The
long story.
31st
Dec. 2001
Hi
everyone
We
just wanted to say thank you for your prayers and to wish you
a very Blessed New Year. I am sorry to have been laid aside
these days. I miss you all very much. The Doctor insists I rest
until I see him again on 17th. Pray that I might get a speedy
appointment at the cardiac clinic. I am feeling better than
I have felt for some time but still very easily tired. I have
to learn to be patient! Pray for Joanna as so much falls on
her now. We are looking forward to a New Year in our church,
for we believe God has great things ahead for us all. God has
been very gracious in 2001; souls have been saved and many blessed.
It has been a privilege to minister to you all - to weep with
those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice and to know
that our God reigns. You are all very precious to Joanna and
me.
Thank
you for all your love and support in the past. We know we can
count on you as we face the future.
Psalm
18
I
love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress
and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.
He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved
from my enemies. The cords of death entangled me; the torrents
of destruction overwhelmed me. The cords of the grave coiled
around me; the snares of death confronted me. In my distress
I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple
he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears. The
LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God my Saviour!
He is the God who avenges me, who subdues nations under me,
who saves me from my enemies. You exalted me above my foes;
from violent men you rescued me. Therefore I will praise you
among the nations, O LORD; I will sing praises to your name.
He gives his king great victories; he shows unfailing kindness
to his anointed, to David and his descendants forever.
God
bless you each one.
with
much love
David
and Joanna
PS.
Feel free to keep in touch by email. I try to escape to the
computer for a while each day! Note that moirabaptist.org is
approaching 10,000 hits. Who will be number 10,000? If you hit
the mark let me know. A Curly Wurly is waiting for the winner!!
18th
January 2002
I
have sneaked off again to the computer. Well I have to do something!!
I just wanted to thank all of you for your prayers over the
past three weeks almost. God has given all the grace we have
needed to face the challenges before us, in answer to your prayers.
I have now got an appointment with the Cardiac consultant for
this Monday afternoon. I know that the problem is a left ventricular
failure - whatever that means! Pray that the consultant will
know the guiding hand of God in making diagnosis and deciding
on the best treatment. I do not know how much longer I will
be off work but I hope soon to have a clearer idea. I so much
miss being involved in church life and particularly with those
of you who are facing your own challenges. We pray for you all.
We are so grateful to all who are helping in ministry there
weeks and particularly those in the church who have to carry
the extra burdens of leadership while I am away. Thank you for
all the emails, cards and messages of encouragement. It is wonderful
to have such a loving caring fellowship around us. Pray for
Joanna. I know you have been but the focus is largely on me
and she needs a lot of strength. So much more rests on her shoulders
and she is very tired at times. Pray for her health to be strong
enough to cope.
God
bless you all,
David
Ps
9:9-10 The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold
in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in
you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.
NIV
29th
January
It
is exactly one month today since the Doctor said I must rest.
You can imagine how I have found that difficult. Now he says
I must stay off work for another 4 weeks and refuses to be drawn
on how long it will take. Nothing can be decided until after
I get the heart scan and see the consultant again. So please
pray that these appointments may soon be made. I am feeling
quite a lot better and the doctor allows me a little exercise
but strictly limited. The medication I am on has to be assessed
through blood tests in 3 weeks and adjusted if necessary. Please
continue to pray for us that the day will come soon when I will
be able to return to the people and work I love. Your prayers,
messages, emails and cards are all deeply appreciated. And please
continue to pray for all your friends and mine in the church
who are in need. I can't be alongside them just now but when
I can't sleep at night I pray for them. I know you pray too
and we look forward to all He is going to do. God is gracious.
Love
in Jesus
David
9th
February
Hello
everyone,
Thanks
for all your prayers. I am sorry I have not been updating you
recently. I am feeling much, much better these days. Each day
I attempt a little more - so far without any major problems
other than tiredness. I drove over to Adam and Debbie's house
today on my own - the first driving for weeks on end. I am sleeping
better at nights and generally feeling stronger but my body
reminds me from time to time if I do too much. I hope soon to
be able to be out more. I have still not received that appointment
from the hospital and ask you to pray that it comes soon. My
GP will not allow me to do much until that scan shows what is
wrong. I keep my mind occupied with reading, sorting and cataloguing
etc in the study, a little computer work and some painting.
(first attempt is attached - no! I do not do portraits. I wish
to avoid losing good friends!!) No woodturning yet!! I try to
keep up to date with church needs and pray for you all. I miss
being there and hope soon I can join you. I praise God for my
fellow elders and our deacons who have done so much to ensure
that I can rest without worrying about church things. I am very
grateful to those on the Missions council who have to carry
a heavy load in preparation for the Missionary Conference in
March. I am very grateful to the men who have stepped in at
short notice to preach on Sundays and Wednesdays. Please continue
to pray that God will pour out His blessing upon us all. Joanna
and I are very grateful for all your love and support; practical
as well as prayerful. Your cards and letters, phone calls, emails
and visits are really appreciated. Thank you for all the nice
things you have brought to eat - tonight we enjoyed a delicious
tea cooked for us. God bless you all for your love. Continue
to remember Joanna that she may know strength and health. Please
pray for my friend Sam in India. I talked to him on the phone
today and discovered that he too has had a recurrence of his
heart problems. He was in hospital last week - in intensive
care for a time - and had similar symptoms to my own. It was
very special to be able to encourage each other in the Lord.
He and Victoria really need our prayers each day. I will leave
you with the wonderful verses the Lord gave me two nights ago.
Psalm
18
As
for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless.
He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. For who is God
besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God?
It
is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He
makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand
on the heights. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend
a bow of bronze. You give me your shield of victory, and your
right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great. You
broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn.
11th
Feb.

I
could not resist sharing this charming card with you. It comes
from one of my little friends in church - Elise Archer. Note
the sun is still shining, there is a rainbow behind the dark
clouds, I am still smiling and my hair is still growing down
the side but not over the top! Thanks for your prayers. Yesterday
and last night I was not so good as recently. Still no appointment.
Your prayers are really appreciated.
David
and Joanna
21st
Feb.
Hi
everyone,
Thanks
again for all your love to us. We are very conscious of your
prayer support. God is pouring in His grace every day. Up until
last weekend I was feeling really well and planning to be at
church on Sunday. But Saturday night was the beginning of another
setback; since then I have regularly been very short of breath
and last night was rather difficult - I was still awake at 6.15
am! I saw the doctor this morning and he has increased some
of my medication and told me I will be off work for some time
yet. I still have no scan appointment, though I may know something
more today or tomorrow. Other openings are being explored, through
the kindness of some friends, so I hope soon to know more about
what is going on inside this old body!! I am very grateful for
all God's mercies to us. I'm still not tearing out what little
hair I have left but sometimes it can be very frustrating to
be so curtailed. ( I should not have said that!! It is quite
funny! The wind has just caused a blip in the power supply and
the computer shut down so I lost the end of this message and
have had to re-type it!!) Please pray for Joanna for I think
she is looking very tired and I just fear what impact all this
could have or her future health.
I
am so sorry to be away from the services and church life and
visitation. So many of you are in great need of support and
I long to be there with you through these days. By God's grace
soon I will be, but the Lord is with You and never leaves you.
We are all constantly in His hand.
How
grateful we all are for the leadership we have in church. I
feel so bad about the burden placed on Adrian and Maynard, both
of whom have their own health problems and pressures. It is
great to know the church is in good hands and they, with the
deacons, are doing a great work and need your prayers and support.
Once
again thank you for all the generous tokens of your love to
us. We are surrounded by cards; scores of e-mails have arrived
and many have phoned or called. It is lovely to be a part of
a great church family. We have been shown so much kindness.
The Lord will bless you. I am sure you remember that there are
others in the church going through even more difficult days.
Don't forget them.
With
much love in the Lord Jesus,
David
Psalm
21:7
For
the king trusts in the LORD, and through the mercy of the Most
High he shall not be moved.
8th
March
I
want to thank you for your prayer support over the past weeks.
These last couple of days I have been feeling a quite well.
On Wednesday a friend took me for an outing to B&Q and Oxford
Island for an hour or so. Then that evening I was able to attend
the Dollingstown Home Bible study and really enjoyed it. However
the fluid continues to be a problem in my lungs and in the last
24 hours on my ankles. Sometimes I feel like I am on a roller
coaster - (not that I have ever been on one!!)- sometimes up
and sometimes down. I thank God that however down I have felt
physically, He has kept me up emotionally and spiritually. I
wish I could soon be physically strong again and able to do
all the things I want to do for the Lord. I have to learn that
this is not wasted time. The Lord is teaching me so much as
I read His Word - particularly from the Psalms. Last night He
gave me words from Psalm 31.
For
You are my rock and my fortress; therefore, for Your name's
sake, lead me and guide me.
For
You are my strength. Into Your hand I commit my spirit;
You
have redeemed me, O LORD God of truth. I trust in You, O LORD;
I say, "You are my God." My times are in Your hand.
Thanks
once again for all your love and support.
David
and Joanna
10th
March
I
know it is just a few days since I updated you but so many have
been in touch. The latest news is that I have had a very good
weekend. The Doctor has doubled some of my medication and that
seems to have helped already. On Saturday Joanna and I and the
grandchildren went out for a quick trip to the shops and then
went up to Joanna's parents in Dungannon for an hour or two.
It was my first big trip for ten weeks and apart from a build
up of fluid on my legs, I am fine. Then this morning I was able
to go to church. It is Missionary Sunday with the Morrows from
Peru. I really enjoyed it but was so sad not to be involved.
I love Missionary services. Tonight we have an international
supper after the service but I am too tired to go-- (even after
a couple of hours sleep this afternoon). Joanna and Adam have
gone and I am babysitting Debbie. She is asleep so I have an
opportunity to catch up on a bit of correspondence. Thank you
again for all your love and prayers.
I have just counted and you are one of over 80 people around
the world who get this. Is it any wonder I feel the power of
prayer.
Thank
you
David
and Joanna
25th
March
Thank
you for your prayers this week. On Wednesday morning I have
my long awaited cardiac scan. Pray for a clear diagnosis and
a speedy medical response to whatever is identified. Pray too
for Joanna. She has a Doctor's appointment tomorrow. The past
three months have placed enormous demands or her health.
