Hello. I can hardly believe that this year is just hours from being over.
My voice is getting stronger each day. Next week I will post another video. My throat is still a little sore but over all is so much better.
My neck has pretty much healed up.
As I look back over this past year, I would say that that this journey has been one of the most challenging adventures of the year.
But from the very out set until the conclusion Jesus has given me His assurance that everything would be OK.
You can face the giants, the valleys, the rough places and anything else when you know that He is with you.
Perhaps as you look back at this year, you too, can rejoice know that He has walked with you and directed your steps.
Be Blessed.
This is the Journey of Pastor Rick Stratton's discovery of vocal cord cancer, treatment, recovery and on. My prayer for you today is that you will be blessed and victorious. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because, greater is He that is in you, then he that is in the world. 1 John 4:4
Friday, December 31, 2010
Friday, December 24, 2010
The Journey 12/24/10
Praise the Lord! My voice is coming back. It has been close to seven months since my voice has sounded this good. If you go back to my post on 11/4/10 and watch the video you can really tell the difference.
I trust you will have a great Christmas with family and friends. Thanks for checking in on Fridays to see and hear the continued progress of this Journey.
Merry Christmas!!!
I trust you will have a great Christmas with family and friends. Thanks for checking in on Fridays to see and hear the continued progress of this Journey.
Merry Christmas!!!
Friday, December 17, 2010
The Journey 12/17/10
Everything seems to be healing up. It has been one week since I had my last treatment. My voice is starting to return. Next week I will have put a video on here so you will be able to hear my voice and compare it to an earlier video.
I think the key now is to be patient as everything continues to heal up from the radiation treatment.
Isn't that how it is in almost everything? Patiently waiting. So many times we get in anxiety and that many times will delay the desired results. To me patiently waiting doesn't mean we are pacing the floor but that we go on about the business of our lives. We continue to move forward and not fall into the trap of worry and fear.
Today if what you are wanting to happen hasn't happened yet; don't get in despair but continue to look to Him, the author and developer of our faith.
My throat is still a little sore but nothing like it had been. As I had mentioned before, night time is the worse and that is starting to get better.
The skin on my neck is healing up. I am hoping there won't be any scars but if there is, there is. The cold weather cause my neck to hurt more then usual.
I thank you for your continued prayers as I continue to walk this journey. The journey now is more of one of recovery.
Be blessed.
I will talk to you next Friday.
I think the key now is to be patient as everything continues to heal up from the radiation treatment.
Isn't that how it is in almost everything? Patiently waiting. So many times we get in anxiety and that many times will delay the desired results. To me patiently waiting doesn't mean we are pacing the floor but that we go on about the business of our lives. We continue to move forward and not fall into the trap of worry and fear.
Today if what you are wanting to happen hasn't happened yet; don't get in despair but continue to look to Him, the author and developer of our faith.
My throat is still a little sore but nothing like it had been. As I had mentioned before, night time is the worse and that is starting to get better.
The skin on my neck is healing up. I am hoping there won't be any scars but if there is, there is. The cold weather cause my neck to hurt more then usual.
I thank you for your continued prayers as I continue to walk this journey. The journey now is more of one of recovery.
Be blessed.
I will talk to you next Friday.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
The Journey 12/8/10 Final treatment!
I was pleasantly surprised today to have David Ball, representing my church family, and Jonathan, my youngest son, representing my immediate family at my last treatment. They were there to help me and you "ring the bell".
A picture says a thousand words....end of post.
I will continue to post each Friday after this week to let you know how my healing is progressing.
Thanks for all your prayers and support.
NO MORE TREATMENTS!!!!!
A picture says a thousand words....end of post.
I will continue to post each Friday after this week to let you know how my healing is progressing.
Thanks for all your prayers and support.
NO MORE TREATMENTS!!!!!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
The Journey 12/7/10
There is really not much to report today. My skin on my neck is pretty sore today. I think this cold weather affects it more then usual.
My voice is still pretty week, although I do believe that will change once the treatments are over.
As you know, tomorrow is my last day of treatment. I am looking forward to that.
I have really enjoyed keeping your informed of the progress through all of this. Your prayers have been a great sustaining factor.
Tomorrow I hope to have a video of me ringing the bell after my final treatment. I asked today if I could have the mask I have had to wear during this journey. They told me it was mine. I will have a picture of that as well.
I wish you could all be there as I walk out the door of the radiation treatment room and ring the bell but you will be there in my thoughts.
We truly do not walk alone when we are going through a trial or a valley. First and foremost He walks with us but also family and friends walk with us through their prayers and support.
I am going to update this blog on Fridays after the treatment is over and share with you the progress of the restoration of my voice and the healing of my neck and throat.
Once again, thank you for your faithful prayers and support.
32 down and 1 to go.
My voice is still pretty week, although I do believe that will change once the treatments are over.
As you know, tomorrow is my last day of treatment. I am looking forward to that.
I have really enjoyed keeping your informed of the progress through all of this. Your prayers have been a great sustaining factor.
Tomorrow I hope to have a video of me ringing the bell after my final treatment. I asked today if I could have the mask I have had to wear during this journey. They told me it was mine. I will have a picture of that as well.
I wish you could all be there as I walk out the door of the radiation treatment room and ring the bell but you will be there in my thoughts.
We truly do not walk alone when we are going through a trial or a valley. First and foremost He walks with us but also family and friends walk with us through their prayers and support.
I am going to update this blog on Fridays after the treatment is over and share with you the progress of the restoration of my voice and the healing of my neck and throat.
Once again, thank you for your faithful prayers and support.
32 down and 1 to go.
Monday, December 6, 2010
The Journey 12/6/10
I was blessed last week to receive a "huge" card from the 3rd grade class of the St. Peter's School in Forest Lake, Minnesota.(Top of post) Everyday, seventeen students, during their prayer time, have been lifting me up in prayer. Thank you, St. Peter's 3rd grade class for your prayers. They are helping to make a difference.
I was told today that after a couple weeks I should begin to notice my neck and throat healing and going back to normal. I will sure be glad when that happens.
Yesterday, when I started out speaking at church, my voice sounded better then it had in a long time but after a few minutes it became pretty weak. I didn't speak real long.
As a side note, we have been having different speakers on Sunday nights and they have all been a blessing to the body of Christ.
I am so grateful for the family of God. If you are not a part of a fellowship of believers I want to encourage you to seek one out. You may have been hurt by someone who goes to church and have even said you would never go again. Don't judge the whole tree by one bad apple...
Thanks again for all your prayers.
Be Blessed.
31 down and 2 to go.
Friday, December 3, 2010
The Journey 12/3/10
It is hard to believe that I am almost to the end of the radiation treatments. Today has not been as good as yesterday. My voice is still about the same but a little weaker. As I said yesterday, it comes and goes.
My neck is healing up pretty good. It should with that high dollar cream I put on it. lol
Today I am just tired. I think that is why my voice is a little weaker. I was told that the radiation treatments can make you tired but today it is more then usual.
I am so grateful for all the prayers that have been and are being prayed for me. What a blessing!!
I am going to try and get some rest today.
Blessings.
30 down and 3 to go.
My neck is healing up pretty good. It should with that high dollar cream I put on it. lol
Today I am just tired. I think that is why my voice is a little weaker. I was told that the radiation treatments can make you tired but today it is more then usual.
I am so grateful for all the prayers that have been and are being prayed for me. What a blessing!!
I am going to try and get some rest today.
Blessings.
30 down and 3 to go.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
The Journey 12/2/10
I am pretty excited today. My voice is starting to come back. Yesterday about 4:30 pm I was getting stuff ready for our J.U.S.T. Kids, Wednesday night ministry. I turned on the sound system and when I spoke into it to test it, my voice sounded so much better then it had up until then.
It still comes and goes a little but it is coming more then it is going. I give Him all the praise and glory.
Today was doctor day. Here is what he told me. "Don't talk to much". That is pretty much the advise he has given me every time I have seen him. He went on to add this. "God gave us two ears and ONE mouth". He was simply saying listen more and talk less. Pretty good advice even if you are not having voice problems. The bible puts it like this: James 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak...
I leave you with that thought today.
Be blessed.
29 down and 4 to go.
It still comes and goes a little but it is coming more then it is going. I give Him all the praise and glory.
Today was doctor day. Here is what he told me. "Don't talk to much". That is pretty much the advise he has given me every time I have seen him. He went on to add this. "God gave us two ears and ONE mouth". He was simply saying listen more and talk less. Pretty good advice even if you are not having voice problems. The bible puts it like this: James 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak...
I leave you with that thought today.
Be blessed.
29 down and 4 to go.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
The Journey 12/1/10
I am nearing the end of the journey as far as radiation treatments go. There has been some change that I can begin to notice. My throat doesn't seem to have as big as a lump in it when I swallow as it did before.
My neck is more blistered then it has been and this cold weather makes the skin hurt more then usual but that will pass as it begins to heal. I guess it would be like a real bad sun burn for a month.
I really won't know the outcome of the treatment for a month or so after the treatment. That is when I will go back to the ENT doctor and he will put a scope in my throat to be able to see what it looks like.
As I was setting in the waiting room today before treatment there is a new man that has just starting coming for treatment. I asked him what he was being treated for but I don't think he heard me. I could see on his face some apprehension. Perhaps that is what I was looking like when I first went and sat in the waiting room. I hope to talk to him tomorrow.
I was thinking today as I was coming back from treatment. No matter what we are facing or going through there is always someone facing or going through something worse. Then I thought it really isn't how bad or not so bad something is you are going through, the important thing is who is going through it with you.
