Strength In Weakness

I had the privilege of accompanying my parents to a procedure to drain fluid from dad’s pleural cavity.  My sister, Mollie, graciously watched all 10 of our collective kids. Mom, in an act of selflessness to which she is not a stranger, stepped aside to allow me the opportunity to serve and love my dad.  What a blessing to be able to hold Dad’s hand and minister to his other physical needs as waves of nausea assaulted him causing him to aspirate substances that should remain foreign to his airways.  My position for the last 10 years as a mom helped to prepare me for this.  What a comfort to know our heavenly father is even now preparing us for his future use.  When the procedure was complete the doctor had drained 1 1/2 liters of fluid from the space under Dad’s lung.   

Mom and Dad’s pastor came to pray with them.  It was exciting to hear Dad tell him that his experience with cancer has been a spiritual education.  For the first time in his life he can tangibly feel people praying for him.  Having just experienced this for the first time when Merritt swallowed the penny, I couldn’t help smiling.  When I am weak He is strong.  If we will listen he continues to reveal himself even when we are ever nearer to seeing him face to face.

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee:  for my strength is made perfect in weakness.  Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Therefore i take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake:  for when I am weak , then am I strong.

II Corinthians 12: 9-10

Chaplain Capt. Andrew and Mollie ministering to Dad.