Sunday, December 30, 2007

We've arrived in Philly

One more day to attest to God's faithfulness. We enjoyed sweet fellowship and a time of prayer for Christen this morning at church, as well as encouraging words from the sermon and our many dear friends there. After a mini whirlwind of grabbing lunch (leftovers from the dinner that Dawn brought us yesterday), getting packed and out of the house, we were on our way (Steve, Debbie, Christen and one of Christen's friends, Ruth) to Children's Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. Christen and Ruth joined the youth group's teaching time via cell phone on the way up 95 after watching a movie on the portable DVD player. Louie's GPS was great and guided us to the right place. What a world...!

We've arrived and are staying at the Ronald McDonald House here. Very nice and accommodating. The girls are upstairs in our room and we are downstairs in the kitchen with our stuff spread out needing to do some reading, etc. in prep for tomorrow's consult. It's been a real gift to have Ruth along--thanks for letting her come. Also, this wireless card is very appreciated Pat! --our only access here to the internet. Many thanks also to those caring for our other dear children.

BTW, if you want to e-mail us while we are here, use Steve's work address (slunsford@harttech.com)---maybe through Wed?

Your prayers have been felt. We've been carried through one more day. Each day is a gift. God was with us today; He'll be with us tomorrow. Pray for wisdom in choosing the right doctor and facility. Also, for clear minds to take in all that the doctor says and to ask the right questions--we're a bit tired. Our dear friend Patty plans to make her way here early tomorrow morning (3 and 1/2+ hours drive) to record for us what the doctor says so that we won't miss anything! What an angel!!!

But if we are the Body
Why aren't His arms reaching
Why aren't His hands healing
Why aren't His words teaching
And if we are the Body
Why aren't His feet going
Why is His love not showing them there is a way
There is a way
(chorus lyrics from Casting Crowns song, "If We Are
the Body")

Many thanks to all. You are the Body, and you ARE reaching, healing, teaching, going and showing. You are awesome! God is awesome!

Because He lives.
Debbie, for Steve and family



8 comments:

Murphy Family said...

Praise the Lord - prayers already answered. You are loved and prayed for.

Do not fear,for I will be with you, I have called you by name, you are Mine!

Melanie Johnson said...

i'm so glad all of you made it there safely! i'll be praying for all of you this week! love you Christen =D

Murphy Family said...

One more thing:
Psalm 61:1-4: Hear my cry, O God,
listen to my prayer;
from the end of the earth I call to you
when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock
that is higher than I,
for you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the enemy.
Let me dwell in your tent forever!

Gayle said...

Amen! God is working through His body! We are praising God with you! In 2 Chronicles 20 when Jehoshophat saw the vast armies coming against him, the scripture says he feared, and set himself to seek the Lord. You, also, have set yourselves to seek Him and our great God will prove Himself worthy of that trust! I love verse 12b, "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon Thee." Praying that you all will feel our prayers lifting your arms to praise Him, the author and creator of our faith!

Jennifer said...

Praise the Lord for a safe trip up there! I was so happy to read that Ruth has joined you for the journey! God is so very good! Praying for your appointment.
Jennifer Wellington

elmira said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
elmira said...

greetings! i don't know how the whole process works but i sincerely hope that christen is well (aside from this tumor ordeal). i'm praying every day (but sometimes i ask Him if i'm praying for the right thing here?) anyway, may God bless you on this inscrutable journey! of course we are here with and for you all spiritually :]

Tom & Sue said...

Dear Steve, Debbie, Christen, and family, we are praying for you all. We love you very much. I pray for God's healing hand and calm during this hard time. May God give you peace of mind that he is in control, and he loves you all. All our love, Uncle Tom and Aunt
Sue and Mike, Bridgette, Jenny and our grandchildren. I wish we could be there to help, we will be praying and trusting God to guild the doctors, and give them wisdom. All things are possible with God.