen a kid so excited about wearing glasses! She keeps comparing what she can see with glasses and cannot see without them. She is excited about how they look, how they work, and has cleaned them with her special cloth about 20 times tonight. Her vision is 60/20 and Will’s is 15/20, so no glasses for him which I think his is relieved about. So, everybody is happy there. Will did lose another tooth and as 3 others that are loose. Will be interesting to see what he looks like by the end of this month. Should get that picture for our prayer card done soon! He was also excited to find a new batch of baby kitties at Grandma’s house. They have been doing great through all of this. Has been good for them to just have each other – I see them bonding again and playing like they did before Rebekah went to school.
OK, well that is probably enough for tonight – eh? Thank you again for your prayers and your concern. We are doing well – we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us – we are recognizing the truth of these words. Please continue to share with us how we can pray for you!
Peace to you,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, and Will)
Monday, June 9, 2008
My Dad: Thank you for praying
Dear Family and Friends, June 9 at 7:00 pm
Thank you again for your prayers today for my Dad. We just cannot thank people enough. Mom has had lots of support today at the hospital as well - two of my aunts were here, a good friend of my Mom's, Dad and Mom's pastor, and Dan and I and the kids. The time passed quickly as we played games and talked.
The outcome of Dad's surgery is good. The surgeon said that the heart surgery went well and Dad is now in ICU. He had a triple bypass using two veins from his left thigh and one artery which are now connected to his heart to bypass the three blockages. The surgeon said that they are keeping a close eye on his kidney as the creatin level is up to 1.8. If the kidney has trouble, they will put Dad on dialysis for a couple of days, but he will not need to continue this long term. We do not know how severe the blockage to his left kidney is, but they said that it is starting to develop scar tissue which is not a good sign. A stent will be used to open up this artery which will happen at a date yet to be determined. We went in to see him this afternoon and he is hooked up to lots of wires and tubes. He is still on the ventilator which he will hopefully get off soon and be able to breathe himself again. He is also hooked up to a pace maker to regulate his heartbeat. This too, will be disconnected when he leaves ICU. He actually has good color which we did not expect.
Dan took the kids to my parent's house (about 45 min. away) and plans to move the wood that Dad was using to build the deck into the machine shed so that Dad does not have to look at that when he gets home (which would drive him crazy!). Mom and I had some time to talk about the kidney that he lost. She too, is frustrated about this. Something occurred to me as we were talking and I said, "Mom, I think we are grieving Dad's deceased kidney." Thinking back to the stages of grief and loss, I remember that one of the stages is anger/blaming and that this is a normal part of the grieving process. This God-given thought gave me peace as I recognize that we do not have to feel guilty about the anger, nor do we need to act on it - we just need to work through it and move on to the next stages of grief. Your prayers for all of us in this are appreciated. I know that my Dad was struggling with grief prior to surgery as well. Thank you!
Well, I will close now again with a HUGE thank you to everyone for your thoughts, prayers, concern, emails, and phone calls. We may not ever know exactly how many people were praying for Dad and involved with us in this labor of prayer. But, we experienced the peace and comfort that comes when we are lifted in prayer. Thank you so much for being a part of this with us!
Love,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, Will, Dad, and Mom Riebkes)
Thank you again for your prayers today for my Dad. We just cannot thank people enough. Mom has had lots of support today at the hospital as well - two of my aunts were here, a good friend of my Mom's, Dad and Mom's pastor, and Dan and I and the kids. The time passed quickly as we played games and talked.
The outcome of Dad's surgery is good. The surgeon said that the heart surgery went well and Dad is now in ICU. He had a triple bypass using two veins from his left thigh and one artery which are now connected to his heart to bypass the three blockages. The surgeon said that they are keeping a close eye on his kidney as the creatin level is up to 1.8. If the kidney has trouble, they will put Dad on dialysis for a couple of days, but he will not need to continue this long term. We do not know how severe the blockage to his left kidney is, but they said that it is starting to develop scar tissue which is not a good sign. A stent will be used to open up this artery which will happen at a date yet to be determined. We went in to see him this afternoon and he is hooked up to lots of wires and tubes. He is still on the ventilator which he will hopefully get off soon and be able to breathe himself again. He is also hooked up to a pace maker to regulate his heartbeat. This too, will be disconnected when he leaves ICU. He actually has good color which we did not expect.
