August 5, 2010
Dear ones:
Mark and I are both working from home today. I thought I would update you as best I can about my dad's situation.
First of all, thanks so much for all of your prayers for our family. It means the world to know that you pray, take the time to write, call or text us. We feel your love around us as we go through these last days with my dad. My mom is the hero. She has been by his side endlessly and would have it no other way...though it is hard for her to watch him leave this world. She is at peace and ready to release him into the hands of God.
For those of you who may not know or remember, my dad has Multisystem Atrophy which is a muscle disease that mirrors Parkinsons but has no cure. You lose control of all your muscles. It started with my dad’s legs and has worked up. He fell on my deck in KC in 2006 and broke his hip, that’s when the disease started to speed up. Seems like that fall just set things into fast motion. My mom and I flew to Texas for 2nd and 3rd opinions and he’s been in a nursing facility for the last 6 months. He has his full mind and has been in the best of spirits through all of this…his mind is alert but his body fails him…it’s been tough. He’s only 74 years old.
Earlier this week, it seems he has taken a turn where we are within days of his home-going to heaven. He opens his eyes sometimes, but cannot speak or swallow. We trust God in all of this and praise Him for the wonderful life my dad lived.
I have been praying about whether to continue on with a mission trip I had planned earlier in February for our church. I know God knew when my dad would have a major change in his health and God also laid it upon our hearts to go to Mexico...during the same time. I have been reminded of the verse:
'A man's heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps' (Pro 16:9).
I want to be sensitive to all God is doing and not jump ahead of Him. Isn't it true that through trials, everyone involved is/can learn something?! I am praying fervently today for God to let me know about going on this trip - would you pray with me about this (many of you already are doing this and I am grateful). I am fully willing for the Lord to re-direct my steps...just praying HE will show me soon! My plan is to stay in Texas and help my mom for a longer period of time - I love her so much too.
My dad and mom first took me to Mexico as a teenager on a mission trip and now 35 years later, I'm still going on trips to learn and see all God is doing across this globe. I'll always be grateful to my parents for creating that love and intrigue in my heart of God's mission. So many have built on that foundation since then - for both Mark and me. We consider ourselves most blessed for all we have seen and done and what GOD has taught US through it all.
Thanks for your friendship and love. I'll keep you posted on my dad's passing...it's coming soon for him....what an amazing thought that soon, he'll be in the presence of Jesus...I just can't imagine the AWE he will experience.
Love always,
Cathy
5 comments:
Cathy, I am praying for you. How wonderful it is to know that after death - LIFE will await your dad, and all of us when our time(s) come. I think about my parents and how I miss them....but I'll see them again! God bless you and lead you in the way you should go!
May God give you peace about whatever you decide concerning your Mexico trip. Praying for you!
Isaiah 40:31
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; THEY SHALL MOUNT UP WITH WINGS AS EAGLES; THEY SHALL RUN AND NOT BE WEARY; AND THEY SHALL WALK, AND NOT FAINT.
My dad wrote this verse in one of my letters at bootcamp because I had really horrible knee problems and it hurt so bad when I ran. When I ran I used to say in my head I shall mount up with wings as eagle and run and I will not be weary over and over and it gave me strength to run and I never had to go to medical for my knees.
I think this verse will help you right now too. I love you!
Friend,
I am so feeling for YOU and your family. Your family is so close. I know loosing your Dad will take a piece of each of your hearts. It's the beauty I suppose of loving much. If I could I'd hop a plane right now just to give each of you a big hug. (((((((hug)))))))
When he passes know many are holding your hand and hearts from a distance in prayer through it all. Love you very much friend.
Cathy,
I am praying that you rest in total peace today as God leads you. Cathy, God only needs us to trust Him, and that is exactly what "you do". You have shown others in trying times to walk by faith and not by sight. When we have no idea what direction to take next, "YOU" depend on the Lord to show you the way! Your life and love for God is like the "Sun" when it comes out in "Full Strength"! Thank you for seeing Jesus and trusting Him as you go through these difficult and unsure days. Jesus is the Light of the world and you certainly reflect that by your faith!
I have a Poem for you for your dad from Jill Briscoe I will insert your dad in the place where a name should be...here goes:
Your Dad, new dimension living, Purposeful existence knows, Seeing God prepare His palette, Watching Jesus paint a rose. Brushing sunset with light colours, Misting meadows with His breath, Praising Him in exultation, Your Dad laughs with God at death!
Your Dad missed already as your dear ones mourn your loss, May your death be our reminder We can join you through your cross! Doors to life, Christ's rich atonement, Gift of love His tomb displays, Cost God's Son His death to open Heaven's joys to one who prays.
On the canvas of our momories Framed Oh God in years to be, Dip your brush in "Your Dad's Colours" Paint a picture just for me. Your Dad, vibrant life enjoying, Perfect health and wholeness knows, Watches God prepare His colours Helps him Jesus paint a rose!
Love,
Julianna
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