What a comfort to know that Jesus Christ is always present but also family and friends who stand by your side in prayer and encouragement. It is just good to know, you are not alone.
So many today want to "go it alone". We all need someone. I would not like to think I would have to face cancer "alone", or anything other trial for that matter.
The good news is that none of us have to "go it alone". If you don't have family find a church and begin to worship there and become part of a church family.
Today I want to encourage you not to be a "Lone Ranger". Seek out a family member or friend for help and strength when you are going through a trial. Go to church, listen to the word of God. There is strength and comfort in Him.
Be Blessed.
28 down and 5 to go.
My neck is more blistered then it has been and this cold weather makes the skin hurt more then usual but that will pass as it begins to heal. I guess it would be like a real bad sun burn for a month.
I really won't know the outcome of the treatment for a month or so after the treatment. That is when I will go back to the ENT doctor and he will put a scope in my throat to be able to see what it looks like.
As I was setting in the waiting room today before treatment there is a new man that has just starting coming for treatment. I asked him what he was being treated for but I don't think he heard me. I could see on his face some apprehension. Perhaps that is what I was looking like when I first went and sat in the waiting room. I hope to talk to him tomorrow.
I was thinking today as I was coming back from treatment. No matter what we are facing or going through there is always someone facing or going through something worse. Then I thought it really isn't how bad or not so bad something is you are going through, the important thing is who is going through it with you.
What a comfort to know that Jesus Christ is always present but also family and friends who stand by your side in prayer and encouragement. It is just good to know, you are not alone.
So many today want to "go it alone". We all need someone. I would not like to think I would have to face cancer "alone", or anything other trial for that matter.
The good news is that none of us have to "go it alone". If you don't have family find a church and begin to worship there and become part of a church family.
Today I want to encourage you not to be a "Lone Ranger". Seek out a family member or friend for help and strength when you are going through a trial. Go to church, listen to the word of God. There is strength and comfort in Him.
Be Blessed.
28 down and 5 to go.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
The Journey 11/30/10
At this point of treatment everything is going as planned. It does seem that my throat is not hurting as much right now and my voice is getting a little better. It doesn't seem to break up as much and seems to have lowered some.
Today I picked up the prescription cream for radiation treatment burn. I almost need a prescription for heart failure when I saw the price for the cream. lol
I wasn't going to get it but I was told at the treatment center that it will keep me from having scars from the radiation burn on my neck.
As I was walking out of the pharmacy with my high dollar scar preventor I started thinking about scars. I wonder if this will work on old scars. I have a few of them on my body. I doubt that will work. :)
I begin to think about scars that we have in our lives that are not physical. There are many today that have emotional scars. Scars from events in their life that many would say have, "Scared them for life."
Wouldn't it be wonderful if there was a prescription cream we could buy that would erase those kind of scars. Many of these scars are self inflicted. Things we have done that we shouldn't have. Sins committed with the knowledge that what we were doing was sin and yet sinned anyway.
There is a prescription that can heal the hurts and even take away the scars. It did cost a lot more then the cream I bought. It cost the life of God's son. The good news is that Jesus paid the price.
What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh precious is that flow, that washes white as snow; no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.
Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things are passed away, behold all things are become new. 2 Cor. 5:17.
Of course, to make the cream, I bought work, I have to apply it and follow the directions. For Jesus to take away the scars and pain you have to "apply" His word and follow the directions.
Blessings.
27 down and 6 to go.
Today I picked up the prescription cream for radiation treatment burn. I almost need a prescription for heart failure when I saw the price for the cream. lol
I wasn't going to get it but I was told at the treatment center that it will keep me from having scars from the radiation burn on my neck.
As I was walking out of the pharmacy with my high dollar scar preventor I started thinking about scars. I wonder if this will work on old scars. I have a few of them on my body. I doubt that will work. :)
I begin to think about scars that we have in our lives that are not physical. There are many today that have emotional scars. Scars from events in their life that many would say have, "Scared them for life."
Wouldn't it be wonderful if there was a prescription cream we could buy that would erase those kind of scars. Many of these scars are self inflicted. Things we have done that we shouldn't have. Sins committed with the knowledge that what we were doing was sin and yet sinned anyway.
There is a prescription that can heal the hurts and even take away the scars. It did cost a lot more then the cream I bought. It cost the life of God's son. The good news is that Jesus paid the price.
What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh precious is that flow, that washes white as snow; no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.
Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Old things are passed away, behold all things are become new. 2 Cor. 5:17.
Of course, to make the cream, I bought work, I have to apply it and follow the directions. For Jesus to take away the scars and pain you have to "apply" His word and follow the directions.
Blessings.
27 down and 6 to go.
Monday, November 29, 2010
The Journey 11/29/10
My wife, Marcia, and I had a great Thanksgiving with our sons and their families. I am back to treatments today through December 8th and then I am done.
We had great Sunday services yesterday. Today my throat and neck are sore and painful but as I was driving to the treatment center I thought, no amount of pain today can take from me what God did in my life yesterday and no amount of pain today can take away my hope for tomorrow.
Sometimes we let pain, whether it is physical, mental, emotional, financial or other rob us of what God is doing in our lives. I am not saying that God gives us pain, I am just saying that when pain comes we can either allow it to determine our attitude to either be good or bad.
Are you going through some kind of pain in your life? Could I just ask you today to not let it determine your outlook or attitude toward others. Sometimes we think because we have pain we have a "right" to be grouchy or mean when in reality we don't have that right. Christ in all His pain was able to say, "Father forgive them".
Now, I am not rejoicing because of the pain in my neck and the burning in my throat but I am rejoicing that "I've got something the world can't give and the world can't take it away". That something is salvation through Jesus Christ!
I encourage you today to press on, keep focused on the goal and live a life pleasing to Jesus.
Blessings...
26 down and 7 to go.
P.S. I do believe that my voice is getting better or maybe I should say stronger. It is still pretty raspy but it doesn't seem to break up as much as before.
We had great Sunday services yesterday. Today my throat and neck are sore and painful but as I was driving to the treatment center I thought, no amount of pain today can take from me what God did in my life yesterday and no amount of pain today can take away my hope for tomorrow.
Sometimes we let pain, whether it is physical, mental, emotional, financial or other rob us of what God is doing in our lives. I am not saying that God gives us pain, I am just saying that when pain comes we can either allow it to determine our attitude to either be good or bad.
Are you going through some kind of pain in your life? Could I just ask you today to not let it determine your outlook or attitude toward others. Sometimes we think because we have pain we have a "right" to be grouchy or mean when in reality we don't have that right. Christ in all His pain was able to say, "Father forgive them".
Now, I am not rejoicing because of the pain in my neck and the burning in my throat but I am rejoicing that "I've got something the world can't give and the world can't take it away". That something is salvation through Jesus Christ!
I encourage you today to press on, keep focused on the goal and live a life pleasing to Jesus.
Blessings...
26 down and 7 to go.
P.S. I do believe that my voice is getting better or maybe I should say stronger. It is still pretty raspy but it doesn't seem to break up as much as before.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
The Journey 11/24/10
There is really not much to add today. I will get four days off from treatment. I had to get a stronger pain killer today. The other I got would only numb my throat and would last for about an hour.
I will try this stronger tonight and see if that helps me get better sleep. Since I very rarely take prescription medicine this may knock me out.
As I stood in line to get the stronger stuff. I was thinking about my walk with the Lord. I am thankful for the "stronger stuff" the Lord gives us.
When I am weak then I am made strong. How does that happen? He gives us the "stronger stuff" which is His Spirit to empower us.
It is in Him we live and move and have our being. He becomes our strength when we are weak. Have you ever said, "I don't know how I ever got through that?" We all have. It is with His strength that we make it and usually only when we look back do we recognize it.
I trust you will have a great Thanksgiving with family and friends and you will find Jesus Christ closer to you then ever before.
I will be back on Monday.
25 down and 8 to go.
I will try this stronger tonight and see if that helps me get better sleep. Since I very rarely take prescription medicine this may knock me out.
As I stood in line to get the stronger stuff. I was thinking about my walk with the Lord. I am thankful for the "stronger stuff" the Lord gives us.
When I am weak then I am made strong. How does that happen? He gives us the "stronger stuff" which is His Spirit to empower us.
It is in Him we live and move and have our being. He becomes our strength when we are weak. Have you ever said, "I don't know how I ever got through that?" We all have. It is with His strength that we make it and usually only when we look back do we recognize it.
I trust you will have a great Thanksgiving with family and friends and you will find Jesus Christ closer to you then ever before.
I will be back on Monday.
25 down and 8 to go.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
The Journey 11/23/10
I am beginning to feel some of the results of radiation this week. There is a lot more pain and discomfort. It may be because I am on the second and final phase of radiation.
I went to the pharmacy yesterday to get the prescription to help ease the pain. I went back at the time I was told it would be ready. The pharmacist came out and told me that he was missing one ingredient. (This is a liquid substance that has to be mixed).
I should get it today. When he told me he was missing one ingredient I began wondering how many people are missing one ingredient in their life.
Many think today that if they have one more "thing" it will satisfy them only to find out after they have that "thing" for awhile; it did not produce any satisfaction but only a desire to have something bigger and better. So they are still missing that "one ingredient".
So many are pursing something to try and bring peace or joy or happiness and yet when they get what is being pursued there is still that unfulfilled void...the missing ingredient.
