Evening: What are Your Circumstances?

Then Pray

James 5:13-16

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

I love the book of James. And, these verses near the end are my favorite. The one clear message I receive is that we are to pray, regardless of our circumstances. And, note that verse 16 states that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. I have read this verse many times, and always focussed on the "powerful and effective" portion.

It struck me, this time around, that I was glossy over "righteous person." Not everybody's prayers will be powerful! Only those offered by righteous people! If you are like me, this shines a whole new light on prayer. More importantly, it shines a light on me that I may not want. Am I righteous enough to have my prayers be powerful and effective? Only with the blood of Jesus.



A Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, You are Lord above all lords, and Name above all names. We thank You for Your provisions, Lord. We thank You for Your grace and mercy. We thank You for Your forgiveness. We thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to die for us.

Lord, we ask that You would forgive us of our sins. We ask that You would wash away our transgressions with the blood of Jesus. Make us holy in Your sight.

Lord, as forgiven sinners, we humbly bow before You and ask that You would continue the work that You have begun in Adam. Father, we ask that you completely restore Adam so that he can walk, talk, laugh, pray, and sing praises to You.

In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

Dinner: Ask

James 4:1-3

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

I view these verses both as a challenge, and as valuable instructiion for how to live, and how to pray.

We fight and argue with each other, trying to get what we want. James tells us rather than trying to get what we want, on our own (and usually failing), we do not get because we do not ask. It's that simple? All we have to do is ask? There is a caveat. He also instructs us that we ask, but we do not receive, if our motives are wrong.

When are our motives wrong? When they are intent on satisflying our own pleasure. I don't beleive that God wants us to be miserable all the time. Yet, praying for a job promotion, simply so that one has more money to buy a bigger house, is probably not on God's list of priorities. It is doubtful that the bigger house will strengthen your relationship with Jesus. Most likely, it will interfere as larger posessions tend to require more of our time and increases worries, both of which interfere with our faith lives.

For those of you who are parents, you know that we do not give our children everything they want. Yet, we will do all we can to provide for their needs. An example of that is my daughter, Adrienne, and her husband Ken. Their son, Isaac, has type 1 diabetes and a large number of food allergies, some of which are quite severe. They have spent a lot of time, and a lot of money, caring for him. They have been relentless in their pursuit of treatments for him. Isaac could not ask for more loving, caring parents. They provide all that they can to satisfy his needs. Yet, if he asks for a Snickers bar, the answer will be 'no.' It would not be good for him. In addition to causing high blood sugar, it might cause a severe allergic reaction.

So, I ask myself, what am I asking God for that may be for the wrong motives? What am I asking for that is simply for personal convenience or comfort? What am I asking for that I simply want to spend on my pleasures? What am I asking for that might interfere with my relationship with Jesus? Am I asking for a Snickers bar when He has a feast prepared for me?

I sometimes question if spending all this time writing this blog for Adam is with the right motives. I have given this considerable thought, and have prayed about it. I have asked God to reveal to me if this is how He wants me to spend my time. For now, here I am.

What are your motives? Is your spiritual life satisfying? Are you bold enough to ask God to provide you with a path to walk down? If you are lacking direction, it may be simply that you don't ask. For me, I sometimes fear that I won't like the answer.



Praise God for Adam's miraculous day on Monday. That's it. Let's simply praise God for this, and other miracles He has worked in our lives.

We'll unite one more time, this evening.

Lunch: Crown of Life

James 1:12

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

As I mentioned at breakfast, I read the book of James, last week. These five chapters are loaded with practical instruction on how to live life as a follower of Christ. Verse 12 provides us with a promise — the crown of life for persevering under trial. What is the crown of life? the commentary in my study Bible states, "Drawing from the Greek custom of placing a wreath on the head of a winning athlete, James describes the reward given to believers who cross the finish line: eternal life, victory over death."

Sometimes, getting to the finish line is difficult. A runner may have to fight fatigue, cramps, and shortness of breath to finish a race. In life, we fight broken relationships, financial setbacks, illness, injury, and temptation. Like the runner, we need to keep focused on the finish line. Despite the pain and frustration, eternal life awaits!

What trial are you facing, today? Whatever it is, take it to the Lord in prayer.



It is still a couple weeks off, but let's begin praying for Adam's move to Orlando. It will be stressful for him and his family.

Pray

• For God to walk along side you, carry your burdens, and help you make it to the finish line. Pray the same for Adam, Amy, and Mackenzie.

