Friends and Family,
I have struggled all day with this posting... eloquent words escape me as I communicate today's update with you. On Monday, we learned that there are cancer cells present in Muggs spinal fluid, and that these are the cause of the severe headaches and nausea that she has been experiencing. This is not good news. The doctors believe that they can help relieve some of the pain, and "buy her a little more time" by treating the brain with radiation. Chemotherapy would not be an effective treatment protocol. Naturally, we were taken aback by this news, as we had seen such a great response from the chemotherapy.
The most difficult task I have ever faced, was delivering this news to my precious children. And yet, this was also a holy moment, as through the pain, I spoke to them about the faithfulness of God, and about how all of his purposes for us are for our good. We don't understand this - the children don't, and I don't. But, were clinging to the promises of Romans 8:28-29.
Christmas before last, Annie had a bird feeder on her Christmas list. We've enjoyed watching the birds very much. This morning, as I was watching them, I sensed the Lord speaking to me...
"Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without my knowledge... Do I not love your children more that these? for as much you love your children, My love for them is greater still... My design for them and my plans for them are for good, and not for harm. I will demonstrated my faithfulness in the lives of your children"
We are all hurting deeply. But the presence of sorrow, doesn't indicate an absence of faith. I am choosing to trust God, and I am encouraging the children to trust God. Please continue to pray for us - here are a few specifics:
- We are still praying for complete healing for Muggs, please join us in praying as well.
- Pray that the radiation is effective for relieving the severe headache, the nausea, and for killing all cancer in the fluid. (Muggs is experiencing significant pain)
- Pray that I, and each of the children, would experience the active presence of the Lord - that we would experience His comfort, and experience His peace in a way that surpasses our understanding.
Thank you for caring for and praying for us during these last six months. We have been sustained by the Lord, and are so grateful for your prayers. I will post as there are new developments.
Andy
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. Psalm 139:14-17
Update: Friday May 25th
As of this morning, Muggs is still in the hospital. She wants desperately to come home for the weekend, and her doctors have been working valiantly to make this happen. However, she has been experiencing episodes of tremendous pain, such that she needs very powerful narcotics to keep her comfortable. I genuinely praise God for the common grace of medicines that will allow her to rest, and not suffer. Although, Muggs' doctor is prepared to order in-home nursing care, they arent here around the clock, and in fact, would only be here for a short time on Saturday, and a short time on Monday. Having witnessed the episodes of pain that she's had, I am unwilling to risk having her away from immediate care. Should she have one of these episodes at home, it would simply take too long to get her relieved of the pain, and I cant bear the thought of this.
We have been hoping, and are still hopeful, that the radiation will begin to kill-off the cancer cells that are causing the lining of her brain to swell. This is what is causing the horrible pain. So far, she has only received two treatments, and it generally takes several to start working. My plea to the Lord is that we would see benefit from the radiation, and have her able to come home - please join me in praying for this as well. Please pray also, that we continue to trust God during this time, and that our faith would be strengthened. We are feeling pretty desperate right now.
Updated: Monday May 28th, 2007
Its just about 1:00 am on Monday as I record this update. I have been with Muggs nearly around the clock since she was admitted last Sunday evening after suffering a seizure at home. This week has been most difficult, as I have watched Muggs suffer - and become increasingly confused. The confusion is being caused by both the disease in the Central Nervous System, and the medications she is receiving for pain control.We are still hoping that she will benefit from the radiation treatment. She has received 4 already, and I believe there are 10 or 12 planned. The radiologist was most kind to come into the office and bring-in staff, on a day when he is normally closed, just so Muggs would not have to wait the entire three-day weekend for a treatment. It is hard to tell if she is benefiting from the radiation just yet. We are so hopeful that she will, and treatments will resume on Tuesday after the holiday.
It has been such an honor to be with her during this time. Although difficult, it has been my joy to serve and to comfort her throughout the difficult days and nights. We have shared many tender moments, even though through most of them, she is confused. There is a sweetness, even a sacredness to the time we are sharing. God has extended extraordinary grace to her to walk through this time, and this is so very evident. I'd like to share some of these with you, and will do so in time. In the meantime, please do keep praying for us - the last prayer requests I posted are still current. For those of you who have taken the time to do so, I would like to thank you for leaving comments. They provide great encouragement, and point us to our Hope, and our Savior. This is a particularly effective way to encourage us, and remind us of His truth. We love you.
113 comments:
Dearest Ellise family,
Please know we daily pray for you all and are in faith for healing for Mrs. Ellise.
"...though never canst neglect;
Since the ransom price is paid,
on Thy love my hope is stay'd."
-CH Spurgeon
We love you all.
-The Bauers
Words don't seem to come to mind at this moment...but I can say, we are praying and will continue praying.
You are in my thoughts and prayers this evening, Ellise family!
May the "peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension" be with each one of you tonight!
Jennie Battaglia
"I am uncertain of the next step, but I am certain of God." (Chambers)
May the God that we are certain of perform healing mercies on Muggs and pour His grace on each family member. Amen.
We love you,
The Lytle's
It was a butterfly at our window that called this one to mind for you all "He will cover you with his feathers and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your sheild and rampart" Psalm 91:4
Thinking of that incredible transformation from caterpillar to butterfly also reminded me of the fact that "all things are possible with God"
Lord we pray for Muggs' complete healing, we ask for the Holy Spirit to fill the Ellise family with your strength and comfort and peace, we pray - Father - relieve Muggs' pain, cover her with your wings and wrap her in your comfort and peace - You are God alone and we rely on you.
all of our love and prayers come with this post
Teresa & Scott Cook
Ellises,
You all are loved very dearly and are lifted up in prayer each day. May the grace of our Lord Jesus strengthen and sustain you as you continue down this road. May He give you rest and peace. Love you guys!