Dan took the kids to my parent's house (about 45 min. away) and plans to move the wood that Dad was using to build the deck into the machine shed so that Dad does not have to look at that when he gets home (which would drive him crazy!). Mom and I had some time to talk about the kidney that he lost. She too, is frustrated about this. Something occurred to me as we were talking and I said, "Mom, I think we are grieving Dad's deceased kidney." Thinking back to the stages of grief and loss, I remember that one of the stages is anger/blaming and that this is a normal part of the grieving process. This God-given thought gave me peace as I recognize that we do not have to feel guilty about the anger, nor do we need to act on it - we just need to work through it and move on to the next stages of grief. Your prayers for all of us in this are appreciated. I know that my Dad was struggling with grief prior to surgery as well. Thank you!
Well, I will close now again with a HUGE thank you to everyone for your thoughts, prayers, concern, emails, and phone calls. We may not ever know exactly how many people were praying for Dad and involved with us in this labor of prayer. But, we experienced the peace and comfort that comes when we are lifted in prayer. Thank you so much for being a part of this with us!
Love,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, Will, Dad, and Mom Riebkes)
My Dad: New Challenges
Dear Family and Friends, June 9, 2008
It is now Monday and Dad is in surgery. I wrote last night as well and the "new challenges" are described below. I'm just writing a quick message now to give an update on how surgery is going. The nurse communicates with us every hour and a half and is telling us that everything is going well. Dad is on the bypass machine right now which is kind of like an artificial heart. His heart is not beating nor are his lungs taking in oxygen. The bypass machine acts as his heart and the ventilator acts as his lungs. The nurse said that surgery should be completed in another hour and a half. Mom is very excited to hear that and has just now gone to lunch.
Dad was in good spirits this morning. Was joking with the people who shaved his chest, asking them to transplant the shaved off hair onto the top of his head. My aunt remarked that Dad just seems relieved that someone can do something about his health issues.
Ok, well I have a little boy who needs some attention. The kids are both here and doing well, but I'm hearing the word "bored" right now. I think we will go to the cafeteria for a snack. Thank you for praying. We are so thankful for the support of family and friends!
Love,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, Will, and Dad and Mom Riebkes)
Dear Family and Friends, June 8, 2008
We were confronted with new challenges today - physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges. We received results from a test that indicates Dad's creatin level continues to stay around 1.6 but they are still planning to do surgery tomorrow. The most disturbing news was that he no longer has a right kidney as the blockage to that kidney was so severe that the blood flow was cut off and this kidney has died (hence, one of the reasons for his uncontrollable blood pressure). His left kidney also has a blockage, but will not be operated on until he has recovered from heart surgery. If this kidney fails, he will need to go on dialysis. In addition, Dad was diagnosed today with diabetes which was also new information for everyone to absorb.
My reaction to the news today was anger. Anger at the many doctors he has been working with throughout the past couple of years who did not look more closely into why Dad's blood pressure was so high and so hard to control. One of the medications he was taking was "hard on the kidneys" and at one point last year, his creatin level was at 2.8 and we were told that when levels reach 3, renal failure can be expected. He's been on so many different medications; two of his older brothers have had heart bypass surgery and his sister has had heart surgery as well; but, he was told that he just needed to eat right, exercise, lose some weight. Well, you get the picture.
So, I've described for you our physical reality. I am reminded that there is also a spiritual reality. It is interesting to me that as I've been planning out the personal sharing that I've been doing, the next one on the agenda is "My almost 40 something sin".
