November  2009

THANKSGIVING

Luke 17:17  And Jesus answering said, “Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

In 2007 our granddaughter Devon underwent heart surgery. Devon was born with a two-chambered heart and consequently has had numerous surgeries. Each of these operations have been of a life threatening nature with each procedure lasting in excess of five hours. The 2007 operation was unique in that this would be the first time a surgery of this type was performed on anyone other than infants. It was scheduled as an eight-hour procedure at Shands in Gainesville, Florida.

Naturally the family was concerned, stressed, and fearful. We literally had thousands of people in prayer and support. I remember Brother Harrell Hemingway joining the family in prayer and asking God to supernaturally intervene and guide the surgeon’s hands. Glory to God, the surgery came off without a hitch and only took five hours. Completely exhausted, Janet and I checked out of the hotel and returned home. The next morning I called our daughter to inquire about Devon’s condition. Lynda was in a hysterical state. She informed me that all of Devon’s organs were shutting down and the entire team of doctors had frantically worked with her all night and it did not look promising.

During my rapid trip back to Gainesville, I cried out to God, “What are You doing to me...You brought her through the surgery to now let her slip away?” There on I-75 God spoke to me only  saying, “were not there ten lepers?” I realized immediately that when in trouble, I pray fervently and continuously, but I had not offered thanks nor asked anyone to praise God for His surgical mercies. I quickly prayed, “Forgive me God. You gave her to us and if You want her, she is Yours.”  An hour later, I anxiously arrived at the door of Devon’s room.  “Hi, Granddaddy” she said and she was sitting there, with a smile!!  What have you thanked God for today? To be truly Thanksgiving, is first thanks and then giving and that’s the way I see it.

iHs

Griff

iHs

Griff

www.lifelineministries.com