The Red Sea Before Me

Blog 9

The Red Sea Before Me

It has been over three months since the diagnosis of breast cancer. Shortly after returning, I decided to visit GMAA upon arrival from treatment in Mexico. I missed my students terribly, and I longed to see them. One of the most difficult things for me is having to stay away, from missing out on their learning experiences, but I know they are in good hands. God sent a very special person, Maria Leonor, to minister to His little ones. My classroom is a learning environment, but I see it more as a ministry to lead students and their parents to have a closer walk with God. I thank God for Ms. Maria and Mrs. Maceira for the many blessings and breakthroughs we have experienced in our classroom this year. We have seen very difficult students, through fasting and prayer, become transformed by God’s power.

It took a lot of courage to go to school that day. I wasn’t sure if I’d be overwhelmed, but the last thing I wanted was to put my life on hold. Life must go on, and I must take my focus off this disease, and keep my focus on God and what He wants me to do. As soon as I entered the school grounds I heard a chorus of “Mrs. Alonzo!” I was soon engulfed by children from everywhere showering me with love and hugs. Oh, how I felt God’s love for me in that moment, and I rejoiced in His Goodness.  Later as I walked the hallways, several students stopped to say they were following the blogs. A teacher mentioned that they sometimes discussed the blogs during their worship time. I thank God for allowing me to be an instrument He can use to let others know about His tender mercies and great love for us. Today in my worship time, God and I had a heart to heart conversion about continuing to write about these experiences as He has instructed me to do. Since I have been back I have only published one, even though I have two partially finished entries. At times, the disease has overwhelmed me, but Jehovah Jireh, my Provider, always sends inspiration to get me out of my slump.

Back to the school visit…….It was good to see Dr. Luis Cortes, the principal, on that visit. Thank you, Cortes, for always believing in me as a teacher, and most recently, as a fighter amidst trials. Cortes, your words “if anyone can beat this, it’s you” meant the world to me. Cortes and I chatted for a while about the treatment. I wasn’t sure when I could return….it all depends on the progress of the treatment. I had to wait three weeks for the dentretic cell vaccines I received in Mexico to strengthen. This vaccine-type therapy increases the patient’s own production of T and dendretic cells to specifically fight his/her own cancer. I have since started my protocol of three months of nutraceuticals which included supplements and some medications- even a low dose chemo.

 As we ended our conversation, he asked how I had enjoyed the book he had sent for me. Book? What book? And then I remembered......Before I had left for Mexico, he had mentioned a book that he said reminded him of the experience I was going through. I told him I’d love to borrow the book and read during my time in Mexico. Somehow, I never received the book then, and I had totally forgotten about it. It was never delivered, but within a few minutes I had it in my hands that day. What a book! As I spent the next day reading it, I knew that God, once again, has perfect timing! God knew that I needed to read that book, not during the trip, but right then. The message was exactly what I needed to hear to be encouraged. I have found strength in that book to press on like Job even in the trials. Since my return, dearest Amber and Ray who I had the pleasure of getting to know in Mexico, lost the battle with this dreadful and cursed disease. In the midst of all this pain and suffering, I sometimes for brief moments become overwhelmed. However, I choose to trust God no matter what trial I bear. In God times and in bad, I will praise him. He is and always will be in control. He has sent ongoing messages for me via close friends …….Healing will come.

This book is entitled “The Red Sea Rules,” by Robert J. Morgan, and is based on the experience of Exodus 14. It gives strategies for difficult times. I’ve chosen to discuss some of the points in the book, as I am sure it can be useful to all of us as we face our own Red Seas. The Bible says in Corinthians 10:11 that the experiences of the Israelites, both the Red Sea and the Wilderness trials, were given for our example. Therefore, we have much to learn from them.  

The first rule is to realize that God means for me to be right where I am. When the Israelites left Egypt, God himself led them to a point where the wide and deep Red Sea was before them, Pharaoh’s host was behind, with mountains encircled about them. God led them directly to the edge of the Red Sea. Exodus 13: 17-18 says that God did not lead them through the way of the Philistines even though that was shorter… but He led the people about, through the way of the wilderness towards the Red Sea.” As they traveled along, He showed them the way- He went ahead of them as a pillar of cloud to guide them, and as a pillar of fire at night. At no time did the presence of the Lord leave the Israelites.

The Lord knew EXACTLY where He was taking His children…just as He knows exactly where He is taking me. He hasn’t chosen the easy way for me. Would I prefer it? Oh yes! This path can be very painful and quite an inconvenience, but God is setting me up for a Divine miracle!

It may have seemed hopeless to them, but it is in these impossible moments that God alone is glorified. The Israelites were worried even after the many miracles they had just recently witnessed back in Egypt. However, worrying is putting questions marks where God has put periods. “God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 We need to accept that God has allowed us to be in these difficult situations for a reason. It is when we accept this that we can begin changing our worries into prayers of faith and praise. The same God who led you in will surely lead you out. Can you truly believe that with all your heart? If we can grasp this, it will change our whole perspective on our situation. This is the greatest lesson I must learn.  I must know that I am here according to His will, and “His will would never put me where His presence could not sustain me.” Jesus says, “in the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. Jesus makes no mistakes, and He never forsakes us nor forgets about us. I will continue to share some of the other rules listed in this book on the next blog.

