What a strong, precious family you have, Irene. In my “twilight” days here at MPD (two days to go before retirement) I was simply heart-sick to hear about this devastating illness that you are facing with such dignity and bravery. Even your pictures show your wonderful smile and strength. I remember your girls when they were just babies and see how they have grown and matured into such lovely, vibrant adults. My prayers are with you and yours.
Love,
Diana DuPont
Dear Mom,
Over the last three weeks I have found immense comfort in Steven Curtis Chapman’s song His Strength is Perfect
Specifically, the verse ”We can only know/the power that He holds/when we truly see how deep our weakness goes/His strength in us begins/where ours comes to an end/He hears our humble cry and proves again/His strength is perfect when our strength is gone/He’ll carry us when we can’t carry on/Raised in His power, the weak become strong/His strength is perfect”
I truly saw how deep our weakness goes as I saw you struggle through the last week. I am so blessed to see you raised in His power as you continually become strong.
I woke up from a dream sometime around 4:30, this morning and pictured you sitting in your hospital bed with a banquet table spread out before you, anything you could imagine to eat was there before you, and you were feasting. When I got in the shower this morning I kept singing:
He brought me to his banqueting table
His banner over me is love
He brought me to his banqueting table
His banner over me is love
He brought me to his banqueting table
His banner over me is love
His banner over me is love
I am my beloved’s and he is mine
His banner over me is love
I am my beloved’s and he is mine
His banner over me is love
I am my beloved’s and he is mine
His banner over me is love
His banner over me is love
…and I was reminded that DAVID means BELOVED. God, and Dad, have faithfully seen you through this, and I am grateful from the bottom of my heart for my two Fathers who demonstrate unconditional love – true love – to you, and to our family.
Soon Dad will be picking up Spicy Tuna from Sushi on the Run in Aptos for you, Mom, and you will feast on it and whatever else your heart desires.
Bless the Lord, O my soul
And all that is within me
Bless His holy name
Bless the Lord, O my soul
And forget not all His benefits
Who heals all your diseases
Who redeems your life from destruction
Who crowns you with lovingkindness
Dear Dave and Irene –
It’s so good to read of improvements and progress. Your strength and faith are beautiful and inspiring. Debbie and I pray for your comfort and complete healing, wisdom for your doctors, that this experience grows the faith of fellow believers, leads the seekers to know our God, and ultimately glorifies His kingdom.
God bless you –
Michael and Debbie Ireland
“Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” -Lamentations 3:22-23
