The Shadow of the Fall

"We live in the shadow of the Fall. But the Cross says these are all places where grace is soon to be so amazing. They may be unfulfilled. They may be unrestored. But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord, just watch and see it will not be unredeemed."
  We sit in a hospital full of brokenness. Lives suffering with pain, disease, injustice, fear, and hopelessness. On our floor we can here little ones crying, equipment being pushed in and out of rooms to help bring life, and tears. Why do children have to suffer? How can parents leave their little ones for days by themselves in the hospital? How do I reassure my 2 year old son  when he looks at me with his big blue, scared eyes that I didn't bring him here to harm him but to help him? The walls of this place close in on you. The cafeteria food gets old. And there are only so many shows on tv that can engage you. If I sat in this heaviness and brokenness I would go under. I would not be able to break free from all the evidence that we live in a fallen, sinful world. So I don't. I call a friend. I listen to music. I take a walk with Andrew in a wagon. I laugh with my girls on the phone. I even organize my food collection (my drug of choice as many of you know-organization). I feel a little lighter. I remember this journey may be trying, but I have One that has gone before me. I have a God who holds all these days in His hands and has plans to redeem His people from darkness. He loves me and He loves Andrew. There are times I think how could He let this happen to my baby, but I am reminded of all the ways He's spared him-his MRI was clear. His bone marrow was clear. His bone scan was clear and we have a chance to reduce treatment. True miracles. I hate that Andrew has cancer. I hate that I can't be at home doing my normal things with my precious family. However, I see miracles happen. Some say what miracles....he is not healed. The miracles of friendship, meals for our family, service beyond our imagination. The miracle of grandparents that are retired that dropped everything to come up here to love on our kids and provide as much normal for them that is possible. The miracle of marriage between Rick and I that has confirmed that I couldn't have married a more amazing, selfless man. The miracles of doctors, nurses, and staff that love my little boy well. The miracles of technology, research, and medical advances that will save Andrew's life. And the miracle that my heart can sit in the midst of this horribly, scary hurricane and hope. I hope in the God of the universe who not only made the heavens and the earth, but also knows every hair that has or will fall from my little one's head.  He is still in control of every detail, redeeming his Creation. It may seem crazy, but it is true. I thank you all once again for walking with us. You, each and every one of you, are a miracle from God. Your prayers MATTER. They are making a difference in the test results, in our attitudes, and in our ability to make it one more day. Thank you and please don't stop.
 We ask your prayers now for Andrew as he begins his chemo treatment tomorrow. He will start around noon and be on and off for about 3 days. We are hoping he will be healthy enough to come home on Saturday.Please pray for the side effects of the chemo, his sickness, his little spirit, and our endurance through this round. We also ask that you would begin praying for his time at home. We want that time to be normal and comfortable, but also a place free of germs and reasons for him to be sick. We want to be home as much as possible and if he spikes the slightest fever, we are back in the hospital. Thank you for your love and support. We will keep you updated!