Bird
Rest in Peace
Thanks for the update, Rick. I'm sure you know that a lot of us have been thinking of Lexi and the family and wondering how she was doing. That sounds great, and with God's help, may the news continue to get even better.
We need your prayers.
- Thread starter Rick Jay
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Bird
Rest in Peace
</font><font color="blue" class="small">( I don't believe it was the chemo-therapy that helped with the CT. It was GOD )</font>
Dick, I sure ain't gonna get into any theological discussion with you, but it's OK with me for someone to say the chemo did it, 'cause we'll never really know whether it was the chemo or not, but even if it was, the Good Lord put those chemicals on earth and enabled some doctors to learn to use them, so it's still God's hand any way you look at it.
Dick, I sure ain't gonna get into any theological discussion with you, but it's OK with me for someone to say the chemo did it, 'cause we'll never really know whether it was the chemo or not, but even if it was, the Good Lord put those chemicals on earth and enabled some doctors to learn to use them, so it's still God's hand any way you look at it.
frank_f15
Super Member, Rest in Peace
IT CERTAINLY SOUNDS ENCOURAGING! thanks for the update.
Like you say Bird. We won't get into a theological discussion, for I have the advantage, you couldn't win it. But like I said it was God, like Chemo can't be depended on to do it. My brother died of cancer and he had it. I didn't even know it till he was almost gone, as he didn't want people to know and worry. He said it Chemo was so bad he was laying on the table takeing it and was feeling sorry for himself, till he looked over and saw a young boy around 15 also getting it. He said he never felt sorry for himself after that. So again I say without God it very well might not do anything.
bky
Gold Member
rick my prayers are with you and the family there isnt anything more speical than a child. and i pray that your speical gift will be well and back on her feet in no time .
LWFrisk
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Rick, Lexi and family
In addition to our prayers and best wishes, I would like to share my experience with you.
Believe me, the power of prayer works and I can verify if from personal experience. Late afternoon, July 17, 2002 (two days after retirement) I went to emergency with severe stomach pain. Shortly after I was admitted, I swelled up and became delirious. They took a CatScan and said that I had large tumors in every major organ in my lower body, including one that had blocked off the intestines and forced all the waste poisons back up into my system. They pulled my wife aside and said that even if they removed the blockage I was at Stage Five terminal cancer and could only live a few more days. From the initial biopsy and then the subsequent one taken when they removed the tumor blocking my intestine, they found my cancer was a rare type called Gastro Intestinal Stromal Tumor-GIST, untreatable by conventional Chemo and Radiation Therapy. . Though I had some problems for a year prior, internal bleeding, congestion, diarrhea, shortness of breath, this came as a complete surprise to me, my wife, and all of the doctors who involved in the diagnosis. It had grown large enough to completely restrict my bowels and then burst open spreading poison throughout my body.
When I woke up five days later, I was told that there was bad news and good news. The fact that I was full of cancer was devastating but they had some hope for me (thanks to the prayers of everyone that knew me). The research from my Oncologist (Dr. John Klune) along with the other doctors that operated removing most of my intestines, etc. discovered an experimental Chemo Therapy developed to treat leukemia that had also shown dramatic results with my rare type of cancer.. The Chemo is called Gleevec and is in capsule form. It was said to work on less than 20% of the patients with Gastro Intestinal Stromal Tumor, but they wanted me to try it. It is a very expensive drug (cost for my treatment is $6000 per month (thank god for health insurance) Now the unbelievable (power of prayer). Slightly over a year later, I have gone back to teaching a couple of classes in the fall and have enjoyed countless hours of work on my little tractors in re-landscaping our home. The last CatScan has revealed the mass has shrunk so small, the doctors would not find it if they did not know where to look. There are a few side effects, not all bad. While food tastes terrible and I have had, until recently, a lot of bile that creates a very bad taste in my mouth, I have maintained my weight thanks to a wife that watches my diet. The other notable effect is my totally grey to white hair has returned to nearly as dark as it was when I was a young man. I can live with both.
Again, for both my wife and I, when it appeared to be the darkest days ahead, something out there interceded and I go to sleep every night and wake up every morning with a little prayer of thanks.
