My prayer for today

I started "Living Beyond Yourself" by Beth Moore today FOR THE 3RD TIME(edited to add: I have not yet completed the study...the key here is that I have STARTED it 3 times now). God has already spoken to me on DAY ONE through this study in a new and fresh way (FOR THE 3RD TIME). In a worldly sense, this week is possibly the worst ever, with Gerald's funeral just behind us and the 2nd anniversary of Ruby's death looming before us. Yet somehow it is already one of the most precious of my life. Experiencing God's faithfulness after losing Ruby, I am waiting in almost eager anticipation of what God will do now through yet another trial.

Lest it appear that I "have it together" in any way, shape or form, I'll confess that my baby is screaming in his bed and I am ignoring him to blog. Jack may or may not be eating ham straight out of the refrigerator. I just had to share the conversation (initiated through the homework from the Bible study) I had with God a few minutes ago...please read the link. I am amazed and thankful that He speaks so clearly, even through this here internet.

Lord,
Alter me from the inside out. Manifest the character of Jesus genuinely in my everyday life.
Melanie

Melanie,
I AM. Here's what I ask of you:
1. Be honest.
2. Dig deep.
3. Get serious.
4. Try harder.
5. Fall apart so I can piece you back together.
God

from Jared

My dad went to rest with the Lord this morning. God blessed me and mom to spend last night with him and to be with him, holding his hands, as he died. He is my only hero. I pray the Lord helps me become half the father he has been.

Your prayers and concern have helped me and mom so much. "So much" isn't enough, but that's all I have for now. God bless you all for how you carry our burdens.

Your brother in Christ Jesus,

Jared

Wednesday AM

Gerald had to be taken to ICU last night and will stay again today, but hopes to be back in a regular room tomorrow. He was supposed to be transitioning home today, but it looks like that won't happen for a few more days, at least. Thanks for your continued prayers.