This sin just so happens to be "unforgiveness". I'm thinking that by the time we reach 40, God has supplied us with a number of opportunities to learn what it means to forgive people and to love them unconditionally. However, I've found that in different situations - especially those situations where I've been dealt with unjustly - I want to "enjoy my mad" because there really are some benefits to being a victim. So, here I am again. The question is, "Will I choose to surrender this situation to God and trust Him with the outcome?" I find this to be no easier today, than I have in past situations like this. However, I have learned a few things about forgiveness and unconditional love over my four decades. They are as follows:
Forgiveness needs to be immediate, but trust needs to be rebuilt over time. God does call us to forgive those who sin against us, but He does not command us to step back into the same level of relationship without seeing repentance and change in the life of the other person.
Harboring unforgiveness takes a lot of time and energy to maintain. During seasons when I have harbored unforgiveness, I find myself to be very preoccupied which negatively impacts my relationships with those closest to me. My energy level is lower and I find less joy in life.
Unforgiveness distorts my vision and my hearing. I'm blinded by the unforgiveness and cannot see the good in the unforgiven person. I also interpret everything they say and do through a "lens" that is smudged by a critical spirit. I've found that asking someone - who has a good relationship with the particular person I'm having trouble with - to share with me about what they appreciate about the person has helped me to refocus and to see the good.
When I am unforgiven, there is nothing I can do to change someone else's mind about me. This one has been one of the hardest lessons for me, because I value closeness in relationships and in the past I would work very hard to try to restore a broken relationship regardless of the person's reaction to me. However, I am learning that when someone refuses to forgive me, it is not within my power to restore the relationship. It is something that is then between them and God, and my role is to pray and be available when he/she is ready to take steps toward reconciliation.
I experience incredible freedom, peace, and joy when I love people unconditionally. There have been times when I have been fuming mad at someone, and then the thought crosses my mind, "Lisa, this is another opportunity to love someone unconditionally." And when I act on that thought, I am amazed at how God can change the momentum of my passion from anger to a grace-filled love that I know is not my own.
Thank you for listening. This was good for me to think through tonight - I'm feeling much more at peace. Another interesting part of this story is that I am finishing the "Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World" book this week. And the next book that I have planned to read is called "Total Forgiveness" by R.T Kendall. A friend recommended this book to me a couple of years ago, but I did not buy it until a couple of months ago. I should never be amazed at God's perfect timing, but I always am.
Thank you so much for your prayers for our family. My mom said that she and Dad are experiencing the peace that comes when we are lifted in prayer. We appreciate you!
Peace to you,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, and Will)
It is now Monday and Dad is in surgery. I wrote last night as well and the "new challenges" are described below. I'm just writing a quick message now to give an update on how surgery is going. The nurse communicates with us every hour and a half and is telling us that everything is going well. Dad is on the bypass machine right now which is kind of like an artificial heart. His heart is not beating nor are his lungs taking in oxygen. The bypass machine acts as his heart and the ventilator acts as his lungs. The nurse said that surgery should be completed in another hour and a half. Mom is very excited to hear that and has just now gone to lunch.
Dad was in good spirits this morning. Was joking with the people who shaved his chest, asking them to transplant the shaved off hair onto the top of his head. My aunt remarked that Dad just seems relieved that someone can do something about his health issues.
Ok, well I have a little boy who needs some attention. The kids are both here and doing well, but I'm hearing the word "bored" right now. I think we will go to the cafeteria for a snack. Thank you for praying. We are so thankful for the support of family and friends!
Love,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, Will, and Dad and Mom Riebkes)
Dear Family and Friends, June 8, 2008
We were confronted with new challenges today - physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges. We received results from a test that indicates Dad's creatin level continues to stay around 1.6 but they are still planning to do surgery tomorrow. The most disturbing news was that he no longer has a right kidney as the blockage to that kidney was so severe that the blood flow was cut off and this kidney has died (hence, one of the reasons for his uncontrollable blood pressure). His left kidney also has a blockage, but will not be operated on until he has recovered from heart surgery. If this kidney fails, he will need to go on dialysis. In addition, Dad was diagnosed today with diabetes which was also new information for everyone to absorb.