Amanda
We are praying for Muggs and for each of you.
Love,
The Gallaghers
Muggs, Andy, and crew---I love to watch birds as well (and feed and care for them). What wonderful words you write at such a challenging time. I'll be thinking of you at 5am when I step out to hear the birds awaken--and we'll be thinking of all of you during each of our waking moments. If only I could carry your pain and fears for a bit...I surely would, but many of us who read your words Andy are helpless--yet we are all inspired so please accept our prayers and our commitment to never ever take a headache free day for granted again. (by the way, for temporary pain relief, have they considered a pure caffiene drip IV? They did so for me when I was quite ill and it did wonders)--so much so that I wish I could carry one to work each day)...listen to the birds my friend and keep the faith. gd@hd
Ellises,
Our prayers are with you all...may our God supply all your needs according to His riches! He is rich in comfort, healing, and love..may he overwhelm you all with these gifts.
Love,
The McKenzie Family
As I read the latest update....the Holy Spirit prompted me to begin a time of fasting as I pray for Muggs. I pray that others will join me in this fast,to devote ourselves in prayer for all of you.
Isaiah 58:6,8,9,11
Verse 6:Is this the kind of fasting I have chosen...to loose the chains of injustice....
Verse 8:Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear;then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
Verse 9: Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help,and He will say: Here am I.
Verse 11: The Lord will guide you always;He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden,like a spring whose waters never fail.
Praying hard!!
Andy,
Sending continuous prayers to the Man Above for Muggs' healing. May he comfort your family and hold you in the palms of his hands.
Sheri
Precious ones -
Wow... Muggs may soon get to see Jesus face to face even though it is way before we would desire her to do so. Muggs is DEPARTING not dying!
Often, the Lord encourages my family with the song Trust His Heart "for we see in a mirror dimly, but THEN face to face"
"God is too wise to be mistaken
God is too good to be unkind
So when you don't understand
When you don't see His plan
When you can't trace His hand
Trust His heart"
We are praying,
The Apon family...walking in the beautiful grace of God and in His T.I.M.E. = Trusting In the Mystery of Eternity
Muggs and Andy,
We are crying out to the Lord on your behalf. Praying that He will be your strong tower and your Abba Father. We are praying for each of you, that He would meet and sustain each of you according to your needs, hurts, questions, fears. We love you and long to see you soon.
Rod and Lisa
Praising God for wisdom that transcends comprehension
Trusting Him for love beyond measure
Clinging to his promises
Rejoicing in his faithfulness
Hoping in him who never fails
Praying without ceasing.
Standing along with you and your church family willing to serve in any way you need.
May your unfailing love be my comfort,according to your promise to your servant.
Let your compassion come to me that I may live.....Ps 119:76,77
Tony & Laura.
Andy & Muggs,
Once again I get with with you guys on my mind. I send up prayers all day long as you are brought to my mind. Many times I just don't know how to pray, but this morning as I read Romans 8, I was reminded that "the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words." As I continued to read I was reminded of His goodness,
"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God to those who are called according to His purpose."
"He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things."
And then I was reminded of His unfailing love!
"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to seperate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
We pray that you will cling to these promises and that they may refresh you and give you peace.
Adam & Jana
Dear Muggs and Andy, you and the children are dear to us and it is a joy to know you. We weep with you in this time of hurt, pray with you in this time of need, love you always and look forward with you to an uncertain future that is nonetheless secure in God's constant loving kindness. All our thoughts and prayers are with you, Nancy and George
We love you all and are praying for you: peace for you all, and pain relief for Muggs.
The Braccos
May the God of all comfort comfort you now with His gracious prescence. I am praying for your entire family to know the incomparable riches of Christ's love. More encouraging is the fact that the Savior is praying for you now and His prayers are perfect and always answered.
With love
Chad
We love you Ellise family and continually lift you up to our kind and faithful Father.
Jan (for the Watkins)
You are all in my prayers...God is near! He is able! With love, Hannah Salsberry
Ellise Family
Your faithfulness, strength, acceptance, and glorifying of our God is incredible. Please know that you are being prayed for, and we will continue.
My brother Andy,
My family and I are praying as you requested. I'm expecting God to do good through this trying season. May the Holy Spirit bring peace to your heart as you "fix your eyes on Jesus" and cry out to him for your dear Muggs. We love you!
-Ricardo (for the Davis family)
Andy & Muggs,
We have been in much prayer for you and though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we too look to our mighty God for big things and plead for His healing mercy in Muggs. We will pray today for that quickened work to allow her to come home free of pain. Ps.28:6-7 :"Blessed be the Lord, because He has heard the voice of my supplication. The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped..."
Praying for abundant grace to trust Him today and be helped by His Spirit.
we love you,
The Whalens
Andy and Family,
Someone once told me this about my children and I think it applies to you and your family...God's love for Muggs is far greater than your love for her! I can only begin to imagine the temptation to fear and to walk in unbelief. I believe all of you have chosen the path of greatest hope and peace...Draw near to God and he will draw near to you. The nearness of God far exceeds the nearness of the doctors or medication or worldly wisdom. Your modeling of this truth serves as great inspiration to all of us. We stand with you in prayer that God would confound the wisest doctors and medical professionals and bring complete healing to Muggs. We love you all and count it a joy to stand with you during this trial. Please let us know of ways that we can serve you as you walk this road. We will walk with you. Nothing can separate us from the love of God.
