Sunday, September 23, 2012

Dearest God,

Did you see?  Did you hear us clap for the miracle?  When Heather walked into church, we stood and clapped. We were not only glad to see her; we wanted to acknowledge the miracle you gave her.

Three years, O Lord, for three years Heather has been on Dialysis.  Her kidneys had failed. She had a transplant that did not work, thus the Dialysis.  But weeks ago she collapsed.  Vegetation had collected behind her heart.  A clot broke off and went to her eye.  For weeks she remained in ICU with infections, fluid buildup, high blood pressure all the while they did Dialysis to cleanse her body.  She had to have surgery on her heart and a procedure on her eye.  Her condition was critical.  Just when we thought she had turned the corner something else would happen.  She finally went home but then became critically ill again and was rushed back to the hospital.  And what did we at church do?  We prayed for Heather.  We sent her cards.  We loved her.

Today she came home to the beloved community of faith.  We were so happy to see her, so happy to celebrate the miracle, to give thanks, and to celebrate.

Wondrous God,
Giver of Miracles,
we praise
your name
for the gift
of Heather,
for her faith,
her determination,
her strength,
and her courage.
We thank you
for your compassion
and mercy.
Thank you
for reminding us
of your
living and
loving presence!

Always, Andrea