The Everlasting Arms

In 1995, my mom was diagnosed with colon cancer. While waiting to go into surgery, she recalled a verse she learned as a child that was a comfort to her. "The eternal God is thy refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms." Deut. 33:27. I decided to cross stitch a plaque with the words of that verse to give to her as a Christmas present that year. That fall, I was stitching these very words while I sat in the waiting room of my OB-GYN office when I was pregnant with our youngest son, Kyle. Moments later, I was called back to the doctor's office were I was given the news that the baby I was carrying would be born with Down syndrome. This verse has become very special to me. Once again, I claim it for our family as we face our present circumstances. We believe that God is all powerful and is in control of the situation and we look to him for the peace that only He can give and the comfort of his everlasting arms.

Jim continues on chemotherapy today. He had a sleepless night last night and was very tired this morning. He had many visitors and was disappointed to miss a few people because he needed to sleep. I arrived later in the afternoon after he napped and again was able to spend some sweet time with my husband. One of those hidden blessings during this time is being forced to slow our lives and schedules down and spend quality time with those we love. We are so blessed. Jim has been looking forward to tonight all week. He is spending time with some buddies watching Monday night football. He really seems very much himself - just worn out. Please continue to pray that Jim would be completely healed of this disease. We are moved each day by those who have gathered around us with their love and support. Thank you for your emails and comments. I am printing them all out and sharing them with Jim. They are very encouraging to him. We love you all and thank you for your prayers.