Important news about my family

The blog has apparently been on vacation with me; I'm sorry for the lack of updating.  The family is back and in full swing and we were really able to get some great rest.  Thank you to everyone who prayed for our trip and for all those who stepped up to help with the worship services while I was out.  I was introduced to a new couple in the church last week.  They said how they had been "the last two weeks" and were ready to call JICC home.  This was great news to me as I hadn't even been in town!  It is great to know that our church is truly lead by a team of elders -- faithful men who I know I can trust.  

On a completely separate note, I have some family business (my family) that I need to let you know about.  

While we were in Michigan, doctors found and removed cancer from my mom's (Linda's) bladder.  Since then, she has gone through multiple tests and scans which have not revealed anymore areas of concern.  But because the particular cancer she had is so aggressive, they feel that the best and only treatment is to remove her bladder.  She will be having this surgery in Charlotte within the next few weeks.  The doctors will create a "neo-bladder" out of a piece of her intestines.  After this, she will have to go through a round of chemotherapy.  While this is a very serious diagnosis, the doctors believe that the treatment is very effective.

We are thankful for the doctors and their care, but we know that God is the the ultimate healer.  Would you please pray with us for my mom's complete healing?  At this point, nothing that they find or don't find in their tests will change the course of treatment, so here are a few specific things that you can pray for:

1.  For strength for my mom as she prepares for the surgery and for wisdom for the doctors as they operate

2.  For all of the cancer cells to be removed with the bladder and not to remain in her body

3.  For her recovery after surgery and strength for her during the chemo treatment -- that she would be protected from the side effects.

4.  For the rest of our family's health and strength.  We are very accustomed to my mom serving us (she is an amazing woman), so it is a very big adjustment for us to have her need our care (instead of the other way around).

5.  That we would all grow in our faith, trust, and confidence in God's care over our lives and his ability to work in powerful ways.  

May His kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven!

Thanks for your prayers and your support.  

See you Sunday!  I finally get to preach again.

-Pastor Russ