Loud
whispers
The
past 3 months have been full of noise and upheaval:
The
howling winds of weakness
Why
can I not keep going like I have always done? Through nearly
34 years of Christian ministry I have never had more enthusiasm
or expectancy, yet for the first time a major health issue has
intervened. Even sitting in a church service becomes exhausting
- changed days! How I wish I could do all the things I want
to do!
The
earthquake of guilt
There
is so much to be done that the load is left on the shoulders
of men with busy lives and their own health problems. Should
I be doing more? Did I bring this illness about because I unwisely
pushed myself? My health problems have placed strains on Joanna's
health. You know how I love the grand children and I cannot
do the things we once did together. They try to understand but
it is not easy for them.
The
fire of frustration
Why
does this happen when we have such exciting things planned?
When is it going to be resolved? Why should I have to wait so
long for medical attention? There is such need in the church
and I can't be involved? We have a busy year ahead in church
life and I have to sit at home! I begin to feel well and so
little sets me back. I want to be there for those who hurt and
I can only be at the end of a phone. Like Elijah, I have been
bombarded by such noise and upheaval - but there has been a
whisper that has been louder than them all.
The
still small voice of His peace.
He
cares about me. He has a plan for my life. He has more for me
to do for Him. He promises grace sufficient for every day. The
frustrations and the guilt and the weaknesses and the fears
and the uncertainties fade away when He tell me He loves me
and shows me His plan is perfect.
Thank
you Lord for your Loud Whispers.
David
2nd
April
Thanks
for all your prayers. I trust you all had a blessed Easter.
It was really special to attend our Good Friday Service in Moira
Baptist and to see the place full. We really were moved as we
worshipped and broke bread together. A big "thank you"
to everyone involved. I really enjoyed the opportunity to talk
to you all over supper - I was just about the last one out of
the hall (as usual!!) But I am afraid I am still weaker than
I thought and for the next couple of days I was feeling the
effects of it all. Please continue to pray for strength and
patience and for God's touch. I am waiting as patiently as I
can for the Medical profession to do what they have to do but
I know that the great Healer is not short of resources or overworked;
in His time, He will perfect that which concern me.
Joanna
sends her love and thanks.
Love
in Jesus
David
12
th April
Dear
friends
Forgive
me for not writing recently. These past two weeks have been
encouraging as I have felt a real measure of improvement and
been able to do some things I have not done for weeks - such
as driving alone to Lurgan and Moira!! We were able to spend
two nights in Enniskillen last weekend. First time away from
home for over 3 months! I am still waiting for the appointments
at the Royal Victoria Hospital.
I
received the official results of my scan today. The consultant
says it shows the "pumping fraction of the heart is significantly
impaired" and he has arranged a number of further investigations.
Of course the bottom line is "you will be receiving appointments
in due course". God has wonderfully answered prayer so
far and I ask you to pray on that these appointments will be
granted soon (and close together) so that there is no delay
in identifying the cause and the consequent treatment. Today
my GP has doubled another of my medication and will monitor
its effects closely. He hopes it will continue to deal with
my symptoms. So far my medication has not produced significant
side effects, so I am praying for that also to continue.
I
continue to have a remarkable sense of peace and a patience
I did not know was possible on earth. Of course at times I feel
frustration and even the fear of the unknown but your prayers
have borne me up day after day. Thank you from the bottom of
my heart.
Thank
you for praying for Joanna. She developed something like a bad
cold last weekend (I think it was more than a cold) and has
struggled all week to keep it to herself. I am thankful that
I was feeling so well and could do so much when she was feeling
so poorly.
We
love you all and miss you dearly. Pray that soon the Lord may
open the door to me to return to the people He has given me
and the ministry I love so much.
I
would like to share some thoughts from a verse the Lord gave
me recently for someone .
Psalm
16:11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill
me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your
right hand. NIV
Here
is instruction on how to live in the present, in preparation
for living in His presence.
Live
on God's path - "the path of life" - it is always
best. There is no path in life to compare with the Path of life.
Aren't you glad you are on it? Remember how He turned you from
your own way?
Live
in God's presence - there true happiness is found. Only when
we are on the path of life can we experience His presence. Do
you know the "heart burn" of walking with Jesus every
day?
Live
for God's pleasures - they are the only pleasures that last
forever. We easily get dazzled by the "rhinestones"
of this world's trinkets; He wants us to delight in the "diamonds"
of grace that will never loose their lustre. Have you turned
your eyes upon Jesus today? "The things of earth will grow
strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace."
With
much love in Jesus
David
and Joanna.
29th
April
Thank
you for praying for Joanna and me over these months. Generally
I am keeping quite well with some "off" days but still
easily tired. Yesterday was the 7th anniversary of my coming
to Moira as Pastor. It was a great experience to feel well enough
to introduce the service and take the opportunity to thank all
my friends in Moira Baptist for their support and prayers. But
at the same time it was a little sad to realise that the little
part I had in the service was as much as I could do. I look
forward to the day when I can once more stand in my pulpit and
preach - I ask you to pray for that day to come soon.
I
am still patiently waiting for hospital appointments and praying
for a speedy resolution of my health problems. It is difficult
to be patient - I am finding God's grace sufficient though I
confess to occasional times of frustration and discouragement.
God still has much to teach me.
Can I ask you to join us in prayer for one of our Church Elders
- Adrian Patterson. Adrian was in England last weekend on business.
On his way to church on Sunday morning he took ill and was rushed
to hospital. He has had a heart attack. He is now in hospital
in Newcastle in the North of England and his wife Pat has flown
over to be at his side. He is comfortable at present and is
been closely monitored and assessed. Please pray earnestly with
us for Adrian's complete recovery. He is a very dear man and
highly respected in the church and everywhere. Please pray for
our church.
This
is another bombshell to the fellowship. Adrian had shouldered
so much more responsibility during my illness - particularly
in the area of visitation, despite the fact that he has not
been feeling so well recently. Maynard and Peter, our other
elders, will be very grateful if you would also pray for them
and the extra load they now have to carry.
God
has been at work in wonderful ways in recent days. Just last
week a young woman was converted. The church is growing, new
members are being added,attendance on Sunday mornings is rising,
there is much to encourage but many, many great needs. Remember
Jim Pinder who is facing immanent kidney dialysis. We all would
be very grateful if you would pray for us. We thank you in Jesus
Name.
Ps
44:1-5 We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have
told us the deeds You did in their days; in days of old: .....
For they did not gain possession of the land by their own sword,
nor did their own arm save them; But it was Your right hand,
Your arm, and the light of Your countenance, because You favoured
them. You are my King, O God;
2nd
May
Philemon
22
And
one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope
to be restored to you in answer to your prayers. NIV.
Dear friends
Your
prayers are deeply appreciated. Yesterday I learned from my
GP something of the extent of my heart failure and it is worse
than I thought - only 15% pumping fraction with further complications.
I have now to wait to see what the cardiopulmonary test and
the "dye test" show.
Isn't
it good to know that the Lord is in control of everything -
even my long awaited hospital appointments. Pray that I will
always have His peace and His patience.
David
16th
May
Hi
everyone I am back online.
Computer
withdrawal symptoms have almost gone! I have waded through a
multitude of emails waiting for me since Saturday. Thank you
to you all for your prayers. I was rushed into hospital on Saturday
evening and was there until late afternoon on Tuesday. It was
a surprise to take unwell so suddenly, particularly as I had
been feeling so good for several days. I do not know what really
happened - some kind of "episode". I had shortness
of breath, blood pressure all over the place, very rapid pulse
rate and a build up of fluid. Apart from that I was OK!
A
few days of hospital care has left me weak but quickly returning
to "normal". Apparently no damage was done which is
encouraging, considering my heart condition is already not good.
I am praying that something good may come from this episode
- that my long awaited tests will now be brought forward, though
I have been given no assurances. My consultant is on leave so
I did not see him. Please pray that when he returns I may be
given a speedy appointment. I have been told the other test
has a long waiting list, but please pray that it too may be
available soon so that some answers can be found.
I
continue to know God's peace and sufficient grace for each day.
Some of the medical profession seem surprised at the life I
am able to live, so I know God's hand is upon me and He is answering
your prayers. We are learning to leave each day in the hands
of the One who holds the future. I want to thank all of you
who supported Joanna over the last few days. We are deeply grateful
to God for all of you.
The
following verses have been so helpful today.
Ps
34:15-19 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His
ears are open to their cry. The face of the LORD is against
those who do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the
earth. The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears, and delivers
them out of all their troubles. The LORD is near to those who
have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.
Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers
him out of them all.
.
With much love and sincere thanks for fellowship.
David
and Joanna
22nd
May
I
have been told this afternoon that an appointment has been made
for a "dye test" for me next Tuesday in the Royal
Victoria Hospital. This is a wonderful answer to prayer. I am
trusting that the cardiopulmonary exercise test will also be
done soon. Please pray about that.
Pray
for a safe test without complications; pray for wisdom for the
doctor as he makes a diagnosis; pray for us to continue to know
God's peace.
Thanks
for all your support and love.
David
and Joanna
Monday
27th May
Hi
friends
Thank
you for all your prayers. Tomorrow I have one of the tests for
which I have waited so long. I have now been off work for 150
days and I pray that I can soon be able to return. So much will
depend on what this test (and another one) shows. Thanks for
all your love and support. Some of you have been very generous
with meals and gifts of food. Thank you.
In
all your prayers for me, please don't forget to pray for us
all as a family and particularly Joanna. Also please pray for
Adam(8) and Debbie (6), our grandchildren.
Here is a lovely prayer Adam wrote out for me when I was last
in hospital. "Dear God, I hope this prayer works and if
it does, please get Grandad better."
Love
in Jesus
Phil
4:12-14 I have learned (I trust) the secret of being content
in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether
living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him
who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my
troubles. NIV
Wednesday
29th May
A
brief message to say thanks for all your prayers. I had my cardiac
catheterisation yesterday. I was not taken until 2.30 pm and
was not back on the ward until 4.30pm. After fasting from the
night before I was hungry and was given 2 meals!! I was allowed
home at 9.20 pm last night.
Today
I feel fine but tired. The test went well and showed that my
coronary arteries are normal but confirmed the echo scan findings
about the poor condition of my heart. The cardiopulmonary exercise
test will be next week (probably Wednesday) and its findings
will be very important in determining what lies ahead.
