When God Shows Off

This past Sunday, Tim read a letter from me to the congregation. In that letter, I let everyone know that I have been in pain for some time. Unfortunately, we do not know the problem, so I asked the congregation to pray that I will be faithful through the journey. When you start going to doctors, you keep going to doctors; at least, that is the way it seems. After many tests, we have eliminated some of the scary things that take up space in your mind. However, I still have tests in front of me and appointments that will take up much of my time. Last May, I asked Trey Morgan to be the speaker at our “Mans Day.” Little did I know that God was already putting blessings in my path. Trey has been through many of the things I am facing, and he gave me great encouragement. I love watching God show off. I look forward to seeing the presence of God throughout this entire journey. Blessing In Him J. Tom Washburn

I Trust God

The new ring tone on my phone is “I still have Joy.” That is the message I want everyone to hear. Unfortunately, we have only eliminated possibilities despite going through several tests (no real pain in the test). We know some things that are not causing my symptoms and pain, but we are still unsure what is causing the symptoms and pain. I have been referred to the Walker Cancer Center. Some of the monsters in front of me have vanished, but some of them remain. The only thing I know for sure is that Jesus is going to walk with me through – whatever. He has also given me Julie and a great family who will stand with me. Today is a day I hurt, and that is ok. I will be sure and enjoy the days I don’t hurt. Funny, the things we take for granted. I don’t want to take for granted the presence of Christ and the presence of the people He has placed in my life. In Him J. Tom Washburn

Unwanted News

On Sunday, October 10th, Julie and I were given some unwanted news. We were told that my health was not the best. Of course, nobody ever wants to hear that news, but it does no good to hide your head in the sand. I have been hurting for the past several months, but I just thought it was old age. Here are the facts that I know. 1. God is in control. 2. God will be with me through whatever happens. 3. Julie loves me and will stand by me. 4. We don't know, at this point, how bad or how good things are. 5. I trust God. On Tuesday, I told the staff most of the things that the medical report stated. Tomorrow I will see another Doctor. Today I will have more tests. I am still confident of the five things I know, and my prayer is this, "God help me be faithful and trust in you for the rest of my life." Amen