I thank my God...

...every time I remember you. (Philippians 1:3)

Dear Friends,

There are times in my life when I can look back and clearly see God's hand at work.  This past week was one of those times.

I told you last week that I would be going to Kansas to see my Daddy.  So many of you shared sweet encouragement and told me that you would be praying.  And I want to thank you!

It was exactly what I expected it to be.  I was prepared in many ways.  In others, I was completely caught off guard.  It was heart wrenching and beautiful all at the same time.

Seeing my Daddy in a wheel chair- my strong, tall Daddy!- was tough.  Seeing how restless he gets, how he stumbles over words and is unable to finish thoughts- it seems impossible.  My Daddy who preached every Sunday for 37 years- the man who was always eloquent in his speech- it is heart breaking.

But your prayers were with me.  As I poured out my heart to my husband on the phone, he reminded me that I must open my heart to how I need to honor my parents now.  I could feel all of your prayers wrapping around me.  Reminding me through my husband's words to only seek to glorify God.  This situation is not about me!  It is not about my sorrow or my comfort or even my opinions.

It is about honoring my parents and honoring God.  Oh, this changed everything for me.  We can't hold onto our own expectations when we are truly trusting God and seeking to give all glory to Him.

And so, I want to tell you, dear friends, that your prayers were powerful and effective (James 5:16).

It is why I thank my God for you.  Your encouragement to me means more than you will ever know.

Much love,
Becky