So here is where I am today after all the struggles, setbacks, feelings of hopelessness, weakness, nausea, fatigue, pain, disappointments…..I’ve seen Him deliver and provide for me these past few months …… My God says “and there SHALL be a highway from Assyria for the remnant left of His people, as there was for Israel when they came up out of the land of Egypt.” Isaiah 11:16. My God IS ABLE. I have no idea how much time remains in my Red Sea travels. But this I know—God is leading me through on a path He sees and knows, and I can trust Him.

Pastor Laffit Cortes, your message to me today said “be strong and courageous- Joshua 1:9.” It is because I know whom I serve that I can indeed be strong and courageous. Now watch the Majesty and Power and Glory of Almighty God as He parts my Red Sea!!!! My Red Sea will part, and so will yours, for He is able! Praise God! As we end this year, I pray that we will give all our troubles to Him who knows the path through the deep waters. We need to know and trust the God we serve.

My Prayer:

Dear God, give me that genuineness of my faith, to serve You in good times, and in the bad, regardless of the Red Sea experience in my life. For You are ever by my side. Through Your Spirit, empower me to believe Your ways are perfect even though I may not understand. Keep me strong and courageous as I wait on You.

“Wait on the Lord; to be of good courage, And He will strengthen my heart: Wait I say on the Lord” Psalm 27: 14

Teach Me, Oh God

Blog 8

Teach me, Oh God

Tony and I returned home to Miami on Monday, November 20 from Oasis of Hope Hospital in Tijuana, Mexico. God had revealed to us that “all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28. Even from a few months before the diagnosis of cancer, God had been workings thing out for this moment. God meant for us to go there, and He provided everything we would need. Tony had left his job for a new one just a few months before, which allowed him the flexibility to be able to accompany me to Mexico. It also provided an increased income to afford the trip- which I might add was quite expensive. That is God. He says “I will provide ALL your needs” Philippians 4:19, and He has demonstrated that beyond the shadow of a doubt.

God had ordered every step of the way, and laid out many lessons for us to learn. In the many silent moments, away from the hustle and bustle of Miami life, we took time to observe and learn from the experiences of others. As we prepared for the trip, we realized that this trip would not only be for physical healing, but God had a plan for even further restoration.

 We were taught lessons from day one until the very last day we left as we observed the love of God for each of His children. Honestly, I could not have done it without my husband, Tony. Thank you, Tony, for your patience, unconditional love, and for your encouraging words and endless hugs throughout the tears and difficult times. I have been truly blessed by you. 

I am blessed!

We have made lasting friendships from our time at Oasis, and each one taught us a specific lesson. 

First, there was Steve and his mother Mae. Mae is a cancer survivor who received treatment here many years ago. Both she and her son travel back to Oasis each year to volunteer their time and share their love with others. They are deeply spiritual, and are so full of life that it is often hard to keep up with even Mae who is in her seventies! Steve untiringly labors to organize trips and movie nights in the Treatment Room to keep us in good spirits, while getting us out and about so we are not always in a hospital environment. When you are faced with a serious illness you learn to live life to the fullest. Through the example of Steve and Mae, God has taught me to find the blessings every day. If we just take the time to look we will find an abundance of them. Jesus calls us to be servants, as He was when He was on earth because there will be no starless crowns in heaven. Like Steve and Mae, we are called to be servants or participants in the House of God, not spectators. These friends taught us to labor unceasingly, and to be a blessing to others in any way we can. “Do not be weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not” Galatians 6:9.

Manny

Then there is Manny, one of the maintenance workers. He greets us every day with a blessing, a smile and a hug. Truly this man is overflowing with the love of God. “Encourage one another, and build each other up” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 is his mission for each day. I will never forget dear Cesar! He is charge of the dining area and kitchen staff. Cesar lives by “whatsoever thine hand findeth to do, do it with thy might” Ecclesiastes 9:10. He is so meticulous about getting the tables set perfectly with forks, knives, and spoons lined up on the napkins. He watches untiringly with the biggest smile on his face, and perfect posture (yes, I need to practice standing straight and tall like you, Cesar), making sure all are happy and well with the delicious vegetarian buffet spread three times a day. After a few days, he got to know exactly what I liked to add to my breakfast- thinly sliced green apples with the skin and seeds (excellent source of Vitamin B17) and a strawberry protein shake (dairy-free). It was the same treatment for each patient.

Thank you, Cesar!

 Cesar reminds me that God wants our best with whatever we do. He is not pleased with half-hearted efforts.  After all, He gave us His best- His only Son.  Cesar has influenced me to order my home more effectively. I’ve started to get rid of the clutter, and all the things that I don’t even remember I have. They have become a heavy weight that I don’t care to carry any longer. My plan is to reduce all our “stuff” by two-thirds. I’ve learned to disconnect with the things of this world that keep me in bondage, After all, I have a mansion waiting for me up yonder!

Gail taught us about the magnitude of a mother’s love as she cared for her daughter Amber. There was never a complaint. Gail always did her best to stay strong and positive for her daughter regardless of the many setbacks Amber experienced. Her love inspired me spend even more quality time with my own two children. At times, I have been guilty of spending more time on church and school activities than with them. I think of the many moments wasted that I can never get back. Parents, we need to stop pushing our children to the bottom of the list. We need to set quality time apart every day to find out how our children’s days went, to tell them that we love them, and to hug and hold them.  Find out who they are so that you can guide them through whatever it is they may go though. Stop trying to squeeze your family into your schedule, and start making them the priority. Even though we have often made a mess of things in the past, don’t worry. God is in the business of restoration. Praise God!

Natalie and her mother, Cindy, are as cute as buttons! 

