Monday, October 27, 2008

THIS IS WHAT HEROES ARE MADE OF


I have been trying to write this note all morning. I am just not sure where to start. This is a heartache I have never come close to feeling before but I have never been carried by God this way before. I have never been so downcast in my soul before, but God has never reached so deep to bring me up. I have never argued with God like this before or never not understood His ways like this before but I have never had God speak and minister to me like this before. I say this to you guys to say that I have never been so devastated and I have never been so lifted up. Right now I have no understanding of Gods ways, at least in this picture but He has poured His infinite faith into me so that I don't need to know why. I want everyone to know that I am not in a good place because I have not had anger and questions, but I am a good place because of the faithfulness of our God. My sister, Cheryl just sent an email expressing that Melanie and Austan are her heroes. Melanie and Austan are our heroes not because they haven't had true human emotions but they are our heroes because they have had those emotions and yet don't stay there. I have watched Melanie acknowledge her anger, her excruciating pain, her questions and yet she soars, she soars with Christ. In the midst of her feeling very down, I still have to look up to see her because she is being held by Christ. Mel and Austan are our heroes because Christ is their God. Indeed they "would have despaired unless they believed that they would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living"(Psalm 27:13). Some of that "goodness of the Lord" is that I was blessed to do my quiet time with Witt this morning! He held my finger in his tiny hand while God spoke. My quiet times are changed for ever. Thank you all again for the emails, phone calls, encouragement...they are priceless to me.
-Karen

9 comments:

trash talk said...

Karen-I want so badly to say the right thing and words just escape me. Know that there are those of us who care so deeply, who want to help in whatever way we can and will do whatever you ask of us. My prayers and thoughts are sent your way and I truly hope you and yours can feel them. Debbie

Natalie said...

Lifting up the whole family daily and rejoicing with you that you've had 5 amazing days with precious Witt!
-Natalie

Raley Family Blog said...

To my sweet family, it is amazing to see how God uses every situation in our lives and our families lives for His glory. I praise God for Witt and for the love that he has brought into this family. I praise God for allowing me to be apart of a family that loves Christ. That allows Christ to be our Rock and our Refuge. Wishing I was there to hug each of you. Know that I love you all and am continuing to pray for Witt, Austan, Mel and everyone else. Praise God for his 5th day "birthday"! Love, Alicia

Mindy said...

Debbie (Talking Trash) requested prayers this morning in her blog and I feel so blessed to have been asked. I am so touched to see your perspective. To know that your faith is strong and that you know Who is in charge. What a gift you have in Witt, your family and God. Prayers are being sent for you and yours. ~Mindy

milillo fam said...

Seeing the incredible faith that it takes to just exist in that hospital right now instead of lose yourselves was truly overwhelming for me to see. The emotion of it all hit me after I got home Saturday night. My heart literally ached for Mel and Austan. When Mel and I met at the dorky age of 11, I never saw this in our future. It is my joy to get to bear this load with her. I love that precious baby boy! Praise God for the five amazing days He's given you with him (and with Him)! I love you all so very much and am hurting and rejoicing as you do.

Garden Antqs Vintage said...

Karen, Melanie, Cheryl, and the family: I just wanted you to know that I will be praying for Witt. I've also added a post requesting prayer. I'm so sorry you are going through this and please know you are in my thoughts.

kristin fulghum said...

these verses made me think of y'all and precious witt.

"the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul, 'therefore I will hope in Him.'" Lamentations 3:22-24

praying!

Sandy Brown said...

I believe I have just seen the greatest picture of God's love ever. So many times I find myself thanking God for carring us in the palm of His hands or just allowing us to hold the tip of His finger. I never thought I would ever "see" that prayer. Thank you Witt for reminding me that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is faithful and just and His love endures forever. Witt, you are loved by so many and have touched the lives of many. You are a gift from God!

Gayle said...

I love all the pictures of Witt and the rest of the gang, but this picture truly touched my heart in a special way. So much love right there--All I can picture is our Father's love for each of us. He always has His arm outstretched, His hand opened wide to receive us. The touch of His finger is all we need to feel that infinite love He has for us. In Him we live and move and have our being. He is our creator, our caregiver,our healer, our precious Father.He has known us since we were wonderfully made by Him in our mother's womb.In Him, we find rest, peace, and strength. He loves us so much. Who could ask for anything more!
I love you all so much. I especially love the newest addition to our family. He is so beautiful and such a fighter. God has truly blessed us all. Melanie and Austan, my heart melts seeing you two with your son. Lean on the Lord for strength and rest. You are on a journey that few of us have walked, but God has walked it ahead of you. He'll carry you on this path when you need it. In your walk, we all are witnessing the power of our Lord! His will is perfect! May all of you find rest and comfort in GOd! We are all praying for you.
Love you,
Gayle and Bobby