tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-132327472024-03-13T23:26:59.832-07:00gMatthew g Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02836661792418798168noreply@blogger.comBlogger236125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-9772169345482722822022-12-12T12:25:00.004-08:002022-12-12T17:18:10.841-08:00And Another ThingI often ponder the friends of Job. In my vocation, I attempted to emulate them with every patient and family I encountered; when it comes to my friends, I strive even more to do the same. Those who know me automatically think of the bad example they laid forth and, perhaps, thought “Why yes, Matt does struggle to keep his trap shut.” I wish I could disagree, but this happens naturally for me, so there is little effort required for me to emulate Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. No, the piece I attempt to echo is to sit in the ashes and not say a word. But what got Job’s friends to him to begin with? When Job’s life digressed to misery, and each friend heard about “the next thing” that happened, what could possibly go through their mind?<br /><div style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">“Job lost one third of his wealth!”<br />That sucks! I’m sure he can rebuild.<br />“Job lost another third of his wealth!”<br />We should form a business partnership that will help him.<br />“Job lost the last third of his wealth!”<br />We will start a meal train and find Job a job.<br />“Job’s children all died!”<br />Holy $#*+! That guy cannot get a break!<br />And so his friends went to sit with him because his life was horrible.<br /></div> <br />Sometimes, I feel like Job. Often, I feel like Job. I feel like Job.<br /> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapfKyPcExV1zFZdSqDGN5IvleAkBNjIUtEDJMn2P1fZ37VC1WvYA1Y7US8aaLeSUuw47ux2VUENh19y4m-y7C-h01sznFwWkjjd-vzhjGmjFPJ7CVstp4qVfWw_tIAX63FYUG0ueBjVmOu5TV84NYgrAJ1HeUtCNTJ1ZgkjQoEUXHSoAmGhY/s2048/IMG_3213.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapfKyPcExV1zFZdSqDGN5IvleAkBNjIUtEDJMn2P1fZ37VC1WvYA1Y7US8aaLeSUuw47ux2VUENh19y4m-y7C-h01sznFwWkjjd-vzhjGmjFPJ7CVstp4qVfWw_tIAX63FYUG0ueBjVmOu5TV84NYgrAJ1HeUtCNTJ1ZgkjQoEUXHSoAmGhY/s320/IMG_3213.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><p>Kate has been sick for eleven years. Eleven years of blood draws, EKGs, PFTs, blood thinners, medicine, not that medicine, this medicine, chemo drugs, etc. And that is just to treat her. She has cold digits, sores on her toes, stomach aches, heartburn, and moodiness. That last one might be associated with her age. She has endured more than most people I know, but most people cannot tell. Like her mama, Kate is strong and keeps things to herself, sets her jaw and shows us (and the rest of this world) that she will get through what scleroderma throws at her. She has her next Children’s appointment on the 21st. With each appointment, the underlying fear tends to rise from the depths of “ignore it and it goes away-dom.” This time around, she will undergo a swallow study to see if this damn disease has reached her esophagus or if it is stress and anxiety taking its toll. Please pray for her, pray for us, and pray for her care team.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Tghw-RNv3Q_xSHSConDdhsKGlyugKuVjERSzQOqmD89di2nZj4znj0n0mnbfTOyraTFFcUXsdufKZt5mDrbTJe_neZ1Lj6p52WyK73SEMN8zVe1YWuY9eXraanF6Tb2f3cWNVbAz4uTgPVU95o-_HzSh7r4nNWN9UyRr0r22_wda2PP45vY/s3088/IMG_0332.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Tghw-RNv3Q_xSHSConDdhsKGlyugKuVjERSzQOqmD89di2nZj4znj0n0mnbfTOyraTFFcUXsdufKZt5mDrbTJe_neZ1Lj6p52WyK73SEMN8zVe1YWuY9eXraanF6Tb2f3cWNVbAz4uTgPVU95o-_HzSh7r4nNWN9UyRr0r22_wda2PP45vY/s320/IMG_0332.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Becky has been sick for nine years. She readily endures blood draws, this infusion, that infusion, insurance denials, CT scans, injections, MRIs, and daily medications. Again, this is only to treat her ankylosing spondylitis. Daily, she has cold digits, left foot swelling, torn hip labrums, sore hips and lower back not from the torn hip labrums, brain fog, fatigue, and a ridiculously verbose husband. Her canonization should be complete next year. This is where Kate gets it, because Becky does not show how she is actually doing. Most recently, she has sought help for her hips and lower back and her appointment last week was not hopeful. She might not have any medical options, she might just hurt the rest of her life. Becky is discouraged, afraid this is in her head and she is weak, and grieving the loss of the life we dreamt of as dumb 21 year old newlyweds.<br /> <p></p><p>Even these last two paragraphs only tell some of the story. I just feel like it is too much to relay the physical and emotional strife we are going through with Kate and Becky’s health. It is too much and what was looking up has degraded. Am I whining? I feel like I’m whining. I hate that, I fought hard to not be a whiner, though I know I still whine.<br /> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAWu3zmlGewVZT3sST2ZkS8SBtdhKEadUuFU1K7jTOP3O4an0ARC9fCRBBgetrozzuBN2m-eolPyBe6xl1b4NGg_tVl_Gh8UpgJfosPljRQ2p5jwR9NnEqlPTtFKUyQs6Hx66QLVnab-FW2JgW1BS29fN3wpXI2-663xzoGdcQnAd-pNLnWxE/s1800/7AF64DF7-CDD4-4970-872F-DB125351B21C.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAWu3zmlGewVZT3sST2ZkS8SBtdhKEadUuFU1K7jTOP3O4an0ARC9fCRBBgetrozzuBN2m-eolPyBe6xl1b4NGg_tVl_Gh8UpgJfosPljRQ2p5jwR9NnEqlPTtFKUyQs6Hx66QLVnab-FW2JgW1BS29fN3wpXI2-663xzoGdcQnAd-pNLnWxE/s320/7AF64DF7-CDD4-4970-872F-DB125351B21C.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><br />We finally found a school Micah loves, where he thrives and connects. He cut off the world’s worst mullet last week. It is wonderful. But Micah is not doing well. His anxiety prevents him from family and friend relationships. It keeps us from relationships, Church, and even family. It is not good and I do not know what words describe its impact. Finding help in Spokane is near impossible, too. He needs a psychologist, hard to find. He needs a psychiatrist, even more difficult to find. And then he had a seizure. That was scary as hell. His EEG came back normal, he was anxious and has a family history of seizures, maybe just the one? Did you know you have to have a 504 plan to go back to school after a seizure? He had another last night. This time I didn’t catch him, as the goose egg, bruise, and scrape can attest: I couldn’t catch him. It was scary as hell, again. And his life is changed by it. He can’t get his license until 2.5 years after his last seizure. He is afraid of what else this is going to impact in his lifespan. We are afraid to leave him alone. We jump every time we hear a thump. We are treading in trepidation.<br /><p></p><p><br />You see? Just one more thing, and then another, and another. So much is so difficult right now. It is scary. It is overwhelming. It is lonely. We would give so much for a chance to just be whelmed. I feel like a burden, not put together, and weak from the second paragraph to now.What do I even say next? This proud family does not have much left on which to stand. We have jobs, praise the Lord. We have an amazing house, praise the Lord and thank you Ron Pyle. We can see the many many things we have to be grateful for. And there are many. But, right now, in this moment, the hard and the heavy feel like a little too much. We are longing to breathe deeply, but right now, we do not have enough breath in our lungs.<br /><br /></p><br />M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com3Washington, USA47.7510741 -120.740138615.522342425400751 -155.8963886 79.979805774599242 -85.5838886tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-191531936633363202019-08-06T10:54:00.003-07:002019-08-07T10:45:50.410-07:00August 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B6k0NM6PlFw/XUm-v0weRJI/AAAAAAAARnM/tlL1Gxk4rqkXA6J_cNlbuJjtzl550itcwCLcBGAs/s1600/502B8596-F295-4346-8E2B-8981ADEC03D8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B6k0NM6PlFw/XUm-v0weRJI/AAAAAAAARnM/tlL1Gxk4rqkXA6J_cNlbuJjtzl550itcwCLcBGAs/s320/502B8596-F295-4346-8E2B-8981ADEC03D8.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">50+ nights away from home, 25+ flights, 3 infusions, multiple blood draws and a few tears. This summer has been a challenge for our family. I started a new position supporting families through organ donation. The orientation and on-boarding process has kept me away from home and traveling from June through August. It has shown me that my wife is so strong, and my children still do not do their chores.</span></div>
<div class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">Kate’s last appointment was in July, and it showed us her scleroderma is not stopped, but is slowed. We were told some of what we chocked up to sun sensitivity is actually a rash from her scleroderma. Other issues are also potentially associated and enough for us to make sure we keep an eye on things. The added symptoms have done more to bring Kate to realize this is life long and ask questions that leave all of us in tears.</span></div>
<div class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">An added challenge for us, is that Becky’s health is not holding up. She has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, which is a degenerative, autoimmune arthritis. This diagnosis has been difficult to come by and has also not been easy. Becky has been through a couple of medications, and is currently getting infusions that take quite the toll on her. We had to make the tough decision to stop photographing weddings for the time being as a result. She wouldn’t dare give up the rest of the photography she does, however.</span></div>
<div class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #454545; font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span class="s1" style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 17pt;">This summer has worn us out, but we are so grateful for my completion of CPE and my new position. Becky has been asked to be an elder in our Church and Micah was able to go to Whitworth’s Camp Metamorphosis. Camp Spalding and friends have consumed Kate’s time. Through the challenges, the pain and medications, we are constantly amazed by the strength and compassion of our children. Now, if we could only get them to do their chores.</span></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-4160993914253313312016-10-25T18:34:00.001-07:002016-10-25T19:55:44.273-07:00One Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4iex-Kkqq4/WBAIHhpAnkI/AAAAAAAALFc/n3frzBdPsiwVRsIHMJMwlyXzlLcV4rYMACLcB/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-10-25%2Bat%2B6.15.08%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4iex-Kkqq4/WBAIHhpAnkI/AAAAAAAALFc/n3frzBdPsiwVRsIHMJMwlyXzlLcV4rYMACLcB/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-10-25%2Bat%2B6.15.08%2BPM.png" width="268" /></a></div>
<br />
It has been one year since we began giving Kate weekly injections of methotrexate in order to combat her scleroderma. One year of putting poison into her and praying it helps. Kate has proven to be stronger than I could have even imagined, going from screaming and crying the first shot to cracking jokes and even rolling her eyes at me, on occasion. The turning point was her first appointment after her shots began because her doctor said that there was no progression and the shots were helping. Praise the Lord, there has been no progression.<br />
<br />
One reason this update has taken so long to formulate is that the news has been good and we have therefore been operating on auto-pilot. It is difficult to explain the constant fear that exists with joy for each day nothing changes. Neither of us let ourselves dwell on what could be and each time we notice something, anything, our hearts stop with trepidation that this could be a new symptom or something worse. We can't think about these things, because we don't know what will happen. Specifically, Kate has Limited Systemic Scleroderma, realistically, a few of her knuckles are slightly shiny and she turns colors when she gets cold.<br />
<br />
In this last year, we have been so thankful for everyone who has helped and reached out to us. Driving down the road, I remember the team that came and helped us clean out our garage, the friends who mowed our lawn or the family who has bathed us in prayer. We could not have asked for better support system and we thank you so much for everything you have done and continue to do to support us.<br />
<br />
Moving forward, we simply pray this medicine continues to help and that each trip to Seattle Children's brings the news "no progression."M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-58402755184263431832016-01-24T12:51:00.002-08:002016-01-24T12:51:43.192-08:00Celebrating Small Victories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-xJNaPtx2k/VqU5GPHZ6fI/AAAAAAAAKM0/SlakzbA8jjI/s1600/2016-01-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-xJNaPtx2k/VqU5GPHZ6fI/AAAAAAAAKM0/SlakzbA8jjI/s400/2016-01-24.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It has been three months since Kate began her new medication, a shot of methotrexate every Friday, and we prayed she would be able to get used to the small needles by now. Unfortunately, her fear and anxiety only grew and grew, until Friday. For the first time, Kate did not cry when she got her shot. This journey has been very difficult for Kate as she initially accepted her scleroderma but has since gone into denial, saying the medicine is to help keep it from coming.<br />
