For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:15-16
My original intent was to follow these nineteen days , day by day. This obviously did not happen, for a variety of reasons. One is certainly that processing the events of two years ago, now removed from the rigorous exigencies of Allana’s treatments and Bone Marrow Transplant recovery is not as structured, neat and clean as I thought I might be able to attain. As we pass through this season I can watch each of us quietly working through our feelings. When the busyness of the holidays passes for a minute and routine life emerges the stress of this process emerges in a variety of fashions. Still as a family we have the deep assurance that God is in control and that we have an eternal High Priest in His presence interceding on our behalf.
The frenzy of birth fades in the light of our celebration of our Saviors arrival on the scene. These days are filled with wonderful preparation and quiet enjoyment (with little sleep). We are blessed by the generosity of so many of you who will read this, as we were suddenly and unexpectedly blessed this year. Then as now I don’t know why I am surprised when I pray for provision and it comes in abundance. Presents are wrapped as Nisa is loved and coddled by so many. The preparations made over the previous month are in full use now. Allana is enjoying her Christmas blessing, drinking in Nisa’s presence having desired this particular beverage for so very long.
She wakes on Day 7, a little sore, her throat a bit raspy and maybe just a touch of fever. Not to worry, she did just give birth and the crazy weather is enough to make anyone a bit….
The preparations made over a lifetime by an all knowing God are about to be tested. Quiet joy and praises rise from home and ministry wrapped in one. So much has been put on hold as we waited for Nisa. We are already making plans for the Spring and Summer, mapping out what our lives and ministry will look like. We did not know that in less than two weeks everything would change, but God had been molding us into “change managers” for some time. Early in our journey to full-time ministry when I had left the Hospitality industry God had given me a word that I would only know what I would be doing and how we would be living 30 days at a time. It was frustrating and difficult but it prepared me for the runaway train ride that was coming.
Blessings,
Sam
Fan Into Flame Ministries 