March 18, 2008
I believe in the power of prayer! I grew up in a home where the expression of faith and the power of prayer were as evident in our daily lives as a breath of fresh ocean breeze. During the last few months, the expression of prayer has played a key role in my speedy, miraculous recovery from surgery and the treatments of radiation and chemotherapy for nasopharyngeal cancer. Miraculous, I believe, because the God whom we petition is a God of miracles; a God who specializes in doing for us what life itself cannot do; what medical science often misunderstands; and undoing what the ravages of sin bequeaths to us fallen humanity. My family and I have been strengthened physically, emotionally and spiritually during this experience. I believe that your many prayers have been answered over and over again as you petitioned God on our behalf.
A week ago, I informed you of a setback in my progress. We all prayed that by God’s divine intervention I would be spared another round of surgery. Today, I believe your prayers, our prayers, have been answered. The answer is a confirmation of your faith. The neck and throat swelling that I experienced last week has receded; my breathing is far less labored and near normal. After a visit to my otolaryngologist today, the report is: no cancer, no surgery. He declared that there was no longer a need for surgery since the swelling was far less severe and there was no evidence of active cancer. A later visit to the medical oncologist supported the earlier conclusion. Another follow up PET scan is scheduled for late June with follow up visits also scheduled. Meanwhile, a gradual return to normal activity, including exercise was recommended.
Although my words fail to express the depth of gratitude I feel, I found some which clearly suffice:
Psalm 40
1 I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry.
Psalm 145
17 The Lord is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness. 18 The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth. 19 He grants the desires of those who fear him;
Psalm 146
1 Praise the Lord! Let all that I am praise the Lord. 2 I will praise the Lord as long as I live. I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath.
Psalm 147
1 Praise the Lord! How good to sing praises to our God! How delightful and how fitting!
Love and blessings to you all!
Len
1 comment:
Dear Len, You have been an inspiration to those of us that have been called to go through difficult, and at times unendurable challenges. I love your way with words, your obvious faith in a loving God and your positive attitude through a situation that at times must have seemed about to crush you. Stand fast my brother, the King is coming. Chuck Towne
Post a Comment