<br />
This has shown us the difference in how both of our children have dealt with life. Micah, in his unique and Micah way, has struggled to handle his emotions and struggles with an pessimistic attitude. Kate has become emotional and overwhelmed easily. They are both struggling and we struggle to support each well. One has a more emotional response, the other more spiritual. Therefore, Kate's bravery and strength this past Friday was so great and has meant so much to us and we must celebrate this seemingly small thing.<br />
<br />
We also celebrate all of the friends who have come around us and Kate. She is truly a blessed girl who has been supported and loved. This support has helped draw her out of fears, though this is a consistent struggle for her and one we do not usually handle well since we are so scared ourselves. The photo above is of Kate and a number of her good friends at an NWCS cheer clinic yesterday. They are all so gloriously goofy and sweet. Thank you to everyone who has reached out to us and Kate, we truly appreciate you and you do not know the impact you have had on our lives.<br />
<br />
Right now, we ask for prayers as Kate and Becky are currently driving over the pass for Kate's next check up at Seattle Children's. This has been a point of anxiety for Kate in particular as the last two appointments have not gone well and each time she has added a new medication. She also has blood drawn each time and she still hates needles. We pray that nothing has progressed and there are no new treatments added. The appointment is at 2:30 on Tuesday, please pray for peace, comfort and nothing new.M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-29602867721467200682015-10-26T10:38:00.001-07:002015-10-26T10:39:30.604-07:00New Normal, An Update From Becky<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">We just wanted to share an update with you all on Kate. Matt and Kate headed over to Seattle this past week for an appointment at Seattle Children's. When we were there over the summer they started her on a new medication as the signs of Scleroderma were beginning to present. They did the gamut of testing and set us up to come quarterly for appointments.</span><br />
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
Thursday, Matt and Kate spent some time with the doctor. Poor little one got her blood drawn once again, a thing, if you know Kate, she despises and boy does she let people know about it. At least we know her lungs are healthy :) It seems there may be some progression in the disease in her fingers and so they decided to start her on yet another medication. It's a low dose of a medicine often used (in high doses) for chemo. However, it is supposedly a wonder drug that will help keep stiffness of her fingers at bay. Something she was worried about. Unfortunately, it means a shot we have to give her once a week. This girl is going to be so used to needles after this. Between this and needing to get her blood drawn every time she has an appointment now, she's going to be a pro!</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
We would love for prayer for our little one as she gets used to her new normal, shots and all. Also for peace and comfort for her. She's a smart little cookie and though Matt and I have promised to never lie to her, we also have promised never to saddle her with more than necessary. But she's perceptive and she's trying to process things. We would also ask for prayer for the family as a whole. This last appointment solidified it. Scleroderma is here. We are so blessed by her amazing doctors and even the research that's being done at Seattle Children's on this very thing. We are trying very hard to not let our minds wander to possibilities but simply what is right here right now in front of us and deal with only that.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
Thank you all for your love and support.</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
Blessings,</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px;">
Matt, Becky, Kate and Micah</div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-87595805717163996332015-10-12T10:47:00.002-07:002015-10-12T10:47:39.558-07:00Hope Seems Fleeting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/v/t1.0-9/11218615_735043685002_8866370407544368695_n.jpg?oh=e4bf58d1d9509697932fcb0a6cf8d178&oe=568C5176" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/v/t1.0-9/11218615_735043685002_8866370407544368695_n.jpg?oh=e4bf58d1d9509697932fcb0a6cf8d178&oe=568C5176" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In Core, we talk about how when someone asks "How are you doing?" they usually do not want to know the actual answer, they want to hear "Good" and to keep walking. For some people, they can't simply say good and respond outside of the culturally accepted norms for one reason or another. Often, we learn who these people are and simply do not ask how they are doing and instead talk about the weather, the Seahawks losing or Netflix.</span></span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-63c1fddc-5d29-cf71-87b0-adfd5ebfe5e2" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Right now, I cannot, in good conscience, respond to this question with my carefully worded "Fine," I must write down how much life just sucks. Becky is better at responding appropriately, though I do not think her typical “Good” is, in fact, good. So this is your warning that I’m about to betray our mental and emotional states at this moment.</span></span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We physically hurt. Specifically, my elbow hurts quite a bit, a carryover from the car accident the children and I were in on June 11th. I am going to Occupational Therapy twice a week to get it worked on and fixed, but the headache of dealing with the insurance company causes more physical pain. Also, Becky's foot has been swollen since about the same time this summer and no one knows why. She has had x-rays and an MRI and the podiatrist does not have a clue as to why her foot swells every day. It is discouraging for her, expensive for us and frustrating all around.</span></span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Speaking of Becky, she is now on Plaquenil too. Since she has secondary Raynaud's, the same blood work as Kate and has generally been a few months behind her in symptoms, Becky's doctor prescribed the same medication and is telling us we are looking for the same crappy disease with her. And it is a crappy disease. Someone once told Becky (in regards to Kate) "At least it isn't cancer." That is not the right thing to say. Scleroderma sucks. I never want to try and figure out which sucks more, cancer or scleroderma, but I can assure you, neither option is happy.</span></span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Kate. Our beautiful little girl. She is more scared than we are even. This entire weekend she has clung so tightly to Becky. She has broken down into tears at the drop of a pin. Doing her math homework yesterday had her weeping. The anticipation of a math test today shut her down. It isn't the math, it is the fact that we have another Seattle Children's appointment on the 22nd. It is the little things that remind her that she is sick. It is the cold that turns her fingers purple during Church. As we held her and she struggled to put the heaviness she feels into words, she just cried silent tears, which is scarier still.</span></span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">How are we supposed to help a beautiful 9 year old girl wrestle with her anger towards God, her sadness and help her understand how unfair it really is, while still assuring her of God's and our love for her? She shouldn't have to go through this! She should not wrestle with things that have killed the faith of Theologians and pastors and saints who faithfully served God for decades!</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Life really sucks and though our minds know and try to cling to our one true hope in this life, we struggle to encourage our hearts to do the same.</span></span></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-14812318855042773962015-09-12T19:57:00.001-07:002015-09-12T19:59:21.787-07:00From Helper to Helped<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N_05JItH2iQ/VfTmEnzgwAI/AAAAAAAAJTU/6HTm713xBAw/s1600/IMG_0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N_05JItH2iQ/VfTmEnzgwAI/AAAAAAAAJTU/6HTm713xBAw/s320/IMG_0061.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Neither Becky nor I have ever been people who are easily able to accept help. It has always been easier for me to lead a group and clean someone else's yard or offer to mow a friend's lawn, now, we are the ones who have had a gift card for supper dropped on our doorstep, the <a href="http://nwcs.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/2015-Volleyball-Schedule-Pub.pdf" target="_blank">Northwest Christian Volleyball Team</a> organize our garage and clean up our yard, or friends show up and start mowing our ridiculously overgrown lawn. Even though these are things we would have eventually done, the weight of not having these menial tasks hanging over us is profound. For this, we are so very thankful and do not know how to say thank you enough.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As we get back into the daily schedule of school and work, life has become increasingly busier and more difficult. We find ourselves in a weekly/biweekly pattern of Kate being nearly paralyzed with fear and anxiety while Becky and I don't even know how to respond to the other's smiles. Beyond anything, what this shows us is how far we are from really being "okay" and still need help. One of the greatest things about the people who have helped us thus far is that we didn't really know what we needed, they just did it. When people are helping or offering to help, I am realizing that I need to just let them help however they want, instead of trying to figure out how they can help.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The one way I do know how people can help is to simply give us a hug and ask us how we are doing. Like my previous post, this road we are on is incredibly lonely. Sometimes we have sat across from people we have known for years, just hoping they will ask how we are or how Kate is holding up. Even sending us a text letting us know you are praying for us or a funny gif or meme can do so much to help us not feel alone. <b>So please, ask us how we are doing, give us a hug or shoot us a text, we don't know how to ask but we really need our family right now.</b></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-766047051639014192015-08-11T07:28:00.000-07:002015-08-11T07:28:02.654-07:00Fear and Disconnect<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.modot.org/central/major_projects/images/HugeboulderforWeb_000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.modot.org/central/major_projects/images/HugeboulderforWeb_000.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. ~ Galatians 6:2</span></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The image of a roller coaster fits as a theme for this summer. Not only have we been emotionally up and down, but the more intense roller coasters harness each rider individually. Over the last few weeks, Becky and I have had distractions that have helped keep us in denial as well as help us to remember each other. When we all got back together a week and a half ago, things got more difficult because Kate was with us, we saw her fingers and we have watched and listened to her struggle with and cry over her crappy future. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The worry of bringing up fears that have been momentarily forgotten, or worse, introducing a new fear has left all of us too scared to talk to each other. Sunday was a perfect example of this because it was truly such a crappy day. Kate has not been sleeping because Plaquenil causes very vivid nightmares. As such, she stays up late and wakes up early while waking up in the night dreaming about pretty rotten things. The result is that she is more emotional and grumpy. I got her to talk to me, knowing it wasn't just exhaustion, and she told me she is scared about scleroderma. This meant that on Becky's birthday, Kate was not doing well, and I needed to figure out how to shoulder this weight for both Kate and Becky, in a feeble attempt to help Becky celebrate her birthday.<br />
<br />