That one missing ingredient is a surrendered life to Jesus Christ. There is nothing in this life that can fill the area of our lives that only Jesus Christ can.
I think the song "Only Jesus Can Satisfy Your Soul" says it best.
Is there a missing ingredient in your life? Are you trying to find fulfillment outside of Jesus Christ? I can assure you that it won't happen until you allow Jesus Christ to come into your life, by faith.
Today, place your faith and trust in Him. He, and He alone can fill the longing in your life.
Blessings.
24 down and 9 to go.
I went to the pharmacy yesterday to get the prescription to help ease the pain. I went back at the time I was told it would be ready. The pharmacist came out and told me that he was missing one ingredient. (This is a liquid substance that has to be mixed).
I should get it today. When he told me he was missing one ingredient I began wondering how many people are missing one ingredient in their life.
Many think today that if they have one more "thing" it will satisfy them only to find out after they have that "thing" for awhile; it did not produce any satisfaction but only a desire to have something bigger and better. So they are still missing that "one ingredient".
So many are pursing something to try and bring peace or joy or happiness and yet when they get what is being pursued there is still that unfulfilled void...the missing ingredient.
That one missing ingredient is a surrendered life to Jesus Christ. There is nothing in this life that can fill the area of our lives that only Jesus Christ can.
I think the song "Only Jesus Can Satisfy Your Soul" says it best.
Is there a missing ingredient in your life? Are you trying to find fulfillment outside of Jesus Christ? I can assure you that it won't happen until you allow Jesus Christ to come into your life, by faith.
Today, place your faith and trust in Him. He, and He alone can fill the longing in your life.
Blessings.
24 down and 9 to go.
Friday, November 19, 2010
The Journey 11/19/10
Today I didn't have any treatment. I thought I would post this video of a treatment. (Bottom of post) When you hear the buzzer sound that is when the radiation is being administered. You can see the sign on the wall (top right of room) light up when the radiation is being given.
The video is a little choppy because I edit out anyone else in the room prior to and after the treatment.
I guess you could say this video is rated R for Radiation. I have eleven more treatments and then I am done.
Once again I want to say how thankful I am for the congregation I pastor. They are a great part of the family of God.
Blessings.
The video is a little choppy because I edit out anyone else in the room prior to and after the treatment.
I guess you could say this video is rated R for Radiation. I have eleven more treatments and then I am done.
Once again I want to say how thankful I am for the congregation I pastor. They are a great part of the family of God.
Blessings.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
The Journey 11/18/10
Today extra x-rays were taken. The reason is, starting next week they are going to narrow the beam and pin point the tumor. It has, no doubt, shrunk and that may be the reason for the readjustment.
I will not have any treatment tomorrow. The doctor wants to give my neck and throat a little extra time to recover. I will only have three treatments next week and be off four days for Thanksgiving. (I may have to drink Thanksgiving dinner). He told me today that I only have eleven more treatments to take so that has been reduced from 35 to 33.
The doctor thought my voice sounded better today. I don't know if he was convinced of that or just trying to convince me.
When they told me today that they were going to pin point and narrow the radiation this thought came to me. So many times we pray shotgun prayers. And at times that may not be a bad thing but when it comes to our own lives the shotgun prayer may need to be readjusted.
Have you have heard someone pray, "Lord, if I have wronged someone, or if I have done anything wrong, forgive me". I call that a shotgun prayer. Most of the time that prayer is being prayed because the person praying it is going through some difficulties and they are trying to cover all areas.
I don't know about you, but I usually don't have to pray "if" I have done something. The Holy Spirit is such a helpful friend that He will let you know when you have done something wrong and if you listen closely to Him, He will let you know when you are about to do something wrong.
But we pray that prayer because it takes responsibility from us and we figure if God doesn't tell us then we must be OK. We need to zero in (pin piont) those areas of our lives where we know we need to change because His word instructs us and then make the changes.
There is a reason the radiation treatment is being pin pointed. It is time to attack the tumor head on and not just in the general area.
Perhaps it is time to attack the problem areas of our lives head on, just as David faced Goliath, and deal with those areas. Tell Him, "Lord, here is the problem in my life, cleanse me." Once we pray "cleanse me" then we can pray "use me".
I realize none of us are perfect but that is no excuse for just praying "shotgun prayers" when in our heart we know where we need to "zero in".
Blessings.
22 down and 11 to go.
I will not have any treatment tomorrow. The doctor wants to give my neck and throat a little extra time to recover. I will only have three treatments next week and be off four days for Thanksgiving. (I may have to drink Thanksgiving dinner). He told me today that I only have eleven more treatments to take so that has been reduced from 35 to 33.
The doctor thought my voice sounded better today. I don't know if he was convinced of that or just trying to convince me.
When they told me today that they were going to pin point and narrow the radiation this thought came to me. So many times we pray shotgun prayers. And at times that may not be a bad thing but when it comes to our own lives the shotgun prayer may need to be readjusted.
Have you have heard someone pray, "Lord, if I have wronged someone, or if I have done anything wrong, forgive me". I call that a shotgun prayer. Most of the time that prayer is being prayed because the person praying it is going through some difficulties and they are trying to cover all areas.
I don't know about you, but I usually don't have to pray "if" I have done something. The Holy Spirit is such a helpful friend that He will let you know when you have done something wrong and if you listen closely to Him, He will let you know when you are about to do something wrong.
But we pray that prayer because it takes responsibility from us and we figure if God doesn't tell us then we must be OK. We need to zero in (pin piont) those areas of our lives where we know we need to change because His word instructs us and then make the changes.
There is a reason the radiation treatment is being pin pointed. It is time to attack the tumor head on and not just in the general area.
Perhaps it is time to attack the problem areas of our lives head on, just as David faced Goliath, and deal with those areas. Tell Him, "Lord, here is the problem in my life, cleanse me." Once we pray "cleanse me" then we can pray "use me".
I realize none of us are perfect but that is no excuse for just praying "shotgun prayers" when in our heart we know where we need to "zero in".
Blessings.
22 down and 11 to go.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The Journey 11/17/10
Not really much to report today. I guess I could call it "just routine" or "same oh, same oh". There is the feeling of being tethered to the hospital but that is to be expected since it is everyday, five days a week.
As I was driving to the treatment center today I was thinking about the thought of "just routine". Isn't that about the way our life is. Most people go to bed at the same time, get up at the same time, go to the same job, do the same work, come home at the same time and the list could go on and on.
To many life is not "just routine" but it has become "mundane". Talk to most students today and regardless of their age they have one phrase that is used a lot, "I'm bored".
I suppose with this treatment going the same time each day is a good thing. It helps me not to forget or wonder what time do I have to be there.
Let me ask this question. "Has your life become mundane, boring or just routine?" That can be changed. Jesus said, "I have come to give you life and that more abundantly". That doesn't mean you will be bouncing off the wall every day or there will be some great new adventure every day but it does mean that He can help you see many opportunities that could be missed. The neighbor that looks a little more tired then usual, the co-worker that asks a little different question today, a spouse that seems more distant then usual. There are opportunities each day to build relationships, strengthen relationships, mend relationships but will all go unmissed if we are "just routinely" going through the day or we are "bored".
Are you caught up with your own situation or difficulties to the point where that is all you can see? If that is the case ask Jesus to open your eyes to those around you.
Yes, it was just another routine day of treatment but it won't be a routine day in serving Him. There are always opportunities to break us free from the mundane.
Tonight we will be serving a Thanksgiving dinner to almost 200 people. Ministry is never boring or just routine or mundane.
Blessings.
21 down and 14 to go.
As I was driving to the treatment center today I was thinking about the thought of "just routine". Isn't that about the way our life is. Most people go to bed at the same time, get up at the same time, go to the same job, do the same work, come home at the same time and the list could go on and on.
To many life is not "just routine" but it has become "mundane". Talk to most students today and regardless of their age they have one phrase that is used a lot, "I'm bored".
I suppose with this treatment going the same time each day is a good thing. It helps me not to forget or wonder what time do I have to be there.
Let me ask this question. "Has your life become mundane, boring or just routine?" That can be changed. Jesus said, "I have come to give you life and that more abundantly". That doesn't mean you will be bouncing off the wall every day or there will be some great new adventure every day but it does mean that He can help you see many opportunities that could be missed. The neighbor that looks a little more tired then usual, the co-worker that asks a little different question today, a spouse that seems more distant then usual. There are opportunities each day to build relationships, strengthen relationships, mend relationships but will all go unmissed if we are "just routinely" going through the day or we are "bored".
Are you caught up with your own situation or difficulties to the point where that is all you can see? If that is the case ask Jesus to open your eyes to those around you.
Yes, it was just another routine day of treatment but it won't be a routine day in serving Him. There are always opportunities to break us free from the mundane.
Tonight we will be serving a Thanksgiving dinner to almost 200 people. Ministry is never boring or just routine or mundane.
Blessings.
21 down and 14 to go.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The Journey 11/16/10
Today I have noticed that I get tired a lot faster. I was told at the beginning of radiation treatment that the further I get into it I would get tired easier.
The reason is because my body if cleaning itself of the dead cancer cells that the radiation is killing so it is working overtime.
I am so thankful for a church who helps to pick up the load. It is wonderful the number of people that ask if there is something that they could do to help out. The church I pastor has always done that but now, even more.
That is what family is about. When one rejoices we all rejoice and when one weeps we all weep.
If you are reading this and you are not a part of a church family please consider finding a church and becoming a regular attender. We need one another.