I read your first and last posts to Lisa, my wife. While I was typing this post, she got on the internet and found some information to share. She actually did a lot of the research on Gleevec for my doctors, and occasionally is able to give me additional information to take to them when I go for follow-up exams.
From Lisa
I am a firm believer in the power of internet in modern medicine. When Leo was diagnosed with GIST, I researched it on the web, and I knew more-in some cases-about the peculiarities of his cancer and the medication for it than his doctors did. I did a quick search for Lymphoma and the site below popped up. It looks to be the best of the info sites, but I would check internet for others as well:
http://www.lymphomainnovations.com
This site appears to be the most up-to-date treatments for non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, which is what I assume your little girl has. You can also register for free on it and any new medical procedures/news will be immediately sent to your email. In addition, if you "turn" to the following page:
http://www.lymphomainnovations.com/lymphomainnovations/nhl.asp
You can even see web broadcasts from specialists in the treatment of this particular type of cancer.
My brother's stepdaughter is a little girl named "Lexi" as well, same age as your daughter, so I'm taking this personally. I'll keep searching and have Leo post anything new that I find for you.
A word of hope for you. Leo's medicine was not available less than 2 years ago, and there was no treatment (beyond early surgical intervention) for his type of cancer. I can tell you that technology is wonderful and miracles do happen. I see a miracle every time I look out the window and see Leo healthy and happily mowing the lawn on his tractor.
God be with you, Lexi and your family
In addition to our prayers and best wishes, I would like to share my experience with you.
Believe me, the power of prayer works and I can verify if from personal experience. Late afternoon, July 17, 2002 (two days after retirement) I went to emergency with severe stomach pain. Shortly after I was admitted, I swelled up and became delirious. They took a CatScan and said that I had large tumors in every major organ in my lower body, including one that had blocked off the intestines and forced all the waste poisons back up into my system. They pulled my wife aside and said that even if they removed the blockage I was at Stage Five terminal cancer and could only live a few more days. From the initial biopsy and then the subsequent one taken when they removed the tumor blocking my intestine, they found my cancer was a rare type called Gastro Intestinal Stromal Tumor-GIST, untreatable by conventional Chemo and Radiation Therapy. . Though I had some problems for a year prior, internal bleeding, congestion, diarrhea, shortness of breath, this came as a complete surprise to me, my wife, and all of the doctors who involved in the diagnosis. It had grown large enough to completely restrict my bowels and then burst open spreading poison throughout my body.
When I woke up five days later, I was told that there was bad news and good news. The fact that I was full of cancer was devastating but they had some hope for me (thanks to the prayers of everyone that knew me). The research from my Oncologist (Dr. John Klune) along with the other doctors that operated removing most of my intestines, etc. discovered an experimental Chemo Therapy developed to treat leukemia that had also shown dramatic results with my rare type of cancer.. The Chemo is called Gleevec and is in capsule form. It was said to work on less than 20% of the patients with Gastro Intestinal Stromal Tumor, but they wanted me to try it. It is a very expensive drug (cost for my treatment is $6000 per month (thank god for health insurance) Now the unbelievable (power of prayer). Slightly over a year later, I have gone back to teaching a couple of classes in the fall and have enjoyed countless hours of work on my little tractors in re-landscaping our home. The last CatScan has revealed the mass has shrunk so small, the doctors would not find it if they did not know where to look. There are a few side effects, not all bad. While food tastes terrible and I have had, until recently, a lot of bile that creates a very bad taste in my mouth, I have maintained my weight thanks to a wife that watches my diet. The other notable effect is my totally grey to white hair has returned to nearly as dark as it was when I was a young man. I can live with both.
Again, for both my wife and I, when it appeared to be the darkest days ahead, something out there interceded and I go to sleep every night and wake up every morning with a little prayer of thanks.
I read your first and last posts to Lisa, my wife. While I was typing this post, she got on the internet and found some information to share. She actually did a lot of the research on Gleevec for my doctors, and occasionally is able to give me additional information to take to them when I go for follow-up exams.
