Day 42

Our days are simply nothing less than interesting. Better said, moments are made by what we choose to remember. Days by the ocean, our first kiss, going to prom, watching our children grow into pure character world-changers, even burying a loved one. It has been some time since I have posted news on my brother. Primarily because of the intensity of the circumstances and the complexity of the situation. Although the road has been less than smooth and the days to come may be difficult to navigate, my brother continues to beat the odds. I could give you a tremendous list like he has lost 24 pounds and his trache has been removed... but I'm prepared to deliver something more significant. For the first time in 43 days I had dialogue with my brother! Today we didn't talk about politics or Charlie Sheen... we said " I Love You". This was a moment uncontrolled with uncensored tears! Only by the mercy and grace of a God that longs for reconciliation and redemption could such a story unfold. Only by a miracle served by a creator out for our good. Regardless of health or ambition. His story will unfold. Because there is a hope that sustains...

As we have focused on my brother's recovery and have seen so much dilemma pass through, I have found God enlarging my heart for the many forgotten. While so many battle the small and simple moments, there are so many people in this world without love... some believing they have no worth, some beaten and left with no dignity, some that are run over and disrespected, some without a voice! While some leverage what they may know on this side of heaven, there is a Father that designs something far more complex then we can understand. Even through our missed marks and arrogance. Something that at the end of the day results in plans for good and plans to prosper. While my brother regains his voice and we celebrate his amazing progress, I am vividly aware that there are so many less fortunate. Empty and alone. Ones that may not be able to measure God's love by physical healing because they watch a love one pass on and wonder where God is. Others may be without someone caring for them. No one fighting for them... being passed over each day with no regard. Judged and ruled as useless. Abandoned and left as an orphan. Not because they are without family... but because the idea of family is limited and simple. This thought has passed through my mind like Lance Armstrong tied to a bike while drinking Red Bull... "What if God abandoned His family?"... "What if He decided to extricate the people He didn't like?"

Tonight we soak in the infectious sound of my brother's first words in 43 days. We wonder at the immense family that God has given us through prayer, conversations, Facebook, and personal connection. I am humbled and we are thoroughly undeserving of the love poured out. You who take the time to consider my brother in thought or in prayer are accepted as richly loved family members. You are adored and we are praying for each of you as well. We cling to the thought that each of you are attempting to take on life and the journey with all of us together. Never alone... My brother has so many that are covering him with love, thanks to you! Continue to pray for my brother's recovery, pray for our family (Blevins, Vroman, "insert your last name", etc.), pray for those that are simply missed in the daily routine and seek them out to encourage them right where they are... You never know what type of healing might happen!