Thanks
again for all your prayers. I was very conscious of prayer support
all the way through.
love in Jesus
David
and Joanna
Psalm
36:7-9
How
precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children
of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. They
are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, And
You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures. For with
You is the fountain of life; In Your light we see light. NKJV
Wednesday
5th June
In
an amazing way I was conscious of people praying this morning
as I had my Cardiopulmonary Exercise test. The test went well
and I was able to do far beyond what I expected to achieve in
terms of time and speed. It is the most vigorous exercise I
have been capable of since December (and maybe longer).
As
I walked faster and faster, I was thinking, "People must
be praying right now". Thank you. The information obtained
will now be analysed in the "Royal" and forwarded
to my Consultant in Craigavon. Only then will the future become
more clear.
I
suppose the next prayer request is that I will get an appointment
with my consultant in the near future.
Last
night the Lord gave me these words from Psalm 20.
7
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember
the name of the LORD our God. 8 They have bowed down and fallen;
but we have risen and stand upright. 9 Save, LORD! May the King
answer us when we call.
Wednesday
19th June
Thanks
for your prayers today. We needed them. Joanna had an appointment
at the hospital today, so I went with her intending to visit
my brother Brian. He was a patient again for angina investigations.
Visiting hours meant I had to wait a while and as I waited I
began to feel weak and shaky. When Joanna returned we thought
it best to go to A&E.
I
was examined and given oxygen. I soon recovered but they took
ECG, X-ray and blood test. Nothing alarming was found and I
was allowed home but told to take things very easy. Doctors
could not tell me what happened, except that such things are
common with my condition. I feel ok again, a little tired but
am grateful to have been dealt with so promptly. (A&E was
terribly busy)
But
here the story gets stranger than fiction. At almost the
same time as I was admitted to A&E, my Mother was also admitted.
Unknown to us, she was in the room next door. Her home help
found her unwell this morning appearing to have taken one of
her "turns" as she calls them. But the hospital have
said she has had a slight stroke and has developed pneumonia.
I saw her before I was discharged as they were preparing to
get her to a ward. Brian was discharged this evening and is
awaiting an angiogram. Four McFarlands were patients in the
same hospital this afternoon (and tonight I have learned that
my cousin's wife - also a McFarland - is a patient there too!!!)
What
to pray for?
For
David's mother's health. We are not yet sure how seriously she
is affected.
For
David's sister Ruth who has been such a help to Mum and Brian
in their illnesses. (All of them live in Richhill) She is so
busy with work and her own family, yet always drops everything
when anyone is ill.
For
Brian - that his changed medication will be effective and that
tests will be done soon to determine his needs.
For
David - that he will regain some strength and that the results
of the cardiopulmonary test will soon be available. Pray that
my Consultant will have wisdom and skill to know and do what
is best for me.
Last
but not least, for Joanna - that she may continue to have the
strength she needs for all the challenges of McFarland life!!!
God
bless you for all your love and support
David
and Joanna
Ps
71:6-9 By You I have been upheld from birth; You are He who
took me out of my mother's womb. My praise shall be continually
of You. I have become as a wonder to many, but You are my strong
refuge. Let my mouth be filled with Your praise and with Your
glory all the day. Do not cast me off in the time of old age;
do not forsake me when my strength fails. NKJV
Saturday
22nd June
Thanks
for keeping us upheld before the throne. This has been a testing
week. I had to get the Doctor again yesterday because of sheer
weakness. He could not give me further medication and warned
I must rest a lot. I spent most of the last few days in bed
and tire very easily. I really have to do less.
Things
are becoming clear. The Doctor who visited had read my notes
and told me what my own GP had obviously known but not said.
The test I had was to see if I was a suitable candidate for
heart transplant. That was also suggested by the Doctor in the
A&E on Wednesday, so now we are beginning to see the size
of the "mountain".
I
was sent a lovely card this week by a colleague with a timely
reminder for us that God is a mountain mover!!
We
need you to pray that I will keep my eyes off the mountain and
on Him who moves them.
Thank
you for praying for my family. Mum is home to stay with my sister
over the weekend. She seems to have recovered without lasting
damage from the slight stroke; pray for her pneumonia to respond
to the antibiotics. Brian is home too and keeping OK. Joanna
as ever is always there; pray she will continue to have strength.
So much depends on her.
Every
day we bless God for you all
David
and Joanna
Monday
24th June ( first message )
Please
forgive another update so soon but things are moving quickly.
My consultant wants to see me this afternoon. He has booked
another echo scan for 3.20 p.m. today and then I will meet him.
I have no idea what to expect but I know I am in the Hands of
the Almighty. Pray that I will always have His peace.
David
Monday
24nd June (second message )
Thanks for your prayers this afternoon. I approached the interview
with, I confess, some considerable apprehension but in a remarkable
way felt the power of your prayers. I believe I experienced
something of God's "peace which passes understanding"
as I heard what the consultant had to say.
Today's
scan showed no marked deterioration from the one taken 3 months
ago. Mr McEneaney was pleased to see how well I had done on
the cardiopulmonary test. But he informed us that, without a
transplant, my quality of life could deteriorate quickly. There
is no other real option. He believed that my age, my general
health and healthy lifestyle, and particularly my "positive
attitude" all indicated that a heart transplant could enable
me to get back fully into the ministry.
If
God is going to lead me on this path, humanly speaking there
is much that needs to be done before then. I have to go into
hospital for a few days soon (maybe this week) for a range of
tests. I have to be assessed by the transplant team in Papworth
Hospital, near Cambridge and could face medical procedures there.
There is no guarantee that at the end of all these tests, I
will be a suitable candidate and accepted but we know that if
this is the Lord's will for me, He will open the doors. Timescale
is difficult to determine but I was told anywhere between 6
months and 2 years and, of course, everything depends on a suitable
donor being available at the right time.
Please
join us in praying for that donor whom we will never know. We
want to pray that whoever may give me a heart will be a believer.
I want to meet them in heaven and tell them how God still used
their heart for His glory after they needed it no longer.
Meanwhile
the consultant encourages me to lead as normal a lifestyle as
I can.
Thank
you for your prayers for both of us.
love
in Jesus
David
Psalm
61 has been remarkably encouraging these days. I share some
thoughts with you for your encouragement.
1
Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of
the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead
me to the rock that is higher than I. 3 For you have been my
refuge,a strong tower against the foe. 4 I long to dwell in
your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.
Selah
5
For you have heard my vows, O God; you have given me the heritage
of those who fear your name. 6 Increase the days of the king's
life, his years for many generations. 7 May he be enthroned
in God's presence forever; appoint your love and faithfulness
to protect him. 8 Then will I ever sing praise to your name
and fulfil my vows day after day. NIV
"
I call as my heart grows faint". How wonderful prayer is!
-
It transports us from the dry deserts and cold wastes and
deserted islands of life. "from the ends of the earth
I call to you".
- Prayer
lifts us from the raging torrents, deep valleys and sinking
sands of life. "lead me to the rock that is higher than
I".
- Prayer
carries us from the exposed battlefield and enemy territory
of life. "For you have been my refuge, a strong tower
against the foe."
- Prayer
bears us from the wanderings and homelessness of life. "
I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the
shelter of your wings."
- It
moves us from leaning on the poverty of materialism and earthly
ambition. "you have given me the heritage of those who
fear your name."
- Prayer
delivers us from all that is merely natural and ordinary and
quantified in terms of earthly life. "Increase the days
of the king's life, his years for many generations. "
- It
uplifts us from all the shallowness, unhappiness and and disappointments
of life. "Then will I ever sing praise to your name and
fulfil my vows day after day."
Wednesday
26th June
My
consultant has just informed me that he has been in touch with
Papworth Hospital and they have agreed to explore the issue
of transplantation, probably not in the immediate future but
medium term.
He
would like to bring me in for a few days for some further tests
- tomorrow morning if there is a bed available. I know you will
be praying. Pray that nothing will be found that would make
a transplant impossible.
love
in Jesus
David
and Joanna
Saturday
29th June
Hello
to all my friends
Thanks
for your prayers. God is answering, in some amazingly personal
ways.
I
hesitate to write once more this week but I know many of you
share these requests in your churches on Sunday. Please thank
all those in your church today who have taken us upon their
hearts.
There
is a second reason for writing today. It is exactly 6 months
since I went to the Doctor with what I thought was a minor ailment
and was told I had heart failure. What a learning experience
the past months have been and particularly the past week!
But
also what gracious lessons the Lord has taught us and still
is. Every day is a wonderful new gift to be used for Him. How
dearly I wish I could be back in Moira Baptist serving the Lord
and His people but His plan for me just now is a little different.
I
was in hospital on Thursday and Friday for tests as preparation
for a fuller assessment at Papworth Hospital in England. (If
you have got a strong heart and really, really want to learn
more about transplants go to http://www.papworth-hospital.org.uk
Thank God for such places and such gifted people). My Consultant
expects me to be taken to Papworth sometime over the next 2
months for assessment. Only then will I know if I am to be placed
on the waiting list.
Please
pray for my ongoing health. At the moment I am reasonably well
most days but can expect to have poor days. Obviously deterioration
is to be expected but the doctors cannot tell me whether that
might be slow or fast. That is why it is important to make preparations
as soon as possible. Pray for all the Consultants who will have
a part to play - that God will clearly guide them and use them.
And
pray that my faith will not falter. I am no superman. And pray
for Joanna - and Jonathan and our whole family. Only by God's
grace can we go on.
We
were wonderfully encouraged this week to discover that friends
for whom we have prayed over the last couple of years, now live
within 45 mins of Papworth and have offered their support and
will help with accommodation if necessary. Isn't God good? In
this big world He has His people everywhere. This email travels
as far as Australia, Canada, USA, Romania, and India. And I
know some of you mail it on to others.
Thank
you for all the ways you let us know you are standing with us.
Friends sent me a lovely handmade card today, with a promise
on the cover from Jeremiah 29:11... "For I know the plans
I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
In the early days of my illness, before I knew how big the mountain
would grow, the Lord gave me this promise. It is wonderful to
be reminded that the promise still stands taller than the mountain.
God
bless you all today and always.
David
and Joanna
Thursday
4 th July
Hi
friends.
Here
I am again. I wish to encourage you, for I have been encouraged
in a number of ways.
