APRIL 22, 2011
I have written to you in the past about my difficulty leaving Kathie in the evenings or when we have had an especially good visit. My schedule as a father, caregiver and employee requires way too much and I struggle to the point of quiet tears. I live by Faith, not by my own strength. When I returned home after missing Kath, I read Psalm 84: 4-8 (NLT)
What joy for those who can live in your house, always singing your praises. What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord, who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs. The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings. They will continue to grow stronger, and each of them will appear before God in Jerusalem. O Lord God of Heaven’s Armies, hear my prayer. Listen, O God of Jacob.
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I’ve been writing this since the 15th, trying to finish, many thoughts but not the inclination to write. Today, Good Friday, my office is closed so once I got the Girls off to school; I spent the morning sitting with Kathie. For five and a half years I’ve been at her bedside, you can read the same blogs from years ago, nothing major has changed. The one thing consistent is that I tell her, “I love you” each time I’m with her. Hannah and I were talking and she shared, “I realized the other day that Mom hasn’t been around for my growing up.” I confess that I worry about my parenting of the Girls without Kathie’s counsel.
Kathie just woke up from a nap; she is very pretty today in a new cream colored gown that I ordered. She seems content to look around the room and then over at me making some quiet noises.
“A servant of God must stand so very much alone that he never realizes he is alone. In the early stages of the Christian life, disappointments will come— people who used to be lights will flicker out, and those who used to stand with us will turn away. We have to get so used to it that we will not even realize we are standing alone. Paul said, “. . . no one stood with me, but all forsook me . . . . But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me . . .” (2 Timothy 4:16-17). We must build our faith not on fading lights but on the Light that never fails.” Oswald Chambers, April 22.
I have learned so much through the Valley of Weeping and through these years, the Lord has stood with us.
Blessings on your Easter Celebration, He has risen.
Dave & Kathie
I have read your blog over these last few years...it has always been a source of faith and strength for me. God Bless you in all you do...and may God continue to strengthen and care for you. I know God is holding you and Kathie in his hands. May this Easter season bring you joy and wonder.
ReplyDeleteI have had quiet tears lately. God love you Dave! Hugs to Kathie!
ReplyDeleteIt means a lot to read what you write, Dave. Thx 4 giving it to us as it really is. It helps more than you realize to share the walk with you. You are helping my walk, Brother!
ReplyDeleteLet us pray for one another!
God Bless, Laura
As the years pass by, your posts keep reminding us that nothing earthly can truly sustain us. Kathie is never far from my heart.
ReplyDeleteClariece