Mother Doing Well

I'm grateful that my mother is regaining her energy and becoming more like her normal self every day. She's still receiving therapy, and hopefully will continue to get stronger and more able to care for her own needs. She's living with my sister for the time being, and we are hoping it will become a permanent arrangement.


Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. (Psalm 118:1)

Faith During Times of Stress

Back in 1995, I went through a difficult time dealing with breast cancer surgery and reconstruction while also trying to care for our 3 young children. One of the things that helped me get through each day was my faith in God's love and the belief that He has a plan for my life. I read the Bible regularly to keep my faith strong, and I wrote down the verses that made the most impact on me during that struggle.

Now I'm facing an even greater emotional battle as I try to accept the fact that no one lives forever, not even those we love most. The little notebook full of verses that I carried with me throughout 1995 is once again providing me the strength I need to look to the future with hope and joy rather than with sadness. Today I opened my notebook and found comfort in the following verse:

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. (Isaiah 46:4, NIV)

Oh, Heavenly Father, I thank you that in times of trouble and stress, we can find strength and comfort in your promises. No matter how many years pass, your love for us remains the same as when you first gave us life. You're there, ready and willing to help us through the tough times. And when we reach the end of life's journey, you'll welcome us to a place where no sorrow exists. Amen.

A Prayer for Safety

Today my daughter is flying to New York alone. The plane has been delayed due to mechanical problems, so of course I can't keep from thinking about her safety. Though God wants us to trust Him in all things, it can be hard to do when someone we love has a problem or is in danger.

"Dear God, please take care of the ones we love, guarding them from harm and giving them strength and wisdom to handle every problem that comes their way. I know you allow situations to occur that stretch our faith and help us grow, and I ask that you share your infinite peace with us all as we deal with such times. Thank you for answering our prayers. Amen."

The Lord will Keep you from all harm--he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forever more. (Psalm 121:7-8, NIV)