1.
I was reading Psalm 68 last night again and sat down with David
in the desert of Judah. David gave me some lovely truths to
encourage me. I will share them with you soon because I want
to give you another verse.
2.
Twice this week I have been given the same promise - one came
from India and the other came from one of my dear friends in
Moira, even as I was typing this. Jer 30:17 " I will restore
health to you and heal you of your wounds,' says the LORD."
There have been so many others you have sent me. Thank you so
much.
3.
We have had many offers of practical help, so many kind gifts.
Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.
4.
Pastor Judd came to visit us today and brought before us again
the very precious promise of Hebrews 13:5-6. For He Himself
has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
He reminded us that the the original says "I will never
never leave you; no, I will never, never forsake you."
So we may boldly say: "The LORD is my helper; I will not
fear. What can man do to me?" Wonderful promises from the
Lord.
5.
This evening I received a phone call from a retired Presbyterian
minister and lecturer who had a heart transplant in Papworth
over eight years ago and was back to work in a few months. Though
he is now retired, he leads a very busy life - still ministering.
He and his wife plan to come to see us next week to tell of
their experiences and answer any questions we may have. Isn't
God good, encouraging us and particularly this day when I have
had very little physical strength?
6.
Last Sunday evening I had a phone call from a man from Tobermore
Baptist Church who is also waiting for assessment for a transplant
- he needs a heart and lungs! It was great to talk to him and
to be able to encourage one another. Please pray for him - his
name is Adrian.
7.
Also this week I have been in touch with the wife of a man who
had a transplant 6 years ago last Wednesday. He was back in
Newcastle for a check-up and I hope to talk to him in the near
future.
God
is so good, bringing around us another group of friends to support
and encourage. The gentleman who phoned tonight said the most
important thing was to get people to pray and I was able to
tell him how I had the most wonderful group of praying friends
in my church and around the world.
God
bless you each and every one. You are true encouragers.
love
David
and Joanna
Wed
17th July
Thank
you for your prayers for us. There have been no major developments
to report recently. The tests I had 2 weeks ago have prepared
the way for a heart transplant assessment at Papworth Hospital.
I now have to wait for them to call me, hopefully sometime over
the summer.
I have been keeping quite well most days. Of course that means
doing very little and never going very far. I try to remain
as active as possible around the house; I read and meditate,
I keep in touch with church life as much as possible by phone
and email etc. I write a little, paint a little, think a lot
and rest a lot. I love to have the grandchildren around when
I am able. I try to have some semblance of a normal life. There
are many things I miss - too many to mention - but God has filled
the hours and days with His presence and His peace.
We
appreciate the support we receive from everyone of you. The
Lord bless you for your faithfulness.
Last
night I was reading of Joseph. For 25 years of his life, God
was silent. Things had been going so well for him; he saw himself
having a tremendous future. But for years that dream disappeared
in the baffling circumstances he faced. Despite the lack of
answers he received, and the silence he endured, he knew God
was working out a greater plan.
Gen
45:5 God sent me ahead of you.
Gen
45:7 But God sent me ahead of you
Gen
50:20 God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being
done.
Whatever
might baffle us, God is still at work in us and for us and through
us, that He might be glorified. Rom 8:28 And we know that all
things work together for good to those who love God, to those
who are the called according to His purpose.
God
bless you all.
love
David and Joanna
Tue
30th July
Today
is our 31st wedding anniversary - no candles and romantic dinners!!
I am so grateful to God for all these years and for the gift
of a wonderful wife. Joanna has been my best friend and my greatest
support. Particularly these past 7 months, she has been so strong
for me under enormous pressures. Despite having her own health
concerns, she has shouldered the tremendously heavy physical
and emotional load and also has been a tower of strength spiritually.
Please pray for her health to remain good and for the needed
strength for every day. Pray for wisdom for us as we seek to
know and walk only in God's paths.
The
Papworth team is soon to make an initial telephone assessment
in preparation for a 3 day assessment over there. They hope
to bring me to Papworth by the end of August or early September.
Meanwhile I have had quite a few very good days and am learning
how to handle the poor days better. Your prayers mean so much
to us as we learn to live for God in all the difficult paths
He has asked us to walk. Pray that we may have the grace required
to own Paul's words.
Acts
20:22-24 "And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going
to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only
know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison
and hardships are facing me. However, I count my life worth
nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the
task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to
the gospel of God's grace." Only a life that counts
for Jesus is worth living.
love
again in Jesus
David
Thursday 1st Aug.
Papworth
visit planned for 19 - 21 August. To be confirmed on Monday.
Thanks for praying. More details later.
Tuesday 6th Aug.
Why
do I ever feel discouraged and fearful? Yesterday (Monday) for
a little while I was struggling.
The
Health Board had been in touch confirming travel arrangements
on Monday 19th to Stanstead and Papworth. We will be flying
that morning, arriving at Papworth at 11.00 am and commencing
two full days of tests and assessments. The prospect is daunting
physically and emotionally. At the end we will be told one of
three things: I am too ill for a transplant, or I am too well
for a transplant at present or that I am being offered a place
on the waiting list for a transplant. If I am offered a place
we will be sent home and given some time to decide what we want
to do. Days of major decision are approaching. Possibly that
was part of the reason for my struggles.
Then I went online and received this message: (to avoid embarrassment
for the child concerned, I have removed all names but the children
concerned are young)
Dear
David & Joanna
When
we have our Grandchildren staying overnight we encourage them
to say sorry to God for something wrong they may have done and
to thank God for something with regard to the day, and to pray
for others. It was suggested that they pray for you (their Pastor)
and we told them to pray for a new heart. Our granddaughter
piped up. "I would give him my heart!" Her brother
responded. "Don't be silly, if you gave him your heart
then you'll be dead." She, after much thought, said, "I
would still give him my heart!"
We
want to encourage you in the Lord and we are sure that many
people around the world are praying for you both.
"Our
times are in God's hands"
With
much love
anon
& anon
Are
you misty-eyed? You can guess how I felt! This was a most wonderful
tonic and a mild rebuke. I thank God for all the love we receive
from you all. Please pray for strength for the coming days,
for a faith that grows stronger and deeper and, very practically,
for my travels. Travel sickness is an enormous problem to me
when I am in good health. I need the Lord to keep me from being
sick on the way to Papworth.
Finally
a verse: Ps 86:11-13 Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk
in Your truth; unite my heart (or give me an undivided heart
) to fear Your name. I will praise You, O Lord my God, with
all my heart, and I will glorify Your name forevermore. For
great is Your mercy toward me, and You have delivered my soul
from the depths of Sheol.
I
am learning that the need for an "undivided heart"
is vastly more important than a heart transplant. I am learning
never again to say or sing thoughtlessly -"I will praise
You ... with all my heart". So great is His mercy towards
me that He must have my all. God bless you.
love
in Jesus
David
and Joanna
Monday
12th August
Hello
to you all,
Thanks
for your prayers. The past week I have not been so well; very
tired, little appetite, low energy, not sleeping well. I get
days like that but not usually so many in succession. It may
partly be a result of dental work last Tuesday in preparation
for Papworth. Thankfully I am feeling a bit better today. I
have been advised to rest as much as possible to prepare for
next week.
One
week from now Joanna and I will be in Papworth (DV). Please
pray very much for us over the next two weeks. decisions made
by the medical profession and by ourselves will be of enormous
significance. Pray for us to know the mind of God at every step
and for God to guide the experts in all the decisions they make.
We have been very conscious all through this process that our
God is in control and "His way is perfect", even though
at times we feel the weakness of our faith. I hope to contact
you again before we go on Monday.
We
will try to keep you informed while we are there, though I have
no laptop computer and even if I had, it might be difficult
to get online in the hospital. Joanna will phone a few people
and hopefully the message will be shared around. (If I am to
be given a transplant and away from home for up to 2 months,
I would like to be able to use email and web site facilities.
I am going to enquire about that when I am over there next week.
I don't suppose anyone knows of a basic laptop lying around
not being used that I could borrow? )
Your
love and prayers are like a rock for us. Thank you for always
being there at the Throne on our behalf.
love
David
and Joanna
Psalm
90:17 ... let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us,
Sunday
18th August
In
a few hours we will rise to face Papworth and decision week.
I know you go with us in your prayers. God has given me a host
of promises from you. Here is just one.
Isaiah
41:9-10 'You are My servant, I have chosen you and have not
cast you away: Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed,
for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.' NKJV
Who
can calm fears like He can? God bless you all this week. We
will be in touch soon (DV)
David
Wed
21st Aug. 8.00 pm.
Just
a brief note to say we are home safely from Papworth Hospital
in England. Thanks for your prayers and all your email messages.
I am feeling well but tired.
Papworth
confirms that my heart's condition is very poor and I will need
a transplant. Tests show that I am a suitable candidate for
transplant but not just yet. It is hoped my heart will last
a bit longer before the risk and consequences of transplant
are faced. When my health deteriorates, I can expect to be placed
on the list. I will give a more detailed update later.
Thanks
for your prayers. God has been so good.
David
and Joanna
Sat
24th Aug.
I
promised to give you a more detailed update on the Papworth
visit. Joanna and I were really upheld by your prayers.
The
journey over was really traumatic. I was sick on arrival at
Aldergrove and felt very weak before boarding. The flight went
fine except for a 15 min delay. A wheelchair had been booked
to take me through the Stanstead terminal but, despite repeated
requests by airline staff, it did not arrive for 15 - 20 minutes;
we waited on board while the plane was being prepared to fly
to Ibiza. It took an hour from arrival for us to be brought
to the information point. There we were abandoned, despite repeated
requests for the ambulance car to be informed that we had arrived.
Meanwhile the ambulance driver was on the way back to Papworth.
Some frantic phone calls were made and he was asked to return
to pick us up.
We
arrived hungry, exhausted and late but somehow the staff rescheduled
our appointments and tests to make the assessment possible.
Some worked late to help us out. Had we arrived much later,
the assessment programme would not have been possible and we
would have been sent home. Thank you for praying. Joanna was
a tremendous support on the journey and in the hospital. She
had so much responsibility to carry. She lodged in a little
home on the outskirts of the village for two nights.
The
assessments done on Monday afternoon were the most physically
demanding of the three days, so it was with much apprehension
that I began them. Again I was aware of your prayers, for in
a remarkable way, I far exceeded what I thought I would be able
to do and what the the staff thought I would be capable of.
