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After a short battle with an unknown ailment (it is now known that he had 2 massive strokes), and after living a long and fruitful life, my grandfather sadly passed away yesterday at 9:00 am. For 89 years, he graced this earth with his presence, and now he is with his maker, his daughter, daughter in law, sister, brothers, and his great grandchildren; Alyssa-Joy and Evan. Our heart is saddened, but we are comforted knowing that he is experiencing no more pain, just bliss to be with our heavenly father. Please pray for my grandmothers strength. I can only imagine the heartache she is going through.

There is one more day left before the surgery. Full blown nervousness has set in, and I am a mess (Larry included). Despite this, the Lord sure knows how to show up in time of need. This morning I could not find my "regular" Bible to read the scripture I had earmarked (could not remember it off the top of my head), and so I had to use my "bedside" Bible which is the New Century Version. Since I could not remember the scripture I had saved, I turned to my favorite scripture instead. I prefer the King James Version, so I don't use this version often. I am now convinced that God hid my "regular" Bible. ha!

Jer 29:10-14

10.) This is what the Lord says: "Babylon will be powerful for seventy years. After that time I will come to you, and I will keep my promise to bring you back to Jerusalem.

11.) I say this because I know what I am planning for you," says the Lord. "I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future.

12.) Then you will call my name. You will come to me and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

13.) You will search for me. And when you search for me with all your heart, you will find me!

14.) I will let you find me," says the Lord. "And I will bring you back from your captivity. I forced you to leave this place, but I will gather you from all the nations, from the places I have sent you as captives," says the Lord. "And I will bring you back to this place."

As many times as I have read this scripture, today was the day I needed it dissected. I thank God that he led me to his scripture! My pain, heartache, grief, and turmoil will only last for a season, but he will keep his promises. He brought me to this place of uncertainty, but he will bring me back to a place of prosperity! How awesome is our God? I have read and recited this scripture so many times - but today I especially needed to hear this word, and I am receiving it with a repentant and open heart. Thank you Lord for comfort in time of need.

I am praising him today for the captivity he put me in, it is because of this captivity, that I will give more than what he requires of me, and be more than I can ever imagine.

Today, I ask you to pray for us as we travel. The roads are slick and wet, and we have a long way to go. Please pray for protection over our lives from all accident, harm or danger. Please ask the Lord to be our pilot and take control of the wheel, tires, engine, and every facet of that rental.

Thank you for your prayers, and please....... keep...... them...... coming.

Awaiting my expected end.