Spiritual Emergencies: A Call for First Responders. A Note From Jan. Jud's Journal Entry Fifteen.
Ambulances come and go from MGH at all hours; first responders to medical emergencies.
Spiritual emergencies also need first responders: You who wake in the wee hours, responding to the call of God’s Spirit to pray for us and others. Thank you. You, dear Net Holders, nudged to bring to God the cares you bear for us and others, please carry on.
Mama’s friend, Lena, never said, “I’ll pray for you.” She’d take hold of you and say, “I’ll be callin’ out yo name.”
Because God knows our names.
Imagine that.
When you call out our names, the unexplainable happens. Endurance shows up out of nowhere to help us “faith” the battle. Grit to endure the joint pain, gut pain, not-knowing-what’s-next pain.
Yesterday, when so much intensified in Jud’s body and mind, he turned to me and said, “I just want to go home.” I cried behind my mask to God, saying, “Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers.” Then I placed gloved hands on Jud and said, “Soon you will be home.” Which home, I wondered. How much can the body, mind, and heart withstand?
Today was better. Add one pill, eliminate another drug, tip back Jud’s chair and add a warm blanket for comfort—small gifts from the medical staff. Your hard work of holding the prayer net—a significant gift to Jud, to our family. Kris, Chad, Kristina taking turns keeping company, offering reassurance—good gifts. Chad bringing by an electric razor so he can shave his Dad. Heather calling from Yosemite where the family camps this weekend. Love nets coast to coast.
Last week at David Midwood’s beautiful memorial service, they sang “HE KNOWS MY NAME” by Paul Baloche. Anyone who spent any time around David knew why God wouldn’t mind having His name associated with him. David personified JOY. There are names added to heaven’s list because of David.
“I have a Maker He formed my heart Before even time began My life was in His hands.
He knows my name He knows my every thought He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call.”
Tonight, Kristina spent the evening with Jud, reading poetry. God comes in prayers and poems. He comes in songs and sweet remembering for Louise Midwood and their daughters. And He comes when we call His name, even when it feels like He didn’t show up.
“On my bed I remember You; I think of You through the watches of the night.” Psalm 63:6
“He will respond to the prayer of the destitute; He will not despise their plea.” Psalm 102:17
Come, Lord Jesus, to Jud. Respond to that for which he has no words. The hospital records say, “Robert,” his legal first name. But You know his name.
Jud.
20 Comments
Our Bible study prayed for you tonight. Interesting that out of 4 others at the study- and 3 of them are alumni.. all knew and have been affected by your lives. Blessings mercy and grace.
Lord in your mercy, hear our prayers, for JUD and JAN!
Jud/Jan - Lifting you all up in prayer this new day, new week - praying God's mercy healings, comfort, strength and blessings today. Know that He is walking this path with you as well as all your family and friends. Blessings, Brad
Thanks for making us part of your life. In the Garden, Jesus was candid about both His circumstances and His emotions: He was not thrilled. Your willingness to share your circumstances and emotions with us is a wonderful gift. We have to confess, however, that we may need the Holy Spirit to pray on our behalf, since our utterances have become somewhat muted by our sadness. Love, Dale and Marty
Sometimes I do wake up in the wee hours of the night. And I do pray for you both, and your family. Such a privilege to pray. And, whether I do wake up in the night or not, Steve and I keep praying morning and night, with all our hearts. Much love.
Your right Jud, no place like home. ONF (and it's delightful inhabitants) look for your return.
You are such a strong man Uncle Jud!! Keep fighting! Love Carey, Lori, Emily and Ali
Every Thursday morning I attend a women's bible study at Lake Ave Church. This past week a table of women interceded for you and whispered Jud's name to our Holy Father. May your hearts be touched and spirits lifted by the prayers of those who love you and those who know the power of prayer! Nancy
Hang in there. Cant imagine how you are all doing it, but prayers do bring in great strength.Think of you always and prayers are always being sent your way. take care everyone, keep each other strong.
Yes, and there are love nets around the world. We love you, and are praying!
David and Joyce
We are more than conquerers in Christ Jesus! He has won the battle for us. We are more than conqueres in Jesus! He loves you more than anyone and nothing is impossible for Him. We continue to pray day and night. Everyday we are claiming the victory for dearest Dr. C. We love you!
I know my plans for you, for good, for hope.
Jeremiah, jive version.
It's a privilege to pray for you in the middle of the night.
Praying for daily graces to cover you like a blanket of warmth, holding, keeping, embracing, and loving like only God can do. You are loved and held up close and from a distance. "My soul finds rest in God alone" (Ps. 62:1) are seven words that will change a life...may they be yours today.
With love in Jesus, Steve and Ruth
Your entry reminded me of another psalm Jan - Weeping endures for a night but joy comes in the morning (Ps 30:5). May the morning dawn for you both. Love, Sam and Deb
Calling out my uncle Jud's name to our Lord. I know full well the grace and mercy He provides his children. Love you all, My hope is home, this side of heaven for a bit longer please Lord.. Carey Jr.
We are more than conquerers in Christ Jesus! He has won the battle for us. We are more than conqueres in Jesus! He loves you more than anyone and nothing is impossible for Him. We continue to pray day and night. Everyday we are claiming the victory for dearest Dr. C. We love you!
I know my plans for you, for good, for hope.
Jeremiah, jive version.
It's a privilege to pray for you in the middle of the night.
Praying for daily graces to cover you like a blanket of warmth, holding, keeping, embracing, and loving like only God can do. You are loved and held up close and from a distance. "My soul finds rest in God alone" (Ps. 62:1) are seven words that will change a life...may they be yours today.
With love in Jesus, Steve and Ruth
Your entry reminded me of another psalm Jan - Weeping endures for a night but joy comes in the morning (Ps 30:5). May the morning dawn for you both. Love, Sam and Deb
Calling out my uncle Jud's name to our Lord. I know full well the grace and mercy He provides his children. Love you all, My hope is home, this side of heaven for a bit longer please Lord.. Carey Jr.