I have had the pleasure of joining a Bible study on Isaiah this fall. This past week we were focused on chapter 6. Isaiah, in the midst of his breathtaking vision of the Lord in the throne room, heard Him ask, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?”
We are frequently, if not daily asked, “What are your plans? When will you return to Thailand?” We understand, it is an obvious question, and one that does deserve an answer.
At times, it is tough for the kids because they see Chris getting better; he is having a great recovery after his 6th chemo, especially considering the 6th round (last week) was tough. His neuropathy still remains, but it is not becoming worse. The kids hear us talking that the treatment may be nearing completion, and we now wait for tests and medical consultation. Two of the kids have on multiple occasions asked to return to Thailand. Like, how about tomorrow? Or perhaps the day after we consult with the doctors (Oct 23rd)? They like where they are, but they miss and long for the familiar.
As we have mentioned, the school they attend in Thailand, Grace International School, does not permit students to enter mid-semester, therefore the earliest return we would make to Thailand is around New Years Eve.
We believe God has used the need to return for cancer treatment as a way for our children to spend more time in the US, to prepare them for their eventual return to the US and to enjoy some unexpected quality time with family. And since we are here, we are soaking up the fall beauty in every sense that we can. Apple Cider Donuts? Yes!
Chris and I ask you to join our family in prayer:
-Lord, help us to be patient in our waiting and not run ahead of your plans
-Lord, direct us to your path for our future
-Lord, prepare our hearts for your purposes
While I am not a Greek Biblical scholar like some of my missionary friends, I imagine the Lord is basically asking in his throne room, “Hey! Who is going to do what I need them to do? Who wants to be equipped by me and for me to do my work? Who is willing to obey in order to fulfill my purposes?”
We have set a human deadline for the kids. For practical planning purposes we will decide by November 1 if we will return in late December or if we will stay for the school year in America. There are too many variables to explain on this blog, but let’s just say both avenues will have grief and loss associated with it.
Future dates:
Oct 16th: PET scan
Oct 23rd: appointment with doctor for results and next steps
Exodus 15:13
In your unfailing love you will lead
the people you have redeemed.
In your strength you will guide them
to your holy dwelling.
2 Chronicles 20:12b. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”
Alistair Begg began a recent devotional with the following Scripture and great short lesson:
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12
It’s easy to want to graduate without taking the required classes. But without taking the classes there’s no way to be ready for the tests, and without a test there’s no graduation. As in academia, so in our faith: it would be foolish to think that we can graduate to maturity and completeness in the Christian life before taking the courses and going through the tests.
We are praying XO
I read that you have difficult decisions to make and that waiting is hard for you and for your kids. May the Lord strengthen you each day during the waiting time and show you clearly when He wants you to return. He has promised (Ps. 32:8):
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;\q2 I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
Trusting Him with you and praying for you,
Hella
So good to hear Chris is continuing to do well.
May you know his peace and rest as you hold your plans lightly and put them into his hands.
“Who is willing to obey in order to fulfill my purposes?” … that is the ultimate question in life, is it not? Are we (or more to the point, am I) willing to make Him and his purposes my aim, or not? What earthly pleasures am I willing to sacrifice for no gain whatsoever in this life for His gain?
Your post has put new meaning into Jesus’ instruction to count the costs, for when we count the costs of our sacrifices are we able to appreciate what He gave up for us.
That would be wonderful if Chris is recovered enough to return to Thailand and you all can get on with what God has called you to do. I will pray that God will make it clear to you, orchestrate the timing and provide for all the transitions that will be necessary. May the Lord guide you all in decisions and provide for Chris’ ongoing medical needs and care.
Praying on with you in the Lord’s waiting room.
You are still leading and showing others how to live during crises situations. Being a model of that speaks volumes to others how to live with Christ as the head.
May you remain docile before Your Lord with childlike Faith. Reflect on ALL He has brought you through.
Praying for His Crystal, Clarity in this decision when its time
(Just incredible to see Chris running like that!)
I continue to pray for your family.
Continuing to pray for healing and restoration, and peace in the process–for the whole family.
Praying with you that you will know with certainty the Lord’s will … return by year end or to remain here for the entire school year.
Have prayed for Chris’s medical team to have wisdom on the best treatments & will pray that they will have wisdom as they share their recommendations going forward during your meeting later this month.
Treasure (WSBC)
Thank you for all the beautiful updates! We continue to lift up Chris and your family!
Praying our Lord makes it clear to you all what are His plans as you wait for tests and results.
He has given you the ability to be strong in this season of life.
Please know that you are so loved!
Dawn & Doug
Well said, folks! I agree with all the above comments!
We love you and pray for you – God has set all 5 of you in our hearts!
Praying for you all. May God continue to show his grace, mercy, and faithfulness as he leads you in this next step of decision making. And I’m praying for you all to grieve the losses well no matter what next steps you take. 🙏 I am encouraged by your faith and trust in Him.