When you stop and think about it. God created man because He wanted someone to fellowship with. None of us are bigger then God. If He needed fellowship then we surely do.
There is not a better time then right now to make your way to church this week and worship God with a church family.
I am not glad that I have cancer, there is no joy about cancer, there is nothing good about cancer, but please realize there are things worse then cancer and one of those things is being outside the ark of safety. If you don't have Jesus Christ as your Saviour, today would be a great time to ask Him into your life through faith.
Blessings,
20 down and 15 to go.
The reason is because my body if cleaning itself of the dead cancer cells that the radiation is killing so it is working overtime.
I am so thankful for a church who helps to pick up the load. It is wonderful the number of people that ask if there is something that they could do to help out. The church I pastor has always done that but now, even more.
That is what family is about. When one rejoices we all rejoice and when one weeps we all weep.
If you are reading this and you are not a part of a church family please consider finding a church and becoming a regular attender. We need one another.
When you stop and think about it. God created man because He wanted someone to fellowship with. None of us are bigger then God. If He needed fellowship then we surely do.
There is not a better time then right now to make your way to church this week and worship God with a church family.
I am not glad that I have cancer, there is no joy about cancer, there is nothing good about cancer, but please realize there are things worse then cancer and one of those things is being outside the ark of safety. If you don't have Jesus Christ as your Saviour, today would be a great time to ask Him into your life through faith.
Blessings,
20 down and 15 to go.
Monday, November 15, 2010
The Journey 11/15/10
Today, right after treatment, I headed to Carlinville for a presbyter's meeting. Right now about the only side affect that I am experiencing from radiation treatment is a red neck and a sore throat.
When I say sore, what I think I really need to say is that it hurts. I was reading a pamphlet at the treatment center and it had a list of side affects. I am thankful that I am not experiencing all of them.
Most of the time my throat hurts the worse at night. I don't know why that is. It may be that the air is a little cooler but probably because during the day there are other things to help keep your mind off the pain. As night comes and activities slow down I tend to notice the pain more even though it was there during the day.
Night time is the worse...but isn't that how it is most of the time. Maybe that is why David said, "weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning".
Maybe right now you are in a night time. I am not talking just about physical pain but some area of your life that is hurting, your marriage, your finances, your job situation, tension with your children...
I am convinced that if you will stay before the Lord with a right heart, He will bring you through the night time.
But joy cometh in the morning. Now I don't know the exact time of your morning but it will come. The sun will shine again, the storm clouds will pass and with the morning "joy cometh".
Be encouraged today to hold to your faith in God. Don't let go. Keep on believing. Joy is on the way.
Blessings.
19 down and 16 to go.
When I say sore, what I think I really need to say is that it hurts. I was reading a pamphlet at the treatment center and it had a list of side affects. I am thankful that I am not experiencing all of them.
Most of the time my throat hurts the worse at night. I don't know why that is. It may be that the air is a little cooler but probably because during the day there are other things to help keep your mind off the pain. As night comes and activities slow down I tend to notice the pain more even though it was there during the day.
Night time is the worse...but isn't that how it is most of the time. Maybe that is why David said, "weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning".
Maybe right now you are in a night time. I am not talking just about physical pain but some area of your life that is hurting, your marriage, your finances, your job situation, tension with your children...
I am convinced that if you will stay before the Lord with a right heart, He will bring you through the night time.
But joy cometh in the morning. Now I don't know the exact time of your morning but it will come. The sun will shine again, the storm clouds will pass and with the morning "joy cometh".
Be encouraged today to hold to your faith in God. Don't let go. Keep on believing. Joy is on the way.
Blessings.
19 down and 16 to go.
Friday, November 12, 2010
The Journey 11/12/10
Today I hit the "over the half way mark". I am hoping that I will begin to hear some change in my voice soon. If the doctor gives me a week off after next weeks treatments I may be able to tell some difference.
We have all been on a trip when someone asks the question, "Are we there yet?" We just took a church trip to Giant City park and some of the kids were asking me that very question or something similar, "How much longer?"
Have you ever asked God this question? "How much longer before Jesus returns?" I think we all, who believe, would like Him to return today. I know I would and yet I realize that my time is not His time.
There is still work to be done. Are your family, friends and neighbors all born again? If not, there is still work to be done. Sometimes when we look at what we need to do we can become overwhelmed but in reality it is sharing the gospel with one person at a time, building relationships and friendships with people, which builds trust. It is after that, we have the credibility with them to share the gospel of Jesus. I realize there are those times when God by His Spirit will lead you to a person that you may or may not know and lead them to a saving knowledge of Jesus, but usually someone else has already planted the seed, built a friendship and you were where you needed to be in the process.
Jesus tells us in the Bible to "Occupy until He comes". I take that to mean that we are to be about His business right up until the end of time as we know it.
Let's continue to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to everyone".
When the kids on the bus asked me, "Are we there yet?" my answer was, "Almost". And when they asked me, "How much longer?" my answer was, "Not much."
It won't be much longer before Jesus returns. Let's be about the Father's business.
Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
Maranatha!!!
18 down and 17 to go
We have all been on a trip when someone asks the question, "Are we there yet?" We just took a church trip to Giant City park and some of the kids were asking me that very question or something similar, "How much longer?"
Have you ever asked God this question? "How much longer before Jesus returns?" I think we all, who believe, would like Him to return today. I know I would and yet I realize that my time is not His time.
There is still work to be done. Are your family, friends and neighbors all born again? If not, there is still work to be done. Sometimes when we look at what we need to do we can become overwhelmed but in reality it is sharing the gospel with one person at a time, building relationships and friendships with people, which builds trust. It is after that, we have the credibility with them to share the gospel of Jesus. I realize there are those times when God by His Spirit will lead you to a person that you may or may not know and lead them to a saving knowledge of Jesus, but usually someone else has already planted the seed, built a friendship and you were where you needed to be in the process.
Jesus tells us in the Bible to "Occupy until He comes". I take that to mean that we are to be about His business right up until the end of time as we know it.
Let's continue to "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to everyone".
When the kids on the bus asked me, "Are we there yet?" my answer was, "Almost". And when they asked me, "How much longer?" my answer was, "Not much."
It won't be much longer before Jesus returns. Let's be about the Father's business.
Revelation 22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
Maranatha!!!
18 down and 17 to go
Thursday, November 11, 2010
The Journey 11/11/10
Today was doctor day. He mentioned that he thought my voice was raspier today then when I first came in. He thought after five more treatments he may have me take a few days off.
I think that because we have our J.U.S.T. kids ministry on Wednesday night and I drive one of the vans and the kids on the van want to talk to me I do a lot more talking on Wednesday then other days and then when I see the doctor on Thursday it just sounds worse. These next three days I am going to try and do as little talking as possible.
As well as seeing the doctor on Thursdays the nurse also weighs me. They don't want me losing a lot of weight. I believe I can meet that requirement. lol
The scale is a pad right next to the wall and there are stainless steel rails to hold to when you step up on it. Today I shifted my weight by holding to the rails. Of course, I weighed a lot less. They had to do a retake. (I have to do something to break up the monotony).
As I was leaving and thinking about making myself lighter I thought of the verse, Proverbs 20:23 Divers weights are an abomination unto the Lord; and a false balance is not good. I like how it reads in the New Living Bible: The Lord detests double standards; he is not pleased by dishonest scales.
Today at the doctor's office it was not the scales that were dishonest. It was me trying to weigh lighter then I really am. It would be easier said like this, "Trying to be something or someone I am not."
I wonder how many today fall in that category...trying to be something they are not or acting like someone they are not. I wonder how many believers are acting like this world and how many non-believers are acting like the church. Either situation is not good.
As a believer we are "The Light of the World". We must shine "in Christ" where ever we go.
Blessings.
17 down and 18 to go.
I think that because we have our J.U.S.T. kids ministry on Wednesday night and I drive one of the vans and the kids on the van want to talk to me I do a lot more talking on Wednesday then other days and then when I see the doctor on Thursday it just sounds worse. These next three days I am going to try and do as little talking as possible.
As well as seeing the doctor on Thursdays the nurse also weighs me. They don't want me losing a lot of weight. I believe I can meet that requirement. lol
The scale is a pad right next to the wall and there are stainless steel rails to hold to when you step up on it. Today I shifted my weight by holding to the rails. Of course, I weighed a lot less. They had to do a retake. (I have to do something to break up the monotony).
As I was leaving and thinking about making myself lighter I thought of the verse, Proverbs 20:23 Divers weights are an abomination unto the Lord; and a false balance is not good. I like how it reads in the New Living Bible: The Lord detests double standards; he is not pleased by dishonest scales.
Today at the doctor's office it was not the scales that were dishonest. It was me trying to weigh lighter then I really am. It would be easier said like this, "Trying to be something or someone I am not."
I wonder how many today fall in that category...trying to be something they are not or acting like someone they are not. I wonder how many believers are acting like this world and how many non-believers are acting like the church. Either situation is not good.
As a believer we are "The Light of the World". We must shine "in Christ" where ever we go.
Blessings.
17 down and 18 to go.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
The Journey 11/10/10
There is one area of this journey that I have yet to mention. That is the paper work. Not only keeping track of the bills but also seeing that they are sent to the correct places.
I do have a type of insurance (Samaritan Christian Healthcare Newsletter) but I am considered a self pay patient by the hospital.
Since I am considered that I get all the bills and most of the time I have to call and have them resent, itemized. That is how SCHN has to have them.