•That Adam will continue to become stronger, more mobile, and increasingly able to communicate prior to his move.

• That all of the details of travel would all be worked out over the next couple weeks so all goes smoothly when it is time to travel to Orlando.

• For Amy's back — that she would not be suffering pain while getting ready to move, and while traveling

• That Mackenzie would adapt to yet another move.

• That all three of them would look forward to the move, the new facility, and their combined enthusiasm would help accelerate Adam's recovery!

• For God to watch over the entire process of moving, protecting Adam from any setbacks.

• For God to be picking and preparing the perfect staff in Orlando to aid Adam in his recovery.

Meet you at dinner time.

Breakfast: Joy and Blessings

James 1:2-4

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

When I was reading the book of James, last week, I thought of Amy when I read these verses. When Jack and I were visiting Adam, Amy, and Mackenzie a couple weeks ago, I was amazed at Amy's positive, upbeat attitude. She works tirelessly and faithfully caring for Adam, in addition to being a mom. On Thursday, after yet another 12-hour day (for Amy), Jack and I took off for dinner at about 8:00 p.m. The next morning, Amy told us that she took Mackenzie to the Boston Bruins hockey game after we left! On top of a such a long day, she was suffering serious back pain. Yet, she was still smiling.

It seems like Amy uses this passage as her motto, or perhaps, her mission statement. She seems full of joy, and talks as if she lacks nothing. I should be taking lessons from her. Too often, I find myself myself wishing my circumstances were better. Rather, I should simply be full of joy when facing trials, which when I think about it, pale in comparison to hers.

This morning, let's work at considering it pure joy to be facing our current trials. Let's pray that Amy would continue to do the same. Ask God to bless her for modeling this passage, and for being such an inspiration to all of us.

    'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
    What if Your healing comes through tears
    What if the thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
    What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
    Blessings, Laura Story



Give God thanks for answering prayers regarding Adam's next level of care. Last Thursday, Amy informed us that they are moving to Orlando on April 18th. Being accepted to care in Florida was yet another response to many prayers on Adam's behalf.

Last Friday, Adam's voice became louder. Thank God for this improvement, and pray that Adam's voice will continue to gain volume.

See you at lunch time.

Evening: Hear Our Prayers

Praise
Psalm 143:1-1

LORD, hear my prayer,
    listen to my cry for mercy;
in your faithfulness and righteousness
    come to my relief.

    • Please keep Mackenzie in your prayers with each transition — she has been amazing with every transition and God has truly prepared her for this journey. Pray that she will see how God is using her in a mighty way as well.

    • Please continue to pray for Amy's time to be used wisely, that her eyes will stay fixed on the author and protector of her faith. Pray that she will intentionally seek Him first, for He is all she needs.

    • Please keep praying for Amy's back and sciatica. Pray that she can endure this pain and persevere through it. Pray for a supernatural healing of Amy.

    • Pray for Adam's full recovery.

Amen.



See you next week.

Dinner: Praise God

Psalm 150

Praise the LORD.

Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens.

Praise him for his acts of power;
praise him for his surpassing greatness.

Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet,
praise him with the harp and lyre,

Praise him with timbrel and dancing,
praise him with the strings and pipe,

Praise him with the clash of cymbals,
praise him with resounding cymbals.

Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.

Praise the LORD.

    Praise You whem I'm laughing
    Praise You when I'm grieving
    Praise You every
    Season of the soul
    ~Let Everything That Has Breath, Matt Redman



Prayer Requests

    • Praise God — think of things just in the past few days for which you can offer up praise to God, even if you are currently grieving.

    • Pray for Amy, Adam, and Mackenzie to be obedient to where God is calling us to go next. The decision is still up in the air.

    • Pray for those at the insurance company that make decisions regarding Adam's care when they only know him from a paper document, pray that they will make wise decisions and be given Godly discernment as they make decisions regarding his care.

    • Pray for Adam to have the courage necessary to keep his eyes fixed on God so that he will be able to see that God has called Adam for such a time as this. Pray that he will feel equipped each and every day for the battles that he faces as God's mighty warrior.

    • Pray for those who are taking care of him, pray for those who have taken care of him in the past, and pray for those who have yet to take care of him but will. Pray that their lives are forever changed by God's tangible love for them.

    • Pray for continued unity in Adam's family.

Lunch: How to Please God

It's About Faith

Hebrews 11:6

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

In my breakfast post, I wrote that I did not know why God requires us to have faith (rather than providing us with 100-percent hard evidence). One thing I do know is that He provides us with free will. He did not want a world full of robots obeying His every command. He gives us choice, and it delights Him when we choose to have faith.