Natalie and her mother, Cindy

Talk about a “merry heart doeth good like a medicine!” Proverbs 17:22. Natalie and Cindy are always beaming like bright lights. I always enjoy their presence because of that. God wants our joy to be full. He calls us to rejoice, never complaining. Let us examine ourselves to be sure that we bring joy and positive energy when we come into the presence of others. “Do not allow the perplexities and worries of everyday life to fret your mind and cloud your brow. If you do, you will always have something to vex and annoy. Life is what we make it, and we shall find what we look for. If we look for sadness and trouble, if we are in a frame of mind to magnify little difficulties, we shall find plenty of them to engross our thoughts and our conversation. But if we look on the bright side of things, we shall find enough to make us cheerful and happy. If we give smiles, they will be returned to us; if we speak cheerful, pleasant words, they will be spoken to us again.” Adventist Home, pp. 430

We spent a lot of time with Allen and Barbara. Alan is a retired pilot, and entertained us with countless stories about his life. In the same way, God calls each one of us to share our life stories- our testimonies- with the people we come in contact with. He and his wife, Barbara, a retired air-stewardess, have traveled the world, experiencing so much together. I love the way Barbara focuses much of her attention of Allen. She openly expresses her care and affection for her husband. We told them we wanted to be just like them when we get to that age, but we realize marriage takes a lot of commitment and hard work. “Though difficulties, perplexities, and discouragements may arise….determine to be all that it is possible to be to each other. Continue the early attentions. In every way encourage each other to fight the battles of life. Study to advance the happiness of each other…..The warmth of true friendship, the love that binds heart to heart, is a foretaste of the joys of heaven” Adventist Home, pp. 106. God provides a way. We just need to seek Him, and He will lead and direct us. 

Allen, Barbara, and Donna

Melissa and Brad, our friends from Hawaii, are so special. Melissa has the sweetest demeanor, patiently taking care of James. James is often in a great deal of pain but he bears it silently trying to put up a brave front. He never complains. “Do everything without complaining, so that we may be called children of God” Philippians 2:14. I have at times felt occasional pain from the cancer, but it does not compare to the agony that James experiences sometimes. Yet he silently and patiently endures without complaining in front of us. How would we react if we were in that situation? At times, I said a silent prayer for him, because there is nothing more that I can do. However, intercessory prayer allows God to work on the behalf of others. He never forces Himself on anyone, but when the call is sounded to help, whether it comes from the person himself, or from someone praying for another’s behalf, He is always present.

Aysha and I keep in touch on a regular basis. She is Muslim and originally from Pakistan. She has taught me about faith. She goes to her room to pray five times a day. Such diligence! She had these beads wrapped around her hand that looked sort of like a rosary. She later told me they were called tasbeeh, and are used to say short repetitive utterances in praise and glorification. An example Aysha gave was to use it as a reminder of God's power. On that particular day she prayed to God using one of His names or attributes- God as Healer. Throughout the day she would utter that God was her Healer while touching a bead. I pondered on how I may apply this to my Christian walk…I've applied it this way: I may say Scriptures about healing, or patience, etc., daily and then claim them because God’s Word is truth. Aysha, your strength and perseverance has taught me to press on in faith because God will never let us down.

Rebecca and Andrew were a huge inspiration. While at Oasis, they received a call from home that their home was burglarized. On top of that, the culprits spent the night partying and vandalizing the house, taking many precious possessions. I could hardly believe their misfortune at a time like this when Andrew was battling cancer. Nevertheless, their comment to us was that it was only stuff. Wow! As I pondered their remark, I wondered how I would react in a situation like that. So often we are tied to our possessions, rather, in bondage. We have too much, most of which we do not even need. Far too often, these things take up so much of our time that we have little time or energy for God. The brand new car needs to be detailed…..the collections need to be displayed to show off what we have……the huge house that has more rooms than we need envelops all our energy to clean it, so that by Friday night we can’t even prepare for the Sabbath because we are exhausted. We are overwhelmed! I am learning to be satisfied with what I have, and to shed all the “stuff.” This week, both Tony and my closets fell down- just like that! Lord, I take it you are telling me to get rid of all that “stuff.” I hear You loud and clear, dear Lord!” God is showing me not to get tied down by the cares of this world. After all, He has much more glorious things waiting for me up yonder.

Internet was slow most of the time in Mexico, and it was difficult getting the blogs out more regularly. The last blog, #7, encountered many difficulties. After a week of writing and trying to get it just right, I was finally ready to publish. I was about to copy and paste it in the blog site when suddenly,  the words started deleting line by line!!! I could not believe it! I pressed every key I could think of on the computer but it kept on deleting speedily. I decided to take a video on my phone so I could retrieve some of it that way. However, after it had all deleted, I tried playing it back, and all I got was a black screen. I prayed a silent praying asking God to find a way to get this information back. My God can move mountains….. surely He would find a way so all this writing would not be lost. I had continuously saved the document on Word throughout the week as I had been writing.  Now, when I went to my saved documents, it was nowhere to be found. Then I remembered that I had originally started writing the blog on my Ipad, and had forwarded it to my email. That original document was still there, praise God! Many changes had been made throughout that week, so I had to go back and change as much as I could recall. I knew God would help me, and He did. When I was done with it, the second attempt was better than the first. The enemy is like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour but God says “fear thou not; for I am with thee: Be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea I will help thee” Isaiah 40:18. He most certainly did. I do not know what that was all about, but I am thankful to have yet another opportunity to see God at work!

