April 28 2004

Main Page • John's Journal (2000-2003) • CLL Information • Contact John • Seattle Cancer Care Alliance • MD Anderson

I wasn't planning on writing in my journal today. All my appointments were pretty much classes on how food safety and avoiding infections. I did end my day at SCCA with an overview of the medications I will be taking and some dental work to smooth out a rough filling. Otherwise, there was nothing too interesting to write about. However!


" Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask
for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or
three come together in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:19-20)

The most amazing part of my day took place this evening. The local Young Life director, Pat Rhoades, organized an informal prayer service for my family and me at our local YMCA. He invited some of our friends from church, the community, and my school district. Pat opened the prayer meeting with a passage from Ephesians 3:20 "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!" Following Pat's opening, Michelle and I shared a few words before we all broke into small groups to pray. It was humbling, yet felt so wonderful, to see and hear these groups of people praying for us. The prayer meeting ended with the entire group surrounding my family (unfortunately Tanner was gone, he had a baseball game), laying hands on us, and praying. It was such a powerful and uplifting moment. I will be touched by that moment forever.

It is so hard to put into words the profound effect that this night has had on my family and me. I am so grateful to have experienced God's power and grace in such a special way. As the meeting ended someone told me to look outside. I turned to look out the window and there was a beautiful rainbow. I took that rainbow as an affirmation that God was with us and that everything will be OK.

Thank you again to everyone who joined us tonight for prayer. Even if you couldn't join us tonight, I want to thank everyone who continues to pray for
my family and me. I am confident that God is listening to everyone's prayers as is evident by the peace that we have in the midst of this challenge.

I also want to lift up a special thank you to Pat Rhoades for organizing the prayer service. It was so kind of you. Michelle and I are very thankful.

Finally, I want to send out a thank you to my friends Jeff, Kirk, Kevin, and Roger for the gifts they gave my family yesterday. Words aren't adequate to express our appreciation. Your gifts will be a big help, but the love behind the gifts is what touched us the most.

I am a very fortunate and blessed man. I can't say I would choose to have cancer, but cancer has given me the opportunity to see the best in people, as they pour out so much love and kindness towards us. Cancer has given me the chance to grow closer to my family, my friends, and my Lord and to appreciate all He has done for me. For this, I am grateful.


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