The day ended with a backed up sewer line, Becky in tears and an expensive call to the plumber we can't afford late on Sunday night. The events ended with me spiraling into anger and frustration yesterday, alone trying to shoulder the weight of the day before. The difficulty of this is that there are times where I must take on this weight, there are other times where Becky will have to take on the weight and then there will be times where neither of us can take on the weight. In our efforts to take care of each other, and especially take care of Kate, we are having to sacrifice ourselves. Becky talked to the children yesterday after I blew up and told them that we need to do what we can to help each other when one of us isn't doing well. Yesterday that was me, today it might be Kate and this weekend might be Becky.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*I have debated on how to handle this blog in our new stage of life and I do not want to have this be a "Christian answer" place. I believe that God is big enough to handle my fears and struggles and anger. Any readers must therefore see our family's faith as fluid: we will not waiver in our knowledge of God's love and our love for Him, we will waiver in our understanding of Him. As such, I will not always post verses, draw conclusions and wrap things up nicely. </span></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-85317632442929486192015-08-03T20:11:00.001-07:002015-08-03T20:17:52.352-07:00An Invitation to Weep With Us<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sacredartpilgrim.com/cache/0470cb2d32719d9dc90124dc8a63bae0_w600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://sacredartpilgrim.com/cache/0470cb2d32719d9dc90124dc8a63bae0_w600.jpg" height="304" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Are there even words to say? Is there any comfort that would suffice? So many things feel like empty phrases or feeble attempts of consolation. When I attempt to talk to Becky, knowing there are so many tears, fears and emotions beneath the surface for both of us, I find myself at a loss for words. I cannot tell her that everything is going to be alright, because it won't be. This road we are on is long, dark, heartbreaking, painful and lonely. I have come to the conclusion that all I can say is that we will make it through, because that I know and getting through is simply going to be crappy. Whatever "through" means, I know we will get there, not because of ourselves, the bootstraps are broken, but we will get there through God's grace and love.<br />
<br />
Since we asked for very non-descript help, my lawn was mowed, dog poop scooped, meals have been prepared and gift cards have been received. These have shown us a family we did not know we had. The phone calls, the pints and the text messages have been appreciated and mean so much. And we know it is tough to show us the love of Christ. The tough aspect for us going through Kate's diagnosis is doing so alone. We saw one friend yesterday who just wrapped each of us in her arms, it was a hug that meant more than she knew and that is what we need more often.<br />
<br />
Job's friends are notorious for putting their feet in their mouths. Their accusations of Job's sin and wickedness are indeed a large part of the book of Job, but I have often been struck with their initial response:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i style="text-align: center;">Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that had come upon him, they came each from his own place, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. They made an appointment together to come to show him sympathy and comfort him. And when they saw him from a distance, they did not recognize him. And they raised their voices and wept, and they tore their robes and sprinkled dust on their heads toward heaven. And they sat with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his suffering was very great. ~ Job 2:11-13</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A couple years ago, some friends of ours lost their baby and I took these verses to heart, even attempting to feebly emulate them. Now, we need this ourselves. This does suck. We don't know what to say. Seeing Kate and hearing her process through this is gut wrenching for us. No eight year old should be frustrated with the fact that she might not be able to play her DS or even hold a pencil someday. There are no words.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">What we need most now are hugs and people asking us how we are, being ready for us to answer quietly or with unbridled truth and pain.</span></i></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-29851090518163740832015-07-20T14:56:00.000-07:002015-07-21T16:31:52.890-07:00How to Help<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DTd8LXDYYNM/Va1qrlK-wdI/AAAAAAAAIT0/H0qYNXjMHpg/s1600/IMG_0896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DTd8LXDYYNM/Va1qrlK-wdI/AAAAAAAAIT0/H0qYNXjMHpg/s320/IMG_0896.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Yesterday, Becky and I were talking about how people can help us. We talked about how difficult it is for us to be the ones asking for help, not the ones helping. We see our friends and family go through difficult times and we see how so many reach out to them, and even try to reach out ourselves, but we don't know how to ask for or accept help. I interacted with a couple of people regarding this topic last week and was reminded that by not allowing others to help, we are not allowing the Body of Christ to act as such.<br />
<br />
Still, the problem remains that Becky and I would much rather loan our truck, mow a lawn or pack boxes than ask for help, not because of pride but because we are more comfortable serving than being served. For me, this is because I know I can mow my lawn, even though I haven't and this will be a busy week, so my asking someone else to do what I already should do is a challenge.<br />
<br />
I also fear taking advantage of people and utilizing help now when we are simply going through emotional turmoil as opposed to later on, when life might be even more difficult. Scleroderma is a crappy disease and as we falter back and forth in accepting it as a part of Kate's and our lives, we know that it might eventually affect so much more than our emotions, it will be at those times when we will really need help.<br />
<br />
We are also both introverted people, which makes us awkward dinner guests and people who simply do not know how to "put ourselves out there" in requesting help. The people who really have gotten to know us are those who have almost had to break into our lives, forcing us to become their friends, and we are very thankful for this. So, those who want to help need to break into our lives as well. We are often too scared or nervous to ask for anything, so we simply won't.<br />
<br />
Saying all of this though, I have decided to create a short list of the status of our life and if you feel the need to help us, please break into our lives to do so.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>We need prayer. It is easy to try not to think and easier to avoid accepting this diagnosis, it is not easy to put our trust and faith in God, to be present with each other and the Chillins.</li>
<li>I haven't mowed the lawn in two weeks.</li>
<li>The Chillins are gone until next Tuesday at grandparents' houses, but afterwards, they could use excursions and friends and I could use some time to work.</li>
<li>We know cooking "Real Food" is a hassle, so preparing meals is not easy but could help.</li>
<li>We have children and our house shows it.</li>
<li>We don't fully know how to grieve and not scare Kate (she still only know part of what is going on, she doesn't need all of the stress of what might happen) and need wisdom in helping her process.</li>
<li>We need the Body of Christ. Right now we need to grieve, we do not need to be told how much worse this can be, how God has a plan or anything. I don't think Becky really has it in her to try and talk much about Kate at all. We are scared and feel very alone with no idea how to remedy this. </li>
</ol>
It is very difficult for me to even write these things down, especially knowing all that people did for us after our car accident last month (Summer 2015 officially stinks). Thank you for your love and support though.M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-49744553123307771432015-07-15T07:12:00.001-07:002015-07-21T16:33:31.770-07:00The Devil is in the Details<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TE2RzENr4y0/VaZesdEVILI/AAAAAAAAITU/GqZPsOQ7G6g/s1600/11755289_726290451552_3916957794438051973_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TE2RzENr4y0/VaZesdEVILI/AAAAAAAAITU/GqZPsOQ7G6g/s320/11755289_726290451552_3916957794438051973_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Please pray for us. We are scared, Kate is scared and we are focusing on how we are going to respond. Yesterday, Becky was looking for a verse to focus on and came up with II Timothy 1:7: "... for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." This is now our family verse.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
There is simply no easy way to say that my daughter is getting <a href="http://www.scleroderma.org/site/PageServer?pagename=patients_home#.VaZgXXhePe6" target="_blank">scleroderma</a>. Even this last sentence sucks and ticks me off and makes me want to throw my slowing laptop. Yesterday, we went to <a href="http://www.seattlechildrens.org/ways-to-help/" target="_blank">Seattle Children's Hospital</a> to see her rheumatologist and we knew it was going to be a tiring day. She had a pulmonary function test to start, then an echocardiography and her doctor appointment with a blood draw in there as well. The two tests went fine, the exam is testing our power and love and self-control.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
During the examination, we saw <a href="http://www.seattlechildrens.org/medical-staff/Kabita-Nanda/" target="_blank">Dr. Nanda's</a> concern as she looked at Kate's fingers and when she told us that they are a bit shiny, Kate's face betrayed her fear. She looked to us for reassurance but we were not convincing; shiny fingers only means one thing, the disease we have prayed she would never see. This means that Kate is more or less in "pre-scleroderma," before she was simply "pre-something, maybe." Dr. Nanda began Kate on a treatment we have been holding off on, told us what the next step would be if things progress and Kate then had her blood drawn. Her fear got the best of her for that as I heard her scream in the lobby when she got poked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After the appointment, we went to supper. The picture above is from our booth and it truly breaks me. You can see the utter fear in Kate's eyes. She is a smart cookie and could tell something is wrong. When we got back to Tacoma, I sat down on her bed and talked to her. At first she just asked about getting blood drawn, but she eventually asked the question I knew was inside: "Why did God let this happen to me?" I told her about Russell Wilson and Super Bowl XLIX, <a href="http://kgmi.com/news/007700-russell-wilson-god-spoke-to-me-after-super-bowl-interception/" target="_blank">his conversation with God</a> and the need to let people see him react to the loss while still praising Him.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Kate also asked what the disease was called, what would happen if they found bad stuff in her blood and what was going to happen. I told her its name and told her that what we are going to do is focus on what she has: rainbow fingers and skin that is shiny. I told her we will watch her fingers because they might get stiff and start to curl. She didn't sleep well, up past ten worrying about having nightmares about scleroderma. She doesn't know about systemic v. localized or anything like that, she knows what she has and that is what we are focusing on. We are waiting on the blood work, if it comes back positive for SCL70 or anything else, it means we are not in "pre-scleroderma" anymore but will be full-fledged.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As Becky laid next to me and cried last night, she lamented the fact that our eight year old girl grew up yesterday. We don't want this for her, we weep for her and we are all scared. This sucks and it is not easy to trust God, but we are and He is loving.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-36513314106836918272014-12-31T09:03:00.001-08:002015-07-21T16:43:50.993-07:00Raynaud's Sucks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nEu3KkU4g6U/VKQrJFA-jrI/AAAAAAAAFGo/U9p-NeGfxPY/s1600/10847531_692698385322_5284324359462807706_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nEu3KkU4g6U/VKQrJFA-jrI/AAAAAAAAFGo/U9p-NeGfxPY/s1600/10847531_692698385322_5284324359462807706_o.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