They were impressed, I think, by my determination.
Tuesday
was a day full of tests, samples, interviews and assessments.
We learned many things about transplant procedures and consequences.
In the nicest possible way we were made aware of the high risks
involved, the commitments we would be expected to give such
as very frequent trips for checkups, the side effects (some
most unpleasant) of the medication that I would have to take
for life, the life expectancy after transplant and so on. It
was made very clear all the way through, that a transplant would
only be offered if I was a suitable recipient. So many things
could rule me out. It was also clear to us that we were being
being assessed to see how we could handle the trauma of transplant.
We were asked about support and we were able to tell of the
tremendous support we receive from our family, our church and
a host of friends at home and abroad. Again I believe they were
impressed.
Then
the time came late on Tuesday to meet the consultant again to
be told the result of the assessment. He is the most gracious
and caring man but we went to meet him, wondering what he would
say. Was there anything in my blood tests that would come against
me? What about those right heart pressures? Would the radioactive
scan or the x-rays show up something wrong? What about my lung
capacity? Did they think we could cope with all the pressure?
Any failure could rule out a transplant. After some questions
about my general health, Dr Parameshwar said my heart's condition
was very bad and would need a transplant. However he could confirm
that I was a very suitable candidate. Though all test results
were not back, he had seen enough to be sure that I would make
a good recipient. However he went on to explain that transplant
surgery has major risks. Some do not survive surgery and 15%
do not survive the first very difficult year. A new heart does
not last forever and a recipient does well to reach 10 years.
In the light of the quality of life I enjoy at present, he was
reluctant to take the risk of surgery until it became clear
that the balance had shifted. He was not turning me down for
transplant - just giving me the opportunity to potentially live
longer (and to serve the Lord longer on earth!) I am very grateful
for Dr Parameshwar's skills, wisdom and support. Any changes
in my health will be carefully monitored and re-evaluation made.
I am now in the system.
Meanwhile
investigations will continue into my medication and I will be
entering hospital sometime soon to test another drug. It is
hoped that my health may even show some degree of improvement
for a time. Also while I wait, continual research is being done
into transplant surgery and rejection drugs; the medical profession
is learning all the time. That is bound to benefit me. It is
clear that though I am not on the transplant list, any significant
deterioration in health will lead to re-assessment. The consultant
even indicated that once on the list, he would expect me to
get a transplant more quickly than normal.
I
found it difficult to sleep on my final night on the ward. Many
thoughts ran through my mind but the Lord's peace was something
almost tangible. I was even able to observe the transplant preparation
procedure in operation as a young man was rushed in to receive
a lung transplant. In the end he was sent home again because
the donor lung was was not healthy enough.
We
came home on Wednesday on an uneventful journey. (The trauma
of the outward journey seemed so small when we heard that Joanna's
aged uncle had to evacuate down a chute in an emergency landing
at Prestwick on Tuesday) We were emotionally and physically
exhausted but very thankful to God for all His mercies to us.
I was not sick travelling (only on arrival at the airport on
Monday morning and I am not sure that travelling was the cause).
Joanna was given strength for all the carrying, pushing, walking
backwards and forwards to her digs and she never got lost!!
(except in the hospital corridors!)
Now
we face the future, with confidence in the medical profession,
but more importantly, with confidence in our great God. Once
again He has proved Himself faithful. He has given us marvellous
answers to prayer and has always been there when we called.
His grace has never once failed to be sufficient.
Thank
you again for all your support. You are very precious to us.
May the Lord reward you for all your love and support.
love
in Jesus
David
and Joanna
9th
September
Hi
folks
Thanks
for praying over the past two weeks. We have appreciated your
faithful support. Some days in the past couple of weeks have
been hard, physically and emotionally. My health has been not
too bad except for those really weak times that keep recurring
with little warning. For one reason or another we have been
shut in a lot. We had a house full of family here for over a
week (and in our small house that means people sleeping on floors
or seats!) There were not many quiet corners. I like having
them around for it makes life more normal, even if it is tiring
for both of us.
Then
last week Joanna had to go into hospital for Day surgery under
anaesthetic. Kind friends supplied delicious meals for a couple
of days and I was able to do everything else. She is still struggling
to shake off the effects of anaesthetic. Thankfully all appears
to be well with her. Continue to pray that Joanna's health will
not suffer because of all the demands my illness places on her.
On
Wednesday I will be going into hospital in Craigavon to have
changes made to my medication under medical supervision. One
new medication in particular is not normally considered for
people with my heart condition, but in some cases it has proved
to be beneficial. I would love to see some improvement in health
but I am also anxious that the balance I have had for the last
4 months will not be upset. Please pray about this.
Wednesday
is my birthday - yes 11th September! I thank God for giving
me another year. A great many people got up last year on Sept
11th not realising they would never see lunchtime. Since taking
ill, very day is precious now to me; one more day to serve the
Lord on earth.
Many
months ago I had an idea to give every home in Moira a copy
of John Blanchard's booklet, "Where was God on Sept 11th?"
I had even hoped to be well enough to be directly involved.
I have been greatly encouraged that all the churches in Moira
have come together for this project and we plan to distribute
2000 copies to the whole village before Wednesday. I was able
to have a role in bringing this project together but am delighted
that others have done the "spade work".
I
must close now but I ask you to pray that we will have grace
to keep looking to the Lord. There are many uncertainties and
disappointments and if we depend on ourselves we will sink.
We must keep looking to Him who loves us eternally and is working
all things for good. During these days I have enjoyed Ray Boltz
and his music. One of his pieces expresses what we have found
true.
"The
Anchor holds though the ship is battered,
The Anchor holds though the sails are torn,
I fall down on my knees, as I face the raging seas.
The Anchor holds in spite of the storm."
We bless the Lord for our Saviour, an Anchor who never fails.
love
David
and Joanna
16th
September
Hi
everyone,
Thanks
for your prayers over the past days. I was discharged from hospital
last night. I am still on a very low dose of a Beta Blocker
but appear to be able to tolerate it at the moment. My heart
rate fluctuates quite a bit. I am not sure yet what the next
step will be because the Consultant has been away. I am feeling
rather tired today but glad to be home, not least for Joanna's
sake. She is recovering from the surgery and all was successful
and clear. But she is very tired and has had a very exhausting
weekend. Much of this was my fault because some weeks ago I
had made appointments for MOT tests for 2 cars on Saturday.
We are deeply grateful for two men in the church who helped
so much and were so generous. Please pray for Joanna because
she never gets a break from pressure and is looking very tired.
I fear what might happen if she took ill. Pray for us to continue
to know peace in our hearts. I feel distressed that I cannot
be involved directly with people who are in great need. Our
dear friend Margaret, a church member, is gravely ill in hospital
and I dearly wished I could have gone to visit her but I was
told to avoid stress. Perhaps one day soon I will be able to
see her but please join us in prayer for her and her husband,
who also has very poor health. It is wonderfully reassuring
to know that underneath us are the everlasting arms of our God.
Thank
you for taking us upon your hearts. God will bless you.
Love
in Jesus
David.
PS
Another little meditation the Lord has given me for you.
Clay
speaks
It
is very quiet in the pottery. Sometimes I hear clearly the voice
of the Potter but at times like this there are long silences.
Nobody is here but the Potter and me.
-
I am a handful of clay. Just a handful of sticky clay but
I am in the Potters hand. With great mercy and love
He has lifted me from a mass of sinful humanity. I am chosen
by the Potter, not because there is any good in me, but because
He is making me a vessel for His glory.
- I
am spinning around on the Potters wheel. At first it
is a slow spin. I am aware of the changes He is making in
me. I am being turned from a shapeless lump into something
perfectly formed. If He does not keep me in the centre of
His will, I might fly off at a tangent and make a mess of
everything. But I feel His powerful hand changing me. Life
is wonderful.
-
I am now spinning faster than before. It seems impossible
that I can survive this but He tells me I am safe forever
and I feel the assurance of His hands around me. I am learning
to trust.
-
Now I am being squeezed. I am being forced into a shape I
did not expect. Sometimes the pressure is gentle and sometimes
it is really firm. I fear this is too much but the Potter
tells me He knows how much I can take. He knows what He is
making of me. The more I am stretched apart, the more I can
be filled to carry blessing to others.
- At
some points the spinning stops and the pressure eases. It
is now that I feel the pain as he picks out the imperfections
that have contaminated me. He cause me to cry in repentance.
He deals with the grit of my lack of faith; He removes the
little pebbles of pride.
-
I am spinning once more and my shape begins to change again.
As I grow, I begin to narrow. I have looked around at other
pots in the pottery and have envied being like them. I find
this all too difficult to understand. Why cant I be
elegant? Why cant I be given less to carry? It seems
I hear Him speak. All of these you see are fashioned
by Me. I have a purpose for each one. But I have stretched
you and shaped you like this so that you can carry much and
can pour out to others. Others will depend on you to give
them what I am sending and together you will all glorify Me.
But I am not finished with you yet.
-
John 15:16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed
you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit
should remain
- Isaiah
45:9. Does the clay say to the potter, 'What are you
making?' NIV
- Isaiah
64:8. Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you
are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. NIV
3rd
October
Were
you praying for me today? I am sure you were, for again I experienced
God's help. In the last update I asked you to pray for Margaret,
a dear friend and one of our church members, who was ill. Margaret
was taken home to heaven on Tuesday morning. I had the privilege
of conducting the service in the home this afternoon - my first
whole service since Christmas day! ( I had my consultant's permission
and his instruction to be brief!) I am grateful to God for the
strength He gave. Thank you for your prayers.
Recently
I have been feeling a little stronger. I still have some difficult
days (and parts of days) but am generally feeling a bit better.
It may be that the additional medication and the reduced fluid
tablets are beginning to show some improvement, though Dr Parameshwar
from Papworth, who phoned me last Friday, thought I would not
necessarily see any improvement in the short term.
This
week I have had a DEXA scan to investigate bone density. There
cannot be many more parts of me left to take pictures of!
Joanna
was very poorly for some days with a terrible cold or "flu"
but is recovered from that and is getting back some strength
after her anaesthetic. God was good in keeping me from catching
what she had.