From Lisa
I am a firm believer in the power of internet in modern medicine. When Leo was diagnosed with GIST, I researched it on the web, and I knew more-in some cases-about the peculiarities of his cancer and the medication for it than his doctors did. I did a quick search for Lymphoma and the site below popped up. It looks to be the best of the info sites, but I would check internet for others as well:
http://www.lymphomainnovations.com
This site appears to be the most up-to-date treatments for non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, which is what I assume your little girl has. You can also register for free on it and any new medical procedures/news will be immediately sent to your email. In addition, if you "turn" to the following page:
http://www.lymphomainnovations.com/lymphomainnovations/nhl.asp
You can even see web broadcasts from specialists in the treatment of this particular type of cancer.
My brother's stepdaughter is a little girl named "Lexi" as well, same age as your daughter, so I'm taking this personally. I'll keep searching and have Leo post anything new that I find for you.
A word of hope for you. Leo's medicine was not available less than 2 years ago, and there was no treatment (beyond early surgical intervention) for his type of cancer. I can tell you that technology is wonderful and miracles do happen. I see a miracle every time I look out the window and see Leo healthy and happily mowing the lawn on his tractor.
God be with you, Lexi and your family
thcri
Elite Member
Rick,
The attached link is a preview of a video I have. I watch and listen to it a lot. My wife and I sit together. Be prepared for tears as God's Love is displayed. This video is great for times of trouble and times of joy. You may already have it or have seen it.
Father's Love Letter
murph
I will pray for Lexi and your whole family
The attached link is a preview of a video I have. I watch and listen to it a lot. My wife and I sit together. Be prepared for tears as God's Love is displayed. This video is great for times of trouble and times of joy. You may already have it or have seen it.
Father's Love Letter
murph
I will pray for Lexi and your whole family
rocky2
Silver Member
I wish I could give you words that could ease your fears and sorrows, but all I can offer are heartfelt prayers for your little one and your family. Have faith, hope and belief. "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that overcomes the world, our faith."
NIXON
Veteran Member
There's nothing I can do or say to you that will help your Daughter . I only wish there was . I'm not especially religious , But I believe there is something greater than us . I'll pray for your daughters recovery . John
wroughtn_harv
Super Member
Morning Rick,
Thanks for the update. We're glad for you.
I'm one to always look for the silver lining. A cloud always has one. Even one as dark as the one your family is facing right now.
As convoluted a logic as it might seem I think you might take this event as a blessing from one perspective. You have been exposed to the fragility of life at the place most vulnerable to you. This has exposed you to the importance of the little things that make life so very wonderful. Hopefully as she recovers and your life gets back to normal the appreciation for the little things will not diminish. Your family will be much richer because you recognise the value of the small things.
You and yours have been given the opportunity to see things in the proper perspective. It would never have happened without this crisis.
One of the ironies of life is it's the hardhships that make us strong, the pain that makes us feel, and the threat of loss that makes us appreciate.
Thanks for the update. We're glad for you.
I'm one to always look for the silver lining. A cloud always has one. Even one as dark as the one your family is facing right now.
As convoluted a logic as it might seem I think you might take this event as a blessing from one perspective. You have been exposed to the fragility of life at the place most vulnerable to you. This has exposed you to the importance of the little things that make life so very wonderful. Hopefully as she recovers and your life gets back to normal the appreciation for the little things will not diminish. Your family will be much richer because you recognise the value of the small things.
You and yours have been given the opportunity to see things in the proper perspective. It would never have happened without this crisis.
One of the ironies of life is it's the hardhships that make us strong, the pain that makes us feel, and the threat of loss that makes us appreciate.
jinman
Rest in Peace
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Rick, thanks for the udate. The news is thrilling. and your excitement and joy come through in the words of your post. May God bless Lexi in her continued recovery and continue to surround you and your family in His loving care.
Kelvin
Platinum Member
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- East Tennessee
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- B2910 & BX23 (previously B2150 & B7100D)
Rick,
My cable modem has been out of service for a while and I'm just now getting caught up on TBN posts. Accordingly, I was not able to pray for you earlier. But the prayer that I just prayed for you is centered around Philippians 4:7, that you, Lexie, and your family may enjoy "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding".
I experienced this "peace beyond understanding" 4-1/2 years ago when the doctors discovered a 4.5 cm tumor in my leg (where 5.0 cm and larger is classified as the worst / highest stage), and it took them a little over 2 days before they could complete all of the required tests to determine whether the highly aggressive rare cancer (pleomorphic liposacroma) had just started or had reached terminal stages. As strange as it may sound to non-believers, in the midst of this extreme uncertainty, them 2 days of "not knowing" were the most peaceful I have ever experienced in my life.