Gene for the Princes
Ellise family,
I am lost for words at this time but God is GOD and NOTHING is to difficult for HIM! Our family is praying and will continue to pray. May the Holy Spirit comfort your family.
We love all of you.
- DaPonte family
"...with God all things are possible." Matt.19;26
"I can do ALL things through Him who strenghtens me."
"My God WILL supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Phil.4:13,19
Precious Ellise family,
May God's word be sweet comfort to you in these days. You have our prayers daily.We join you in trusting Him for His will and good for each of you.What a privledge to be part of the body of Christ with you!
We care for you,
The Snells
Ah Andy and Muggs, this will be a difficult weekend for you. When fear and desperation knock at the door, let Faith, Hope and Courage answer and find no one there. You are constantly on my thoughts and in my prayers and I thank God for every remembrance of you. It is terrifying to stand in the shadow of death and give thanks for all the good and wonderful things the Almighty has given us even as we suffer through hard times. Dwell on the good things in your lives (of which there are many) and know that God holds you in his hands. We love you and pray for you. Nancy and George
Andy and Muggs,
We are praying with you and shedding tears with you. I know the Lord is with you and will sustain you during this trial. What an example of the grace of God you have been to our family.
The Akins
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. God is faithful even when we waver. Keep your eyes fixed on Him and He will sustain you in ways you cannot imagine.
Jerri (for the Johnson family)
Continuing to pray with you and for you tonight.
How can I express the aching in my heart for you? Know that I am pleading with the Lord on your behalf, and that you are in the forefront of my thoughts. I want to share with you a quote from a word that someone gave me when I was in the midst of a trial:
"Your faith is going to be stretched and tested. Just as the blacksmith places the steel in the fire to be tempered and shaped so will you be changed and be made into something new, into the image of my Son, Jesus. This is not going to be easy. You will experience pain and suffering. But, I say to you, do not be afraid! It is only temporary. There is great gain and joy after having suffered for my sake. The works which I have called you to can only be accomplished through suffering. You must pick up your cross and follow me... Consider the eternal perspective. Consider my sovereignty. Consider mystery. Do you trust that I have your best interests at heart?"
I continue to pray for Muggs' healing and a greater filling of the Spirit.
Andy:
We have been recieving updates through the D. Parkers and Akes on Mugg's condition. We are praying for healing for Muggs and peace for your family through this time. We fondly remember chatting with both of you during NCA X-Country and watching Chandler and the girls run. We appreciate the verse you mentioned and were just studying it.
"Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Rom 8:37-39.
We are praying for healing and the peace of the Lord,
Chuck and Connie Parker - Brentwood, TN
Andy & Muggs,
Just this afternoon I was praying for peace that passes all understanding and then I read your post and your request for prayer for that exact thing....God is so good. We love you and are praying for all the cancer to go away.
Josiah & Francesca
Dear Muggs, Andy & Family,
Words are not enough; hugs and walking alongside you would be better; but the comfort and grace our Heavenly Father can bestow is the best that can be offered and we pray His presence engulfs you with peace that surpasses all understanding as you walk this road of trial and pain! We are praying for Muggs' healing and for strength to endure each day as it comes.
Phil. 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
We love you and are continuing to pray!
The Carpenters
Dear Muggs and Andy,
We love you both and join you in crying out to the Lord for His comfort, His peace, His relief from pain for Muggs. Our tears flow, yet we know that we serve a good and faithful God. We are with you in this very difficult time - Don and Anne Bussell
Louise Graner has asked me to pray for your family and I will. May God hold you even tighter in this difficult time.
Dear ones, we long to see you and to be a comfort to you however we can. You are part of us and have been for so many years, and always will be. We continue to cry out to our sovereign, unsearchable and completely trustworthy God for peace, healing, relief, and joy. Please let Muggs' mom know she has been heavy on our minds also. We love you all. Oby & Julie
Andy, Muggs and family
Not much to say at times like this but much to pray. may you experience the Lord's comfort and strength. And may God work a miracle! We love you all.
Mickey and Jane Connolly
Dear Ellise Family,
We want to know and understand, but we don't really understand. What we know is that we know Him who does know and understand, and we remember that He loves you all so much. Praise Him!
You are regularly on our minds. We are praying for relief from pain, peace, and the real presence of the Lord! He is with you.
Love,
Eric and Kitty
I (M) just returned from a week at my dad's in Texas and caught up on your blog. I was in prayer for you and thought of you a lot, and dreamed of you while I was there.You are in our hearts and we are crying out to God with you, and lift our faces to the Father for help and healing and comfort.So much is beyond our comprehension-may His peace be with you. We love you, Reid and Marjorie Psalm123:1-2To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens! Behold, as the eyes of a maidservant looks to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He has mercy on us.
Andy and Muggs -
We are (tearfully) praying for the 2 of you, as well as each of your children. In particular, we pray that His presence would be very real -- may HIS NEARNESS be your good. Also, we are asking God for miraculous healing of our dear friend, Muggs ...
We love you all ... Carol, for all 5 of us.
Andy..we were blessed by your oldest 3 children today at church. Watching them lift up their arms singing and praising God was so beautiful. We'll be continuing to pray for each of you.
Love...the Millers
Dear Ellise Family.
Yet another post to echo the many voices who have expressed so much love and concern for your dear family!
Reviewing these comments is a testimony, not only to your family but to the family of God that can only exist because of Jesus. Each name on this wall marks yet another person who has been impacted by your family, your trial, and ultimately, your victory in Jesus.
We were blessed to have Bridgette in Sunday school today. During Play-doh time, she quietly called me over to show me her creation. As I walked up to her desk, I noticed that she had used her bracelet to form a design in the clay. Looking at her handiwork, I was struck by the result. The brightly-colored Play-doh held a simple, yet profound surprise—a perfectly formed cross.