I have had very little hospital time in my life so, at times, just seeing these bills are overwhelming. So far it has come to at least $30,000 plus and I still have a little over half of the radiation treatment to take.
I realize that is a drop in the bucket for many people who have had worse cases then mine but it is a bucket load to me.
There is the stress of the sickness and then there is the stress of the expenses. I am so glad that Jesus said to cast all our care on Him for He cares for us. I am doing this on a day by day, hour by hour and sometimes minute by minute regularity.
Perhaps today you are facing some overwhelming, stress producing, mind boggling moments. Listen to the words of Jesus as He spoke to His leadership team when they were facing a similar situation in the middle of the sea in a boat about to sink..."Be of good cheer, it is I, be not afraid".
That is my choice today...Being of good cheer and being not afraid...why? "It is I (Christ)".
Blessings.
16 down and 19 to go.
I do have a type of insurance (Samaritan Christian Healthcare Newsletter) but I am considered a self pay patient by the hospital.
Since I am considered that I get all the bills and most of the time I have to call and have them resent, itemized. That is how SCHN has to have them.
I have had very little hospital time in my life so, at times, just seeing these bills are overwhelming. So far it has come to at least $30,000 plus and I still have a little over half of the radiation treatment to take.
I realize that is a drop in the bucket for many people who have had worse cases then mine but it is a bucket load to me.
There is the stress of the sickness and then there is the stress of the expenses. I am so glad that Jesus said to cast all our care on Him for He cares for us. I am doing this on a day by day, hour by hour and sometimes minute by minute regularity.
Perhaps today you are facing some overwhelming, stress producing, mind boggling moments. Listen to the words of Jesus as He spoke to His leadership team when they were facing a similar situation in the middle of the sea in a boat about to sink..."Be of good cheer, it is I, be not afraid".
That is my choice today...Being of good cheer and being not afraid...why? "It is I (Christ)".
Blessings.
16 down and 19 to go.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
The Journey 11/9/10
I think you have to always realize "it's not over until it's over" when you are involved in a process that takes time. I am in the third week of treatment and still have four weeks to go. Right now it seems like four years to go but I know it will go by faster then it seems it is right now.
I am really not experiencing much discomfort other then when I swallow and my neck does itch and, of course, I was told not to scratch it. I think that makes it itch even more.
What is it that you are wanting God to hurry up and get done? There is an old song that goes like this: "You can't hurry God, you just have to wait, you have to trust Him and give Him time no matter how long it takes. He's a God that you can't hurry but He'll be there so don't your worry. He may not come when you want Him but He's right on time."
We must always remember that He hears us when we pray but there are times that the answer is delayed. I think of Daniel when he prayed. Twenty-one days later his answer arrived, but it was sent the moment he prayed. What was the delay? In this case the forces of darkness were trying to keep it from happening. God sent another angel (Michael) to help get the answer through.
Waiting is never easy. We live in a "want it now world". Most of the stuff we want fixed "right now" didn't break or get messed up over night. Just like this cancer on my vocal cord; it didn't get this way over night.
Trust God....that is not a Christian cliche but it is the Word of God. Psalms 4:5 says to put your trust in the Lord.
Can you trust Him with everything that is going on in your life? Trust that He will bring you through? Trust that He is in control?
I want to encourage you today to continue to trust in Him and keep your faith in Him.
Blessings.
15 down and 20 to go
I am really not experiencing much discomfort other then when I swallow and my neck does itch and, of course, I was told not to scratch it. I think that makes it itch even more.
What is it that you are wanting God to hurry up and get done? There is an old song that goes like this: "You can't hurry God, you just have to wait, you have to trust Him and give Him time no matter how long it takes. He's a God that you can't hurry but He'll be there so don't your worry. He may not come when you want Him but He's right on time."
We must always remember that He hears us when we pray but there are times that the answer is delayed. I think of Daniel when he prayed. Twenty-one days later his answer arrived, but it was sent the moment he prayed. What was the delay? In this case the forces of darkness were trying to keep it from happening. God sent another angel (Michael) to help get the answer through.
Waiting is never easy. We live in a "want it now world". Most of the stuff we want fixed "right now" didn't break or get messed up over night. Just like this cancer on my vocal cord; it didn't get this way over night.
Trust God....that is not a Christian cliche but it is the Word of God. Psalms 4:5 says to put your trust in the Lord.
Can you trust Him with everything that is going on in your life? Trust that He will bring you through? Trust that He is in control?
I want to encourage you today to continue to trust in Him and keep your faith in Him.
Blessings.
15 down and 20 to go
Monday, November 8, 2010
The Journey 11/8/10
I am in my third week of treatment. Everything seems to be going OK. I still don't seem to have any strength in my voice, although, yesterday I felt it was better while I preached. I am still trying not to talk much through the week. It is almost impossible not to talk at all.
My neck is getting a little more sun burned looking but so far my neck does not hurt. It is still a little difficult to swallow but not near as bad as it was a few days ago.
Today there was a lady at the treatment center that had her last treatment. There is a bell to ring when you are at the end of your treatment and everyone there makes it a pretty big deal on that day. I rejoice with her. I think I heard them say she had caner in her lungs.
I was thinking after I heard that bell that there is going to be another sound one day soon. It will be a sound that will signal the end as well.
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
What a great, final day that will be. The Lord himself is going to call for that sound. I trust you are ready for that day.
As I was driving to the hospital today on highway 161 (the way I always go) I drove past the Kapp's house.
I thought as I drove past, "Roger and Tammy are praying for me". I realize that there are many people in the church and around this state that are doing the same, but when I saw their house it hit me, the realization of all those that are praying for me.
Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. What a blessing to know that there are others helping to carry the load. I personally don't think that "to bear one another's burdens" means that we carry them around with us, I think it means that we take them to God in prayer. We are told in His word to pray one for another.
You will never know the impact you have on another person's life when you pray for them.
Blessings.
14 down and 21 to go
My neck is getting a little more sun burned looking but so far my neck does not hurt. It is still a little difficult to swallow but not near as bad as it was a few days ago.
Today there was a lady at the treatment center that had her last treatment. There is a bell to ring when you are at the end of your treatment and everyone there makes it a pretty big deal on that day. I rejoice with her. I think I heard them say she had caner in her lungs.
I was thinking after I heard that bell that there is going to be another sound one day soon. It will be a sound that will signal the end as well.
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
What a great, final day that will be. The Lord himself is going to call for that sound. I trust you are ready for that day.
As I was driving to the hospital today on highway 161 (the way I always go) I drove past the Kapp's house.
I thought as I drove past, "Roger and Tammy are praying for me". I realize that there are many people in the church and around this state that are doing the same, but when I saw their house it hit me, the realization of all those that are praying for me.
Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. What a blessing to know that there are others helping to carry the load. I personally don't think that "to bear one another's burdens" means that we carry them around with us, I think it means that we take them to God in prayer. We are told in His word to pray one for another.
You will never know the impact you have on another person's life when you pray for them.
Blessings.
14 down and 21 to go
Friday, November 5, 2010
The Journey 11/5/10
I want to thank everyone for your prayers. I have noticed a difference, for the good, when I swallow.
After treatment today I saw the doctor. He seems to be encouraged with the progress to this point. He did tell me once again, not to talk to much. He said the redness on the outside of my neck is the same as what is happening on the inside of my neck. I can understand the little discomfort in swallowing.
He went on to tell me that my blood reports are very good. He checked off each number as he indicated how good it was.
Blood...it almost tells about everything that is going on in your body. David said in Psalms 139:14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
I will never figure out how anyone can say we evolved. We are fearfully and wonderfully MADE.
When the doctor was talking about my blood I began to think about His (Jesus') blood. It was perfect. His would past every blood test. There was no sickness, sin, disease in it. Blood pressure perfect. Cholesterol count perfect. Hemoglobin perfect. Red and while blood cell count perfect, and the list could go on and on.
His blood was the only blood that could be spilled for our sins. Matthew 26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
That "for many" includes you and me. I love the song that says, "What can wash away my sins, nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again, nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh precious is the flow that washes white as snow, no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus."
Have you allowed His blood, by faith, to wash away your sins. He is ready, willing and able to do that the moment you call on Him.
I am thankful for what all the doctors and technology can do today but that part of the song rings true to me. "What can make me whole again, NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD OF JESUS."
The doctor told me on day one that he can only do so much and the rest is in God's hands. I told him that it is ALL in God's hands.
Do a blood check today...Oh yes, oh yes, I'm a child of the King, His royal blood now flows in my veins........
Blessings.
13 down and 22 to go
After treatment today I saw the doctor. He seems to be encouraged with the progress to this point. He did tell me once again, not to talk to much. He said the redness on the outside of my neck is the same as what is happening on the inside of my neck. I can understand the little discomfort in swallowing.
He went on to tell me that my blood reports are very good. He checked off each number as he indicated how good it was.
Blood...it almost tells about everything that is going on in your body. David said in Psalms 139:14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
I will never figure out how anyone can say we evolved. We are fearfully and wonderfully MADE.
When the doctor was talking about my blood I began to think about His (Jesus') blood. It was perfect. His would past every blood test. There was no sickness, sin, disease in it. Blood pressure perfect. Cholesterol count perfect. Hemoglobin perfect. Red and while blood cell count perfect, and the list could go on and on.
His blood was the only blood that could be spilled for our sins. Matthew 26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
That "for many" includes you and me. I love the song that says, "What can wash away my sins, nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again, nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh precious is the flow that washes white as snow, no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus."
Have you allowed His blood, by faith, to wash away your sins. He is ready, willing and able to do that the moment you call on Him.
