Sustained by Prayer

(From Summer 2002 Nativity newsletter)

Many of you know that my husband, Paul, has been in the hospital since the night of March 28th. It has been and continues to be difficult for him as he fights for his life, and for me as I try to be strong for him, encourage him, and pray with him and for him. Except for grace at meals and the occasional times he comes to church with me, we have never prayed together as we have during his hospitalization period. He had a tracheotomy, which means he hasn't been able to speak since he became ill, but he seems to find some peace when I pray, and to welcome such moments, and so do I. I pray that his heart, mind, body, and soul will be so touched by the love of Jesus and his Word that his healing will continue in every way when at last he is able to return home.

I share these thoughts with you because I have been sustained — even joyful — through Bible reading and meditation, because you are my friends who are so faithfully praying for us both, calling, and sending cards, and lifting my spirit and drawing me ever closer to you and to the God and his Word.

I share these thoughts with you because I ask you to continue to give generously to the Miles of Pennies Fund, because through your small gifts little children will have access to the Words, will become friends with Jesus, and will find strength, encouragement, love, and blessings beyond their ability to imagine or describe, just as I have.

My thanks to all of you for your love, graciousness, encouragement, and prayers.

June Hanley