I believe the Lord would encourage you today that your children are in His hands. You see, they are a little like that Play-doh in some ways. They are young and impressionable. They are even a bit fragile. It would seem that this trial is too big for them to handle. Yet through it all the Father is shaping them into the image of His Son, for they are His workmanship. By God’s grace, as the truth of the gospel continues to be impressed upon their hearts, the result will have eternal value. Like Brigette’s Play-doh masterpiece, your children have been sealed with Christ’s love and sacrifice through the cross. You can rest in His capable hands!
As you continue to fight this battle in the flesh, may you never lose sight of the victory that has already been won on your behalf. Our two mortal enemies—sin and death— have already been conquered by a Great Warrior and Savior. With one fatal blow, Our Conquering Hero has put them to flight—forever. We pray that the joy of this great salvation calms your fears, soothes your aching hearts, alleviates your pain, and wipes away every tear from your eyes.
What a sweet victory it is!
With love and prayers,
The Padgetts
Dear Muggs and Andy,
We wanted to send you our love and tell you that our family is continuing to pray for you daily. We are asking God to cushion your hearts as a mother cradles her much-loved little children.
Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you;He shall never permit the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22 Always Hoping,
Chuck, Pam and Annie Lackey
We are praying for all of you right now! My son, Justin, is in Aladdin with Camille, and he just thinks the world of her. We will continue to pray that God would relieve Muggs of all suffering, and the He would strengthen all of you in the days ahead.
The Hoenstine family
Andy, Muggs and family,
You are on our minds and we are in constant prayer for you.
Muggs and Andy, We pray with you all for peace and vision. This old phrase has been comfort for me many times: Every morning, lean thine arm on the windowsill of heaven and gaze upon thine God. Then with the vision in thy heart, turn strong to meet the day. Love you! Jeanie
I don't know anything about your situation, I just saw the pray request that Jana had sent out to knew teachers for next year.
www.Mannatech.com has a product for cancer patients that they have had 100percent success with
They also have a relief fund for those that need help .
Hope this is helpful, and if you have any questions, please call me.
Leah Adams
678-265-0157
Andy, Muggs & family,
Tears come to my eyes as I read your most recent update. I am amazed at the grace of God in your disposition, Andy. I am greatly challenged by your faith in the Lord and your grateful heart.
They are also tears of sadness. I do not enjoy seeing you all walk through this trial. My heart is burdened for you. This morning, as there are 43 of us at New Attitude, we took time to pray as a group for you. We asked for complete healing for Muggs, comfort in the meantime and peace that passes all understanding. May God grant our prayers for His glory.
I'm sure you are already doing this, but I was meditating on Psalm 18 the other day and thought it may be a source of comfort for you. I love you guys so much,
Josiah
Words cannot express...praise God for His Holy Spirit who intercedes on our behalf. I am... blessed by your faith, praying continually and trusting in the Lord.
You are on our hearts so often and we are praying for Muggs, you, and the children. Please give Muggs a big hug from us.
Love,
Gene and Liz, Bethany, Peter and Anna
Romans 5:1-5
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame (or disappoint us), because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us." (emphasis add)
Dear Ellise Family,
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you. You are glorifying God in the midst of your suffering. May the Lord raise you up from this bed of affliction. Until then, we will patiently endure as you are patiently enduring; and patiently hope, just as you percevere in hope.
love and prayers,
Sandra Walton
Dear Andy & Muggs,
We love you all. You are in our prayers frequently throughout each day. We have been asking the Lord to grant full healing . . . to give special grace and an unusual sense of His presence to both of you and to all your children . . . to soon give relief from the pain so that Muggs can come home and enjoy her family there . . . and for the Lord to sustain your hope and faith in the midst of severe grief and adversity. Thanks so much for sharing your heart with us, Andy, and for letting us know of the ways the Lord is showing His kindness in the midst of this time.
Phil & Carol, Abby, John, & David
Dear Muggs, Andy and Margie - we think of you often and keep you in our hearts and prayers. I often think of the woman who insisted that she be buried with a fork, because just like dessert, she knew the best was yet to come. Our prayer is that you keep your eyes on He Who holds the future and yourselves in His hands. Love, Nancy and George and children
Andy,
Thank you for letting us come visit tonight. I was honored to be in Muggs presence and grateful to see the love you have for her.
He Giveth More Grace
He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength when the labors increase;
To added affliction He addeth His mercy;
To multiplied trials, His multiplied peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources,
Our Father's full giving is only begun.
Fear not that thy need shall exceed His provision,
Our God ever yearns His resources to share;
Lean hard on the arm everlasting, availing;
The Father both thee and thy load will upbear.
His love has no limit; His grace has no measure.
His pow'r has no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus,
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again!
Annie Johnson Flint
2Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
I heard about your wife through a Master's Academy email.
I and my family will be praying.
May the Lord cover your whole family with His peace and hope.
Oh taste and see that the Lord He is good to everyone who calls upon His name.
"On Christ the solid rock I stand all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand." Words from a hymn that keeps coming to my mind. It begins with" My hope is built on nothing less." We continue to pray and walk with you Andy and family. Know and feel our love and prayers and God's Grace. We love you so very much. Whitts
Our Great God
by Fernando Ortega and Mac Powell
Eternal God, unchanging, mysterious and unknown
Your boundless love, unfailing, in grace and mercy shown
Bright seraphim in ceaseless flight around Your glorious throne
They raise their voices day and night in praise to You alone
*Hallelujah! Glory be to our Great God!
