Independence Weekend

"Suppose a nation in some distant Region should take the Bible for their only law Book, and every member should regulate his conduct by the precepts there exhibited! Every member would be obliged in conscience, to temperance, frugality, and industry; to justice, kindness, and charity towards his fellow men; and to piety, love, and reverence toward Almighty God ... What a Utopia, what a Paradise would this region be."

--Diary and Autobiography of John Adams, Vol. III, p. 9.

Yesterday was a day spent with family and friends. It was a day spent celebrating, more than anything, the freedoms that we have in Christ. We are free from fear and hopelessness. No matter the circumstances of our lives, a carefully constructed plan has been designed and whether that design is difficult or easy, it is all joyous because it was designed by God.

"There is never a fear that has not a corresponding fear not." - Amy Carmichael

There was much joy in the Carson household yesterday as we were joined by Uncle Mike (mom's brother), Aunt Sandra (his wife) and my dear friend Lindsey (my long lost twin). There was also much eating in the Carson household because, well, that's just what we do! We also sing, much like the Von Trapp family but with less twirling on mountain tops and other such nonsense.

Mom had been witness to the decline in Dad's piano playing in the weeks prior to learning of the brain tumor. He would have difficulty leading worship at church and would stumble through pieces that he has played with precision for years. We were afraid that his ability and coordination would be affected by the tumor and surgery. There have been so many things that we were told to expect and we are filled with joy each time recognize God's healing touch.

Dad plays as well as he ever did. No stumbling. He bounces around on that piano bench like he has for the past 50 years. It's a good thing that he can play again because even though my voice rivals that of Aretha Franklin's, I sound much better with accompaniment.

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This week starts the radiation-chemo treatments. These will be five days a week for six weeks. Dad has been fitted for his radiation helmet which in my mind looks like this...

We have been told that the treatments will be very exhausting and could make him feel very sick but we have hope that the Lord will continue to strengthen him through this next trial. The Lord has been so faithful and we pray that Dad will rest and heal in the coming weeks.

I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O Lord. make me dwell in safety - Psalm 4:8