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.
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
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)