From your description of how Lexie is handling the situation, it appears that she is experiencing extraordinary peace as well. I will continue to support you in prayer as you have requested.
I am thankful that the moderators have allowed this post to exist, which allows believers to offer their prayful support as well as allowing non-believers to offer their support to a fellow TBN'er.
God Bless,
Kelvin
My cable modem has been out of service for a while and I'm just now getting caught up on TBN posts. Accordingly, I was not able to pray for you earlier. But the prayer that I just prayed for you is centered around Philippians 4:7, that you, Lexie, and your family may enjoy "the peace of God, which passeth all understanding".
I experienced this "peace beyond understanding" 4-1/2 years ago when the doctors discovered a 4.5 cm tumor in my leg (where 5.0 cm and larger is classified as the worst / highest stage), and it took them a little over 2 days before they could complete all of the required tests to determine whether the highly aggressive rare cancer (pleomorphic liposacroma) had just started or had reached terminal stages. As strange as it may sound to non-believers, in the midst of this extreme uncertainty, them 2 days of "not knowing" were the most peaceful I have ever experienced in my life.
From your description of how Lexie is handling the situation, it appears that she is experiencing extraordinary peace as well. I will continue to support you in prayer as you have requested.
I am thankful that the moderators have allowed this post to exist, which allows believers to offer their prayful support as well as allowing non-believers to offer their support to a fellow TBN'er.
God Bless,
Kelvin
BradK
Bronze Member
Rick,
I am sorry to hear about Lexie illness. This hits to close to me as I had Hodgkins at 20 still clean at 28. I hope all goes well with the treatments. You have my prayers.
BradK
I am sorry to hear about Lexie illness. This hits to close to me as I had Hodgkins at 20 still clean at 28. I hope all goes well with the treatments. You have my prayers.
BradK
OP
Rick Jay
Platinum Member
- Joined
- Apr 6, 2000
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- 763
- Tractor
- Kubota B2910, also Honda HT3813 with mower and front blade.
Hi Dick,
I finally got a chance to "relax" a bit and read all the posts regarding our daughter. They are very, very touching and encouraging and I thank everyone for them.
Please make no mistake about it, I thoroughly believe it is the power of God that is helping our daughter and that is where my praise is aimed. I do thank the doctors, nurses, and all those involved who are supporting us through this crisis (including all of you nice folk on TBN). I believe the chemo-therapy is a tool that man has been allowed to refine through the wisdom that comes from the Almighty.
If my post made it sound like I was giving the credit of her miraculous road to recovery to the chemicals that were given to her, I apologize.
Rush Limbaugh has a saying: "Talent on loan from God". I've heard many people take exception to that statement and seem to think of it as an egotistical statement on his part. I believe that everything we do is granted through His Grace. If I have a talent to do something, then I believe I've been given that talent by Him. I extend that to all the doctors and nurses as well.
I will not debate theology with you because, as you cautioned Bird, you are far more qualified. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif Plus, we're on the same side of this issues anyway. His side.
The important message that I see throughout all of these posts is that we believe that the power of prayer can work miracles.
I've just witnessed one in my own daughter. By His Will, she will continue her road to recovery.
Thanks again for your prayers.
~Rick
I finally got a chance to "relax" a bit and read all the posts regarding our daughter. They are very, very touching and encouraging and I thank everyone for them.
Please make no mistake about it, I thoroughly believe it is the power of God that is helping our daughter and that is where my praise is aimed. I do thank the doctors, nurses, and all those involved who are supporting us through this crisis (including all of you nice folk on TBN). I believe the chemo-therapy is a tool that man has been allowed to refine through the wisdom that comes from the Almighty.
If my post made it sound like I was giving the credit of her miraculous road to recovery to the chemicals that were given to her, I apologize.
Rush Limbaugh has a saying: "Talent on loan from God". I've heard many people take exception to that statement and seem to think of it as an egotistical statement on his part. I believe that everything we do is granted through His Grace. If I have a talent to do something, then I believe I've been given that talent by Him. I extend that to all the doctors and nurses as well.