If we are willing, we shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be our peace. He will give us insights into our character if we take the time to listen to what He has to say. At times he speaks through the experiences of others, sometimes in a still small voice, by observing His creation, and through His written Word. He has shown me my true state, my weaknesses and frailties, and is showing me how to gain the victories in this life. It may sound strange, but I thank God for this whole experience because without it…..where would I have been spiritually? God in His great love and mercy was not content to leave me where I had fallen, but was ready with outstretched arms to take me to His bosom. I cry a lot, but it’s not tears of sorrow but of thankfulness for He has shown favor on me when I did not deserve it…..but that is God. Please get to know Him. Take time to look around you and see what God wants to show you. The lessons may be where you least expect it. Having a knowledge of Him and actually knowing Him are two different things, My prayer for all who read these blogs is that you are drawn into a closer relationship to God….so close that you include Him in everything you do. This journey has been the best adventure of my life. Nothing compares to the thrill of walking with God step by step, day by day. What did you learn from God today?

“Show me Your ways, Lord, teach me your paths” Psalm 25:4; “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these shall be added unto you” Matthew 6:33.

My Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for sending Your Son, Jesus, who died for us while we were yet sinners. There is nothing we can do to make You love us more. You long to have us draw near to You. Please remove all the “stuff” we get caught up with that separates us from you. Help us to take time to seek your instruction for the day because You have so much to say to us. Thank you for your great love, mercy, kindness, and patience towards us.

In the precious name of Jesus,

Amen!

Oasis of Hope

Blog 7

Oasis of Hope

I have been in this place- Oasis of Hope Hospital for Alternative Cancer Treatment in Tijuana Mexico- for almost 21 days. 

Here is a place where people from all over the world come, some of whom have been told there is little or no hope for them. I've heard countless stories from people here who said that after talking to Dr. Contreras (the leading doctor) that they finally had hope again. Here they receive a series of therapies that would assist the body to heal- Vitamin C, Vitamin K for Vitamin C absorption,  Vitamin B 17 (latril), ozone and UV treatment, hypothermia (heating the body), and dentritic vaccines made from one’s own cells. A strict sugarless, gluten-free, vegan diet and supplements would continue to aid the process.

Hyperthermal treatment

Vegan, sugar-free, gluten-free diet

Home away from home

I've listened to the countless testimonies of how that hope transformed lives. I have seen people take hold of that hope with all their might so they may once more have life.

I am amazed to see the level of support and encouragement here... Not only from the doctors and caregivers, but from all employees, patients and companions. All are focused on one thing- healing….not just in the physical sense, but holistic healing- physical, spiritual, and emotional. Each person offers words of comfort, provides hugs and smiles to brighten our days. I know that I have made lasting friendships in this place. Quite frankly, despite the cancer I am so blessed to be here. I thank God for this journey with Tony because we have learned so much in this place.

Receiving an infusion

All employees here are deeply spiritual, and so are many of the patients. I have met Hindu, Buddhist, you name it. When you are faced with a serious illness all walls come down and you learn to live life and love others to the fullest regardless of differences. God has taught me to be a blessing to others, and to find the blessings every day. If we just take the time to look we will find an abundance of them.

One of the aspects I have enjoyed here is the unity among staff. I will speak more about that in greater detail in the next blog. It is simply wonderful how everyone works together. There is no struggle for status. From doctors to cleaning people- they all work in one accord to show the love of God to everyone who enters the hospital. "For as the body is one, and has many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ….. for the body is not one member, but many.” 1 Corinthians 12:12, 14. This spiritual atmosphere permeates throughout the halls here to bring hope, love and peace that is so needed during times like these. The important things in life are brought into perspective. Conversations are meaningful- no time for the trivial stuff. We talk about God, life, family, and friends. Each person unselfishly helps the other to move forward towards healing which comes from God alone. Even Dr. Contreras himself says that the healing is not from him but from God- he only assists the body with what it needs.

Daily worship with Pastor Ernesto

During the first week I had some setbacks due to fever and intolerance to one of the treatments. During the first week I was feeling sorry for myself and wondering “why did I ever come here?” Out of the blue, a doctor came to my room, and asked if we were people of faith. With our permission he prayed the most beautiful prayer- it was definitely a message directly from God just for me, and I was instantly reminded of my purpose here. I quickly snapped out of that low place as I was reminded that God was with me every step of the way.

Yes, there is hope, love, and unity here at Oasis. My mind goes to that big sign hanging in our church that says “We Have This Hope,” and am reminded that Jesus gives us such hope. “My hope is in Thee.” Psalm 39:7; “ Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” Psalm 42:11. The church is like a hospital, not so much from physical illnesses, but from the sickness of sin. It is there that those who are burdened from the weight of sin can receive life-giving power, pardon, and healing. Often the illnesses we have are as a result of the weight of sin. However, Jesus bids us come. Whoever will fall at His feet saying in faith "Lord if Thou wilt, Thou can make me clean" shall hear the answer "I will; be thou made clean." Matthew 8:2,3. Here we can find spiritual healing that our hearts are so desperately searching for. Yet, I cannot help but feel a little saddened when I compare the experience I have had here at Oasis of Hope with that of church- and I am not talking specifically about my church but church in general. Rather than being a place of deep seeking and soul-searching prayer and worship, it has become more of a social place to come once a week to do one’s “duty to God,” and we expect that to be enough.  For many there is no relationship with God or with others once they leave the church walls. Little or no devotions, much less Bible study. We often come to church without a praise of thanksgiving for the many blessings we have received despite our sinful selves. Instead we complain and grumble. My heart cries for the youth who spend the hour chatting away with friends, playing games on their smart phones, or checking social media. When the hour is done, we leave those doors to go back to our daily routines unchanged, unconverted empty vessels. Then we come back the next week and do it all over again! Such emptiness.