I am thankful for what all the doctors and technology can do today but that part of the song rings true to me. "What can make me whole again, NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD OF JESUS."
The doctor told me on day one that he can only do so much and the rest is in God's hands. I told him that it is ALL in God's hands.
Do a blood check today...Oh yes, oh yes, I'm a child of the King, His royal blood now flows in my veins........
Blessings.
13 down and 22 to go
Thursday, November 4, 2010
The Journey 11/4/10
They say a picture says a thousand words so I figured a video would say more.(Bottom of post) I am sad that I have lost my hair. Of course, I lost that years ago. lol
You really don't know how much you use your voice until it is a strain to use it. I guess it is like everything else in life. We don't appreciate what we have until we don't have it. I am grateful that I can still preach on Sunday mornings and I am thankful for a good microphone. Most of all I am thankful for a congregation that will endure the raspy voice.
Most the time I am asked, "How are you doing?" I am doing OK but at times it gets frustrating not being able to speak clearly or a little over a whisper.
I guess there are a lot of things in life that can frustrate us and usually it is because something is not going our way. I think a lot of times frustrations could be a form of selfishness. Even with my voice, "it is not going my way" could run true there.
Sometimes we just have to take a deep breath and realize He is in control and He is not frustrated at all and He sees the beginning and THE END. He knows when this will all end, and since He does I am going to do as His word says and Lean not on my own understanding but in all my ways I am going to acknowledge Him.
I want to encourage you today to appreciate what you have. Appreciate your family, your spouse, your children, your parents, your job, your church, your friends.
David tells us to "Let everything that hath breath Praise the Lord". Are you breathing? Then praise the Lord. Yes, life can be frusturating but it can also be exciting when you are a believer in Jesus Christ and are trusting Him with your life.
Blessings.
12 down and 23 to go.
You really don't know how much you use your voice until it is a strain to use it. I guess it is like everything else in life. We don't appreciate what we have until we don't have it. I am grateful that I can still preach on Sunday mornings and I am thankful for a good microphone. Most of all I am thankful for a congregation that will endure the raspy voice.
Most the time I am asked, "How are you doing?" I am doing OK but at times it gets frustrating not being able to speak clearly or a little over a whisper.
I guess there are a lot of things in life that can frustrate us and usually it is because something is not going our way. I think a lot of times frustrations could be a form of selfishness. Even with my voice, "it is not going my way" could run true there.
Sometimes we just have to take a deep breath and realize He is in control and He is not frustrated at all and He sees the beginning and THE END. He knows when this will all end, and since He does I am going to do as His word says and Lean not on my own understanding but in all my ways I am going to acknowledge Him.
I want to encourage you today to appreciate what you have. Appreciate your family, your spouse, your children, your parents, your job, your church, your friends.
David tells us to "Let everything that hath breath Praise the Lord". Are you breathing? Then praise the Lord. Yes, life can be frusturating but it can also be exciting when you are a believer in Jesus Christ and are trusting Him with your life.
Blessings.
12 down and 23 to go.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The Journey 11/3/10
Psalms 61:2 From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
What a great scripture! Today when I went for treatment I was feeling overwhelmed. The last couple of days my throat has begun to hurt and it is difficult to swallow. I am trusting the Lord that this will pass quickly but as I said, today I was feeling overwhelmed.
Praise God there is a place to go when that happens. To the ROCK that is higher than I. Of course, that Rock is Jesus.
Sometimes when others tell us of something they are walking through we sometimes think, "Is that all?", but in reality, it doesn't matter the size of the giant because it will always seem bigger then us. To you it may look small but to the person facing it, it is big.
I believe that is why we are to, "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep". In doing so, that keeps us from judging each other in our reaction to what we are facing.
Is there something today that is overwhelming you? It may be a bill, sickness, marriage difficulties, school, job. The list could be endless. The devil will try and make a giant out of anything to get you overwhelmed.
Take a moment today and thank Jesus for being bigger then anything you will ever face. He wants to be your "rock and sling" as you face your giant.
Let the words of David, as he faced Goliath, ring in your heart today....1 Samuel 17:44-47 And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord 's, and he will give you into our hands.
Whatever is overwhelming you today, be encouraged, the battle is the Lord's.
Blessings,
11 down and 24 to go
What a great scripture! Today when I went for treatment I was feeling overwhelmed. The last couple of days my throat has begun to hurt and it is difficult to swallow. I am trusting the Lord that this will pass quickly but as I said, today I was feeling overwhelmed.
Praise God there is a place to go when that happens. To the ROCK that is higher than I. Of course, that Rock is Jesus.
Sometimes when others tell us of something they are walking through we sometimes think, "Is that all?", but in reality, it doesn't matter the size of the giant because it will always seem bigger then us. To you it may look small but to the person facing it, it is big.
I believe that is why we are to, "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep". In doing so, that keeps us from judging each other in our reaction to what we are facing.
Is there something today that is overwhelming you? It may be a bill, sickness, marriage difficulties, school, job. The list could be endless. The devil will try and make a giant out of anything to get you overwhelmed.
Take a moment today and thank Jesus for being bigger then anything you will ever face. He wants to be your "rock and sling" as you face your giant.
Let the words of David, as he faced Goliath, ring in your heart today....1 Samuel 17:44-47 And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord 's, and he will give you into our hands.
Whatever is overwhelming you today, be encouraged, the battle is the Lord's.
Blessings,
11 down and 24 to go
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
The Journey 11/2/10
This is the radiation machine. I lay on the table and it swings from one side to the other. There is a special designed plate with my name on it that is used for the treatment. It runs about 13 seconds on each side.
I have begun to notice that it is a little uncomfortable now to swallow. That is one of the effects of treatment. That should go away after the treatment is over.
I wonder if I will have to have Thanksgiving dinner via a blender. Maybe I will have to have baby food jars of turkey, green beans, sweet potatoes...you get the drift. LOL
It sometimes is hard to swallow just a drink of water. It doesn't really hurt in the sense of pain but it is uncomfortable.
I can at least pick and chose which kinds of food I want to eat based on the ability to swallow them with the least discomfort.
Too many times we find those who want to also pick and choose what they will believe from the Bible based on what will or will not cause discomfort. With physical food I can choose, with spiritual food (the Bible) I can't. I have to eat what is placed before me from Him. Of course, what He gives us is for our best interest.
What has He placed before you that you heartily eat and what has He placed before you that you want to ignore or pass on? We can't have it both ways. Think of the things that we have said we don't need to do that He has said in His word we do need to do. Or, on the other hand, the things He has said in His word we should not do that we go ahead and do anyway.
Have you ever said or heard the phrase, "That is hard to swallow". Most of the time that phrase means, "I can't hardly believe that." There are a lot of things in life that are "hard to swallow" or are a little bit "unbelievable".
Here is something that is "believable and able to swallow" because His word says it.
FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE. JOHN 3:16
You can chew up "what I say" and spit out what you determine "I said" is hard to swallow, but we can not pick and choose what we want to swallow when it comes to what He says in His word.
David wrote this in Psalms 119:103 How sweet are thy words unto my taste! Yea sweeter then honey to my mouth!
The old song says it best. Come and Dine the Master calleth, Come and Dine. You may feast at Jesus table all the time. He who fed the multitude, turned the water into wine. To the hungry calleth now Come and Dine.
He has invited us all to come to His table to eat and it is all good for us. Pull up a chair....
Blessings.
10 down and 25 to go
Monday, November 1, 2010
The Journey 11/1/10
Monday is blood day. The picture is my right arm that turned black and blue after I gave some blood. Usually I never feel much pain when blood is drawn but this time, it hurt! (I think the nurse was smiling.) lol
I wanted to get a video of the actual machine during treatment but the nurse said she would rather I didn't. She said that the high radiation can also mess up electronics. I asked her, "Then what is it doing to me?" She said, "What it is supposed to do." I thought that was a pretty good answer.
I was thinking about the little vial of blood they draw from my arm each Monday. It is really not that much. Then I began to think about the blood Jesus gave for the world. All of it. A small needle in my arm by someone not wanting to inflict any pain and a large spike in His hands by someone who wanted to inflict as much pain as possible.
As I left today I was thanking Jesus for all He has done for me, but mostly for shedding His blood on Calvary so that I could be born again.
Are you experiencing a little pain today. Stop for a moment and think of the pain He bore for you. Perspective is so important as we walk through this life.
What was it one man said? I complained I had no shoes until I saw a man that had no feet.
The nurse told me she was sorry. I told her not to worry about it, it will be OK. One of my favorite portions of scripture in the Bible is, "And it came to pass". There are some things that will come but hang on, they will pass. Weeping is but for the night, joy comes in the morning.
Blessings.
9 down and 26 to go
Friday, October 29, 2010
The Journey 10/29/10
The sign you see is the one on the door that I walk through each day for treatment. The door looks like a bank vault door. When the treatment is given everyone leaves the room but me.
When I walked through that door today, I thought to myself this is kinda scary. I wanted to get a giger counter to see if I would make it go off.
There are signs on most doors we walk through today. Some are not physical signs we can see on the door but they are signs none the less.
Some signs say failure, loser, fearful, never going to make it and the list could go on and on. How many times has the Lord spoken to your life to do something only to have Satan put a sign on the door that kept you from walking through it.
Today one of the nurses asked me about the church I pastor and what I believe. I was able to share some with her.
As I walked back out that door today and saw that sign I laughed and said to myself, hoping Satan would hear as well, this is a door of OPPORTUNITY.
