September 11- We Will Not Forget!

A very somber day of remembrance. We spent the early part of this day explaining the meaning of 9/11 to our three children born since that fateful day. Hannah had many questions, Grace kept hugging me as I silently wept while we replayed news video from 2001 and James just kept saying "me see it!" It is amazing how raw my emotions were as if it was happening all over again. May it never happen again!!! Let's not forget; we need to tell our children the importance of the second day of infamy for these United States of America.

As for Bryan, he is weak and tired. Last Tuesday, he had developed an infection at the biliary drain site. It was cultured and he began antibiotics. The culture came back negative so Dr. Chen had it re-cultured this Tuesday because there was still active infection after a week of medication. Today, we learned the culture was positive and the particular bacteria is resistant to the antibiotics he has been taking so we are switching to another one. Hopefully, the new antibiotic doesn't have low blood pressure as a side effect. He has been battling hypotension all week; blacking out almost every time he stands up. We try to go very slowly to change positions, but sometimes that doesn't even help. I hope defeating the infection will give him strength once again. He continues to endure the hiccups; often robbing him of sleep at night, but they do seem to be less frequent for which we are thankful.

He asked me to share a devotion we read from Streams in the Desert this afternoon. It was very encouraging to us.

And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. Hebrews 6:15

Abraham was long tried, but he was richly rewarded. The Lord tried him by delaying to fulfill his promise. Satan tried him by temptation; men tried him by jealousy, distrust, and opposition; Sarah tried him by her peevishness. But he patiently endured. He did not question God's veracity, nor limit His power, nor doubt His faithfulness, nor grieve His love; but he bowed to divine sovereignty, submitted to infinite wisdom, and was silent under delays, waiting the Lord's time. And so, having patiently endured, he obtained the promise.

God's promises cannot fail of their accomplishment. Patient waiters cannot be disappointed. Believing expectation shall be realized.

Beloved, Abraham's conduct condemns a hasty spirit, reproves a murmuring one, commends a patient one, and encourages quiet submission to God's will and way. Remember, Abraham was tried; he patiently waited; he received the promise. and was satisfied. Imitate his example, and you will share the same blessing.

Patiently waiting for God's promises,

Susan