I have an application on my phone that tells me my social media history from each date. Often, it is a lame Tweet and sometimes cute pictures of my family, but last week two years ago was when we went to Seattle Children's Hospital for the first time. The year leading up to that week and the two years since have been utterly draining for us. Not only do we silently wonder and pray each time Kate's fingers and toes turn colors or she mentions a new pain. It is scary and daunting living within this dichotomy of Kate being mostly healthy but probably will not be. Adding to this has been Kate's Raynaud's getting progressively worse each winter.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BGJYLUqfObg/VKQrI6_GZcI/AAAAAAAAFGk/qGrwckhIaVY/s1600/10389202_10152275933872129_1031896717322491347_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BGJYLUqfObg/VKQrI6_GZcI/AAAAAAAAFGk/qGrwckhIaVY/s1600/10389202_10152275933872129_1031896717322491347_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Last winter, Kate developed ulcers on her toes. These ulcers are little sores that develop on her toes because they lose circulation. Last year they were small little spots that simply itched and her doctor put her on blood pressure medication to help regulate her blood flow. This year, she developed a very large ulcer on one of her toes and has been turning colors more frequently over the last few days with the sudden drop in temperatures. These sores might only get worse as times progress.<br />
One thing we haven't talked much about much is that Becky developed Raynaud's about four month behind Kate. Since we were walking through this with Kate, we have been watching Becky's blood work like a hawk with her exhibiting primary Raynaud's (Raynaud's that is just there, but no underlying auto-immune disease associated with it). But as Kate's Raynaud's has progressed each winter, so has Becky's, and primary Raynaud's doesn't progress. Becky developed ulcers last year as well, so we got her blood tested and she also has elevated ANA levels. Her subsequent trips to a rheumatologist has resulted in the same diagnosis as Kate (she is fine, but probably won't be) with the twist of potential diseases being either Scleroderma, like Kate, or Lupus.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WiXalKNcnDw/VKQrhP9HUtI/AAAAAAAAFG0/Ad6stxje1lw/s1600/10552508_10152248288357129_5998237928222898014_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WiXalKNcnDw/VKQrhP9HUtI/AAAAAAAAFG0/Ad6stxje1lw/s1600/10552508_10152248288357129_5998237928222898014_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
What this means is that both of my girls are fine, but they probably will not always be. This just sucks. Walking through Kate's potentially getting scleroderma was bad enough, but now having Becky in the same boat has shut me down since April. When she has needed me, I have certainly not been able to help her. Even in the daily tasks of meals and caring for our children I have left her alone. As the Fall has progressed and I took my class on Christian Spirituality, I have thankfully been challenged by friends and professors in my faith and how that affects my daily life.<br />
From here though, this means that we now have two in our house who make regular trips to a rheumatologist, and two in our house who need to constantly wear gloves (Becky is the worst offender in this area) and never leave their beds without bundling up. It also means that we are constantly worrying about and praying against new maladies that seem to come up, even though most are harmless. Kate has been asking more questions recently, and we have been honest with her, though we do not think she fully understands what it means yet. We continue to try not to cause unnecessary stress for her, but she is slowly beginning to understand.<br />
Please continue to pray for our family, that we can put our trust in God, that our girls do not contract scleroderma or lupus and that God might somehow be glorified in this time.<br />
<br />
<br />M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-22639781725297191192014-01-28T19:42:00.001-08:002015-07-21T16:43:50.989-07:00The Next Stage w/ Kate Kate This has been a difficult weekend in our home as things are finally hitting, and not just Becky and I. At cheer on Saturday, Kate's fingers and toes turned white. This is common, but it took a little longer for them to turn back to normal, cost Becky one of her socks and prevented Kate from fully participating. It broke Becky's heart to see her little girl struggling to do something she loves and it dawned on Kate that she has a new normal and her life isn't going to run as smoothly as she would want it to run. Both girls were weepy and struggling, it was not been easy. The perfect solution was for them to enjoy Five Guys Burgers and Fries (their menu is mostly okay, but still a rare treat for us as we eat "Real Food").<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UoFv_MD-BAk/Uuh1lY_WgqI/AAAAAAAADBQ/SdR3JAzG6Y8/s1600/IMG_2153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UoFv_MD-BAk/Uuh1lY_WgqI/AAAAAAAADBQ/SdR3JAzG6Y8/s1600/IMG_2153.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">These girls love their "foo fries."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When they returned, Kate took a hot shower and Becky proceeded to check her toes for ulcers. Remember, her Dr. told us to keep an eye out for them and let her know if/when they appeared. We found three. You will see in the first picture an ulcer on her "ring toe" that is quite red and "active." On her middle toe, the white spot is an ulcer that is healing. In the second picture, you will see her pinky toe is red and appears raised on top by the toenail. She has weird toes (and toenails), but that is also an ulcer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6Txy2IAcfs/Uuhze8DJzBI/AAAAAAAADBM/ixlgRjPR_J8/s1600/IMG_2174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6Txy2IAcfs/Uuhze8DJzBI/AAAAAAAADBM/ixlgRjPR_J8/s1600/IMG_2174.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l_sE0P71OsI/Uuhzdk0-vlI/AAAAAAAADBE/vY3Wmoqx2vU/s1600/IMG_2175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l_sE0P71OsI/Uuhzdk0-vlI/AAAAAAAADBE/vY3Wmoqx2vU/s1600/IMG_2175.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This brings us to tonight, when Kate swallowed (i.e. held until it dissolved) her first pill, one that she will probably take for the rest of her life. This is a difficult time for all of us. The pill is a common blood pressure medication that will, prayerfully, prevent her Raynaud's episodes and therefore prevent ulcers. We are hopeful that this will help curb her episodes and the pain that goes with numb appendages. There are potentially common blood pressure side effects like dizziness, which is difficult to grasp in itself, but this seems to be a relatively safe medication. For those who know medications or want to research, it is called Amlodipine.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
~As we just tucked Kate in for the night, we ask that you pray specifically for tonight and the next few days as her body adjusts to external influences. Specifically, we pray she doesn't get too dizzy or experience any other adverse side effects.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
~Additionally, we ask you pray for her as she wrestles with the fact that she has to go through difficulty and this sickness. She told Becky on their date that she just doesn't want to have to go through this.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
~Finally, we ask that you pray for our family as we go through this together. As parents we hate seeing our girl not able to "be normal." Micah is still in "Micah Land" with nose gardens, taco beards and backflips that make you amazin', but he sees our worry and knows Kate will cry at the drop of a hat (or impatience of a dad...).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Thank you for walking with us, thank you for praying for us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-40563505958363662092014-01-04T11:18:00.002-08:002015-07-21T16:43:50.996-07:00January Seattle Children's Visit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jacBwD39PNQ/UsheaR42sxI/AAAAAAAAC48/P3IPCFuF02E/s1600/1492612_641977789802_337079622_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jacBwD39PNQ/UsheaR42sxI/AAAAAAAAC48/P3IPCFuF02E/s320/1492612_641977789802_337079622_o.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman","serif";}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">Hello Friends and
Family!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">I wanted to update
all of you on Kate’s appt. at Seattle Children’s Hospital yesterday.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">We go back every six
months to see if there is anything new going on and to make sure we are on top
of any new symptoms that would point to an auto-immune disease. Remember,
her blood-work shows that she has a good chance of contracting an auto-immune
disease at some point in her lifetime.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">For right now, she
only has Raynaud’s (<a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/raynauds-disease/basics/definition/CON-20022916">here
is a link</a> explaining what it is). This causes her fingers, toes and
(this year) her face to turn red purple and white in response to temperature
changes. Over the last few months, her color changes have become more
frequent and recently she has had an “itchy toe” we didn’t think was anything
big. When Kate’s Dr. looked her over, she said the toe had an ulcer
(sore), a result of her Raynaud’s. If the ulcers continue, the next step
is medication, specifically Vasodilators to help regulate her temperature
changes and prevent further ulcers. If they do persist, there could be further
complications resembling gangrene. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">Becky talked to Kate
and let her know what we might need to do regarding medication, Kate took it
just fine. Dr. Nanda told Becky and Kate what to look for regarding ulcers and
she might have found a second last night after her shower. In this sense,
Kate is handling things well. We have made the decision to not tell Kate
about future possibilities, just what presents. We do not think Kate
needs to worry about what might happen, just to be aware of what is happening.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">For us, we are
worried parents who don’t want anything bad or difficult to happen to our
little girl. We need to watch out for further joint pain or shortness of
breath as well as other symptoms that would point to an auto-immune disease.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Courier New";">We ask for
continued prayer for:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">-<b>Kate’s health</b>,
that this is not the beginning of more ulcers, joint pain, etc.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">-<b>Kate’s keeping
herself warm</b> when her fingers and toes freak out.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New";">-<b>Becky’s and my
peace of mind</b> as we worry this is just the beginning of a long journey.</span></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-17833843046502412162013-12-19T09:23:00.000-08:002013-12-19T18:11:20.386-08:00Phil Robertson Controversy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gospelherald.com/data/images/full/4155/phil-robertson-i-am-second.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://www.gospelherald.com/data/images/full/4155/phil-robertson-i-am-second.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Phil Robertson has created a controversy and gotten himself fired from his second job. He has done this by voicing his opinion of homosexuality and quoting the Apostle Paul in the process. Ignoring the biased nature of the outcry against him and the further bias in A&E's response, this brings to the forefront the state of Free Speech and Freedom of Religion within the United States. Numerous news outlets have written about this media event, often through the lens of their perspective political leanings (<b>yes, ALL news agencies are politically biased</b>). <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2013/12/18/phil-robertson-suspended-after-comments-about-homosexuality/print" target="_blank">This news source</a> describes Phil Robertson's words as "comments on homosexuality." <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/12/18/phil-robertson-duck-dynasty_n_4469887.html" target="_blank">Other</a> <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/19/business/media/phil-robertson-suspended-from-duck-dynasty.html" target="_blank">news </a><a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/news/phil-robertson-off-duck-dynasty-indefinitely/" target="_blank">sources</a> described them as "anti-gay" comments.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://duckcommander.com/news/robertson-family-offical-statement" target="_blank">Here is the link</a> for the Robertson Family response on the matter (be patient with the link as many are anxious for the same news). I am thankful that they are showing solidarity in the face of this persecution.<br />
<br />
The fallout from <a href="http://www.iamsecond.com/seconds/the-robertsons/" target="_blank">Phil's</a> interview <a href="http://www.gq.com/entertainment/television/201401/duck-dynasty-phil-robertson?currentPage=3&printable=true" target="_blank">with GQ</a> will be more than one man being suspended from a TV show about his family (my assumption is that the entire family will leave Duck Dynasty). I pray that the Christian Church in the United States will no longer think that persecution only happens on other continents. The truth is that <b>the Church will meet a great foe in the name of Civil Rights and its detractors will not only come from outside, but inside as well.</b> Even now I can think of a few friends who regularly attend Church and would characterize Phil's comments (and my response) as theologically inaccurate and hateful.<br />