My reaction to the news today was anger. Anger at the many doctors he has been working with throughout the past couple of years who did not look more closely into why Dad's blood pressure was so high and so hard to control. One of the medications he was taking was "hard on the kidneys" and at one point last year, his creatin level was at 2.8 and we were told that when levels reach 3, renal failure can be expected. He's been on so many different medications; two of his older brothers have had heart bypass surgery and his sister has had heart surgery as well; but, he was told that he just needed to eat right, exercise, lose some weight. Well, you get the picture.
So, I've described for you our physical reality. I am reminded that there is also a spiritual reality. It is interesting to me that as I've been planning out the personal sharing that I've been doing, the next one on the agenda is "My almost 40 something sin".
This sin just so happens to be "unforgiveness". I'm thinking that by the time we reach 40, God has supplied us with a number of opportunities to learn what it means to forgive people and to love them unconditionally. However, I've found that in different situations - especially those situations where I've been dealt with unjustly - I want to "enjoy my mad" because there really are some benefits to being a victim. So, here I am again. The question is, "Will I choose to surrender this situation to God and trust Him with the outcome?" I find this to be no easier today, than I have in past situations like this. However, I have learned a few things about forgiveness and unconditional love over my four decades. They are as follows:
Forgiveness needs to be immediate, but trust needs to be rebuilt over time. God does call us to forgive those who sin against us, but He does not command us to step back into the same level of relationship without seeing repentance and change in the life of the other person.
Harboring unforgiveness takes a lot of time and energy to maintain. During seasons when I have harbored unforgiveness, I find myself to be very preoccupied which negatively impacts my relationships with those closest to me. My energy level is lower and I find less joy in life.
Unforgiveness distorts my vision and my hearing. I'm blinded by the unforgiveness and cannot see the good in the unforgiven person. I also interpret everything they say and do through a "lens" that is smudged by a critical spirit. I've found that asking someone - who has a good relationship with the particular person I'm having trouble with - to share with me about what they appreciate about the person has helped me to refocus and to see the good.
When I am unforgiven, there is nothing I can do to change someone else's mind about me. This one has been one of the hardest lessons for me, because I value closeness in relationships and in the past I would work very hard to try to restore a broken relationship regardless of the person's reaction to me. However, I am learning that when someone refuses to forgive me, it is not within my power to restore the relationship. It is something that is then between them and God, and my role is to pray and be available when he/she is ready to take steps toward reconciliation.
I experience incredible freedom, peace, and joy when I love people unconditionally. There have been times when I have been fuming mad at someone, and then the thought crosses my mind, "Lisa, this is another opportunity to love someone unconditionally." And when I act on that thought, I am amazed at how God can change the momentum of my passion from anger to a grace-filled love that I know is not my own.
Thank you for listening. This was good for me to think through tonight - I'm feeling much more at peace. Another interesting part of this story is that I am finishing the "Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World" book this week. And the next book that I have planned to read is called "Total Forgiveness" by R.T Kendall. A friend recommended this book to me a couple of years ago, but I did not buy it until a couple of months ago. I should never be amazed at God's perfect timing, but I always am.
Thank you so much for your prayers for our family. My mom said that she and Dad are experiencing the peace that comes when we are lifted in prayer. We appreciate you!
Peace to you,
Lisa (Dan, Rebekah, and Will)
Saturday, June 7, 2008
My Dad
Dear Family and Friends,
The results of my Dad's angioplasty are not what we had hoped for, but we are seeing very clearly how God has protected his life this past year.
I will explain in bullet points what has happened/is happening:
-The results of the angioplasty indicated two blockages in his heart. One is 80% blocked and the other is 90% blocked. There is also concern that his abdominal artery and renal artery are blocked as well. He will have a CT scan tomorrow to better define whether these arteries also have blockages.
-He also has blockages in both of his legs which are not as serious as the others, but have contributed to the weakening he has experienced in his legs for the past couple of years. These will be attended to at a later date.
-The surgeon wanted to do surgery tomorrow, however, Dad's cre-a-tin (not sure how to spell) level is too high indicating that there is something going on with his kidneys. The level is at 1.7 and they want it to be down to 1.
