Romans 8:28: "We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, who are called according to His purpose."
Today there was some concern about Dad's elevated body temperature, so some cultures were taken to rule out an infection. Those cultures will take about 48 hours for results; however we're hoping that the elevated temp is related to the inflamation in the lungs rather than an infection. His status has become more stable throughout the day in every vital sign - oxygen level, heart rate, blood pressure, fluid balance, etc. This is a huge praise! They have been able to begin "feeding" him today, which should aid in the healing process. He continues to be completely sedated and the ventilator is breathing for him. The medical staff is pleased with Dad's progress and feel things are moving in the right direction. Tonight we were "kicked out" of the ICU for a couple of hours. That is actually a good sign as they see Dad as being more stable. Praise God!
Praise - We're thankful for the progress and the excellent care and attention of the hospital staff towards Dad and our family. We're thankful for John's safe arrival from Cambodia.
Prayer requests - That Dad will tolerate the "feedings" well, that the fever subsides and is not related to infection, and for continued healing of the lungs. Also pray that no new complications develop and that his vital signs continue to improve.
Thanks for walking this journey with us. We need you.
In Him,
David (for the Harrill family)
As I am sort of stuck in the house with a sleeping baby and can't be in the hospital with Dad, I felt like I needed God's comfort. I'm currently in Dad's office typing this and I noticed he left out Our Daily Bread devotional book. I turned to today's page and I found the comfort I was looking for. God is truly working in this situation and things are lining up to His promises and to the way Dad prayed before his surgery. I have been thinking how ironic it is that this is happening to Dad, one of the most godly men I know. But as I read, I was reminded of some things:
ReplyDelete"The Struggle...Look at Paul, Joseph, Abraham, Job, Jeremiah, Peter - godly men one and all. Yet they all faced dangers and trouble none of us would ever desire. So, why the struggle? Why is it that tragedy strikes Christians with the same blunt force that it strikes the most antagonistic atheists? Why are we not exempt from natural disaster, serious illness, interpersonal squabbles, and mistreatment by others? Somehow, in God's way of making things work out, our troubles can advance His kingdom and purposes (Romans 8:28, Philippians 1:12)" (BTW...David, I'm not surprised that Romans 8:28, the same verse you wrote above, was highlighted on this devotional page - God is active among all of us who are praying). "Our task is to glorify God, no matter what the circumstances. If we do, our struggle can direct others to the Savior as we make our way toward our ultimate goal of rest and reward in heaven."
I know Dad knows and believes this,too.
Emily