Hallelujah! Glory be to our Great God!
Lord, we are weak and frail, helpless in the storm
Surround us with Your angels, hold us in Your arms
Our cold and ruthless enemy, his pleasure is our harm
Rise up, O Lord and he will flee before our Sovereign God
*
Let every creature in the sea and every flying bird
Let every mountain, every field and valley of the earth
Let all the moons and all the stars in all the universe
Sing praises to the Living God who rules them by His Word
*
...May the angles surround you and hold you in their arms....
Andy...for you...
Be still, my soul
Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side.
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain.
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In eve - ry change, He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: your best, your heavenly Friend
Through thor - ny ways leads to a joyful end.
Be still, my soul: your God will undertake
To guide the future, as He has the past.
Your hope, your confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds shall know
His voice Who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,
And all is darkened in the vale of tears,
Then shalt thou better know His love, His heart,
Who comes to soothe thy sorrow and thy fears.
Be still, my soul: thy Jesus can repay
From His own fullness all He takes away.
Be still, my soul: the hour is hastening on
When we shall be forever with the Lord.
When disappointment, grief and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last
"Whate'er my God ordains is right, Holy His will abideth. I will be still whate'er He does, and follow where He guideth. He is my God, though dark my road. He holds me that I shall not fall, Wherefore to Him I leave it all." from hymn "Whate'er My God Ordains Is Right" by Samuel Rodigast ... Andy, I am constantly upholding you, Muggs and the children before the throne of grace. I am praying that our great God will hold each of you and not allow you to fall.
With love, Tracy ...for the Taylors in Baltimore...
Don't sail in a ship called sorrow
or drown in a sea called grief,
But, let the path of you feet
walk humbly down the street called
forever.
Follow the street of forever, til you cross the narrow sea, to the land called Saviour where we all will one day be.
On the street of Forever, it will lead you through this world of cares, til you reach that land of tomorrow, where the Love of your Saviour bleeds,
So, rest in the Hope of forgiveness,
Follow til you reach that land,
Breathe in the life of forgiveness, til you too reach the Promised Land.
Thou many go on before you, even those you hold so dear, rest in the gentle assurance they will all be waiting there.
While on this earth we still tarry, through moments of grief and despair, let us journey on to tomorrow, and find the promise there.
Along the path of forgiveness, as you walk the Street called Forever,
trust the love of the gentle Saviour, even thou there are no answers here.
His love alone will lead you,
His faith will see you through,
His forgivenness will get you to tomorrow, and His strength will fill you for all to do. His Wisdom will come as needed, His care will know every hair, so,
as you brace for transition,
walk on my friend in peace.....and let your loved ones rest in peace.
As one by one we go, to that land that all believing awaits, rest in assurance, His love will not disappoint while you await your appointment and date when you, too, will enter that eternal gate.
Author unknown
To the children....
Through your grief, you will see His feet.
Through your sorrow, you will find
His power.
Through your tears, He will calm your fears.
Though you do not understand, He will help you to stand.
Though it may be hard and lonely,
He will be the only source of
comfort there....For, the love that led your mother, will surely
meet your needs.
Trust the Saviour she so loves,
let your heart quietly and patiently endure, as you remember her example of how to face life when unsure.
Know her love is with you, her hand is forever in yours. She will
continue to lead you, as you
follow her example here.
She will be a Queen in heaven...
filled with grace and beauty
as she touches our lives, even from the other side of glory.
Her testimony is strong and sure,
Her love deep and pure.
Rest in the assurance dear children, He loves her too,
Find strength in knowing
what she said and did was right,
and in that you will lose your fright.
Be still my sweet little children,
be still and know He cares for you and His love will see you through.
A mother's love prepares you for Heaven, a Daddy's love protects you while you are here,
Be blessed in the joy of your Daddy as he surrounds you with Heavenly love....and protects you with his love until you reach that throne above.
Together you are a family, an example for all to see of what Christ alone can do, when a family truly believes.
Rest now, my dear little children,
in grace, and love, and strength.
Cling near to each other...when it is the hardest and you will find comfort there.
A-men
We count it a privilege to be among those who are praying without ceasing for your dear family. Our hearts grieve with you over Mugg's suffering, but our hearts also hope with you for God to intervene and be pleased to bring healing. We pray that you will be overwhelmed by His grace tonight and that His perfect peace will bring you sweet rest. We love you all.
The Battaglias
Chandler and the Ellise Family,
I just wanted to let you all know you are in my prayers. I constantly find myself waking up in the middle of the night being led to pray for your family. For Mrs. Ellise, i pray for a miracle and complete healing, I believe in a God of miracles that heals and saves (1 john 5:14-15)(James 5:16 B). For the rest of the family i pray for strength, peace and comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-7), because I believe in a God of Peace and love. You are a strong family. Stay strong with christ.
Lauren Smith
Dear Muggs and Andy - We are think of you often and pray for you constantly. May you feel God's peace with you and His love surrounding you, Nancy
CARRYING you all on my heart and in my prayers!
Our God is able to provide more than you can ask or imagine . . . . With MUCH love,
Vanessa & the Fernandez family in Richmond
We are friends of Fran Zumbrunns in Tampa and she has requested prayers from our church on behalf of your family. We wanted to let you know that Muggs, as well as you and the children, are in our prayers during this time. We are honored to serve a powerful God and we are petitoining Him for all of you. Please take comfort in knowing that God has you in His mighty hands every step of the way.