Other
than that, there is not much more to report. We are continuing
to pray for God to go before us and show us the path He has
planned for us. Your prayers mean more than words can express;
your emails, messages, cards and letters are a great encouragement;
your practical support is very much appreciated. The Lord bless
you.
"God
is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you
have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to
help them." Heb 6:10
love
David
and Joanna
4th
November
Hello
friends,
Now
that things have settled down a bit, I will take time to email
you all. First let us say a very, very sincere "thank-you"
for praying. God has heard your prayers and been gracious.
During October I have continued to progress steadily and indeed
was feeling better than I have felt for a long time. I had much
more breath and could walk further without discomfort. I had
a setback a week ago but the Lord has given grace and over these
days I am beginning to feel more like before. It appears that
the additional medication is helping better than the Papworth
consultant expected. I pray that this continues.
One
month ago I told you I had to have a DEXA scan. That has shown
up some osteoporosis in my spine and the beginnings of it in
my hips. I am now on medication for that also. It is important
to improve the bone structure as much as possible before I receive
the anti-rejection medication after transplant. Some of my medication
has to be carefully timed before and after eating, but I never
miss my meals!! Joanna thanks you for the lovely meals and gifts
of food we have received. You are very kind. Continue to pray
that Joanna will keep healthy. The whole family need her strength.
We
continue to ask for prayer that we might have peace, patience,
wisdom and willingness to follow where He leads. God has been
ministering to our hearts in so many ways; we know He is in
control. Thank you for all your messages, calls, cards and every
evidence that you care. I am astounded at the number of people
and churches who let me know that they are praying.
God
bless you all.
with
much love,
David
and Joanna.
"I
cry to you, O Lord; You are my refuge.... It is You who knows
my way."
see
the meditation on this verse from Psalm 142 - Tunnel
vision
23rd
November
Hello
everyone
Thank
you for all your prayers. It is so encouraging to know you remember
us. Sometimes I feel bad about continually bringing our need
before you when there are so many others who need our prayers.
Yet when I do not write for a while I get emails asking how
we are. The Lord bless you for all your love.
Please
continue to remember us this week. Things have been rather tough
recently. The past two weeks have brought much more "down"
than "up" days. Joanna has taken a bad cold and I
have felt so weak for the past few days. I am a little stronger
today thankfully. Pray that Joanna's cold will clear up without
causing her problems and pray that I will avoid getting it.
Today
we were twice given real encouragement . First an email arrived
from friends with the very helpful verses I have added to the
meditations. (see The Will
of God.) One of the Bible verses quoted on the email was
the very one the Lord gave me last night.
Romans
12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy,
to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing
to God-this is your spiritual act of worship. (NIV)
Even
the living sacrifice of a weak body or a sick body or a frail
body or an old body is pleasing to Him who made us for His glory.
In view of His great mercy to me, He deserves nothing less than
all of me. God does not accept worship that is abstract or mystical;
acceptable worship requires us giving Him all we are and have,
however weak or strong we are.
The
second encouragement came when an "angel" arrived
at the door with a big bowl of soup. (He was just one of a few
angels who arrive regularly bearing "gifts") He asked
if we needed anything from the shop. He was supposed to bring
just a loaf but arrived back with bags full of food. He was
not to know how empty our fridge was but God knows all and sends
His "angels". Thank you, angels.
It
is Saturday night here as I write. Wherever you worship the
Lord this Sunday around the world, we pray you will experience
His blessing. It is so difficult to be kept from meeting with
the Lord's people in Moira, so your fellowship in this way means
a great deal.
Please
pray for our church in Moira. We give thank to God for all His
goodness in 2002. New people have come into membership and more
are applying; attendances have been good; new ventures have
begun; more of us than ever before have got involved in outreach
and best of all, God has been pleased to work in salvation and
restoration. I know it is good for a church to have Pastoral
leadership, ministry, care and vision but this is Gods
church and He will build it, with or without a healthy Pastor.
Once again please accept our thanks.
with
much love
David
and Joanna.
see
meditations - "The Will of God."
27th
November
Hello
everyone,
Thank
you for your prayers since our last email. I thank God for a
consultant who has always encouraged me to keep in touch with
him. Because I was feeling so weak I contacted him on Monday
and he immediately invited me to come to see him today. He arranged
for me to have x-ray and ECG done. Then, in spite of being involved
in a busy clinic, he took a lot of time with us.
The consultant said that the x-ray etc shows no retention of
fluid in the lungs. He has added some additional medication
and has planned for me to have another cardiopulmonary test
in Belfast within the next couple of months. He will also be
in touch with my Papworth consultant to bring him up to date
with my condition. A number of issues need to be discussed.
In the meantime, I need to avoid pressure and get more rest.
Please
continue to pray for us as we continue on this path into the
valley. We know it will grow deeper and darker before we arrive
in the light again. But we know we have One who walks with us
every step of the way.
God
continually ministers to our hearts in many ways. We have had
a few more "angels" bearing meals; some have sent
messages from the heart to our hearts; another of our dear older
"angels" last night phoned up with a verse she believed
the Lord had giver her for me.
Isaiah
58:8-9 Then your light shall break forth like the morning, your
healing shall spring forth speedily, and your righteousness
shall go before you; the glory of the LORD shall be your rear
guard. Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; you shall
cry, and He will say, 'Here I am.' NKJV
Then
today I met a Pastor in the hospital and another outside the
chemist's. They both told me that I am prayed for every week
in their church. After the most recent emails I received messages
by return from prayer supporters in Canada, Romania and Pakistan;
three of the four are people I have never met. God has such
a precious family. He continues to use you all.
Pray
for Joanna's mother who was very ill over the weekend but seems
to be recovering well. Pray for Joanna; the bad cold is clearing
up but pray that she will be able to get strength and have more
resistance to all the winter "bugs".
Thanks
again.
All
our love
David
and Joanna
Wishing
You a Happy Christmas 2002
Joanna and I want to wish you a very Blessed Christmas. You
have been a very dear friend throughout 2002. Wherever you are
around the world, may the joy of knowing Jesus, the Saviour
of the world, thrill your heart today.
Christmas
Day for us will be filled with some very mixed emotions. I love
the Christmas season and the opportunity to rejoice in Him who
was rich but became poor to make me eternally rich! No change
in circumstances can rob me of those riches; not even the dramatic
changes this year has brought to our lives. It was on Christmas
Day 2001 that I last preached in Moira Baptist Church. I still
find it difficult to take in, that life can change so suddenly
but I bless God for everything He has done. Let me share some
of the things I have missed this year and how God is working
in everything for good.
I
miss Church
I
miss Moira Baptist Church so much. For almost 7 years it was
what I lived for; even in this past year it has been constantly
upon my heart. Recently I have been able to attend services
more regularly; usually one service each week. I was delighted
to be able to go to the Carol Service last night. We were packed
out; standing room only. I enjoy the days when I am strong enough
to be able to greet everyone there. They are such good people
and have been a wonderful support to us. I love to worship the
Lord there. I miss the fellowship. Friends call but sometimes
even too many visits are tiring.
So
I often find myself in a cell or a desert or by a lonely brook.
But just like Paul or Moses or Elijah, I have found that the
Lord draws dear. In the secluded places His presence has been
precious. He has taught me again the value of personal communion
with Heaven. Hanging in my office in the church is a picture
of the walk to Emmaus; a reminder that even in our disappointments,
the risen Lord Jesus comes personally to be with us. One wonderful
thing to come out of a difficult year is the "heart-burning"
experience of a closer walk with Him.
I
miss Preaching
I miss being a preacher. After 33 years of preaching and teaching,
it has been a most strange experience to be kept away from declaring
the Word of the Lord. I miss all aspects of pastoral ministry.
I believe that all my years of Christian service have been preparation
for the role of a Pastor/teacher. Now the Lord has set me aside
from that; I trust His purpose is to make me a better pastor.
But I thank the Lord that He has enabled me to continue a degree
of ministry this year. I have been able to do a little visiting,
but more often the visitation and counselling have been by telephone.
Through the medium of email and my web sites ( moirabaptist.org and
2hearts.org.uk ) the Lord has opened doors for me to many people
at home and around the world. I have had responses from those
who have found blessing through the meditations and messages.
I have been able to take a more personal interest in God's work
in the wider world and be a " Pastor" to some of God's
servants at home and abroad. One of those servants from overseas
has graciously described me as "the Pastor of my heart."
It has been good to discover that God still wants to use me,
even in "weakness".
I
miss College
I
miss teaching in the Irish Baptist College. It has been an enormous
privilege over the years to help prepare men and women for serving
the Lord in Ireland and around the world.
This
year I became a student. I have had to go back to "college"
to learn new lessons and revise some I thought I had mastered.
I had hoped that I could have avoided one particular teacher
- his class is the most unpopular in college; nobody chooses
to be a student of his. It seems his classes are always the
longest. I had seen some leave bitter and disturbed and some
never moved out of that class. I am in his class now but I am
not alone. My Friend has been with me every day. He has been
through this class long before me and had passed it without
a single failure. I am learning things I could not have learned
from any other teacher. The teacher's name is Suffering and
my Friend is my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. What am I learning?
- to walk by faith and not by sight.
I
miss the Workshop
Here
I am with more time on my hands than I have ever had in my life;
time to do all those DIY projects in the house and the garden;
time to enjoy landscape photography or wood-turning hobbies;
time to take my grandchildren to all those places we never had
time to visit. But there is a limited landscape from our window.
Once our garden was on the edge of the countryside but now is
overlooked by new two-story homes. Limited energy restricts
travelling: rarely do I travel further than Lurgan or Moira.
And as for those practical projects! I just cannot attempt them.
I am thankful to be able to use the computer and to do a little
oil painting, but the garage remains locked, the lathe is silent
and the projects wait for me to regain my health.
And
yet I have found myself in a workshop - God's workshop. He is
fashioning me for a purpose that He has in mind. I have felt
the squeeze of the Potter's Hand; I have known the heat of the
Refiner's fire; I have been shaken as the Sculptor has chipped
away the bits in me that are not pleasing to Him. The process
is ongoing and I sometimes He gives me glimpses of what He wants
me to be and assures me that " He knows the way that I
take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold."
Job 23:10. God never produces "seconds" from His workshop,
nor does He leave projects unfinished.