Others are fighting for church position, and feel offended if they do not receive one. Instead, we should be humbling ourselves with fasting and praying to seek God’s will. Have we not read that “anyone who wants to be first must be last, and the servant of all?” Mark 9:35. It’s not about status, but about our relationship with God and with men. What about Bible study? How much time have we spent studying God’s Word and getting to know Him and His will for us? Don’t you see? “By beholding we become changed” 2 Corinthians 3:18. How can we change if we are not learning of and from Him? Our sins are separating us from Him. God wants to be fully connected with us. He wants full restoration, and so long as we are caught up with the cares of this world He cannot fulfill want He wants to do in us- to give us life everlasting and empower us to give the Three Angels Message of Revelation 14: 1-12 to the world.  We spend more time on TV, the news, and our music, and less time with Jesus at the Holy Place.

God wants to have churches everywhere in which all members are genuinely interested in each other as it is here at Oasis of Hope…where people know each other by name; where they look each other in the eye and genuinely care; where they take up the phone to find out how a new church member- or an old one- is doing; where there is prayer in the hallways; where old and young have healthy relationships together; where conversations are on meaningful things. Each day we are so blessed, but we are more focused on the mountains before us than one the One who can level it. Like Peter, we take our eyes off Jesus and focus on the storms around us. Next time if someone asks how you are doing, instead of listing out all the things that are going wrong, take the time to share all the numerous things that are going right. It’s time to change our focus and speak positivity and power through God into our lives.  

Do we even realize that we are spiritually sick and in need of the great Healer, Physician, Counselor, Redeemer, Savior, Provider, Restorer, and Friend? Do we realize that God wants to make us whole and well, and give us victory over sins? My friends, let us examine ourselves based on the word of God. Have you grown spiritually since last year, or are you still struggling with the same old sins? If so, then you have been going to “The Oasis of Hope” for so long and have yet to be set free and healed. I was in that boat. I know! I was so busy doing the Lord’s work that I took my eyes off Him. The minute I did that the world became more important. It got to the point where I was so ashamed and living a lie that I couldn’t even go to God to pray anymore. Oh, but what a God who searches for His lost sheep and doesn’t stop until He finds him or her. Like the story of the Prodigal Son, I came to my senses and realized that I had a loving Father who loved me regardless of the lowest hell I had sunk to. He gave His life to redeem ME! He welcomed me with open arms, never for one moment rejecting me or saying “I told you so!” God desires true confession and repentance from each one of us, and He will take care of the rest. He asks us to come and give our all to him- the good, the bad, and the ugly. It is time to change directions my friends. Admit it, the way we have been living just isn’t working. God wants to give us life more abundantly. This life is wrapping up, and Jesus is returning for a church triumphant that reflects the character of God. The world has nothing to give us, but WE HAVE THIS HOPE of a glorious life with Jesus where there will be no more sin, no more sickness or death. Take hold of that promise and live.  

Proverbs 4:20-22: “My son (daughter), attend to my word; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.”

My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your plan of salvation, for establishing your church as an “Oasis of Hope” for healing and restoration from the disease of sin. As it was with the disciples in the upper room on the day of Pentecost, so empower us by the power of your Holy Spirit to be in one accord, having deep love and concern for all. Help us to realize that we are all sin-sick and in need of a Savior. Help us to keep our eyes focused on you. Give us life-changing experiences that will transform our characters to reflect Yours.

In the precious name of Jesus. Amen

He Orders Our Days

Blog 6

He Orders Our Days

The diagnosis of breast cancer stage three had us reeling. The result from the PET scan showed that it had not spread. That brought some peace of mind. However, what was to be our next step? The doctor wanted to immediately schedule for a port for chemo to be put in. Wait a minute! This was happening too fast. I needed to breathe! Everyone had their own opinion, and I know everyone meant well, but I only wanted to hear from God. As usual, I woke up early the next morning to seek God’s counsel. I had always felt that if I should ever have cancer that I would try to avoid the regular treatment of bombarding my body with chemo, and then radiation. After all, my body is His temple. “I am fearfully and wonderfully made,” and it just didn’t seem like that was the right thing to do. I had family members and close friends who went through it, and I was determined that was not the way for me. I was impressed that God was leading me in a different direction.

 I had been searching all morning for a word from the Lord. I opened the Bible for guidance, but after searching I couldn’t find an answer. So, I decided to research two cancer treatment centers that I had heard about. I had left the two sites up, and while going to them I accidentally came to a different site that I had also previously left opened. It was a lecture from Dr. Thomas Jackson from MEET Ministry (www.meetministry.org) There God gave me the answer. It was a quote from Ministry of Healing, pg. 127:

“Disease is an effort of nature to free the system from conditions that result from a violation of the laws of health. In case of sickness, the cause should be ascertained. Unhealthful conditions should be changed. Wrong habits corrected. Then, nature is to be assisted in her efforts to expel impurities and to reestablish right conditions in the system. Pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, the use of water- these are the true remedies…..Nature’s process of healing and upbuilding is gradual and to the patient it seems slow. The surrender of hurtful indulgences require sacrifice. But in the end, it will be found that nature, untrammeled, does her work wisely and well. Those who persevere in obedience to her laws will reap the reward in health of body and health of mind.” As a strong believer in the health message and in God’s eight laws of health, I understood God’s plan for me.