<br />
The truth is that with this comes a real issue within "<b>the Church</b>" today, a question that must be addressed shortly, lest further destruction occurs: is the Bible real and accurate? If it is not, then a "<b>progressive</b>" view of what is required of the Christian can be accepted, where certain passages and commands are seen as "cultural" and "timely" as opposed to indefinite. If it is, than every Christian today needs to start worrying and praying for the state of the Church and for their own sinful nature as we are truly far from God in our hearts and actions, despite our words.<br />
<br />
Therefore, the Church must prepare for persecution as it becomes abundantly clear that Free Speech does not include the Bible and to believe in sin is deemed hateful, not factual. <b><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/shane-l-windmeyer/dan-cathy-chick-fil-a_b_2564379.html" target="_blank">How a Christian acts</a> when facing someone of differing beliefs will continue to be ignored</b> while the Truth of Scripture will be attacked. The fact is that all will be judged by the one righteous judge, Jesus Christ. It is not the place of the Christian to deem one person a sinner and damn them to hell. It is the place of a brother or sister who is in relationship with another to lovingly hold them accountable for their sins and open themselves up for the same (i.e. greed, lust, lying, or coveting), but that involves confessing your sins, one to another and Church discipline, things easily forgotten or avoided outside of gossip and slander. It is also a distraction from the point at hand.<br />
<br />
<b>Jesus promised persecution for His name, the Western Church has forgotten this fact and therefore must prepare to show it is not ashamed of the Gospel and then preach the truth that Jesus died so that ALL who have sinned might have everlasting life.</b><br />
<br />
I do not adhere to all of the views stated, but here is further reading: <a href="http://themattwalshblog.com/2013/12/19/dear-ae-congratulations-you-just-committed-suicide/" target="_blank">click here</a> and <a href="http://www.russellmoore.com/2013/12/18/duck-dynasty/" target="_blank">click here</a>.<br />
<br />
Please make sure to look at the hyperlinks throughout this post as I have attempted to present some very good information. M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-80321397176817521002013-02-25T07:55:00.004-08:002015-07-21T16:43:50.999-07:00Kate Kate Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/282804_597508516582_240871484_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/282804_597508516582_240871484_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hello Friends and family!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we have endeavored to keep you informed on our journey
with our wee one, I wanted to send you an update from our visit to
Seattle Children's Hospital.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We went for an initial meeting and heard the
same thing regarding Kate's Raynaud's (it is somewhat concerning that she has
it at 6, but not an immediate worry as there are no other symptoms and she does
not have the typical ulcers which cause issues in and of themselves). Dr.
Nanda suggested some avenues of treatment, contingent upon blood
work. Overall, nothing new from her in information regarding Kate's
Raynaud's.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She ordered an array of blood work, a C/T scan of her lungs,
a PFT and a test called an esophagram; most of these tests happening this past
Wednesday. The results of the C/T, PFT and esophagram were prefect and
normal. Kate was even able to do breathing tests (PFT) that
nine-year-olds have difficulty completing. The blood work would be the most telling and important results.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you remember, the blood work from the Dr. here revealed
elevated ANA levels (anti-nuclear antibodies, a sign of potential auto-immune
disease) and a high marker for SCL-70. The latter being a pre-cursor to
Scleroderma, a frightful and potentially fatal disease. This meant that
she does not have but will probably get Scleroderma, according to this doctor's
interpretation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The blood work from this appointment was much more thorough with a more precise metering method. The results of this test still
included elevated ANA levels, but everything else was normal. What this
means is that we still need to watch Kate (follow up appt. in April) as there
is still a <b>VERY GOOD CHANCE</b> <b>for an auto-immune disease in her future</b> based on the ANA levels but <b>there
is no immediate concern or probability for Scleroderma.</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We still covet your prayers and are very thankful for all
that you have done in supporting us. We are also still sticking to our
strict no-preservative, no refined sugars or flours lifestyle (I called it a
"diet" once... once) because it still has potential for preventing
any disease as well as it simply makes us healthier.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Again, I wanted to update you on what is happening with our
Kate Kate and thank you for your support and prayers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Matt</div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-34365197571424352292012-10-10T20:32:00.003-07:002012-10-10T20:32:45.575-07:00Rev. Master M. Prior<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">I finished my (first) MA!</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">I'm even graduating Cum Laude!</span></b></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-91901168570287165872012-09-26T09:49:00.000-07:002015-07-21T16:51:59.279-07:00My Kate Kate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qxcBWL5lutM/UGMqyEtfY3I/AAAAAAAAAXw/LSs7G9nyw8A/s1600/Kate_Kate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qxcBWL5lutM/UGMqyEtfY3I/AAAAAAAAAXw/LSs7G9nyw8A/s320/Kate_Kate.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, here goes some of the most difficult news a dad has to share...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Back around November, I got a call from <a href="http://spekette.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">my amazing wife</a> telling me they were taking our princess to urgent care because her fingers turned deep purple. I immediately stopped working on my truck and met them there. After waiting, we were able to get an EKG (normal) and speak with a doctor who had obvious signs of concern. After speaking with Kate's pediatrician, visiting a pediatric cardiologist and getting an echo-cardiogram, we found out her heart was fine and were then referred to a rheumatologist.<br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0UEmbwqFguA/UGMqgJHhXXI/AAAAAAAAAXo/_LJkSAbZSDo/s1600/Photo+Jan+19,+7+57+59+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0UEmbwqFguA/UGMqgJHhXXI/AAAAAAAAAXo/_LJkSAbZSDo/s320/Photo+Jan+19,+7+57+59+AM.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
Meeting with <a href="http://www.arthritisnw.com/anw_staff_rhematologists.php" target="_blank">Doctor Butler</a> at <a href="http://www.arthritisnw.com/" target="_blank">Arthritis Northwest</a>, we found out that Kate has <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/raynauds-disease/DS00433" target="_blank"><b>Raynaud's Disease</b></a>, which "causes some areas of your body — such as your fingers, toes, the tip of your nose and your ears — to feel numb and cool in response to cold temperatures or stress. In Raynaud's disease, smaller arteries that supply blood to your skin narrow, limiting blood circulation to affected areas." Raynaud's is not very difficult nor is it super dangerous, but it can be an early symptom of an auto-immune disease and is very uncommon in 5 year old girls, so they did blood tests.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The news from the blood tests has been disheartening and difficult. SCL70 is a marker in the blood with "normal" being up to 1.0, Kate's was 7.2. What this means is that the marker for <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/scleroderma/DS00362" target="_blank"><b>scleroderma</b></a> is very high. While speaking with Dr. Butler, he noted that he is not a pediatric rheumatologist, and that pediatrics can be difficult to diagnose as a child's internal chemistry varies considerably. As a rheumatologist though, he would deem Kate's levels as being <b>predictive of a future diagnosis</b>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fU4tkxLbUeU/UGMt3GF34WI/AAAAAAAAAYA/lfxmkoLVsF4/s1600/Kate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fU4tkxLbUeU/UGMt3GF34WI/AAAAAAAAAYA/lfxmkoLVsF4/s320/Kate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Therefore, <b>Kate is fine</b>. She is a normal, stubborn and gorgeous little one whose hands turn funny colors when she gets cold or stressed. There is a good chance, though, that she will not always be this way. In fact, there is <b>a good possibility (doctor said it is probable) that she will contract this ugly disease</b>.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHeAhr8_bz4/UGMt79cZyiI/AAAAAAAAAYI/APLFXt52rag/s1600/Family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dHeAhr8_bz4/UGMt79cZyiI/AAAAAAAAAYI/APLFXt52rag/s320/Family.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As a result of this diagnosis and being told that there is little to nothing we can do to prevent the disease's onslaught, my amazing wife has taken our family on a lifestyle change revolving around <b>"<a href="http://spekette.blogspot.com/2012/06/day-3-of-all-weeks-our-first-challenges.html" target="_blank">Real Food</a>,"</b> which has been difficult (I WANT AN OREO!!) but has united our family in an effort to help prevent symptoms or the disease itself any way we can.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
All of this has recently re-hit me as there is a local campaign to help <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CureForCat" target="_blank">a young woman</a> who has been diagnosed with the <a href="http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2012/mar/15/disease-spurs-return-to-spokane-im-dying/" target="_blank">worst case scenario of scleroderma</a>. All I can do is pray for my little girl and this woman and her family as they fight this ugly disease. I can also go and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152157604790078&set=a.10150171444630078.413109.10150094828495078&type=1&theater" target="_blank">buy some coffee on Saturday</a> in a minuscule effort to raise money for her fight.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>**Please, do not make the mistake of doing a lot of research on this disease, especially do not look at what this could physically look like. Simply read the links I have provided, know that it is either debilitating or life-threatening and join us as we pray. We serve a God who is greater than any disease or ailment. He is great and mighty and is in complete control of everything.**</b></span></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-30502976922046071702012-09-08T07:36:00.000-07:002012-09-08T07:36:11.105-07:00Proofs of God<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
From a Discussion Board Post for my Class, thoughts?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it comes to any belief system, many skeptics embrace
their skepticism because of uncertainty: how can one really know? For those who hold dearly to their beliefs,
this question seems quite absurd and they might counter: who can one <i>not</i> know? No matter the argument those who believe
present to those who do not, there can always be another side of the argument
intelligently presented. This leaves
both parties in a conundrum as there are few deities who have rented television
space in Times Square announcing how the world began. Without an advertising campaign, but the
skeptic and the believer are required to look elsewhere for confirmation to
their belief system. No matter the
belief system, both seem to look at the world we live in as proof for their position. For the skeptic, the sheer size, fossil
progression and “date” of the earth are revelation enough. For the believer, the sheer size, complexity
and unique nature of the earth are revelation enough. These are not enough though, as the debate
still wages on regardless of the proofs presented from <i>general revelation</i> (revelation through nature). Therefore, <i>special revelation</i> is then required (revelation through
supernatural means). For the skeptic,
Richard Dawkins or Charles Darwin might be the source of this revelation while
the Muslim might look to the Quran and the Christian looks to the Holy
Bible. Through these “proof texts,” each