I will not debate theology with you because, as you cautioned Bird, you are far more qualified. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif Plus, we're on the same side of this issues anyway. His side.
The important message that I see throughout all of these posts is that we believe that the power of prayer can work miracles.
I've just witnessed one in my own daughter. By His Will, she will continue her road to recovery.
Thanks again for your prayers.
~Rick
OP
Rick Jay
Platinum Member
- Joined
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- Messages
- 763
- Tractor
- Kubota B2910, also Honda HT3813 with mower and front blade.
Hi All,
Wow...you people are really special. I just read all your posts and am so filled with emotion I can barely see to type this. Thank you all so much for your continued prayers and support.
Lexi came home from the hospital on Monday, October 20th. She will now continue her chemo treatments mostly on an outpatient basis, several times a week for about 2 years. She is doing amazingly well. Let there be no mistake about it, we believe this small miracle is due to the combined power of prayer of so many wonderful people and by His power. Thank you all.
This afternoon (Friday the 24th), she stopped by her classroom for about 15 minutes to say "Hi!" to her school mates. They really made her feel welcome. The smile on our daughter's face was priceless. We hope that she'll be able to begin attending school next week, at least on a limited basis.
Thanks to those of you who posted links to support sites. I haven't had a chance to visit them yet, but I hope to this weekend.
We are still very much encouraged by the reports the doctors have given us and ask that you keep Lexi and our family in your prayers as we face the coming weeks, months and years.
A quick story: On one of my quick trips home from the hospital to check on things at home and post an update here on TBN, I printed out your replies so my wife could read them in the hospital. She was overcome with emotion as she read post after post offering prayers for our daughter. Your many words of compassion and encouragement were beyond belief. She just didn't expect that type of concern from people that we've never even met. In tears, we embraced each other, said a prayer, and thanked the Lord for each of you. You cannot believe how much your support was felt even through this "cyber-space" medium.
In one post, someone hoped to see a picture of Lexi on the tractor soon. That's definitely on my "to-do" list.
I will keep you all updated as her treatment progresses.
Thank you all for your prayers.
~Rick
Wow...you people are really special. I just read all your posts and am so filled with emotion I can barely see to type this. Thank you all so much for your continued prayers and support.
Lexi came home from the hospital on Monday, October 20th. She will now continue her chemo treatments mostly on an outpatient basis, several times a week for about 2 years. She is doing amazingly well. Let there be no mistake about it, we believe this small miracle is due to the combined power of prayer of so many wonderful people and by His power. Thank you all.
This afternoon (Friday the 24th), she stopped by her classroom for about 15 minutes to say "Hi!" to her school mates. They really made her feel welcome. The smile on our daughter's face was priceless. We hope that she'll be able to begin attending school next week, at least on a limited basis.
Thanks to those of you who posted links to support sites. I haven't had a chance to visit them yet, but I hope to this weekend.
We are still very much encouraged by the reports the doctors have given us and ask that you keep Lexi and our family in your prayers as we face the coming weeks, months and years.
A quick story: On one of my quick trips home from the hospital to check on things at home and post an update here on TBN, I printed out your replies so my wife could read them in the hospital. She was overcome with emotion as she read post after post offering prayers for our daughter. Your many words of compassion and encouragement were beyond belief. She just didn't expect that type of concern from people that we've never even met. In tears, we embraced each other, said a prayer, and thanked the Lord for each of you. You cannot believe how much your support was felt even through this "cyber-space" medium.
In one post, someone hoped to see a picture of Lexi on the tractor soon. That's definitely on my "to-do" list.
I will keep you all updated as her treatment progresses.
Thank you all for your prayers.
~Rick
Harv
Elite Member
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- Messages
- 3,346
- Tractor
- Kubota L2500DT Standard Transmission
Thanks for the update, Rick.
Not a day has gone by that we haven't thought about Lexi here at home. My 11-year old daughter even asks me how Lexi's doing.
TBN has been a most welcome support group for a number of us over the past few years. Not something you'd expect from a bunch o' tractor-heads, but we've got some incredible people here and their concern is genuine.
If you get chance, please pass this on ...
/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif <font color="red"> WELCOME HOME, LEXI!!! </font> /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif
Not a day has gone by that we haven't thought about Lexi here at home. My 11-year old daughter even asks me how Lexi's doing.