With steadfast prayers for each of you,
Matt and Gina Betz
Ellise Family-
I am praying continually for Muggs and all of your family. It's as though the Lord won't allow my mind to drift off to the mundane things. The words to Chris Tomlin's song "How Great is our God" encouraged me today as I prayed for your family. We serve a great and mighty God and I am believing and praying for a miracle. Don't lose hope. MANY are praying!
"How Great is our God"
The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
He wraps Himself in Light, and darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD, sing with me
HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD, and all will see HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD!!
Much love,
Amy (For all the von Borstels)
Our hearts are so burdened for your family, yet we marvel at God's goodness as He blesses your children with a daddy who is modeling and teaching them a sincere trust in our faithful Lord during such difficult circumstances. Your sweet family is on our minds and hearts. We are praying for each of you...
With love,
The Boerners
"Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." -Proverbs 3:5-6
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith - that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 3:14-21
God gives us mercy in our time of need and in our hour of need to accept His will, even though we do not understand. Only God can give the understanding, but, if He never does, He gives us the grace to trust Him.....and a peace that surpasses all understanding we are promised.
A few years ago, my friend lost her only child at 5 years of age and her husband in an auto accident. The wreck claimed the life of another child whose father was driving a tractor ahead...Though the understanding has never come, my friend has been given the grace to accept the testimony she has been entrusted with. She has chosen to live in faith until she sees them again. She has become a living testimony.
One moment she is a wife and mother, and in the next hour, while in the grocery store, she is told the fate of her family. What boggles my mind is, she walked into that grocery store married and a mother, she walked out single and with no child. We do not know what lies in a day. Our lives can change forever and drastically in a matter of seconds.
We never know.......but, He knows and nothing surprises God. He knows the future and the good HE will bring from all things.....
IN prayer and in heart....BSU
Whatever my lot, Thou
hast taught me to say, it is
well, it is well, with my soul...
Oh God our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, our shelter from the stormy past, and our eternal home.
And we will dwell forever together with the Lord.....
IN Him all things hold together and IN Him we have our being.
IN times of need He plants the seeds that will become our tomorrow.
Through times of grief, we
see His feet, not ours.
HIs life shines through death
to show us the way.
HIs power shows that His glory
holds our future in His hand.
Those hands are scarred from the harm my sin has brought to HIm.
So, in my time of deepest need,
He understands my sorrow.
We are transformed into His likeness, even through death...
For the christian, death is but a breath.........and a new tomorrow
where there is no sorrow.....
We truly have resurrection power, even in death....not just in daily life.....We die daily to self until
we are embraced by eternity....
IN the absence of a loved one, there is really no empty spot, for if you look closely, you will see
where a seed has been dropped...
Those seeds sprout, without doubt...into the plan He has for tomorrow.....
Each hour holds what you need in order to succeed........
His love never fails.....
There is a plan that we do not understand.......but, in the end.....we will all begin to see,
how faithful was HE....
His love endures for us....our love, though feeble and frail...
melts His heart.
If God does not give the understanding, it is because we do not need to understand. He just asks us to believe.
Andy,
God is faithful and just. Nothing can happen to His children that has not already passed through His hands. Hear His whisper in your ear, during the times that you feel despair or sorrow. When you awake in the dark of night and feel alone, know that He is at your side. He loves you and ordained your steps and those of Muggs before you ever took your first breath. He knows your past and your future and nothing comes as a surprise to Him. Trust in our Lord. He is your sword and strength and He will never leave you. May you feel the reality of His intimate peace as you have never known before. Your friend and sister in Christ.
Oh Lord, Our Savior and Redeemer, Our Comforter and Friend hold on tight to Muggs and Andy and Chandler and Camille and Maggie and Annie and Bridget - let them each feel so strongly your arms around them and remind them each that you have said "You will never leave them; no not ever will you abandon them" That this is a valley, there is no doubt, but that God is carrying you through, is His unfailing promise.
Someone once said, "Worrying does not empty tomorrow of its troubles ... it empties today of its strength." For today, I am praying God will lavish you with grace. For today, I pray for comfort and healing. You are on our hearts continually!! We love you ... Carol, for all the Whites
I talked to Scott Hollis the other day at his daughters graduation party and I let him know if there is anything you need to pass it on. My wife Melissa knows your wife from Timothy ministry and we will be praying for you and the strength it will take to deal with this situation.
Dear Andy and Muggs and Family,
As we read your words of Faith, Hope and Love...You have encouraged us daily with your love of God and good deeds to your wife and family and to us your friends. And Muggs, you have demonstrated to us that you are a Woman who fears the LORD and "you are to be praised". We thank you both for sharing your hearts with us. Please know that we love you deeply and that Muggs, your healing is our constant prayer.
With Much Love,
Bob & Linda Hester "Find rest, O my soul, In God alone; my Hope comes from Him, He alone is my Rock and my Salvation; He is my Fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; He is my mighty Rock, my Refuge. Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge." Psalm 62: 5-8
Brother Andy, we will pray for you and your family and it is awesome the strength and love you have at this trying time. May the Lord keep blessing you and your kids for "there is a light at the end of this tunnel for you" our prayers are with you.
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times,you may abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:8
May you be amazed by His "abounding grace" to you!
Pardon for sin and a peace that
endureth,Thine own dear presence
to cheer and to guide;Strength
for today and bright hope for
tomorrow,Blessings all mine with
ten thousand beside!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Great is thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new
mercies I see;All I have
needed thy hand hath
provided;Great is thy
faithfulness,Lord unto me!
Hi Andy, Chandler and girls,
We just want you to know that the Honakers are praying for all of you and lifting your prayers up to the Lord. We continue to pray for Muggs. In this most difficult time may you find the peace that surpasses all understanding and the comfort in knowing that our almighty God had his loving arms wrapped around all of you.