God is the Alpha and the Omega and the Way in between. He knows my journey. Tony and I chose to follow Him. After much prayer and seeking, we  decided that we would take an alternative approach to treating this cancer. It would not be a popular decision….it would meet much opposition, but God made it clear that this was OUR road to travel. Everyone has a different journey but it is important to be obedient to what God has called you to.  God wanted to take me on a journey to continue the work He had begun in me, so He could teach me to fully rely on Him for healing, and that through it all His name will be glorified, not mine, not any doctor, but His. Phillipians 1:6 “Being confident of this very thing, that He which has begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” It is God’s desire to restore us to Himself, to see His own purity and holiness reflected in us. If we will yield ourselves to Him, He that begun a good work in you will carry it forward to the day of Jesus Christ. Pray more fervently; believe more fully.” SC 64

And so, we decided to go to Oasis of Hope in Tijuana, Mexico. My friend Tania in NC had a family member and a friend, Kristen, who had successful treatments there. Kristen and I spoke several times about what it entailed. All seemed well. It wasn’t long before our tickets were bought and we were set to leave Miami on October 30^th. I had to go downtown to get my passport, and while waiting to speak to one of the officers there I prayed that God would send me to someone who was sociable. You know how it can be sometimes there- you meet someone who just wants to give you a hard time. However, God is so good! Not only did I go to the nicest lady, but she had just returned from Tijuana and proceeded to tell me all the places I should go to. Only God would do something like that. What are the odds of meeting someone who had just been to the very same place I was going? At that moment I was reminded that God orders every second of our day. Nothing goes unnoticed, so why worry? He has it all taken care of.

On this journey, God showed me that I would have to face two of my biggest fears that I have had for most of my life…that of flying, and of also dying. For me, it was about losing control with your life in the hands of the pilot.  As for dying….well, everyone cringes at the word “cancer” and I was no exception. However, one thing is certain…I am in the Lord’s hands. I pray that through all of this His name will be glorified and not me. Through restoration I want to be a living testimony of the goodness of the Lord. If I endure this trying process, and self does not awaken to life to feel hurt and abuse under the test that His probing knife will reveal that the soul is indeed dead to self, but alive unto God.” 5 BC 1152. I want victory over everything that is not of God, so here I am, Lord. I’m ready.

Tony and I woke up early Sunday morning for our trek across the country. I was determined to face my fear of flying head on.  I was reminded of a beautiful experience my prayer partner, Rosanna Ek, had shared with me. God has blessed her with revelations and visions…. and yes, I will be sharing more of those with you. One day Rosanna was driving on the highway and she heard some suspicious sounds coming from under the car. Something was obviously wrong. Although she had little knowledge of car maintenance, she pulled off the road and stopped the car. She could never have imagined the sight that awaited her. There under the car was an angel with arms outstretched over the front and back wheels. The angel was looking ahead very focused on his mission to get her to her destination, but for a brief moment, he turned to her and winked as if to say “I got this”, then focused once more to the task at hand. The car got her safely home, and as soon as she arrived she rushed in to tell her husband what had happened. The car was taken to the mechanic who said it was a miracle that she got that car home. The bar between the two front wheels were rusted and had clearly been broken for a while. Of course, it was nothing less than a miracle! The angel had kept her safe!!!

Could it be????

                 

I was assured that God would send an angel or two to hold that plane up. Our flight finally took off from Miami after being delayed for an hour due to suspicious luggage. As I sat by the window seat, I felt God’s peace as we took off, enjoying every moment of the changing terrains beneath me. I was elated! I peered through the window hoping that I too would see an angel. I didn’t but I smiled the whole time knowing my angel was there. Just before landing I took a picture…..Hmmmm….what do you think?!  God had promised that He would always be there. That was enough assurance for me. Due to the delay we missed our connecting flight in Dallas, and had to wait for a later flight three hours later, but that was alright. God had ordered our day, and every delay was for a reason. We finally made it to Oasis of Hope. I was exhausted, but hopeful. It was at this place that God was going to teach me many things. “Faithful is He that calls you, who also will do it. “ 1 Thessalonians 5:24

My Prayer: Dear Jesus,

Thank you for ordering our days according to Your perfect will. Thank you for your free gift of salvation, and thank you for not leaving us in the same condition You found us. Please continue to do a work of purification that our lives will be fully surrendered to You. Give us Your strength, courage and peace to face whatever comes our way because we have the assurance that You are always with us.

In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen

Thy Will, Not Mine

Blog 5

Thy Will, Not Mine

Pastor David has been an inspiration to me. He was my neighbor until just a few weeks ago. During that time, we had many conversations about what God was doing in each of our lives. It so happened that we left our homes at the same time early at 5:45 every morning. It was so nice to have the company at that very dark hour. God always provides everything I need. We would also arrive home about the same time in the evenings and would often spend an hour or so discussing biblical subjects. I shared my testimony of my Christian journey and how I became an Adventist. Even though we are from different denominations we both love the Lord and share many of the same convictions. I know that God has His people everywhere.