When we have free will, lots of things can happen — good and bad. When good things happen, we should praise God for His grace. When bad things happen, we should praise God for His mercy. Good or bad, the verse above offers a promise of a reward to those with faith. Regardless of any short-term suffering here on earth, our ultimate reward will be eternity with God. That is a promise I have faith in.

God's promise has two strings attached: 1) We must believe that He exists; and 2) We must earnestly seek Him.

Bible scholars and believers may disagree a bit on what it means to earnestly seek God. However, I think that we can all do a self-assessment and quickly determine that we can step up our earnestness, regardless of where we are in our faith walk.

What's the reward? Heaven — where all believers will live forever with no pain, no suffering, no hurt, no disease, no injury, no sadness. That is why I write with such confidence. I know that I will see Adam fully restored. If not on earth, it will be in Heaven (regular readers know that I believe it will be on earth, but that is not up to me).

    Give me faith to trust what you say
    That you’re good and your love is great
    I’m broken inside, I give you my life
    ~Give Me Faith, Elevation Worship



Prayer Requests

    • Adam's speech and language is still needing improvement. Pray that he will learn how to use his vocal cords as he is talking.

    • Pray for Adam's ability to process information quickly and to respond once he has processed it.

    • Pray that Adam will be aware of when he needs to use the restroom so that he will be able to become more independent and can get out of the hospital setting more.

    • Pray for Adam's strength as he is transferring to and from his wheelchair, which is another big step in becoming more independent.

We'll be back at dinner time.

Breakfast: How Big is Your God?

How Big is Your God?
Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

Faith is difficult for some of us to grasp. I have heard people say something like, "I would have faith in God if there was proof that He really existed."

If we had 100-percent, absolute, hard evidence of God's existence, why would we need faith? I don't need faith to know that the sun comes up in the east and sets in the west. There is hard evidence of both, each and every day. And, as much as I believe in God the Father, His Son, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, it requires faith on my part. Why? I don't know. That is simply the way God set things up.

In the notes of my study Bible, the authors write:

"Ultimately, the way we see God will determine the shape of our faith. If we see a big, faithful, all-powerful God, then our faith will rise to those levels. If on the other hand, we see a smaller God, a distant or less active God, the faith will plateau at those levels."

How big is your God? If your God is small, it is difficult to have big faith. How do you make your faith bigger? Pray, read the Bible, and worship God in song. Ask God to send the Holy Spirit to grow your faith. If your faith is big, you know what I am going to say — do the same things!

Because I see a big, all-powerful God, I believe that He can heal Adam. I know that many of you do, too. I know that many of you walk by faith.

    Well I will walk by faith
    Even when I cannot see
    Well because this broken road
    Prepares Your will for me
    ~Walk by Faith, Jeremy Camp



This week, let's unite in praying for those things that Amy has requested.

Prayer Requests

    • Adam started a new medication on Monday that is to help with his initiation and drive when asked to complete a command. Pray that this medication will help him have a quicker initiation time and to be able to follow through. Pray for this to be the case even without the medication.

    • Continue to pray God's hedge of protection around Adam's immune system.

    • Pray specifically for Adam's cognitive ability to improve greatly. Pray that he will continue to increase his scores for the cognitive testing he is undergoing.

    • Pray for Amy's back pain and sciatica. Her job is a challenging one...much more so when she is in pain. Pray that she would be supernaturally healed.

    • Ask God to send the Holy Spirit to grow your faith. Let's pray it for each other, too.

We'll add to the list at lunch time.

Eve of Fasting: Don't Quench the Spirit

I Thessalonians 5:19

Do not quench the Spirit.

A five word verse? Is that it? Yes, but there is so much important instruction in these five words.

Apparently, Paul wrote these words because the Thessalonians were doing so at the time he wrote this letter. I believe it is important instruction for me. I find myself often quenching the Holy Spirit. How so? There are several ways, but first, a definition. To quench is to extinguish, put out, squelch, or suppress.

I find myself quenching the Spirit by ignoring Him when I want to do something my way rather than God's way — I don't allow the Holy Spirit to lead me. It might be ignoring His conviction, not yielding to His control, or refusing to worship (see Ephesians 5:15-20). What I should be refusing to do is quenching the Holy Spirit.

    ‘Cause I don’t want to live like I don’t care.
    I don’t want to say another empty prayer.
    I refuse to
    Sit around and wait for someone else
    To do what God has called me to do myself.
    ~I Refuse, Josh Wilson



Do you choose to follow or quench the Spirit?

