A New Word From My Sponsor

Since just before my diagnosis, two years ago, there was a common thread to the Scripture passages that I was reading - STRENGTH. If you are unaware of this, feel free to peruse through the blog entries and you may find my references to how God touched my weak heart during the past years. This morning things have changed.

I was brought to tears as I was reading the passage suggested from my 365-day reading plan. The words were from Ezekiel 37:1-14 and here is why my heart was moved. This passage is about a vision that God gives to Ezekiel while at a valley full of dry bones. God says to Ezekiel to speak to the bones and tell them to listen to the word of the Lord. God is going to bring the bones together, cover them with muscle and flesh and then breathe life in them. Wow, what a sight that must have been to see the numerous bones rearranging, standing up, and coming back to life! While this vision is truly remarkable, it was the final verses of the passage that struck me. There was one word, a theme, that has been recurred over the past few weeks in other passages, but today I have just finally got the word from my Sponsor.

Today the common thread has changed. The one word that I have been reading about is no longer one of strength it has been changed to HOPE. Just like the bones had become old and dry - all hope is gone (verse 11), I have felt that in deep ways. His strength has carried me through it all. Today, I know and feel in my heart that "God has put His Spirit in me... Then you will know that I am the Lord. You will see that I have done everything just as I promised." (verse13) I just love it, but Him most of all. In Him, lies the hope!

Housework is not overrated!

I have a whole new appreciation for the willing hands.

Over the past weeks, and a few more weeks to come, I have been limited to what I am able to do around the house. The "no lifting" rule is becoming more and more difficult to adhere to as my recovery progresses. While it is nice to be told that I should leave the heavier household chores, each day as the pain subsides slightly, I think that I should be that much closer to returning to picking up around the home. All I need to do is fold a couple of towels or match a few pair of socks to realize why I need to listen to the doctor's orders.

Much thanks to the willing hands who have entered our home to clean up the Tamming mess and wash a few loads of laundry. For each one, I am truly grateful.