2 Corinthians 1: 2-5 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Praise to the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.
Two emails and a facebook post contained solemn news. The message on facebook conveyed encouragement that surgery went well. After a recent stroke, the friend from church continues to show signs of improvement. A nod. Squeezing both hands. Opening of eyes. Tiny steps lead to big miracles.
Both emails dealt with death. The first was about the passing of a sixty-seven year old man who had been under the care of Hospice. Though his family will miss him terribly, his death brought freedom from pain and suffering. He was ready to meet Jesus.
The second one related the prognosis of a young boy. Most of his short life he has fought a valiant fight against leukemia. Frequent hospital stays. Rounds and rounds of difficult treatment. Tubes and needles. Foreign to most but familiar to him.
Today he celebrated his eighth birthday a month early. His desire was for a pirate party so Base Camp at Arnold Palmer Hospital made it possible. In spite of his intense pain and strong medication, he wanted to party.
Friends learned that his wish was to have an I-pad so they delivered it to him. His huge smile revealed his pleasure.
Yesterday, doctors told his mother that treatment was no longer working. Medical science had exhausted all resources. Their medication can try to alleviate the pain.
The attitude, compassion, and faith of that young man has touched many, many lives. In the hospital he encouraged other young patients and is known as Dr. Joseph. He knows he will be with Jesus when his time here is over.
Please pray for the friends and family of all three.
Bob’s family as they deal with his death and the multiple services here and up north.
Loyd and his family as he journeys toward recovery.
Joseph and his family as they spend quality time together as long as possible and that he leaves peacefully.
Dear Lord, be with all of the family and friends of these three. Touch Loyd and Joseph in a special way. Remind us to say I love you and to enjoy time with our loved ones. Amen
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