Usually, Wednesdays are days when I feel close to God. However, there have been a few during the past 10 months where the hectic pace has kept me from spending as much time with God as I would like (and for sure less time than He would like). I let the cares of the world allow me to quench the Spirit. Let's all pray for each other that this does not happen tomorrow. Let's all refuse to quench the Spirit.

I look forward to spending time with God, and you, tomorrow, as we pray for Adam's healing. In addition to praying for each other (see previous paragraph), simply pray that God would be glorified by Adam's recovery process.

Morning After: Who can be Against Us?

Romans 8:31-32

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?



Good morning! We got hungry, yesterday. And, if you chose a 36-hour fast, you may be really ready for breakfast, right now. Being hungry makes me appreciate God's provision. I do not want. Fasting reminds me of that. I don't have to go hungry. I have a roof over my head. I have a warm, dry place to sleep. You probably do, too.

To top things off, God gave His Son for us. Think about it. That is a lot of love. With that amount of love, then lots of compassion. With compassion, a willingness to heal—when that healing brings glory to God.

So, how do we respond to God's generosity? Glorify His name. God has been there throughout Adam's recovery. We should respond with praise and thanksgiving. We should get in alignment with God's will. It isn't always easy, perhaps rarely so. But, if God is with us, who can be against us?

A Prayer

Dear Father in Heaven,
Thank you for loving us.
Thank you for sparing Adam's life.
Thank you for the healing that you have performed in Adam.
Lord, we praise Your name for the great work that You have done.

Lord, we stand in awe of You.
We are sinners.
Please forgive us of our sins.
Wash away our transgressions, with the blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ.
Make us pure and holy in Your sight.

As forgiven sinners,
Lord, please hear our prayers.
Like the centurion in Luke 7,
We have faith.
We have faith in your ability and desire to heal.
we humbly fall before you,
and ask You to heal your servant, Adam Root.
Lord, we ask that Adam would be restored.
Dear Father, enable Adam to overcome his brain injury.
Make Adam whole.
In the name of Jesus, we pray.
Amen.

Thanks for praying with us, this week.

Evening: Thank God

Psalm 145:1-3

I will exalt you, my God the King;
    I will praise your name for ever and ever.
Every day I will praise you
    and extol your name for ever and ever.
Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise;
    his greatness no one can fathom.

In Chapter 14 of The Prayer Dare, author Ron Kincaid encourages us to make praise a lifestyle. He refers to a passage from Deitrich Bonhoeffer's Life Together that states "Only he who gives thanks for the little things receives big things. How can God entrust great things to one who will not thankfully receive the little things?"

This evening, praise God, and give Him thanks for all of the little blessings (as well as the big ones!) in your life. Thank him for little milestones in Adam's recovery, like Saturday when he ate a cheeseburger by himself. Or, when his face lit up, he smiled, and he extended his hand for a handshake when his friend, Daniel, came to visit after lunch on Saturday. And, thank God for the persistent therapists that gently push Adam everyday. Thank God that Adam is at Spaulding Rehab Hospital. Thank God that Adam has Amy.

Hanging out a Spaulding is not the most fun thing for a 10-year-old kid to do everyday. Pray that Mackenize would be understanding of her situation, and that she would get opportunities to spend some time outside of rehab, this summer.

Pray that God would work out a good plan for Adam after his time at Spaulding.



It's been another good day with God. Let's meet in the morning, for one more prayer.

Good night.

Dinner: Need an Alignment?

1 John 5:13-15

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.

Some question my confidence in Adam's healing. Some don't even have to say anything. I see the looks in their eyes. I have confidence because of words in the Holy Bible, like this passage written by the apostle John. Whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him. This is where I get much of my confidence. God is promising to grant our requests, if they align with His will. Ah, there is the caveat—we must ask according to God's will.

You may be thinking, "But, Doug, how can you know that it is God's will for Adam to be healed?" Humanly speaking, I have no idea. As a Christian, there have been indications that lead me to my belief. I have felt the Holy Spirit leading me to pray for Adam since last May. I have seen God's miracles spare Adam's life, and allow him to achieve levels of functionality that Adam's doctor in North Carolina said would never occur. Adam has defied medical science. What he has already achieved is because of God's healing power.