I
miss Travel
We
have never travelled on typical foreign holidays, preferring
holidays in Ireland or Scotland. (Is Scotland foreign?) Very
kind friends sent us to the Holy Land some years ago and our
church paid for a holiday in Florida in '96. In our days with
CEF, our work took us to quite a number of European countries.
In more recent times, kind friends have taken us to minister
in Romania, India and Nepal. Those trips have been highlights
in our lives. If ever we were able to travel abroad again, we
knew the places we wanted to go.
But
suddenly the door to such ministry opportunities has closed;
some likely to be closed permanently because of the health risks
even after transplant. I remember my first thought, as I listened
to the doctor telling me the nature of my illness, was "
I can never go back to India". Whether I minister abroad
again is in the Lord's hand but He has opened a door to the
world for me. I am astounded at the opportunities He has given
me to minister to hearts over the internet and amazed at the
international nature of my prayer support team. This message
goes all over the world; I am prayed for regularly and faithfully
in places as diverse as Australia, USA, Canada, Peru, Brazil,
Switzerland, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Romania, Spain and France,
in addition to every corner of the British Isles. I have found
very supportive friends through the Web and have been able to
minister to many who in turn need support. These all are people
I would never have met or had time to help if I had been a busy
Pastor. I would ask you to pray particularly for the ministry
of the 2hearts web site. I want to be used by the Lord to point
others to the One who never fails.
I miss Children
I
have left children to the last. (When have I ever done that?)
Anyone who knows me, knows that children have a very special
place in my heart. I have a host of little friends; first my
grandchildren, Adam and Debbie, who are very special and whom
we love to have with us. Then there are all those children in
Moira Baptist; I have had the privilege of holding more that
50 new babies born to church folk over the past 8 years! I miss
those times together in Sunday morning services when I used
to be surrounded by a sea of little ones. We would sit together
on the platform steps and talk about the Saviour. I miss those
special services when the focus would be exclusively on teaching
children.
Sometimes
little children come to visit me and bring their Mummy with
them. Recently I had very special visitors when my "little"
friends Jed and Ethan arrived together. (Very premature babies
who will always remain on my heart) Some days when I get out
to church I feel like the Pied Piper. Little ones want to hug
me, give me sweets or present pictures that they have drawn
of me or for me. I know that many of them pray for me every
night. I was moved to tears when one nine year-old girl actually
said I could have her heart! I know of street children, rescued
from the sewers of Romania, who pray for my heart. I believe
God is answering the prayers of children. As adults, we look
on the challenges posed by transplant surgery but children simply
ask God for a new heart for me, without all that hesitancy.
One of the good things God has taught me, and used children
to teach me, is the power of prayer; we have seen the most amazing
answers to prayer this year.
I
never intended this message to be so long. In writing to you,
I have discovered how much I have been missing this year but
I have also discovered how much I have gained. Has this been
a wasted year? Certainly not. The year ahead may be an even
more crucial one, but the grace that overflowed to us in 2002
will not dry up in 2003.
We
have buried some dreams this year and maybe there will be more
dreams to bury, but the Lord knows my heart. I want only to
live for Him. I can never again sing without sincerity "All
for Jesus
all I am and have and ever hope to be".
And if, through my illness, I have helped one person this year
to have a deeper faith in God, them it has been worthwhile.
Thank
you for your love to Joanna and to me.
The
Lord will reward you. Hebrews 6:10.
Love
in Jesus
David
Tuesday
14th January 2003
I
have just received the expected cardiopulmonary test appointment.
I have to go to the Royal Victoria Hospital on Monday 20th at
2.50 pm. On previous occasions I was very aware that people
were praying; actually in prayer while I took the test. On both
occasions I was given strength to do what otherwise I could
not do. I need your help and support again. This test is crucial
in determining whether I am any closer to the point where I
must be given a transplant.
Please
pray, not only for me on the test (it is very demanding physically)
but for those who will decipher the data produced and make a
report for my consultants.
Please
pray also for this 2hearts web site. Maybe even sign the guest
book. I would be delighted if you could help in any way to spread
the news of the site so that others can be encouraged to turn
to God in their hour of need. The pages are being used by the
Lord already.
Thank
you once more for your faithfulness and love.
love
in Jesus
David
and Joanna
Peace
be still
Mark
4:39-41. Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the
sea, "Peace, be still!" And the wind ceased and there
was a great calm. But He said to them, "Why are you so
fearful? How is it that you have no faith?"
Circumstances
make waves in our lives. Waves make us uncomfortable, hinder
our vision and cause us to have doubts. It is impossible to
be still in a storm - unless we hear Jesus saying "Peace,
be still". Sometimes He stills the waves, changes the circumstances
and works a miracle. But other times He demonstrates the mighty
power of His grace that stills our hearts in the midst of the
storm.
When
the danger comes, sometimes we want to run but He says "Stand
still and see the salvation of the Lord which He will accomplish
for you today." Exodus 14:13 NKJV.
When faced with uncertainty, sometimes we want to rush but He
says "Sit still, my (child), until you know how the matter
will turn out." Ruth 3:18 NKJV
When things don't appear to be changing, we want to resist but
He says "Be still (lit. take your hands off), and know
that I am God" Psalm 46:10.
How wonderful to know that we have an ever present help in trouble.
Because He is there in our storm, we can be still." Therefore
we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains
fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging." Ps 46:2-3.
What a storm! What a peace!
The
disciples were slow to learn that when Jesus was on board, no
storm was too great to go through. Their faith faltered and
they needed His rebuke. "Why are you so fearful? How is
it that you have no faith?"
"Lord,
remove my fear of the storm. Keep repeating to me "Peace,
be still" and maybe one day You will want to still the
waves for me too."
23rd January 2003
I
was very aware of God's help in answer to your prayers. For
4 or 5 days before Monday I was in very poor form physically
and emotionally. I was not looking forward to the cardiopulmonary
test and expected to be unable to do anything similar to what
I had been able to do in June and in August at Papworth. God
enabled me to keep going until the staff were able to record
the data that was required.
I am aware that exercise tolerance is not enough and the vital
data is now being assessed. It is this information that will
determine whether a transplant can be put off any longer. I
do not know how soon I will hear the results - last time it
took several weeks. I am content to leave decisions in the hands
of my consultants, knowing that you are praying with me for
God's hand and His timing in all of this.
Thank you again for you support and encouragement. I will be
in touch very soon with an important update.
God bless you
David and Joanna
Tonight some friends called from abroad with a very special
promise for us.
Jeremiah 29:11 "I know the plans I have for you" says
the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster,
to give you a future and a hope." NLT
1st
February 2003
400 days.
Today
is the 400th day of my illness! No, I am not so bored that I
am resorting to counting days. I was thinking recently how God
knows all my days and realised that not one of the past 400
days was a surprise to Him.
"You
saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded
in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day
had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God!"
Psalm 139:16,17.NLT
I
want to thank God for His love every day. Some days were so
dark that it was difficult to see Him or hear Him but He was
always there, ever faithful; pouring in His grace and clothing
me in His peace.
I
want to thank Joanna for her love and devotion. She has had
a particularly demanding 400 days. She does all the driving
and all the work. Even her own health concerns have been set
aside to care for me. She is constantly on "call".
She is my rock, my wisdom, my encourager and my best friend.
Her birthday is tomorrow; we will celebrate it in style in the
Cottage Grange Hilton!
I
want to thank all of you for your love. Every day we are conscious
of the prayers of our friends and families. I don't remember
a day in the last 400 when we were not asked how we were or
sent a message to encourage us. We have received many hundreds
of phone calls, over 200 cards and letters, hundreds and hundreds
of emails, many visitors and many very kind practical gifts.
We thank every one of you.
And
what about day number 401 and all the days to come in His will?
We are cast upon David's God.
"You
chart the path ahead of me .. you both precede and follow me
and place your hand of blessing on my head". Psalm 139:3,5.
"When
I wake up in the morning You are still with me". Psalm
139:18.
with much love to you all
David
and Joanna
PS
I have not yet heard the results of my cardiopulmonary test.
2nd
March 2003
It
has been some time since you heard from us. We thank you again
for your faithful prayer support.
We have received the results of the cardiopulmonary test. They
show that the alteration in drug therapy begun last September
is keeping my heart functioning. This is what my consultants
hoped would happen and means that we do not have to go down
the road of transplantation just yet. This is good news.
My local consultant assures me that I will be closely monitored
and my consultant in Papworth has assured me that I am "in
the system" and immediately my condition reaches a certain
point I will be put on the transplant list.
We continue to await God's timing and thank Him for the grace
of patience that He is working in our lives.
The Lord sent us these verses today:
"Against all hope, Abram in hope believed.......just as
it had been said to him.
Yet he did not waver in unbelief regarding the promise of God,
but was strengthened in the faith and gave glory to God, being
fully persuaded that God had the power to do what He had promised."
Romans 4:18,20&21.
David and Joanna McFarland
13th
July 2003
Hello
friends
It is a while since I have been in touch. Thank you for continuing
to pray for us. I am grateful to God for His gracious hand upon
me. It is now more than 18 months since I was diagnosed with
heart failure and over a year since I was told that a heart
transplant was my only hope. From a health point of view, the
past weeks have been quite encouraging. Most days I have kept
quite well. Some days I have even been able to do a little more
than normal, though on other days I am very easily tired. I
am still confined almost entirely to home. The medication continues
to help and I am sustained by your prayers. Joanna too is grateful
for your support. Continue to pray for us through this time
of waiting for transplant.
We
have had a number of illnesses in the family. My Mum had another
brief hospital stay but Joanna's Mum has been in hospital twice
in recent months and her health continues to give cause for
concern.
My
Pastoral ministry in Moira Baptist Church came to an end on
30th April. The strange providences of life would be terribly
difficult to accept, if I did not have an unshakable belief
that God is sovereign. As Hudson Taylor wrote once to his mother,
“The Lord reigns; trials cannot rob me of this unchanging
source of joy and strength.” It is not easy to understand
why God should allow an illness to take me so suddenly from
the ministry I loved but His way is perfect. Though I am no
longer Pastor, we are still members there and plan to worship
and serve there as health permits and as the Lord directs. I
will continue to look after Moira Baptist web ministry as long
as I have strength.
We
have been placed in a situation we have never been in before.