Pastor David knows who he is- a child of the Most High God. He walks with an air of confidence knowing that. Every believer should have that level of confidence because God’s word says we ARE His children. I have learned a lot about dedication, unselfish service, and about faith from him. Pastor David works untiringly with underprivileged children, coaching them in sports such as track. It is his and their dream to one day participate in the Olympics. He gives them hope and purpose- teaching them self-worth, discipline, perseverance, and most importantly, about the love of God. It wasn’t long before he started “Alms Church” right there in his home to minister to these children and their parents. What a gift of service! He asked me to assist him, and after bringing it to God I was impressed to go. What a blessing I found there! Pastor David is such a deeply spiritual man and a huge blessing to others….definitely someone who has a deep connection with God. I wanted that. It’s a powerful thing when we know whose we are. God has made provision for it. “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” With every seeking heart God will provide a knowledge of Him. He puts people and situations in your life to draw you closer to Him. This is what He did for me through Pastor David. Pastor always told me that God was going to use me in a powerful way. I just didn’t see how with all the many mistakes and shortcomings I had. Nevertheless, God can use anyone. After all, He used a donkey didn’t He? All He wants is a willing heart. And so, each Sunday I would help Pastor to minister to the children using my own testimonies, and using illustrations and demonstrations to bring the stories to life. The children enjoyed it. Unfortunately, Pastor David moved, but he soon found another place not too far away. I missed a few weeks, and then I found out about the cancer diagnosis. When I told Pastor David he asked me to come by. I did, and I was so blessed by it as the sermon was just what I needed to hear about faith. As he was delivering his message all of a sudden he looked up directly at me and said “Cheryl Alonzo….Come and see what the Lord has done!” God had been impressing me to write my testimony. I had a few titles but none seemed quite right. Until now. As Pastor David said those words, I knew that God was speaking through him. That was to be the title of the blog I would write. God is so good and makes provision for everything. I am learning to wait on Him because at the right time and in His own way He provides the answers.

I left that place feeling empowered and ready to face whatever battles would come my way. Only this time it must be different. No more the doer or in my own strength…I must learn to surrender and wait, allowing Him to work in His time, His way. As the months have progressed, God has shown me how to live a life of humility. “When we have true humility (which comes by the working of the Holy Spirit), we have victory. The enemy can never take out of the hand of Christ the one who is simply trusting His promises. If the soul is trusting and working obediently, the mind is susceptible to divine impressions, and the light of God shines in, enlightening the understanding. What privileges we have in Christ Jesus!” 7 Bible Commentaries, 959. Mostly we do not see through God’s eyes, but through the eyes of man because we are so busy we won't take the time. God has been opening my eyes to have a correct view of spiritual things. His “eyesalve” which is the Word of God speaks to my conscience because it convicts of sin. At times it may even hurt…hurt badly…. But it is necessary so that healing may follow. God wants me, wants us, to be single-sighted, beholding ourselves in His great moral looking glass, seeing ourselves as He sees us. As I have been shown my true state, I have been brought to my knees in humble repentance for the sins I have committed. By beholding, I am becoming changed. I just marvel at the work God has been doing in me, and of the many sins and habits He has given me victory over. God has taken me to the root of many of my problems- problems that were so deep-rooted that they had shaped my life for far too long. “The tops had been cut down, but the roots had never been eradicated, bearing their unholy fruit to poison my judgment, pervert my perceptions, and blind my understanding. …And so I had been stuck in a vicious cycle. However, God said not so. “When by thorough confession you destroy the root of the bitterness, you will see light in God’s light. Without this thorough work, you will never clear your souls.” LS 326. “The very depths of the hidden evil must be reached, the moral senses must be judged, and judged again in the light of the divine presence. The daily life will testify whether the work is genuine. If the soul endures the trying process, and self does not awaken to life to feel hurt and abused under the test, that probing knife reveals that the soul is indeed dead to self, but alive unto God.” BC 1152.

There have been deep-rooted issues in my life, and I am sure in yours. I never realized the intensity of it all. These things had influenced my decisions in such a negative way, causing me to develop an unwholesome, imbalanced character of timidity, fears and anxieties, and worse….separation of God. But praise God He is in the business of restoration.  God in His love and mercy wants to up-root them all so they cannot hurt us anymore.

Lately, God has been waking me up in the wee hours of the morning. I have sometimes resisted….. other times I’ve tried to ignore the call for a few hours to get more sleep in. One morning when I was awakened, taking another hour or so to get out of bed, the Lord brought me immediately to a Scripture upon opening the Bible: “Why sleepest thou?…..watch ye and pray, lest you enter into temptation.” On that particular day, God wanted me to tap into His Power Source because He knew what was ahead that day. I have since been obedient to His call. It is during those hours that He shows me what I need and inspires me to face whatever comes my way. Waking up has no longer become difficult because He has become my source of strength. He wants that for all of us.I am learning to recognize His voice and His will for me. It has been a beautiful journey in which I have surrendered to His will, not mine. “Hear instruction and be wise and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that hears me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the ports of my doors. For whosoever finds me finds life, and shall obtain favor of the Lord.” Proverbs 8:33-35 “My son, attend to my words, incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4: 20-23

My prayer: Thank you Lord! I praise your name for the work You have been doing in me. Teach me your ways, and let me turn my ear to listen. Help me to slow down to hear from You because there is so much You want to say to me. Teach me your way, Oh Lord, that I may walk in truth, to glorify your name in all I do. Let me daily die to self that You may live through me. Let it Your will, not mine.