God is at work. He will use Adam's healing to bring Himself glory. It is my belief that God would not have called so many to pray for Adam, and already have worked so many miracles, if a healing was not in his plans. Yet, my call is to obedience. I will let God worry about the rest. I simply see God working, and I am attempting to align myself with His will. If God has something else planned, I will continue praying that He would reveal His will to me.

We should always be attempting to align ourselves with God's will. Let's pray that for each other. Pray that we always be asking God to reveal His will to us so that we can keep ourselves aligned with it.

At lunch, I mentioned that Adam has begun problem solving. Amy, Jack, and I watched Adam wheel himself into an obstacle on the right side of the hallway. He stopped, thought about it for a bit, then backed up, veered to the left, and proceeded down the hall. This was yet another milestone in Adam's recovery. Pray that his cognitive abilities will keep improving.

Pray for Amy. I must say that I didn't really know her when I arrived in Boston. Four days at Spaulding can change that! We had a wonderful conversation while walking with Adam on Saturday evening. Now, I know her! But, I did not have to have that conversation to see what a wonderful wife she is. Sure, I knew that she was with Adam everyday. But, I did not know what that really meant until I saw here in action. I cannot even attempt to explain it. She provided a lot of care and encouragement to Adam, while suffering from back pain. Pray that God would ease the pain in Amy's back.

When you visit Adam in a city like Boston, you can count on doing some walking. Jack and I did, but it took its toll on Jack's knee. Pray that the pain in Jack's knee would subside. I also know that his heart aches, as do the hearts of Cookie and Adam's brothers. Pray that Adam's family would all be comforted and be at peace. For one day, there will be a day with no more pain.



We'll meet one more time, this evening.

Lunch: Give God the Glory

2 Kings 19:19

Now, LORD our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone, LORD, are God.”

In his book, The Prayer Dare, Ron Kincaid writes, "If you want your prayers answered, don't make requests for your reputation. Pray for things that increase God's reputation...If you want to pray with power, ask for things that bring God glory."

Let's remember why we pray. It is not for our own convenience that we pray for Adam's healing. It is not to serve our own personal desires. When the Holy Spirit first prompted me to hold a day of fasting and prayer last May, the purpose was clear to me. Jesus would heal Adam to bring glory, honor, and praise to God. To this day, it is for that reason that I pray for Adam.

What will be the outcome of all the surgeries, medicines, therapy sessions, and prayers? An expansion of God's Kingdom that will bring Him glory. I certainly don't claim to be a prophet, but I keep being prompted to pray because God has plans to use Adam for His purposes. I envision a day where Adam will walk (better than he currently does), talk (louder than he currently does), laugh (he already does that, actually), pray (he does that, too!), and sing praises to God. I see people beling led to faith by Adam.

I might be wrong. God's will is not always clear to me. I do know that if I am wrong about Adam, I am not wrong about God. He will work this situation to bring honor to Himself. So far, God has responded to many prayers. On Thursday morning, we watched Adam reading in the book of Joshua, and transport himself in his wheelchair by turning the wheels. The wheelchair moment came after some prompting, during which I was praying that God would help Adam get the job done. He did. In the afternoon, Adam walked up and down three steps after walking in the hallway with his walker.

Folks, after the "verdict" delivered last year, each one of these activities is a miracle.



I have seen miracles just happen. To God be the glory!

During your lunch-time prayer, praise God for all of the miracles that He has performed during Adam's recovery. For starters, it is a miracle that Adam is alive. That one, alone, is worth much praise! Adam can breathe on his own, see, hear, talk (quietly), move in his wheelchair, problem solve (more on that at dinner), thumb wrestle with both hands at the same time, nearly walk, and so much more. Praise God for providing Adam with a loyal, dedicated, loving wife. God has used Amy as part of His healing process. I don't believe that Adam would be where he is, right now, without Amy.

Thank and praise God for other answers to prayer in your life.

We'll re-convene at dinner time.

Breakfast: God was There

Matthew 18:19-20

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

I am certain that there have been more than two or three of us gathering each Wednesday to fast and pray for Adam's healing. The great news is that God has been there with us! Thanks be to God! When I think back over the past 10 months, I see God's hands all over Adam's recovery. For sure, Adam has a long road ahead to complete restoration, but God has been there through the journey. It is no accident. Many of us have been gathering in agreement to ask for his healing.

I spent four days with Adam during this past week. As I think about the time I spent there, tears are rolling down my face. I remember hearing the verdict in the days and weeks following his accident that Adam would never talk and never walk. Hanging on the wall in Adam's room is a poster that states in bold letters, "Don't deny the diagnosis, defy the verdict!" I would add, "With the help of Jesus!"