What door or doors are you fearful to walk through. There may be someone on the other side of that door that needs to hear the message of hope that only you can share.
Go ahead, walk through that door. The bible says that no weapon formed against you can prosper.
Blessings.
8 down and 27 to go
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The Journey 10/28/10
Every Thursday is doctor day. That means that after the treatment I go see the doctor. It is only a one minute or less visit. Goes something like this.
Doctor: How many treatments now?
Me: Seven.
Doctor: How are you feeling?
Me: Fine.
Doctor: Is your voice getting any better?
Me: I can't really tell. My wife thinks so.
Doctor: I can't really tell much of a difference.
Doctor: Don't talk too much. Don't try to sing. Gargle.
Me: OK.
Doctor: Have a good day.
I wonder how much that conversation will cost? LOL Found out later almost $600.00.
I am doing my best to follow the doctor's instructions. I want this treatment to work. I was talking to a friend of mine that had similar treatment and he was telling me that at times he hurt from the sun burn effect on his skin but he said, bottom line, it worked.
How many times, as a pastor, over the years have I heard, "I read the bible but it didn't work". My response was always this: "Reading it and obeying it are two different things". As believers we need to follow the instructions. James says to be doers and not hearers only.
Jesus tells the parable of the two men who built a house. One on sand and one on rock. They both faced the same storms but the man who built on the sand was devastated while the one who built on the rock withstood the storm. Of course, the analogy is, the one who built on sand was a hearer of the word only. The one who built on rock was not only a hearer of the word but a doer of the word.
Next time something isn't working out that you are praying about ask this question: "Am I following the instructions, am I doing what He says to do?" We may all be surprised that we are only doing what we feel we need to do and not following His complete instructions.
Have a great day.
7 down and 28 to go.
Doctor: How many treatments now?
Me: Seven.
Doctor: How are you feeling?
Me: Fine.
Doctor: Is your voice getting any better?
Me: I can't really tell. My wife thinks so.
Doctor: I can't really tell much of a difference.
Doctor: Don't talk too much. Don't try to sing. Gargle.
Me: OK.
Doctor: Have a good day.
I wonder how much that conversation will cost? LOL Found out later almost $600.00.
I am doing my best to follow the doctor's instructions. I want this treatment to work. I was talking to a friend of mine that had similar treatment and he was telling me that at times he hurt from the sun burn effect on his skin but he said, bottom line, it worked.
How many times, as a pastor, over the years have I heard, "I read the bible but it didn't work". My response was always this: "Reading it and obeying it are two different things". As believers we need to follow the instructions. James says to be doers and not hearers only.
Jesus tells the parable of the two men who built a house. One on sand and one on rock. They both faced the same storms but the man who built on the sand was devastated while the one who built on the rock withstood the storm. Of course, the analogy is, the one who built on sand was a hearer of the word only. The one who built on rock was not only a hearer of the word but a doer of the word.
Next time something isn't working out that you are praying about ask this question: "Am I following the instructions, am I doing what He says to do?" We may all be surprised that we are only doing what we feel we need to do and not following His complete instructions.
Have a great day.
7 down and 28 to go.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
The Journey 10/27/10
As I was laying on the table this morning getting ready to take my treatment, with my head hooked to the table I began to think about control.
What I have, cancer on my vocal cords, was not in my control. Losing my voice was not in my control. The amount of radiation is not in my control. The time set for me to be at the hospital is not in my control. (I can adjust it occasionally). I guess what I am saying. I AM NOT IN CONTROL.
How many times are we told to "take control of the situation", or "you are in control of your destiny"? Maybe you have heard similar statements.
I suppose as I get older, and with what I have right now, shows me once again that I am not in control. As Christians, we will make the statement (and it is true) "God is in control" and yet we, many times, want to live our lives as though we are control and when we can't control something we tend to get very frustrated and at times angry.
Who is in control. Ultimately God has the final say on everything. While here on earth we do have a couple choices. We do get to chose who will be in control of our lives. God says in Deut. 29:13 that He sets before us life and death. There is the choice. He then tells us the correct choice when He says, "Choose life". But, there again, the choice is ours to make.
If we choose life, (Jesus) then He is in control and if we choose death, (Satan) then he is in control. Anyway, that is how I see it.
I am glad the He is in control. Paul tells us in the bible, we have been bought with a price. The price paid, Christ's death, burial and resurrection.
I guess the bottom line is this. Who is in control? You will have to answer that.
To this point in my treatment I am not experiencing any adverse side effects. My voice is still weak but some are telling me that it is clearer and not as raspy. I'll take their word for it.
Psalms 27:33 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.
Blessings.
6 down and 29 to go.
What I have, cancer on my vocal cords, was not in my control. Losing my voice was not in my control. The amount of radiation is not in my control. The time set for me to be at the hospital is not in my control. (I can adjust it occasionally). I guess what I am saying. I AM NOT IN CONTROL.
How many times are we told to "take control of the situation", or "you are in control of your destiny"? Maybe you have heard similar statements.
I suppose as I get older, and with what I have right now, shows me once again that I am not in control. As Christians, we will make the statement (and it is true) "God is in control" and yet we, many times, want to live our lives as though we are control and when we can't control something we tend to get very frustrated and at times angry.
Who is in control. Ultimately God has the final say on everything. While here on earth we do have a couple choices. We do get to chose who will be in control of our lives. God says in Deut. 29:13 that He sets before us life and death. There is the choice. He then tells us the correct choice when He says, "Choose life". But, there again, the choice is ours to make.
If we choose life, (Jesus) then He is in control and if we choose death, (Satan) then he is in control. Anyway, that is how I see it.
I am glad the He is in control. Paul tells us in the bible, we have been bought with a price. The price paid, Christ's death, burial and resurrection.
I guess the bottom line is this. Who is in control? You will have to answer that.
To this point in my treatment I am not experiencing any adverse side effects. My voice is still weak but some are telling me that it is clearer and not as raspy. I'll take their word for it.
Psalms 27:33 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.
Blessings.
6 down and 29 to go.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
The Journey 10/26/10
Today started off like any other. I headed to the coffee shop at 5:30 this morning. While in the coffee shop the wind started blowing and the door swung open and in blew a bunch of leaves and a few things were knocked over.
No one asked the wind to blow the door open and make a mess, it just happened. That is what strong wind can do.
In life we have things happen to us that we don't ask for but that is just life in the world. How we react or respond to what happens is usually the bigger issue then what has happened to us.
A friend of mine wrote this on his face book page:
As long as we have to go through valley's in life we might as well learn what we can and grow as we journey through them! He is the God of the valley's too!---Gary Grogan
How true that is. When I found out I had cancer on my vocal cords I then had a choice. React or respond. To react would say, why me or this should not happen to me or this isn't fair. Maybe those are all legit statements but I am choosing to respond. To respond for me is to continue to preach, pray and plug away.
The words in this song say it best. "Whose report will you believe, I will believe the report of the Lord!"
Perhaps today you are facing the challenge to react or to respond. It may not be a physical thing but maybe a reaction or response to a person.
We can not always choose what happens to us but we can always choose how we handle it.
Blessings.
5 down and 30 to go.
No one asked the wind to blow the door open and make a mess, it just happened. That is what strong wind can do.
In life we have things happen to us that we don't ask for but that is just life in the world. How we react or respond to what happens is usually the bigger issue then what has happened to us.
A friend of mine wrote this on his face book page:
As long as we have to go through valley's in life we might as well learn what we can and grow as we journey through them! He is the God of the valley's too!---Gary Grogan
How true that is. When I found out I had cancer on my vocal cords I then had a choice. React or respond. To react would say, why me or this should not happen to me or this isn't fair. Maybe those are all legit statements but I am choosing to respond. To respond for me is to continue to preach, pray and plug away.
The words in this song say it best. "Whose report will you believe, I will believe the report of the Lord!"
Perhaps today you are facing the challenge to react or to respond. It may not be a physical thing but maybe a reaction or response to a person.
We can not always choose what happens to us but we can always choose how we handle it.
Blessings.
5 down and 30 to go.
Monday, October 25, 2010
The Journey 10/25/10
I just got back from radiation treatment. I found out today that every Monday they take blood for blood work. It didn't work in my left arm so they pulled the needle and went into my right arm. That finally worked.
Here is what I do while I am laying on the table taking radiation treatment. As I had mentioned early, I think of the radiation as the fiery furnace the Hebrew children where thrown in.
The bible indicates that the only thing that was affected by the fire were the ropes they were tied with. They didn't even smell like smoke. So while I am laying there and the machine is shooting me with radiation I am thanking Jesus that the only thing that will be affected is the thing that is bondage, the cancer.
So far there have been no side effects. I realize I have only started but I am going to keep trusting Him that only the bondage will be burned.
Marcia and I had a quick trip to Minneapolis this past weekend. Her sister was married on Sunday. It was a long and tiring trip but it was worth it to be at her sister's wedding.
I thank the Lord for a great group of believers at Salem Assembly that understand the importance of family. That is our vision statement...Ministering to the Family. Thank you Salem Assembly.
I have not been to a doctor in years so when the bills started rolling in it looked like everyone gets a piece of the pie. Some I see and others I don't. I try not to shake any employee's hand at the hospital because I might get a consultation bill. Just kidding. Actually the doctors and staff have been very kind and gracious.
This week will be the first full week of treatment since I just started last Wednesday.
4 down and 31 to go.