party utilizes both forms of revelation to prove their stance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it comes to proving that Yahweh is the one true God,
there is no ad campaign gracing the screens of Times Square explaining His
existence or His purpose. Therefore, the
believer must present their case for belief through both general and special
revelation (especially where the special connects to the general) while also
holding onto faith. Personally, this is
where I stand. In my daily encounters, I
am able to present what I believe through these proofs, but it is ultimately
the faith that I hold so dearly to that affirms my theology. Paul addresses the heart of this issue when
he says: “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God,
for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they
are spiritually discerned.” (I Corinthians 2:14, English Standard Version)<o:p></o:p></div>
M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-55945387950876711492012-08-06T06:51:00.002-07:002012-08-06T06:51:10.789-07:00Biblical Scholarship and Proper Theology<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In a given situation, there are very few markers that would separate a Christian from a non-Christian based on mannerisms and beliefs. Many have proclaimed that the divorce rate between the two groups are identical, others point to obvious hypocrisy amongst Christians while Christians themselves harbor sinful hearts and desires that further negate any visible differences between Christians and non-Christians. If one were to attempt to pinpoint any specific cause and reason for this lack of delineating characteristics, they would be hard-pressed to find any one reason. The cause, however, is easy to pinpoint: Folk theology, which has permeated Western Christendom almost completely and can be defined as “a kind of theology that rejects critical reflection and enthusiastically embraces simplistic acceptance of an informal tradition of beliefs and practices composed mainly of clichés and legends” (Grenz and Olson, 1996) The Church’s choice to not preach from Biblical scholarship and teaching proper theology are two chief reasons Folk theology has had such a profound influence on the world today.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Everyone is a theologian, something some might deny, but none can escape. Karl Barth said: “There is no man who does not have his own god or gods as the object of his highest desire and trust, or as the basis of his deepest loyalty and commitment.” (1963) Similarly, Stanley Grenz and Roger Olson state that: “Every person must at some point in life wrestles with the questions that point to the ultimate question of God.” (1996) Since every person contemplates God (or a god) at some point in their life, they become theologians. From this point, the question is whether they become good theologians or bad. Grenz and Olson point out five levels of theology, with both ends of the spectrum being negative. These levels are based upon the level of critical reflection within each and are listed in order of least to most reflection: folk theology, lay theology, ministerial theology, professional theology and academic theology. The “safe zones” of theology are lay, ministerial and professional while folk and academic represent the “danger zones” of theology as one rejects critical reflection and the other does nothing more than critically reflect. (Grenz and Olson, 1996) It is folk theology that is the most prevalent as it is simply easier to practice. When people do not want to “work” at their understanding of who God is or what His desire for their lives are, “folk” often becomes the most practiced form of theology. This form of theology reflects a lack of preaching from Biblical scholarship.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Grenz and Olson correctly state that “[t]he Bible is, of course, foundational” (1996), while speaking of theology. It is true that God reveals Himself in nature and special revelation, but His primary means of communicating with His people for millennia has been through His word. Looking again at the wisdom of Barth, this point is further explained:<br />
A definite intellectual task is set for the theologian and others by the Gospel, by the work and word of God which we attested to in the Holy Scriptures and proclaimed in the communica sanctorum of every day and age. If this task were not set for him or if he should mistake and exchange it for another task (such as that of the philosopher, historian, or psychologist), he might still be a studiosus, but he would no longer be a studiosus theologae. (1963)<br />
<br />
What this means is that God’s word and His Holy Scriptures direct the task of the theologian and without this direction, even noble studies prove themselves to be mere studies. Without proper study and subsequent preaching from this Biblical scholarship, folk theology can thrive as Biblical reflection is not practiced. The danger with Biblical scholarship is the same danger with Biblical navel gazing: it has a potential to not go anywhere (academic theology). When Biblical scholarship is tethered to the purpose and message of the Gospel, both folk and academic theology can be properly avoided and even combatted. From Biblical scholarship, proper theology is presented as a by-product.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The simple word “theology” has a tendency to scare many Christians and non-Christians alike. Allister McGrath speaks of the need for theology:<br />
There are many reasons for wanting to think about the Christian faith in more detail. Those who are not Christians will be interested in learning what Christians believe and why. For Christians, theological reflection can lead to personal enrichment, and a deepened appreciation of their faith. (2008)<br />
<br />
Though theology has a tendency to either bring about visions of tweed and elbow patches or scare people away, the benefits are blaringly obvious for both Christians and non-Christians. Reinforcing the benefits for Christians, Michael Jinkins states: “Theology is, you might say, an act of worship, in which we stand under (thus, understand) and in relationship to the Word of God through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (2001) Worship is not only good; it is also a requirement for those who believe and God’s desire for those who do not. Therefore, the issue at and is that proper theology is not being taught and the benefits are then not being experienced. Instead, the negatives of folk theology permeate as there is no line by which to measure improper theologies. To simply teach proper theology would not be enough though, as it places a continual reliance upon another when it comes to understanding who God is and His desires for His people. The greater need is for the process of theology to be taught. Instead of giving a Christian a morsel of good theology, proper methods of theology must be taught and reinforced from an early age and in many facets of Church ministries.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>When something bad happens in the world, God is often blamed. When a “believer” encounters trials and suffering as Scripture promises, many deem God to be unjust and claim to not believe in Him. As pain, suffering and evil are everywhere, people often take these as proof that there is no God, or that the god that does exist is not good, loving and pure. Each of these scenarios reveals more about whom the person is and their theology than it reveal the True and Living God. Many in the world today are caught up in folk theology and are subsequently unwilling to critically reflect on what they believe in order to test it against Truth. Regretfully, many in the world today are not subjected to preaching from Biblical scholarship or proper theology in the Church either.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
References</div>
<div>
Barth, K. (1963). Evangelical theology, an introduction. New York, NY: Holt, Rinehart and Winston.</div>
<div>
Grenz, S. J., & Olson, R. E. (1996). Who needs theology?: An invitation to the study of God. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.</div>
<div>
Jinkins, M. (2001). Invitation to theology. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.</div>
<div>
McGrath, A. E. (2004). Theology: The basics. Malden, MA: Blackwell Pub.</div>
</div>M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-4509220123062499512012-07-22T19:20:00.000-07:002013-06-27T15:43:44.646-07:00Sacrificing Through Works and Possessions<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>When it comes to the Christian and sacrifice, three things usually come to mind: Jesus, a lamb and diving in front of a bullet intended for another. The truth is, many are unable to make a sacrifice even remotely close to that which Christ did for all, certain organizations would frown upon animal sacrifices and most of us will not be met with the need to save another’s life by sacrificing our own. This boils down to the need to offer up a sacrifice of praise to God by other means. There are a number of words on sacrifice in the Bible; many detail examples of sacrifice (Abraham sacrificing Isaac, Josiah sacrificing the priests of the high places, etc.) while others spell out commands and exhortations for sacrificing (Romans 12:1, Eph. 5:2, etc.). The truth is that God requires sacrifices of His children, sacrifices which come from lips that acknowledge His name and take the form of doing good and sharing what the believer possesses.<br />
“Through him then let us continually offer up sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Hebrews 13:15 and 16 (ESV)<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>As this verse states, the believer is to “continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge His name.” A sacrifice of praise has its origins from lips that acknowledge His name. This statement is obviously dissimilar from the argument that “everything is God’s; therefore we must give it to Him.” A person’s Star Wars memorabilia collection did not fall from Heaven in the same way manna fell for the Israelites in the desert. For many, the fruit of their labor was the basis of their ability to make such purchases. When applied to a believer and taken in the context of their sacrifice, the primary source of the sacrifice is God as He has created all things, but the secondary source is a set of lips that acknowledge His name. In order to live sacrificially, the believer must acknowledge His name in everything. When He is acknowledged, then there is something to sacrifice.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Though many see sacrifice as connected to material possessions, doing good is an essential aspect of sacrifice the writer of Hebrews points out. As evidenced by the widow’s giving all she had in Luke 21:1-2:<br />
Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box, and he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”<br />
The point is not what is given, but the heart that is behind the giving. A sacrificial heart is seen more in acts of love and doing good than in what or how much is given. This is perhaps the more difficult form of sacrifice as it requires the believer to address their pride and the motives behind their sacrifice. A person is not able to give wholly of themselves without first making themselves worth giving. This is done through careful self-examination and prayerful reading of Scripture. Through this and the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer, they are able to see where their giving is not pure and their attitude toward others is negative and, most importantly, align themselves with God’s call on pure and living sacrifices. Dr. Gary Keisling speaks to the difference and importance of self-sacrifice when he wrote: “Sacrifice encompasses more than financial support. Sacrifice means giving yourself away in service to others. It involves investing your life into the lives of other people so they can experience the reality of Christ’s love.” (Keisling, 2012) When the heart and attitude are able to do good, the believer is then making a sacrifice not of material possessions but of themselves. This is not the end of self-sacrifice as the believer is also required to share what they have been given.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>To some, giving away money or possessions is easy as they give only a small amount and they know they have more to spare. For others, giving their possessions is one of the most difficult things they will attempt in their lives. God calls all to live sacrificially as they “share what they have.” (Hebrews 13:16) The difference between self-sacrificing by doing good and self-sacrificing by sharing what they have is that doing good requires a person’s heart change. Consequently, many people are willing to give as it does not require they sacrifice themselves, just their latte on Monday. Sacrifice is fine, just in moderation. The obvious problem with this is that it is not much of a sacrifice at all. A sacrifice, by definition, involves suffering (Meriam-Webster), and missing a latte can only be deemed suffering for those in proximity of the decaffeinated. An example of self-sacrifice that is good can be found in the early Church of Acts 2:45: “And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.” The Church saw everything they had; they saw people in need and made the connection that they were able to meet the needs of others through their material sacrifices. When a believer today sees a need, they must be willing to sacrifice a second car for the summer, an extra room in their home or some money in their billfold; and they must welcome the suffering that it brings as an act of worship.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>No matter the form of sacrifice, it is typically not easy. To give sacrificially, a person must first acknowledge Him with their lips. By doing so, they are creating the fruit which will be used as the sacrifice. This fruit can then take one of two forms: doing good or sharing what they have. Doing good requires the person to not only be willing to give, but to examine their heart and attitude and change so that they will be giving as a pure and living sacrifice; what is given is not as important as the heart that is behind what is given. Lastly, for a person to give of their possessions and it to be an actual sacrifice, there needs to be suffering. As the writer of Hebrews states, this is a continual sacrifice and a sacrifice of praise to the God who did give the believer everything, especially the sacrifice of His Son on their behalf.M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-10629150425779052162012-07-21T16:19:00.001-07:002012-07-21T16:19:29.207-07:00My Story/Monologue<br />