Adam is talking, we just can't hear him very well. Pray that his vocal cords will continue to gain strength. I was there to see him provide one-word answers to questions, as well as multi-sentence replies. All we need to ask for is some volume to his voice.

Adam is not walking, at least not on his own power. But, he is oh-so-close to doing so. He is walking with the aid of his walker, or with the assistance of his therapists. One day, last week, he literally started climbing up his walker. Adam's therapist smiled as she stated, "Adam, you are very feisty, today. We like that!" Pray that God would provide Adam with a little more balance and strength so that he can walk on his own.

Because of Adam's injury, his right side is his weaker side. I watched Adam eat macaroni and cheese with his right hand, at lunch last Friday. It wasn't easy, but he did it! Pray that it would get easier for Adam to feed himself.

I will share some more evidence of God's work in Adam in subsequent posts, today. For now, include the three, underlined requests (above) in your prayers. And, praise our Lord for all of the progress that Adam has made. God was there.



Let us not forget to pray also for the people of Japan. The following is from the Japan Prayer Network...

Prayer & Aid for Earthquake Victims

Here is a link to several organizations that are providing various types of relief and aid to the earthquake and tsunami victims in northeastern Japan. Network for Good. In addition to material needs, Japan stands in need of prayer for spiritual and emotional healing as well. Here is another link to an online map of Japan. You can easily find Sendai City and Fukushima Prefecture on the upper right side of the map. Thanks for praying. God bless you richly!

Eve of Fasting: Power in Numbers

Eve of Fasting: Power in Numbers
Acts 4:31

After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

Tonight, I write with a renewed sense of urgency. Two things happened during the past week that have heightened the importance of us coming together in fasting and prayer for Adam.

First, I read the fourth chapter of Acts. I found it quite inspiring. Peter and John had been imprisoned for speaking about Jesus. They were offered released, with the provision that they quit talking about Jesus. But the two men could not stop. After they went back to their own people, and told them everything that had happened, they all raised their voices in prayer to God. The verse above describes what happened after they had prayed. The place shook, they were filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke boldly about God.

Reading this passage made me realize how important it is that we band together in prayer. Big things happen when believers pray together!

Second, Jack (Adam's Dad) and I spent four days with Adam, Amy, and Mackenzie at Spaulding Rehab Hospital in Boston. You will hear more about my visit, tomorrow. This evening, however, let me simply say that there are many reasons for us to rejoice together! At the same time, there is still more that needs to be done. Adam, Amy, and their families need our prayers.

We began the Lenten season, last Wednesday. I encourage you to observe Lent with a day of fasting and prayer. Wednesdays are great days for that. Praying for Adam is a great purpose! Tomrrow would also be a great opportunity to pray for the people of Japan. Together, we can raise our voices and shout to the Lord..



Mark 9:29

He replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer.”

That was Jesus speaking in the verse above. His disciples were not able to drive an evil spirit out of a boy. Finally, Jesus drove the spirit out. When the disciples asked Him why they could not drive it out, Jesus replied with, “This kind can come out only by prayer.” This particular miracle was more difficult than some other healings they had performed. Jesus' instruction was simple — when faced with a very difficult obstacle, prayer is required.

Adam's recovery has been, and will continue to be difficult. We know the remedy...prayer!

See you in the morning at breakfast!

Evening: Are You Ordinary?

Spending over four hours on a plane was such a blessing, today. Life has been quite hectic over the past month. So much so that the busy-ness was creeping into our united day of prayer and fasting. On a plane, one is removed from the distractions, so I got to spend more time with God.

During our flight, I spent some time reading Experiency God, by Henry Blackaby. If you are a Christian (Blackaby states up front that this book is for believers), and have never read it, make it your next book. I am only to the fifth chapter, and have already found it to be re-shaping all my thoughts about “doing God's will.” I am excited about how God's work in my life will exceed all my plans and dreams!

This evening's prayer appears at the end of Chapter 4 in Blackaby's book. If it sounds challenging, it is. If you feel uncomfortable saying the words, you're only human. I have the advantage of having just read the chapter preceding the prayer. Having read it, I might have a slightly different understanding of such bold requests, but they are still daunting to me. That's why I need God more than ever.

Prayer

    God, I want to be your servant.
    I know that I can do nothing on my own.
    I know that I cannot achieve the success that You call me to achieve.
    I depend entirely on You to do Your work through me.
    I know that You can do anything You choose to do.
    I give myself completely to You.
    Work through me anyway You want to work.
    Show me where You are at work and include me in that work.
    I will not question Your call.
    I will do any work You show me to do wherever that work is.
    Lord, accept the worship and dedication of Your servant today.
    Amen.