TBN has been a most welcome support group for a number of us over the past few years. Not something you'd expect from a bunch o' tractor-heads, but we've got some incredible people here and their concern is genuine.
If you get chance, please pass this on ...
/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif <font color="red"> WELCOME HOME, LEXI!!! </font> /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif
Inspector507
Super Member
Rick,
This is a wonderful group of people here. Although I never sent you and your daughter my good thoughts and prayers here........don't think you weren't in my thoughts. I'm so glad she is home.
Jerry
This is a wonderful group of people here. Although I never sent you and your daughter my good thoughts and prayers here........don't think you weren't in my thoughts. I'm so glad she is home.
Jerry
Bird
Rest in Peace
Thanks for the update, Rick. Glad you're back home, Lexi! We'll certainly continue to pray for continuing improvements in your health.
GregJ
Platinum Member
- Joined
- Oct 8, 2002
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- 708
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- Washington
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- Kubota B2301/LA435FEL/BH70 ; John Deere X350
Rick,
That is great news. The amazing thing about life is that it takes some serious trauma before we really appreciate everything to the fullest. I know you loved and appreciated Lexi before all this happened, but out of this, I am sure that your love and appreciation of her has grown enormously. I guess we all need to be thankful for every minute of every day. Your experience has caused me to step back and really appreciate my family. Every day is a blessing.
Rick, enjoy this time of recovery. Your family is still in our prayers.
Greg
That is great news. The amazing thing about life is that it takes some serious trauma before we really appreciate everything to the fullest. I know you loved and appreciated Lexi before all this happened, but out of this, I am sure that your love and appreciation of her has grown enormously. I guess we all need to be thankful for every minute of every day. Your experience has caused me to step back and really appreciate my family. Every day is a blessing.
Rick, enjoy this time of recovery. Your family is still in our prayers.
Greg
knucklehead
Platinum Member
I'll echo the thanks to our gracious hosts who have not locked this thread; I think they wisely see that the intent here is to reach out to our "neighbor" Rick and his family, and that the various expressions of faith are simply part of that. I ask for our hosts' continued forbearance as we appear to stray somewhat from time to time. We aren't really straying, as the issue of faith is THE issue, whether it is simply trust in medical professionals or in a higher power when life goes far beyond what we can fix with our own hands. It seems we are generally keeping it polite and to the point; I'm hoping to do the same as I respond in agreement with Junkman's statement: ...I believe that G_d listens to all prayers...
I agree with Junkman's statement because I believe that God is all powerful, all present, and all knowing. That cannot be true if He is not aware of all things, including the prayers of those who do not otherwise believe. I also believe that God loves us each as individuals, not as churches or groups or anything else but personally - also regardless of our belief in him. This is the very heart of the matter we are visiting on this thread - a father's love for his children.
However, everything is not all hunky dory in the relationship (like most families). Anyone who would know more would do well to visit the New Testament, where it is most clearly stated. It is not my intention to debate or to inflame, rather to point to the simple truth available to anyone without regard to anything other than being a human being. I make this distinction (the difference between God hearing our prayers and having a relationship with us personally) out of the same concern for all of my TBN brothers and sisters that we are collectively showing Rick. It needs to be clearly understood, and it isn't complicated.
If this is found to be offensive, then I will willingly go to the woodshed (after stuffing a big book down the back of my pants).
I agree with Junkman's statement because I believe that God is all powerful, all present, and all knowing. That cannot be true if He is not aware of all things, including the prayers of those who do not otherwise believe. I also believe that God loves us each as individuals, not as churches or groups or anything else but personally - also regardless of our belief in him. This is the very heart of the matter we are visiting on this thread - a father's love for his children.
However, everything is not all hunky dory in the relationship (like most families). Anyone who would know more would do well to visit the New Testament, where it is most clearly stated. It is not my intention to debate or to inflame, rather to point to the simple truth available to anyone without regard to anything other than being a human being. I make this distinction (the difference between God hearing our prayers and having a relationship with us personally) out of the same concern for all of my TBN brothers and sisters that we are collectively showing Rick. It needs to be clearly understood, and it isn't complicated.
If this is found to be offensive, then I will willingly go to the woodshed (after stuffing a big book down the back of my pants).