-They will be closely monitoring him in the hospital through the weekend and have scheduled him for open-heart surgery at 10 am on Monday morning - given that his kidneys cooperate.
We are praising God for:
-His sovereign plan. My parent's would have left for a 6 week trip to Alaska this past weekend had it not been for my sister's surgery on the 17th. They wanted to wait until they knew what the results of her surgery were first before leaving. Dad had also just been in Parkersburg last Monday helping with clean up there; he's been working on building a deck for their house; and he had a very demanding weekend on Mem. Day weekend as a bunch of us were camping and hiking, etc. We never would have guessed . .
-For Dad's new doctor. Dad just switched doctors a couple months ago because the feedback that they were getting from previous doctors involved putting him on and taking him off a number of different medications to lower his blood pressure. This new doctor has taken a very aggressive approach and quickly identified what was going on through tests and procedures.
- There is no damage to his heart. He also has his age going for him (he is 64) and his heart is strong. The doctor calls him a "tough cookie" and the nurses tell him he has had guardian angels watching over him.
Please pray with us for:
-His kidneys. We are praying that his levels would be stable by Monday so that the surgery can be done.
- Continued protection of his heart. Risk for heart attack is high and we pray that he can go into surgery with a strong, undamaged heart.
-For the CT scan to clearly show what is going on with his other two arteries tomorrow.
- For peace of mind and heart for each one of us as we walk with Jesus through this. Pray especially for my sister who is struggling with being torn with wanting to be with dad and having her own surgery coming up the following week. Her plan was to come later this summer for a longer period of time. It is very hard for her to not be here - she lives in Texas. I told Mom to tell her that God used her to save Dad's life by scheduling her surgery in June. We love you Bren.
When told that he would not have surgery until Monday, Dad said to my Mom, "Well, that just gives more people more time to pray." So, thank you for your prayers for us, for your love, and for your concern.
Dan's sister Julie reminded us of the verse we focused on with the kids the week we were in Nicaragua . . . "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 Thank you Julie for that reminder! Thanks too everybody for your emails and phone calls. I may not respond to you individually right now, but please know that we appreciate them very much!
We will keep you posted!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Urgent Prayer Request
Dear family and friends,
I'm going to just share some prayer requests with you today as our week has been very eventful and my time is very limited. Thank you again for your prayers. We are seeing God at work so clearly - in both the big and the small. We are trusting Him for all of the things that are not yet clear. Thank you for praying! Urgent prayer request in red below.
Praise:
1) Dan and I are overwhelmed with how our pledged financial support jumped from 7% last week to 17.5% this week! We have not even "officially" begun the support raising process, but we have been contacted by individuals and two CRC churches who have let us know that they want to be a part of this with us.
2) Our presentation at 1st United Methodist last Sunday went well. One of the pastors has a daughter who will be doing mission work in Granada, Nicaragua next year which was an interesting "Godincidence". We were touched by the heart this church has for people who are poor.
3) We have 6 small group dinners scheduled in Cedar Rapids for the month of June! Our first dinner is on Monday, June 9. Please pray for those hosting the dinners - that God would bless them as they serve us in this way. Also, please pray for dinner guests to be available to attend the dinners and open to considering partnership with us.
Petition:
1) Our urgent request involves a request for prayer for my Dad. I've mentioned trouble with high blood pressure throughout this year. His doctor has indicated that he has 6 out of the 7 risk factors for heart disease. Today he went in for a stress test and his doctor is concerned about the results. This Thursday, June 5, at 11:00 am he will go in for angioplasty (not sure if this is spelled correctly) and depending on the results, he may have a stint put in, open heart surgery, or all that may be needed is a change in medication. The concern is that there is a blockage in his heart and/or arteries. Would you pray for protection and for successful treatment for him. I will send another update at the end of the week to let you know the result of Thursday's procedure.
2) My sister will also have surgery on June 17 due to a concern about possible cancer cells. Please pray for a successful surgery and healing for her. And for peace for my family. My parents have three major events going on - my sister's surgery, our leaving the country, and my Dad's heart and blood pressure issues. Thank you so much for your prayers for them!
