God is in control

Let me first of all say a huge thank you to all of you who have sent meals, cards, emails and made phone calls or visits to Debbie and I the past few days and weeks.

We deeply appreciate it.

I've been ministering as a pastor for 34 years.  During those years I have sent countless "get well cards", made phone calls and visits to those who are in pain.

From that, many if not most, have given thanks for my doing so.  They have shared how meaningful it was to them.

But I never really understood how meaningful it was (on a person level) to have some kind of "touch" when you are suffering.  I now completely understand.

Just a card during the day is like jumping in a cold swimming pool on a hot, muggy day.  It refreshes your soul.

Again, thanks so much.

I do have another hurtle that has come my way.  While the tumor was completely removed, after testing it, it was found that I am in the "intermediate risk" category for another tumor of the same type to come back.

That being said, I am meeting with an oncologist on April 29th, to determine whether or not I should take some kind of preventive medication.  Debbie and I would appreciate your prayers as we make that decision.

Throughout all of this, I have clung to the thought that God is in control.  I mean, doesn't he have to be in control?  Think of a world where things "just happen", with no rhyme or reason.

Here's what I know:  God is in control of the events of this world.  Nations rise and nations fall at his whim.  And if that is true (and it is) than surely God is in control of my life and your life.

With God - there are no accidents, there are no coincidences.  Everything you and I go through - God has sovereignly surveyed and approved.

There is a purpose to our suffering. 

Let me put it this way:  Nothing touches me that has not passed through the hands of my heavenly Father.  Nothing.

We may not know why (we may never know why), but we do know our pain is no accident to the Father who guides our lives.  He is in no way surprised by it all.

God is in control.

Reminder:  Good Friday service, tomorrow evening, April 18th, 7:00 P.M. 

Easter Sunday!  This coming Sunday, April 20th!  Invite a friend.

In fact, I encourage you to invite non-churched friends....an appeal will be given to accept Christ at the end of each service.

Love you all......