We love you all,
John, Karen, Kristi, Kayla, Korie and Steven Honaker
"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16
I need thee ev'ry hour, most gracious Lord; no tender voice like thine can peace afford.
I need thee, O I need thee, ev'ry hour I need thee' O bless me now , my Savior, I come to Thee.
I need thee ev'ry hour' stay thou nearby; temptations lose their power when thou art nigh
I need thee ev'ry hour, in joy or pain come quickly and abide or life is vain.
I need thee ev'ry hour; teach me thy will, and thy rich promises in me fulfill.
I need thee ev'ry hour; Most Holy One; O make me thine indeed, thou blessd Son.
I need thee, O I need thee, ev'ry hour I need thee; O bless me now my Savior, I come to thee.
Annie Hawks 1872
Dear Ellise family,
My heart is heavy with thoughts of you all. Please know you are continually in our thoughts and prayers through out each day. May you continually sense the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit each hour of each day.
We love you,
Marcia (for the Fourniers)
I really am praying not only for Mrs. Muggs, but for strength for the family. I know that this is hard, and I can't even imagine the pain. But I know God will help them through.
Dear Cammile, I know that it must be so hard on you. My mom went away for a week and I was crushed, so I can't imagine what you are going through. I am really praying for you and your family. I know God will provide and help.
Love Always,
Abby Hoenstine (Justin's Sister)
Andy, It was encouraging to read tonight what the blogger said at 12:55 pm today, before our conversation later in the afternoon when I told you my friend's story. Truly there IS light at the end of this tunnel.
I loved reading these words of Spurgeon today:
"We trust Him and sin dies;
We love Him and grace lives;
We wait on Him and grace is strengthened;
We see Him as He is, and grace is perfected forever."
We are praying for grace, strength and hope for you and the children,
and God's mercy for Muggs.
We love you,
Susan ( Jim, James & Gabe)
Dear Ellise Family,
Our hearts are heavy for what you are being asked to endure. We pray especially for your precious children that throughout this, they never doubt God's love and omniscience. May God's peace surround you all in a way that only He can, through His power. We pray for you constantly and will continue to do so.
With love,
The Schulers
Jesus, keep me near the cross,
There a precious fountain
Free to all, a healing stream
Flows from Calvary’s mountain.
In the cross, in the cross,
Be my glory ever;
Till my raptured soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.
That blessed hymn is my prayer for you all tonight...that you would remember the mercy of God displayed for you at the cross and the hope of eternal glory that comes from faith in Jesus. May your souls find rest and peace tonight, and may the healing stream flowing freely from Calvary soothe your pain and tears. Love you all bunches!
Oh how are prayers are with you tonite! Jesus' promise that He will never leave you and never forsake you is His powerful promise to you! It is an eternal promise that will never change with passing time. What a great comfort!
Andy,
Jim and I have been praying since first hearing of your struggle. Tears of sorrow pour as I read your recent update. However, your faith and trust in God is an inspiration. We will continue to pray, along with our small fellowship of believers, for healing, peace, and strength for all of you. Isaiah 43:1-3 says, "But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel; 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord you God, the Holy One of Israel, you Savior.'" Isaiah 55:11-14 says, "'O you afflicted one, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay your stones with colorful gems, and lay your foundations with sapphires. I will make your pinnacles of rubies, your gates of crystal, and all your walls of precious stones. All your children shall be taught by the Lord and great shall be the peace of your children. In righteousness you shall be established; you shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near you.'" God bless you.
Kim Megow
We are praying for you each day, and we are asking God to truly allow all of you to feel His precious comfort in these days ahead. We will do all we can to come around you and the kids and support you.
Dear Andy ~
No words to convey our heartbreak for Muggs' suffering. Thank you for sharing your trials, hope and faith with us...it's an inspiration. We are lifting all of you up in prayer.
To Christ be the Glory.
In His love,
Danny & LaGena
Andy,
My prayers continue to be with you and your family and you struggle with Muggs' passing. My fervent prayer is that God will pour out his grace on your family and your faith, which has been an inspiration to me, will continue to grow.
God Bless,
Jeff Edwards
Though we have lifted Muggs in prayer to the Lord from the beginning...this past week the Holy Spirit has not let Muggs leave my mind or my heart, waking me to pray in the wee hours.
"The Lords lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness."
Lam. 3:22-23
With deep love and compassion,
Donna and Paul Driver
Andy,
I just wanted to enrourage you that God has you and your family fully in His care. God asks who was there when the world was created and who was there when the mountaines were formed. He does not promote a life of ease, but there is no confusion in His desire for us to follow him. He says, "Follow me." And from what I've seen and heard Andy, praise be to God he has given you the grace to do just that. I will continue to pray for that grace in the coming weeks and months.
Please don't hesitate to ask for my help in what you were discussing with my mom.
In Him, James
Dear Andy and sweet, sweet children,
Our hearts are so heavy and saddened as we have now heard of Muggs'passing this morning. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and that if there is anything that we can do, please let us know. We rejoice with you that Muggs is in Glory looking upon His face - there is no better place to be! We rejoice that there is no more suffering - what an answer to prayer! Muggs was such a blessing to us and to all that she came in contact with - the Love of God truly shone from her and I always appreciated her smiling face! May our Heavenly Father be your comfort, may He enfold you in His arms and hold you all tight, and may His Peace surround you like a cloud and carry you through this day and the days to come! Seek Him and Him alone, trusting only in His grace and faithfulness, knowing that without Him, we are nothing!
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17,3:16 --
"Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word. ... Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all!"
We love you guys and will continue to pray!
Love, Mark, Pam and the Carpenter Clan.
