March 17, 2006

My Dear Friends in Christ,
 
    "If God is for us, who can be against us?  He who did not spare His own Son but handed Him over for us all, how will he not give us everything else along with Him?"
 
    Well, let's see.  Our own bodies, minds, spirits can be against us.  People who just don't like us.  Cruel twists of fate or accident that befall us all so many times in our lives. The list goes on and on. 
 
    In my own circumstances it would seem that it's a different opponent every week.  I did get a "final" report on the leukemia and the status of my donor marrow - NO LEUKEMIA AND 100% DONOR MARROW.  On the other hand I've found out that the GVHD has flared up and another virus has shown itself.  So, while I was starting to eat - however lightly - I'm now back on a clear liquid diet, and probably will be for another month at least.  Bummer!
 
    Thanks be to God, though, He lives within me and none of these things can prevail against Him.  That is my constant hope and joy.  This has been a setback but He who has already redeemed me through the sacrifice and obedience of His Son will see me through this as well.
 
    Keep those prayers and good thoughts coming.  You are certainly in mine every day.  Continue to support Fr. Dennis and Fr. Richard, Cathy, Dale, Jackie, and all the parish staff.  They're all in a difficult position and doing a great job.  May you know the peace of Christ, always.
 
Peace
Fr. Rick
 
GO TIGERS!!!!