Here is what I do while I am laying on the table taking radiation treatment. As I had mentioned early, I think of the radiation as the fiery furnace the Hebrew children where thrown in.
The bible indicates that the only thing that was affected by the fire were the ropes they were tied with. They didn't even smell like smoke. So while I am laying there and the machine is shooting me with radiation I am thanking Jesus that the only thing that will be affected is the thing that is bondage, the cancer.
So far there have been no side effects. I realize I have only started but I am going to keep trusting Him that only the bondage will be burned.
Marcia and I had a quick trip to Minneapolis this past weekend. Her sister was married on Sunday. It was a long and tiring trip but it was worth it to be at her sister's wedding.
I thank the Lord for a great group of believers at Salem Assembly that understand the importance of family. That is our vision statement...Ministering to the Family. Thank you Salem Assembly.
I have not been to a doctor in years so when the bills started rolling in it looked like everyone gets a piece of the pie. Some I see and others I don't. I try not to shake any employee's hand at the hospital because I might get a consultation bill. Just kidding. Actually the doctors and staff have been very kind and gracious.
This week will be the first full week of treatment since I just started last Wednesday.
4 down and 31 to go.
Friday, October 22, 2010
The Journey 10/22/10
Everyone has a story. I was at a restaurant yesterday and someone who knew me mentioned my raspy voice. I explained to them what the problem was. At that point they began to tell me their story and how much worse they had it. I am sure they did.
Here is what I am learning as I travel down this road. You must stay focused. Stick to what God has spoken into your heart. James says a double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
You will always hear the horror stories of how your doctor isn't the best or the hospital isn't the best, etc. I am sure these are all well meaning comments and may even be some truth, but I must walk the course God has given me.
I will be heading to Minnesota after treatment today. I will pick up on Monday.
Keep pressing toward the mark. Stick to the plan He has given you.
This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long. Thank God for His blessed assurance.
On another note. The doctor told me yesterday that I should begin to notice my voice getting clearer and stronger. That's encouraging.
Be Blessed.
3 down, 32 to go.
Here is what I am learning as I travel down this road. You must stay focused. Stick to what God has spoken into your heart. James says a double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
You will always hear the horror stories of how your doctor isn't the best or the hospital isn't the best, etc. I am sure these are all well meaning comments and may even be some truth, but I must walk the course God has given me.
I will be heading to Minnesota after treatment today. I will pick up on Monday.
Keep pressing toward the mark. Stick to the plan He has given you.
This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long. Thank God for His blessed assurance.
On another note. The doctor told me yesterday that I should begin to notice my voice getting clearer and stronger. That's encouraging.
Be Blessed.
3 down, 32 to go.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The Journey 10/21/10
I thought today I would describe the procedure. I go in at 9:15 every morning. A mask that has been designed for me is placed over my head and hooked to a table. This helps to keep my head and neck in the proper position for treatment. See picture above.
After that is all in place the radiation is given on both sides of my neck. Then it is done. This all takes place in the span of about 10 minutes. There is no pain from the actual treatment. I was told there could be some side effects such as sore throat, red sunburn like skin on my neck and a few others. I am praying they will be minimal or none. There will be a few days I will go in earlier but most of the time it will be the same time.
This is no revelation but life nor the responsibilities of life stop because we hit a bump in the road. There may be times we can take a break from some responsibilities but then someone else will have to do pick up the load.
Perhaps today you have hit a few bumps in the road. Maybe you do need to stop for a moment and refocus and then begin to move forward.
Bumps can come in many different forms and some are bigger then others, but God is bigger then them all. What bump have you hit? Be assured it can be overcome through a trust and faith in Jesus Christ.
Be encouraged today. Don't throw in the towel. Don't quit trusting in Jesus. Let Him help you through.
Blessings....
2 down and 33 to go.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
The Journey 10/20/10
Today I go for the first of 35 radiation treatments. I was told they will last for 5 minutes. That amounts to a little over 2 hours of treatment.
The other day when I was setting in the doctor's office an elderly woman came in, she was in a wheel chair and I could see her ankle. The skin looked red and burned. She was having treatment as well. I immediately thought, "I wonder if my neck will look like that?" A lot of things can run through your mind.
This morning, during prayer, I was thinking about those in the church who have traveled this path of treatment for cancer. Some with chemo and raditation. I called their names during prayer, Katie, Steve, Daryle, Kathy, Jack, Paul, Dale and there may be others I am not even aware of. I began to thank God for walking with them and keeping His hand on them.
I was reminded the the Hebrew Children who were thrown in the fiery furnace and came out untouched. (I suppose radiation treatment could kind of be thought of as a fiery furnace because it can burn you.) That is what I am trusting Him for while I am going in, being in and coming out. Bottom line...TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!!
Perhaps today, as a believer, you are facing a fiery furnace. Don't panic but rather state your position in Christ. You will come out.
1 down and 34 to go.
The other day when I was setting in the doctor's office an elderly woman came in, she was in a wheel chair and I could see her ankle. The skin looked red and burned. She was having treatment as well. I immediately thought, "I wonder if my neck will look like that?" A lot of things can run through your mind.
This morning, during prayer, I was thinking about those in the church who have traveled this path of treatment for cancer. Some with chemo and raditation. I called their names during prayer, Katie, Steve, Daryle, Kathy, Jack, Paul, Dale and there may be others I am not even aware of. I began to thank God for walking with them and keeping His hand on them.
I was reminded the the Hebrew Children who were thrown in the fiery furnace and came out untouched. (I suppose radiation treatment could kind of be thought of as a fiery furnace because it can burn you.) That is what I am trusting Him for while I am going in, being in and coming out. Bottom line...TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!!
Perhaps today, as a believer, you are facing a fiery furnace. Don't panic but rather state your position in Christ. You will come out.
1 down and 34 to go.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
The Journey 10/19/10
No doctor appointment today. I start tomorrow with radiation treatment. They will continue for 7 weeks, 5 days a week.
I was thinking about Paul's statement in 2 Tim. 4:7, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
I realize he was getting ready to leave this world and I know I am not but the part of the statement "I have finished my course".
He tells us how he did that by fighting a good fight and keeping the faith. His faith did not keep him from having difficulties but it did keep him from quiting in the midst of them.
I was thinking about "the course". We very seldom know what lies ahead and if we knew we may not want to get up in the mornings, but because of faith we move forward.
Sometimes the course is smooth and sometimes it is not so smooth and some days more challenging then others. The course I am on right now is not all that smooth but there is a finish line and to finish I must move forward. Fast or slow is not the issue but keep moving forward.
What course are you on today. Rough, smooth, flat, up hill or down hill. God is still in control.
We must continue to look to Him no matter the course because He is the author and developer of our faith.
As I was praying a few days ago it seems the Holy Spirit spoke into my spirit and said, "Sometimes the miracle you are praying for is not the miracle you will receive but it will be a greater miracle."
Be encouraged today not to complain about the course you are on but to finish it.
Blessings.
I was thinking about Paul's statement in 2 Tim. 4:7, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
I realize he was getting ready to leave this world and I know I am not but the part of the statement "I have finished my course".
He tells us how he did that by fighting a good fight and keeping the faith. His faith did not keep him from having difficulties but it did keep him from quiting in the midst of them.
I was thinking about "the course". We very seldom know what lies ahead and if we knew we may not want to get up in the mornings, but because of faith we move forward.
Sometimes the course is smooth and sometimes it is not so smooth and some days more challenging then others. The course I am on right now is not all that smooth but there is a finish line and to finish I must move forward. Fast or slow is not the issue but keep moving forward.
What course are you on today. Rough, smooth, flat, up hill or down hill. God is still in control.
We must continue to look to Him no matter the course because He is the author and developer of our faith.
As I was praying a few days ago it seems the Holy Spirit spoke into my spirit and said, "Sometimes the miracle you are praying for is not the miracle you will receive but it will be a greater miracle."
Be encouraged today not to complain about the course you are on but to finish it.
Blessings.
Monday, October 18, 2010
The Journey 10/18/10
Today I had the mask made. It consisted of a material, when heated, would stretch over my face and then harden up. It will be used to hold my head and neck in the proper position during treatment.
I then had another ct scan to get the correct position for treatment.
I then had another ct scan to get the correct position for treatment.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
The Journey 10/17/10
Pastor Rick Stratton
Tomorrow I head to the hospital to begin radiation treatment for cancer on my vocal cords. I am the pastor of Salem Assembly of God, in Salem, IL. I have been preaching for over 35 years.
I have had a sore throat and raspy voice many times after preaching. I traveled for 18 years preaching and would preach on an average of five times a week. So to have a raspy voice was nothing new to me.
This time, however, it would not clear up. It stayed that way for well over 4 months. I thought I had developed an allergy but found out later that was not the case.
I finally went to an ENT and was diagnosed with cancer on my vocal cords. I really never asked the question, why me, because the Bible says it rains on the just and the unjust. We live in a corrupted world with imperfect bodies. When I found out, I didn't even know how I felt about it at the time but I did know how I believed. God would take care of this just as He had taken care of things all my life.
I read several articles on the subject from the worst case scenario to the best. None were all that comforting. I finally made the choice to have radiation treatment. That was only made after time spent in prayer.
Before you say, I have a lack of faith, let me say that God clearly spoke into my spirit about this. It was not a difficult nor fearful choice to make once I knew what He had said. There are other things He also spoke to me concerning all this that helped to make sense to this cancer.
I know there have been others, in the church I pastor, that have dealt with cancer and came out victorious and since I know God is no respecter of persons, I too will come out victorious.
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