Oh Andy - minute by minute - there will be enough grace from our Heavenly Father. Love, Nancy and George
Andy, you and your family are in my prayers. May God's strength and grace comfort you and guide you. Love in Him, Brad Sappenfield
Andy, You and your children are in our constant thought as we lift you up to our Heavenly Father. We are praying that He will wrap you in His faithful arms and carry you through every moment. Our hearts are so heavy for you, yet, in the sorrow we are so aware of God's goodness and mercy. Please let us know how we can minister to and love you and your family.
Our deepest love,
Rod and Lisa
Andy,
We are carrying you and your precious children to Jesus in prayer. May the comfort of the Holy Spirit carry you each moment, granting you grace, strength, blessed hope, and a tangible awareness of His mercy and compassion. He loves each of you intimately and holds you firmly in the palm of His steadfast hand.
The Schlosser Family
"...Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments! His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever. Light dawns in the darkness for the upright; He is gracious, merciful, and righteous." Ps. 112:1-4
Andy,
We are carrying you and your precious children to Jesus in prayer. May the comfort of the Holy Spirit carry you moment by moment, granting you strength, grace, blessed hope, and a tangible awareness of His mercy and compassion. He loves you each intimately, and holds you in the palm of His steadfast hand.
We love you all,
the Schlosser Family
"...Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments!
His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.
Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.
Light dawns in the darkness for the upright;
He is gracious, merciful, and righteous." Psalm 112:1-4
Chandler I love you bud....you are in my thoughts and I can't wait to see you....the rest of the family--I am praying over you all and am sorry about your loss...Matthew 5:4 BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN, FOR THEY SHALL BE COMFORTED.
Andy,
I continue my prayers that the Lord hold you and the children in the palm of his hands. Although I didn't have the priviledge of knowing Muggs, you painted a vision of a glorious woman devoted to her family and God for me.
Please let me and the team know if there is anything at all that we can do for you and the children.
With Warmest Regards,
Sheri
And you will be like a tree, ANDY,
planted by streams of living water....
c
Andy and children,
We are praying for the Lord to wrap His loving arms around you, to comfort you and give you peace.
May you sense the presence of the Lord stronger than ever.
With love & prayers,
The von Borstels
Psalm 100:5
For the Lord is good and His LOVE endures forever,His faithfulness continues through all generations.
Dear Andy and kids,
My heart is with you and you have my prayers. I am in Hungary right now and Chuck got word to me. You have brothers and sisters in Christ that are praying for you and your family right now here in Hungary. We are 6 hours ahead so know that even when you sleep, people are praying for you around the world.
Always Hoping in Christ,
Pam
Weak and wounded sinner
Lost and left to die
O, raise your head, for love is passing by
Come to Jesus
Come to Jesus
Come to Jesus and live!
Now your burden's lifted
And carried far away
And precious blood has washed away the stain, so
Sing to Jesus
Sing to Jesus
Sing to Jesus and live!
And like a newborn baby
Don't be afraid to crawl
And remember when you walk
Sometimes we fall...so
Fall on Jesus
Fall on Jesus
Fall on Jesus and live!
Sometimes the way is lonely
And steep and filled with pain
So if your sky is dark and pours the rain, then
Cry to Jesus
Cry to Jesus
Cry to Jesus and live!
O, and when the love spills over
And music fills the night
And when you can't contain your joy inside, then
Dance for Jesus
Dance for Jesus
Dance for Jesus and live!
And with your final heartbeat
Kiss the world goodbye
Then go in peace, and laugh on Glory's side, and
Fly to Jesus
Fly to Jesus
Fly to Jesus and live!
I lost my mother at 14, and can always remember a poem from a card I saw during that difficult time:
She is not gone, she is just away. With a cheery smile and the wave of the hand, she has wandered into an unknown land, and left us wondering how very fair that land may be, since she tarries there.
--jcl
Dear Andy, Bill and I just heard. We will be praying fervently for you and your family. As Jr MacDuff reminds us...may you remember that "You possess Christ's sympathy, immeasurable and exhaustless as the ocean, exquisite and changeless
as His being. Yield your heart to His rich compassion."
We love you...Bill and Gisele Brown
MY HOPE IS BUILT ON NOTHING LESS THAN JESUS' BLOOD AND RIGHTEOUSNESS; I DARE NOT TRUST THE SWEETEST FRAME, BUT WHOLLY LEAN ON JESUS' NAME.
WHEN DARKNESS SEEMS TO HIDE HIS FACE, I REST ON HIS UNCHANGING GRACE;IN EVERY HIGH AND STORMY GALE, MY ANCHOR HOLDS WITHIN THE VALE.
HIS OATH HIS COVENANT, HIS BLOOD, SUPPORT ME IN THE WHELMING FLOOD; WHEN ALL AROUND MY SOUL GIVES WAY, HE THEN IS ALL MY HOPE AND STAY.
ON CHRIST, THE SOLID ROCK, I STAND; ALL OTHER GROUND IS SINKING SAND, ALL OTHER GROUND IS SINKING SAND.
We love you Andy and the children. You are on "Solid Ground".
Andy and family,
We hurt with you and we are drawn nearer to God through the opportunity to pray for you.
-The Kohls
Could we with ink the ocean fill, And were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill, And every man a scribe by trade; To write the LOVE OF GOD above would drain the ocean dry;
Not could the scroll contain the whole,
Tho stretched from sky to sky.
O LOVE OF GOD,
How rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure the saints' and angels' song.
-F.M. Lehman
We pray you and your loved ones feel this rich, pure, measureless and strong love.
The anchor holds......Cindy
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