For this assignment, I was tasked with writing my story in 200 words or less as well as writing a monologue. They are as follows:<br />
<br />
My Story: Though I grew up in a Christian home, attended Church and did the “right things,” I was always striving for salvation and striving for salvation, even though it was a free gift that Christ was offering me. Before, I was striving and working for something unattainable; now, I am chosen. Even though I grew up attending Church, I still failed. I still found myself constantly sinning and never good enough. I don’t know if you are trying to be perfect in your own life, if you think that what you do can take you to Heaven or a “happy hunting ground,” but I did. Now, I rest in the fact that God has chosen me so that I can rest instead of striving. <br />
<br />
<br />
[To be performed as a monologue at a table with an empty chair where the other person would be sitting.]<br />
<br />
Saskatchewan has the best mud! Did you know that they actually have “mud farms” where they gather the Sask mud and ship it out to ball parks for pitchers to get the baseball ready with? It’s sticky, and the perfect color and just great! My first year up there for school, my buddy and I decided to take my little pickup out and go “mud bogging” before we headed to town (as much “mud bogging” as we could in a rear-wheel-drive rig with highway tires on, that is). Before we even left the parking lot, we found a nice big puddle and we decided to give it a whirl. I backed into the middle of it, pushed in the clutch, popped it into gear and floored it! If I didn’t sink down into that Sask mud almost to the axle right away! I simply could not get anywhere but deeper in the mud.<br />
What was that?<br />
Oh, yeah. I have felt like I’ve simply been spinning my tires before.<br />
It is a frustrating feeling, you’re simply stuck. You know that you want to go, you known where you want to go, just can’t get there.<br />
If I’m honest with you, I’d say that I’ve felt this most often in regards to being a Christian. I mean, you know I grew up going to Church, but that kind of was the problem. I went to Church every Sunday, went to Church most Wednesdays, but I was still the same. I was just a rotten person. I still looked at girls inappropriately; I still lied to keep out of trouble. Sure I didn’t cuss like the other kids and I didn’t smoke, drink or mess around with the girls, but I still knew how rotten I really was, even though I went to Church, sang the songs and prayed the prayers. It didn’t keep me from being rotten; it only showed me that I wanted to move. I wanted to get out of the mud. You see, to be out of the mud meant freedom. It meant this relationship with Jesus that was beyond what I was experiencing. It meant being as holy as so-n-so or as good at praying as Pastor Whatever. The problem was that I was still in the mud. So I started spinning my tires.<br />
I found myself trying and striving and working hard to have that freedom, to be out of the mud and on the road to spiritual greatness where everyone would simply bask in my expositional prayers and revel in my Scripture readings! So I worked at it. I did the basic, fundamental first step: I accepted Jesus into my heart. I earnestly longed for Him and prayed the “sinner’s prayer” where I admitted my guilt, I confessed my sinfulness and how I was stuck in the mud. But I still sinned, so I raised my hand every time the pastor asked if anyone wanted to accept Jesus in their hearts, I think they simply stopped counting my hand raised after a while. I tried even harder to be a good person and said even fewer bad words than before. But my head still thought them, and people were not marveling at my shining aura of goodness. I tried to read my Bible and pray every day. I figured that if I missed a day, then I would have to read double the next. I would say long, drawn out prayers to close group meetings or prayer times, trying hard not to fall asleep as I assaulted the Heavens with high and lofty gibberish. Even though I sounded holy (I could sound holy to anyone on Earth), I knew that my relationship with God was still weak. I still was lacking what really mattered. I missed the point that I couldn’t get myself out of the mud, I was just flinging more.<br />
When I had my truck REALLY stuck, I had to admit defeat and have my buddy pull me out. Of course I had to be the one crawling around in the mud to attach the tow rope, and now that I think about it, it shows me how I would try to do everything I could to achieve holiness, when all I really needed to do was get in the mud and ask for help. You see, God chose me; I simply needed to respond to Him. I Corinthians 6 says: “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price.” It isn’t me that has done anything to save myself at all; I was purchased and the item purchased doesn’t have a choice on being purchased or not. Jesus paid for me by dying on the cross. Isaiah 41 says: “You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off.” You see, it wasn’t just a purchase, it was a choice, God chose to let His Son die because He chose me to live. Not only was I bought, not only was I chosen, but it is that purchase, that choice that saves me and the only thing I can do about it is get in the mud and put on the tow rope, which I had done over and over again (though I only needed one time) when I accepted Christ into my life, prayed the prayer and asked Christ to be my Savior. His death was the price required to save me and He pulled me out of the mud. From that point, I could rest in II Corinthians 5: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new one has come.” Similarly, Galatians 2 says: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Before, I was striving and working for something unattainable; now, I am chosen.<br />
You know, you were bought with a price too. God sent His Son to die for your sins as well…<br />
<div>
<br /></div>M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-6992165362430345532012-07-21T16:16:00.001-07:002013-06-27T15:45:09.882-07:00Giving Equals Grace<br />
What does it mean to tithe? We hear this term every week and they pass the bags along, but what does it mean to actually tithe? If we are to look at the term itself, we will see that it technically means “a tenth,” implying ten percent of income. Usually, this takes the form of money. When you think about it and look at tithing, do you obey a strict ten percent rule? Perhaps your family pays you to pick rocks, wash dishes or mow the lawn; do you tithe from it at all? Connected to any call to tithe (or give) is a need to figure out what it is and how it affects your life as a Christian. There are many notions that tithing is a discipline (practice) that Christians are called to that will bring about immediate rewards. There is even a song that was around a decade ago which stated: “Give and it will come back to you.” The truth is, giving should not be done in an effort to acquire more, but as a sign of obedience to God’s call on a Christian’s life which is a form of Grace.<br />
<br />
II Corinthians 8:1-7:<br />
We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us. Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace. But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Reading this passage, there are a few things about tithing that are important to realize: poverty + joy = generosity, giving is to God and that giving is actually grace.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It is easy to think of yourself as materially poor. You are obviously children to the eyes of this world and are not expected to have a great income. Whatever amount of money your families might have, it is not technically yours and therefore could not be counted on your W-2’s. What you lack in material wealth though, you make up in joy. When I see your faces, I cannot help but feel the joy that is obviously welling up in you! The important thing to notice about yourselves is that you are just like the Macedonian Church! They were poor yet had an abundance of joy and Paul says that their joy and their extreme poverty overflowed in a wealth of generosity! If you remember nothing else about today, remember that it does not take big bank accounts in order to overflow with generosity. Jesus talks about a poor widow who gave only a penny, yet gave more than a wealthy man who gave loads of cash. Whether you give out of your allowance or your booming enterprise of washing cars (my truck could use a wash, by the way), when your giving is coupled with your joy, it can easily amount to generosity as long as it is given to God.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>You see, simply giving money to a good cause is not really giving, it’s a donation. Giving means you are giving to God, so that He might be glorified in peoples’ lives. Looking at this passage, we see that “they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.” Whether you are giving to the Church, supporting a missionary or giving to another Christian organization, you are giving to God. This is important to know because there are some places and organizations that do not see the money coming in as having a higher purpose (that God be given glory) and therefore do not use the money wisely. Others might know it has a higher purpose, but still do not use the money wisely. Since God is calling you to give to Him, it’s your responsibility to make sure that when you give, you are giving to God, not simply a Christian organization. This can be done by looking at what the Church or organization does with the money and that they use it for specific work proclaiming the Gospel because when the Gospel is proclaimed, it is an act of grace.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Teaching others about who Christ is and what He has done is an act of grace in itself, and that is what our giving should be supporting. This passage states that Titus was to complete the act of grace (giving) and that the Church as a whole was to excel in this act of grace. There is no greater grace than to hear about a God who loved someone so much that He gave His only Son to die for them, even though they are rotten and undeserving to even mention the name of His Son: Jesus Christ. By giving to the Church or other Christian organizations, you are performing this act of grace, even though you aren’t the actual person who might have the conversation, give a change of clothes or a meal, you are still performing this act of grace. It is important to realize that it is not just your money that you are called to give; you are also to give of yourself, which is as much grace (if not more) as giving of your money. The Bible is clear that we are all supposed to give. It is very pointed that we are supposed to give wisely and to give both of ourselves and of our money. As you think about yourself right now, do you think that you are just a kid and unable to give or do you think that God has put you into a position where your joy and poverty can turn into generosity, which is grace?<br />M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-15720723341901743082012-06-24T20:35:00.003-07:002012-06-25T06:13:53.341-07:00Church Discipline and YouI wrote this article for my class, you can read it on YouthMinistry.com by <a href="http://www.youthministry.com/articles/families/church-discipline-and-you" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.churchleaders.com/thumbnail.php?file=article_images/church_discipline_320110838.jpg&size=article_large" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.churchleaders.com/thumbnail.php?file=article_images/church_discipline_320110838.jpg&size=article_large" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