This is the first break in almost 35 years of "full-time"
ministry; the first time ever to be unemployed. The future path
for us has not yet been revealed but I know that in God's time
we will hear His voice and see His next step for us. I have
been thinking a lot about Elijah at Kerith recently; what grace
and patience he must have been given! Pray for similar grace
and peace for us for each day. see
the meditation "If only you knew .... "
Thank
you for praying for the opportunities God is giving me to continue
to serve Him in a voluntary way. It is wonderful to be able
to minister to others without leaving home. Through the internet,
I have been privileged to meet and support families around the
world who face the trauma of heart illness. God has introduced
me to people I would otherwise never have met and I am praying
that He will use me to tell many of our great Lord and Saviour,
Jesus Christ. Pray for contacts I have recently made with heart
transplant people in Ireland; one had a transplant a few months
ago and another is in a similar position to myself.
I
would appreciate your help to spread the news of this 2hearts
web site. There were over 2000 visits to the site in the first
6 months. Posters are freely available for putting up in any
appropriate location. I am also anxious to have a body of people
who would be willing to become 2hearts prayer partners. From
time to time I have urgent prayer needs to share and if you
would feel able to join us, I would appreciate you contacting
me. Why not click this link and let
me know now if you wish to join the 2hearts prayer support team
or if you can use a poster.
Other
aspects of present ministry include supporting and encouraging
the Lord's servants in lesser known ministries. These friends
include Oana in the Potter's House in Romania and Sam and Victoria
in Duncan Academy in India. In both situations there are great
needs and I encourage you to join me in praying for them. For
the moment both can be easily found on the missions section
of Moira
Baptist web site though I am working on developing a web
ministry for them.
I
continue to have great fellowship with friends around the world.
Just recently I learned of the sudden death of a true friend
in Canada. For the past year he has been one of my greatest
encouragers. We met because he found my Moira Baptist web site
on the internet. (He had married a girl from Moira many years
ago and was looking for Moira links) Despite having tremendous
physical problems, he was in touch every few days to make sure
I was doing OK. Now he has his reward in the Saviour’s
presence but I am going to miss his support.
I
continue to have opportunities to minister on a personal level
with quite a number of dear friends who face difficult days
or challenging situations. I would appreciate your prayers for
this ministry, that I will be strong enough physically and emotionally
to give these friends the support they need.
God
has encouraged me by allowing me to "meet" a number
of others in the Lord's work who have had heart or liver transplants
and are ministering again. So I am encouraged to keep trusting
God for a future ministry, whatever and wherever that is.
Thank
you again for your love and care. The Lord bless you.
A
lesser known verse from "How great Thou art"
When
burdens press, and seem beyond endurance,
Bowed down with grief, to Him I lift my face:
And then in love He brings me sweet assurance:
"My child! For thee sufficient is My grace".
Your
friends in the grace of God,
David
and Joanna
"My
flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion for ever." Psalm 73:26. (NIV)
24th
December 2003
Joanna
and I write to wish you a very Happy Christmas and a blessed
New Year. We also want to say a very sincere thank you for all
your love and support throughout 2003. We know you pray faithfully
and that means so much to us. God has been wonderfully answering
your prayers.
Over
the past six months or so, there has been a distinct improvement
in my health. The medication given as an experiment is now beginning
to show real benefits. While I am still very easily tired, I
can be a little more active and have more good days than poor
ones. The Doctor has been very pleased with my progress and
I have not needed any medical attention this year other than
quarterly visits to my GP. In August 2002, the Consultants gave
me more time before going on the transplant list and I am so
glad they did. Pray that this medication will continue to improve
my health.
At
the end of October, Joanna and I were able to travel to the
Mountains of Mourne (about an hour from home) and spend a weekend
in a friend’s home. It was our first opportunity to see
the mountains and the sea for more that two years! God is so
good.
Joanna
continues to keep quite well and gets the strength to keep going.
The past two years have brought tremendous demands upon her,
so please continue to pray for her health. Both our families
have had medical problems over the year, particularly Joanna’s
mother. Bereavements in her family and ongoing health problems
have made this a difficult year for her.
I
thank the Lord for the ministry He continues to give me. The
2hearts web site gives great encouragement. Over 5,800 hits
have been recorded on the site in the first year. Fourteen heart
children are now featured. I am in close contact with several
other families who request anonymity. Pray for one Northern
Ireland man called “B….” who has just gone
on the transplant list in the UK. A mother contacted me this
morning to ask to join 2hearts; she has just had a second daughter
receive a new heart! Pray for Lucia in Romania. She will be
one year old on 31st Dec. God has graciously enabled me to have
a part in getting surgery for her in Italy; doctors there will
operate on her early in the New year. One mother wrote last
week saying “We really do appreciate all you guys do for
everyone on 2 hearts. You are very special people, and have
given me strength when I did not think I had any left.”
Pray that God will continue to use us to make Christ known to
many.
My
computer is my link to the outside world and it had been behaving
erratically. One evening dear friends arrived with wonderful
surprise - a new state-of-the-art computer and accessories.
In various ways, others have generously supported the web ministry.
We are testing Broadband at the moment and it is a fantastic
help. We are really moved by all this kindness and thank God
for this opportunity to serve Him.
God
has allowed me to serve Him in other areas: Duncan Academy in
India with its web site. www.duncanacademy.net ; the Chosen
Foundation working with street children in Timisoara, Romania;
I was humbled to be asked to be Hon. President of the charity
Chosen NI. www.chosenni.org . We try to support and encourage
a number of local people and overseas missionaries for whom
2003 has been a difficult year.
This
has been a year of new challenges. We are deeply grateful to
all who have ministered to us in very practical ways. God has
used each one to meet our need. The kindnesses shown are too
numerous to mention but every gift and encouragement is known
to God and will receive His reward. Some have already received
their reward, for during the year a number of dear friends have
gone to be with Jesus – three of them within hours of
each other. We feel the loss; how much more their families!
Pray for them.
Thank
you for all your prayers. Every one is appreciated. If your
church prays for us, please let them know how very grateful
we are. We will try to keep you informed of how God is working
in our lives.
With
much love and very sincere thanks,
Yours
in grace
David
and Joanna
Six
windows and a widow
“I
am bored, frustrated to be so curtailed, lonely despite the
company, unable to travel much beyond these four walls, impatient
to return to ministry, tired of this meagre unchanging diet
and wondering how and when all of this is going to end.”
I sometimes wonder if Elijah ever thought or spoke these words
during his long stay in Zarephath. James says he was “as
human as we are” (James 5:17 NLT) so how terribly difficult
was that long period of isolation, both for him and for the
widow who cared for him. Yet we never hear of him ever having
a “pity party” in Zarephath.
During
the past two years of illness, Elijah has become like a best
friend to me. I have learned so much from him about being a
servant of God. I have sat with him in his little room on the
rooftop in Zarephath, watched him closely and have tried to
walk with God as he did. I have looked with him through the
six little windows that God opened into his circumstances and
have seen the sunbeams of grace that lit up his darkness.
Window
1. God's providence
“I am here in the will of God – He brought me to
this place.” Elijah was in the exact place God had planned
for him to be. However difficult the situation, this secluded
home was God’s appointment.
My
circumstances are no accident. Like the Psalmist, I often ask
“Why?” and “How long, O Lord?” but I
have never doubted that my God is sovereign; He is Lord of my
life and this place is what He has planned for me.
Sometimes
the other windows darken but God has graciously kept this one
bright. It is enough to bathe in the sunlight of grace and wait
for the others to open again.
Window
2. God’s Protection.
“I
am safe here in God’s hiding place.” Despite the
most intense and protracted national manhunt, Ahab never traced
Elijah. He was protected and secure.
Beyond
the walls of my “hiding place” I hear the enemy
try to sow doubts and shoot arrows of discouragement, but I
am well protected as I hide in the One who is my refuge. He
is keeping me spiritually, emotionally and physically.
Window
3. God’s Provision
“I
am provided for”. There was no store cupboard at Zarephath
but there was always sufficient. God had commanded the widow
to share her home and food; every day she gave him the last
of what she had. How wonderfully God provided for Elijah; at
Kerith he was fed by a most unlikely source – ravens;
at Zarephath by a most unexpected source – a widow with
only enough for one last meal; and in the wilderness by a most
unearthly source –an angel.
God
has wonderfully provided for us. We will never forget the “ravens,
widows and angels” who have been so good to us throughout
this year. May God reward them for their love and generosity.
Window
4. God’s blessing
“I
am being used here”. Zarephath may have seemed like an
open prison; any contact with the outside world was impossible,
yet even there Elijah was used by God to bring life to a dead
child and to turn a mother again to God.
Joanna
and I have seen amazing answers to prayer in our own situation
and in others. God has shown us that we can minister from our
weakness. We wait with expectancy to see all that God will do
through this period.
Window
5. God’s Preparation
Elijah
must have been conscious that God still had a ministry for him
after the seclusion of Zarephath. He was to emerge from there
to make a mighty impact for God in a nation that had sinned
so grievously.
I
have a firm conviction that the Lord has promised that my ministry
is not over. On the human level, it appears strange that the
Lord would take me out of ministry to make me a better servant
of His, but I know His way is perfect. I believe He is preparing
me for a ministry that will bring Him greater glory and this
weakness is an essential part of the preparation.
Window
6. God’s perfect plan
Right
at the beginning, Elijah had told the King that the rain would
cease for “these years”. I don’t suppose he
knew it would be three and a half years of waiting but He knew
that one day God would refresh the land again. He was able to
look out of his window and say “I will be brought out
of here - how and when He chooses”. But for the moment
Elijah must do what God said and “stay there”.
I
have no way of knowing how long God wants me to wait; my last
time to preach was on Christmas day 2001. But I know that He
whose way is perfect will make my way perfect, and I pray that
I will still glorify Him, whatever His plan is for me.
Six
windows – but don’t forget the widow.
She
was God’s servant, doing God’s will and being God’s
tool in shaping a man of God. I often wonder how she coped with
this strange guest around the house all day; it can’t
have been easy. She remains in the background; we do not know
her name but heaven knows and heaven rewards.
How
I thank God for Joanna and her ministry to me. I thank God for
family and friends who mean the world to us. All are “widows”
who keep reminding me to look through the windows. I see the
sunbeams of grace. Is that the first cloud of blessing on the
horizon? I don’t know but it will come some day!