3) And finally, please pray for Dan and I to keep intentional focus on our relationship with God and our family in the midst of the chaos of our lives right now. God is speaking to us in prayer and through the Word and continuing to reassure us of His love and His presence. We know that in the midst of many details and concerns it can be easy to "do" instead of "be". Pray that we would maintain a healthy balance.
Just something to end with to make you smile: Will and I were in the car the other day and watched a squirrel attempt to cross the road and then change his mind. Will, my profound little thinker said, "So, what do squirrels actually do for the world anyway?" My feeble answer was, "Well, they carry nuts around so maybe God uses them to plant trees!"
It is our second day of no school and our kids are having to adjust a little. Today at the table for lunch, they were arguing because one had their foot in a place the other one didn't want them to have it. Then the other child complained that what the other one said did not make any sense. At that point, they tried to rope me into it and I just burst out laughing and said, "Do you guys know how ridiculous you sound?" I repeated their arguments back to them and they both got the giggles and we all laughed so hard our tummies hurt. I really do love having them both home - fights, giggles, and all!
I'm going to just share some prayer requests with you today as our week has been very eventful and my time is very limited. Thank you again for your prayers. We are seeing God at work so clearly - in both the big and the small. We are trusting Him for all of the things that are not yet clear. Thank you for praying! Urgent prayer request in red below.
Praise:
1) Dan and I are overwhelmed with how our pledged financial support jumped from 7% last week to 17.5% this week! We have not even "officially" begun the support raising process, but we have been contacted by individuals and two CRC churches who have let us know that they want to be a part of this with us.
2) Our presentation at 1st United Methodist last Sunday went well. One of the pastors has a daughter who will be doing mission work in Granada, Nicaragua next year which was an interesting "Godincidence". We were touched by the heart this church has for people who are poor.
3) We have 6 small group dinners scheduled in Cedar Rapids for the month of June! Our first dinner is on Monday, June 9. Please pray for those hosting the dinners - that God would bless them as they serve us in this way. Also, please pray for dinner guests to be available to attend the dinners and open to considering partnership with us.
Petition:
1) Our urgent request involves a request for prayer for my Dad. I've mentioned trouble with high blood pressure throughout this year. His doctor has indicated that he has 6 out of the 7 risk factors for heart disease. Today he went in for a stress test and his doctor is concerned about the results. This Thursday, June 5, at 11:00 am he will go in for angioplasty (not sure if this is spelled correctly) and depending on the results, he may have a stint put in, open heart surgery, or all that may be needed is a change in medication. The concern is that there is a blockage in his heart and/or arteries. Would you pray for protection and for successful treatment for him. I will send another update at the end of the week to let you know the result of Thursday's procedure.
2) My sister will also have surgery on June 17 due to a concern about possible cancer cells. Please pray for a successful surgery and healing for her. And for peace for my family. My parents have three major events going on - my sister's surgery, our leaving the country, and my Dad's heart and blood pressure issues. Thank you so much for your prayers for them!
3) And finally, please pray for Dan and I to keep intentional focus on our relationship with God and our family in the midst of the chaos of our lives right now. God is speaking to us in prayer and through the Word and continuing to reassure us of His love and His presence. We know that in the midst of many details and concerns it can be easy to "do" instead of "be". Pray that we would maintain a healthy balance.
Just something to end with to make you smile: Will and I were in the car the other day and watched a squirrel attempt to cross the road and then change his mind. Will, my profound little thinker said, "So, what do squirrels actually do for the world anyway?" My feeble answer was, "Well, they carry nuts around so maybe God uses them to plant trees!"
It is our second day of no school and our kids are having to adjust a little. Today at the table for lunch, they were arguing because one had their foot in a place the other one didn't want them to have it. Then the other child complained that what the other one said did not make any sense. At that point, they tried to rope me into it and I just burst out laughing and said, "Do you guys know how ridiculous you sound?" I repeated their arguments back to them and they both got the giggles and we all laughed so hard our tummies hurt. I really do love having them both home - fights, giggles, and all!
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