“Did you hear about so-n-so?” is the first thing a friend might say following the public revelation of another’s sinful actions. As you are in this moment, it becomes obvious that there are undoubtedly numerous ways to respond to this question; and each reflects who Christ is in your life and how you view His commands. At this crossroad, your theological mind might process Ephesians 5 pertaining to not letting sexual immorality even be named among you (should you tape their mouth shut before they actually say it?), or you attempt to remember which of the Ten Commandments might have been broken (was it number eight or number nine that’s about lying?), or you might be a bit loftier and think not of the sin itself, but wonder which step in Church discipline the elders have gotten to already. The fact is that you more than likely do not need to gain more information than you might already have from your friend. At this point, there are some very important steps to take regarding your brother or sister’s sinful actions: know and pray about your role, respond with love and know your boundaries.<br />
<br />
<b>What roles do you or should you play right now?</b><br />
<br />
More than likely, you are not the person who has been sinned against. If you were, you would know about it and need to respond accordingly, but Matthew wrote that article as part of a larger book (about someone else’s words and works named “Jesus”). It is possible for you to be a person who discovers the sinful actions of your brother or sister; but, again, Matthew covered that information. What is most likely is that you are part of the Church body with the sinner (harsh term, but sadly accurate) and your role is very interesting indeed. It is this role that Matthew only includes indirectly, as part of the Church he refers to in Matthew 18:17: “If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” (ESV) There can be some debate as to what it means to treat the sinner “as a Gentile and a tax collector,” but getting to this point in the discipline process takes time, prayer and wise Church leadership. Before this point, it might be argued, that there are a great many roles that must be filled, these roles can range from a fellow mourner like Job’s friends (before they started to accuse), an encourager as Barnabas was known to be or a counselor, speaking truth into the lives of the sinner and/or the ones affected by the sins. Regardless of the role you are called to play, it must be approached in careful prayer and love.<br />
<br />
<b>What does love look like?</b><br />
<br />
When a person sins (providing the Holy Spirit is at work in their lives) there is already guilt and pain added to the equation. This equation probably does not need you to be multiplied to any power as it has already been squared or even cubed. Therefore, your input on the severity of the sin, the effects of the sin or how “you always knew something was off about them” is best cleared from your heart and your mind, lest you become one whose sin requires others to respond in love. With your heart and mind in check, there are some things to consider about how to respond in love and in no way should love excuse sinful behavior. As Hebrews 12 reminds us, the love of God is like the love of a father and includes discipline. As previously noted, there are many different roles one might have in this situation, adding to this, each person’s role is based upon previous relationships already held. If you do not have a relationship with any involved, your expression of love should primarily take the form of prayer. If you are a youth leader and there are children involved, appropriate love could equate to being a counselor or listening ear for them. If your relationship has been with the sinner, love could equate to being a counselor or listening ear as well, for a different audience. The point is that an appropriate response of love is determined by your role and by your relationship with those involved already. From here, it is important to recognize appropriate boundaries.<br />
<br />
<b>Know Your Boundaries</b><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In regards to the initial question, what should your response be to your friend? Engaging in gossip is a boundary that should not be crossed. There are two things to think of regarding this: do not be a source of information for others and do not seek out information for yourself. We have all encountered people with good intentions, seeking information and wanting to help. Similarly, we might have good intentions seeking information from others with a desire to help. The problem is that no matter the intentions, unless a person is directly involved, they do not need to know anything they do not already know. This is an essential boundary that must be followed in order to promote proper healing, which is the basis of the other boundary that must be observed. The goal of each of these steps is to promote healing for all involved. This boundary is one where the limits are only that which is deemed appropriate, or related to your role. Remember your role and do not attempt to go beyond that role unless you are equipped to embody another role and the Holy Spirit leads you. Attempting to be a counselor without proper training or leading would prove to be more of hindrance than a help. Additionally, not listening as the Holy Spirit does lead you towards a new role can have the same affect.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Throughout any time where someone’s sin has come to light (particularly, but not limited to, sexual sin) there are many victims. Many people carry the weight of one person’s failure and there are consequently many people who are in need of healing and help. Being directly involved (as in one of those addressed in Matthew’s article) requires a different role than someone indirectly involved. Though you might know and be affected by the sin of another, your role is probably different from those directly sinned against; and your role should then focus on bringing about healing for others. At a bare minimum, this would involve prayer and responding to your friend’s question with grace and love, directing them to join you in praying for so-in-so, their family and everyone else involved. If you are called to have a more active role in the situation, remember to know and pray about that role, respond in love and know your boundaries. The prayer is to bring the sinner into repentance and healing to the hearts of those directly involved.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13232747.post-46936123064637636752012-06-21T09:04:00.000-07:002013-06-27T15:45:09.871-07:00Theology for the Wondering Age<br />
When a Church is “good” at theology, it is most prevalent from the pulpit. Week in and week out, the messages of those entrusted with sharing the Gospel reflect a well-developed theology which cannot help but seep out with every sentence. Regretfully, this example of “good” theology is not the norm as there are many more Churches practicing “bad” theology with every spoken word or song of praise. What could be causal to these congregations and their practices is what Stanley Grenz and Roger Olson describe in their book, Who Needs Theology?: “A misconception is growing among Christians that a great gulf exists between ‘ordinary Christians’ and ‘theologians.’” (1996) As the congregants have sought to distance themselves from a faith of “knowledge,” they have neglected the very knowledge that can lead to salvation. Even when there is a congregation that practices “good” theology, theology is not taught to the extent that it could be, often beginning true “theological” education and preaching when a student reaches middle school, when the outside influencers and contradicting worldviews have already begun to creep in with often detrimental and negative views being pushed at (if not on) them. When it comes to my personal area of ministry, my focus is on the three years before a student hits middle school, which are exactly the years to begin instructing a student about theology as the proverbial question “Why?” is asked with honest requests for deeper answers. When teaching theology to third through fifth graders there are three things to keep in mind: what the students know, what the students are beginning to wonder and providing practical tips for becoming a theologian.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>For many students who have grown up attending Church, they have heard and accepted a number of things by the time they get to this stage. Specifically, many students know and accept the validity of the Bible, the truth and divinity of Jesus Christ and that Jesus Christ died for their sins resulting in salvation. When examining these beliefs, it can quickly become apparent that they belong more to the parents of the students than to the students themselves. Often, the Bible stories that many of these students are told from a young age are simply accepted as truth, which is good as a “child-like faith” is often commended. From these stories, they then hear about Jesus and learn about His divinity which can turn into an acceptance of Him as a Savior. It is important to know what the students believe and where they have attained these beliefs. Undoubtedly, there are students who have not grown up in the Church, who do not have beliefs from parents. Again, knowing what students believe and where they have attained these beliefs is essential as this is their theology and at this age they begin to wonder who God is and where they stand with Him, taking their own first steps to become theologians.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>From this point, it is essential to take what the students know and allow them an opportunity and a safe environment where they can honestly wonder, thus cultivating minds that are critical thinkers. Building off of the basic knowledge of the students, careful instruction needs to occur focused on Biblical criticism, Christology and Biblical interpretation. Though each of these terms have deep and debated backgrounds, they can be simplified by focusing on instruction as opposed to delving into the questions. Students in this group are already beginning to wonder where the Bible came from, how Christ needs to be both divine and human and in all of this time, they are starting to have the capability to read the Bible on their own. By examining Biblical origins, students can learn how the modern Bible was put together, learning answers to the questions that they either have or will have at some point together. When they are prepared and have answered this question for themselves, they will then be prepared to give an account to others who question. After the validity of the Bible is established, the students can then address their questions related to who Christ is, why He had to die and what it means that He conquered death. Grasping this information and holding to its truth can lead to salvation for the students and those they encounter. Finally, as these two truths are discovered by the students, they can learn how to look at the Bible themselves, and glean theological truths from its pages. Each of these items, as well as many more, are sprouting up in the minds of students at this age. To simply continue instruction as before, when they were feeding on spiritual milk, would do an injustice and not properly feed them. From this point, the goal is to create proper theologians.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>When a child is born, they feed off of their mother’s milk. As they continue to grow, mushed peas make their way primarily to the walls and hair, but also to the baby’s mouth. Through many more steps, their palates, teeth and digestive systems are ready for a hearty top sirloin steak (or wheat germ tofu for those so inclined). Similarly, through many steps, these students learn to accept the “milk” attached to blind belief and eventually find themselves trying out the mushed peas and apple sauce. As a teacher with theology in mind, this brings about the requirement of feeding these students without providing rote answers. As previously mentioned, many of these students have grown up in the Church and “know” the answers to questions regarding Christ, salvation and the Bible, but not many know why those answers are correct. As these are fundamental tenants, it is important to serve the students by discovering the answers with them. Even in the second step of “guided wonder,” answers should not be given as much as questions should be explored. What all of this boils down to is a call by children’s ministers to not simply assume that children are too young to grasp theology or provide rote answers, but to learn how to be better theologians as they teach the students that they already are theologians.<br />
<br />
References<br />
Grenz, S. J., & Olson, R. E. (1996). Who needs theology?: An invitation to the study of God. Downers Grove, Ill., USA: InterVarsity Press.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>M Priorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08902014960319427359noreply@blogger.com0