I have spent my entire life questioning God. It is time to quit questioning and begin doing. Easy to say, difficult to do. Yet, with God, all things are possible. How I cling to those words, tonight. It is easier for me to believe that Adam will be restored than it is for me to believe that I can live up to the words of this prayer. Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief!

Blackaby does a wonderful job showing how God does extraordinary works through ordinary people. How does this happen? It occurs when we pray the prayer above.

Tonight's post may be a bit different. But, tonight is a different night. After nine months of praying for Adam, I am here with him.

Work through me Lord...anyway You want.

Dinner: Nothing's Terminal

Matthew 10:1

Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.



In the video above, Shawn points out that suffering is not part of the natural order. Nothing we suffer from is ultimately terminal. That truth provides me with hope and peace. It provides me with comfort, especially this evening as I arrive in Boston.

Prayer Requests from Amy

• Please keep praying that Adam will have the strength to keep working on using his voice while trying to speak.

• Offer praise offerings for all that God has done in Adam's healing.

I ask that you would pray for Adam to talk with his Dad over the next four days. Pray that God would provide Jack with encouragement while he is visiting Adam in Boston.

Lunch: God is Amazing

I am flying across the country, from Portland to Boston. Although uncertain what the next few days will bring, I cannot help but praise God that this trip is happening. Last May 15h, I was out mowing the lawn in my back yard. Gretchen walked out, visibly upset, to bring me the news about Adam's accident. Although short on details, the message was clear — Adam might not survive.

Two days later, I was riding the train to work, when I felt God instructing me to organize a "day" of fasting and prayer for Adam. Of course, that "day" has turned into many days. Even though Adam has a long way to go to be fully restored, God's answer to prayer has been amazing.

    You’re amazing
    You’re amazing, You are
    And we praise you, Lord
    For what Your hands have done
    You’re amazing
    You’re amazing, You are
    ~In the Hands of God, Newsboys



Joshua 3:5

Joshua told the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you.”

Pray

I pray that God will do amazing things, tomorrow. I pray that both Amy and Jack would be blessed with progress in Adam's recovery, and that God would be honored and praised as a result.

Let's pray together, again, at dinner time.

Breakfast: Enjoy Today

I am off to the airport, this morning. Last night, I wrote that I was anxious. But, I cannot worry about the future. I need to simply live in the moment. Today, I want to enjoy the trip. Enjoy spending time with Jack (Adam's Dad). Enjoy some time reading. Enjoy prayer time.

On Saturday, I got to meet Cale and Kathleen. Gretchen, Gabriella (niece), and I played cards with Cale while Kathleen attended a seminar. One thing was very obvious to me — we all have to live one day at a time. Saturday, we got to play and laugh with Cale. He has come a long way, yet Kathleen and he have a long journey ahead of them. There is only one way to travel that journey — one day at a time.

    You told me not to worry
    About what lies ahead
    So I am gonna focus on today instead
    Making every moment count and counting
    Every single blessing
    ~Live For Today, Natalie Grant



Now, I am on my way to visit Adam — living for today.

Luke 12:24-26

Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?

Pray

    • That Adam's muscles would relax

    • That Adam will continue making progress in his ability to walk

    • Repent. Today is Ash Wednesday (read more).

I will post again, at lunch time.

Eve of Fasting: Boston Bound

Visiting Adam This Week

This is a special week for me. Tomorrow, I will be spending a good part of the day traveling to Boston, Adam's father, Jack, invited me to travel with him to visit Adam. So, Wednesday will be unlike any Wednesday that I have experienced since Adam's accident last May.

I don't know what to expect to experience over the next five days. I have told people that I have prayed for Adam more than anybody else — ever. Yet, here I am, feeling anxious about going to see him. Why? I am human. It is not a good time to leave my business. I really don't like long flights. I feel like I may be intruding.

Actually seeing Adam face-to-face is the part I am looking forward to. After all these months of praying for him, I would like to pray with him.

Anyway, I will be in in air, tomorrow. Although out of my routine, there will be ample time to pray. And, tomorrow is Ash Wednesday (read more about Ash Wednesday), which is a special day in my faith life. I am sad that I will miss the service at our church, but am thankful that I will plenty of time to pray.

Philippians 4:6

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Evening: Share in the Inheritance!

Colossians 1:10-12

    ...all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.

Wow, imagine learning about an inheritance of money that you neither expected, nor deserved. How much greater the kingdom of God! And, we certainly don't deserve that!

Throughout my life, and especially since last May, I have clung to promises like this from the Bible. I get a share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. So do you. So does Adam. With this truth in mind, there is so much hope.

I cannot imagine the pain that those close to Adam have felt during the past nine months. Yet, I need to look no further than Amy's blog to see how one can hurt, yet still share in the inheritance. All believers understand that there will be a day with no more tears.

    There will be a day with no more tears
    No more pain, and no more fears
    There will be a day when the burdens of this place
    Will be no more, we'll see Jesus face to face
    ~There Will be a Day, Jeremy Camp



Oh, how I look forward to that day when we see Jesus face to face. While I am waiting, I will continue to pray for Adam's full recovery. I encourage you to do the same.

Good night, and God bless.

Dinner: Be Thankful!

Colossians 2:6-8

    So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

    See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.

Overflowing with thankfulness? I must confess that I don't always feel that way. In fact, there are many times that I don't. When do I? When I worship God. I am most likely to worship God with music. That is why I always play these music videos. They move me to worship God. They also keep me focussed on my faith, rather than deceptive philosophy.



Pray

Offer up thanks and praise to God during our dinner-time prayer. As you praise God for the blessings in your life, you will contine to think of more blessings to be thankful for. Don't forget to thank God for all of the progress that Adam has made over the past couple months. And, thank God that Adam has such a devoted wife.

We'll get back together one more time, this evening.

Lunch: Set Your Minds on Things Above

Colossians 3:2-4

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

When I read these verses, I think of those times when I am really ill. I long for the day when I am well. When that day comes, it feels so good. The feeling of good health is so welcome.

Likewise, life on earth is full of pain, suffering, stress, broken relationships, and other suffering. Yet, we can look forward to that day when we are united with Jesus. From our view (of being ill), appearing with Christ in glory is indescribable.



Pray:

    That Adam's ability to walk would continue to improve.

    That Adam would realize enjoyment from playing games on the Wii.

    For Adam's and Amy's marriage.

Meet you at dinner time.

Breakfast: These Things Take Time

    I want to know why pain makes me stronger
    I want to know why good men die
    ~These Things Take Time, Sanctus Real



I am encouraged. I am hopeful. I am optimistic. I am placing my faith in God.

Maybe you are more skeptical or wrestling with doubt. It is only human to doubt. If so, you are not alone. As Sanctus Real sings in the song above:

    And tell me, is it easier to doubt or harder to believe?
    Oh, there's so many questions stirring in me.

We all have questions stirring in us. That's alright. Jesus understands, and He wants to help us overcome our doubts. Thomas is an often referred to doubter that Jesus did not condemn.

John 20:24-29

     Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!”

    But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”

    A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”

    Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

    Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Jesus encouraged "Doubting Thomas" to see for himself that Jesus truly had risen from the dead. Jesus was not angry with Thomas. If you are doubting, there is no need to feel guilty. There is no need for self condemnation. Just ask Jesus to ease your doubt.

With regard to Adam, we have already seen healing miracles. Many of us (including me), have become impatient at times. Some, have been impatient throughout Adam's recovery. Like Sanctus Real tells us in this morning's song, these things do take time.

Pray

    • For patience

    • For our doubt to be removed

    • Praise God for Adam speaking on the phone (Never Give Up Praying)

    • Pray for Adam's eyesight (especially on right side)

    • Pray for Adam to continue to gain strength to walk on his own

Meet you at lunch time.

Eve of Fasting: Prayer

Colossians 4:2

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Simple instructions. Not easy, but simple.

Devoting myself to prayer is an ongoing battle. It is so easy to not pray. It is easy to not be watchful. It is easier to complain than it is to be thankful. Why? I wish there was an easy answer. I guess there is — we are all sinners and Satan wants to make it easy for us to not do these things. He goes the easy route. Satan does not challenge us to renounce our faith. He simply provides us with distractions that prevent us from following God's will for our lives.

We all need to keep encouraging each other, just as Amy did in her Saturday post, Never Give Up Praying. Of course, this is one of many of her exhortations to keep praying for Adam. Just as she urges us to pray, so we need to the same for her.

This evening, pray that Amy would continue devoting herself to prayer. This evening, take five minutes to watch this video.

Prayer from Ruel O. Calitis on Vimeo.

I look forward to praying with you in the morning, and throughout the day on Wednesday.