In Jesus’ name. Amen

Angels in Disguise

Angels in Disguise

October 3, 2016

The Lord had a wonderful day in store for me, and God knows I needed it. I had already gone through mammogram, ultrasound, and biopsy to name a few others. I was tired of it all already. I was scheduled for an MRI today. I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that God had specifically chosen Yvonne to be the attending nurse for me today. As I entered the room that huge, monster of a machine made a dreaded humming sound. With that I decided I needed to plug in to my Power Source for this one. Being claustrophobic and having a history of anxiety and panic attacks wasn't going to make it any easier, but He has said " I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13. As I contemplated this verse, I was reminded of the countless times I have claimed this promise and seen God come through for me. I told Yvonne I needed a moment, and walked over to the side of the room to pray. When I was done and walked back over to her she commended me for doing so and said that everyone should do more of that.  Yes we should. "God is our present help in trouble."
You never know when The Lord is up to something, but He always is! Life with Him is a beautiful adventure looking at His daily plans unfold before me. This opened up a conversation with Yvonne about what God had done in her life and in mine. She told me about her darkest hour several years ago in 2010 after her divorce. She couldn't sleep and was having terrible nightmares. She came across a book on fasting and she decided to put what she had read into action. The nightmares stopped! I shared with her about the Daniel Fast I was doing at the time with my prayer partners, and about the many wonderful things God was doing in my life.
It was time to go into the machine. Yvonne was so patient and reassuring. She gave me earphones to listen to music on Pandora. I selected Hymns. The first one to play was "I Surrender All" as God reminded me once more that I had given Him the reins. I let go and relaxed. I was pushed face down in the machine. God's peace was with me. At times as the machine banged away so hard I couldn't even hear the music, but even in hardships God can be found. So I used the pounding machine as a beat to sing my favorite hymns.
My biggest concern was the contrast that they would inject after 20 minutes. My body is always so sensitive to everything, but then again that may be due to my overly active mind. Praise God He is giving me victory even over that. I could feel it going in. It was cold. No problems.
Finally it was over! I gave Yvonne a big hug. She told me I was an inspiration to her. I told her that God sent me an angel. As I've drawn closer to God I've been more in tune with him and His Spirit. I was impressed to give her a book I had just received in the mail the day before that I had slipped into my bag last minute: "Prayers and Promises" by Brenda Walsh and Kay Kuzma. My assistant, Liset Maceira had been reading the Spanish version and told me I had to get it. So I immediately ordered an English version. I hadn't even started to read it, but I knew that book was meant for Yvonne.  I pray that Yvonne will be greatly blessed by it. I guess I'll just have to order another one for myself.
I thank God for blessing me today, and for the opportunity to bless others. He knows the desire of my heart is to be in tune with him, to do His will, and to hear His voice leading and guiding me in the way I should go. I am so glad I could hear His voice today nudging me to give Yvonne that book. Continue to speak to me, Oh God, and use me to draw others to You.

My prayer: Dear God, thank You for sending angels in disguise to encourage us and to remind us that You promised You are with us every step of the way. With that promise we can overcome our fears and anxieties and believe that we are indeed over-comers because of Your strength and transforming power. Give us Your peace knowing that all obstacles have been removed out of the way. In the mighty name of Jesus. Amen

"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers. For thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Hebrew 13:2

Into the Depths of the Sea

Into the Depths of the Sea

Oct. 8, 2016

Thank God for prayers partners. Rosanna Ek, her Mom and I rise early every morning at 6:15 to seek, praise and worship our God. We humble ourselves and come clean before Him as we make consecration to Him our first work every morning. It has been a glorious year of searching and drawing closer to God, and in later blogs I will share more with you about how God has moved powerfully in our little group of seekers.

Plans were set for us to write and release our God letters. What's that? Well, it's a letter to God of confession, realizing and acknowledging that we cannot do anything about our sins...that we all are in need of a Savior to set us free. The place would be Black Point Marina at the break of dawn next Sabbath morning.

Psalm 55:22 says "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved." For surely I was "heavy laden and burdened, and so in need of rest." Matthew 11: 28. I had been carrying around feelings of anger, hurt, and resentment for so long and it was time to lay them all down. It is no wonder that this problem was now manifested right over my heart because I had not truly released my pain to God.

I spent much of Friday, Preparation Day, not only getting the household ready for the Sabbath day of rest, but more importantly in spiritual preparation for God's Holy day. I sought God as I wrote my God letter. He brought back to mind those things that had caused separation from Him, the hidden things, and even small things that I never even realized had bothered me. A few other family members were to come but it didn’t work out that way. I was disappointed, but I must surrender even the disappointments to God and trust that “all things work together for good to them who love God.” Romans 8:28.

The most beautiful Sabbath morning

Prayer Circle

It was the most beautiful, perfect morning as I, Tony, my sister Tanya, Rosanna and Roberto Ek, and Ms. Sylvia (Rosanna’s mother) arrived at Black Point Marina. The early birds joined in a chorus of worship of the Creator God. He had taught them to seek Him every morning, to lift up their voices in praise and thanksgiving. As we walked out to sea we beheld the majesty of God before us. The vast ocean spread its hues of blues around far and wide. The ever-changing colors on the horizon of purples, pinks, yellows and oranges lit our pathway. They seemed to be saying that a glorious deliverance awaited us. Surely it was. We finally made the 10-15 minute trek to the farthest point. We joined our voices in singing “I Surrender All,” prayed and read our daily Psalms 27 and 91. Then a few moments of contemplation as we privately read over our own God letters in sorrowful repentance for all we had done against our God who loves us so much that He gave His own Son to save us.

Rosanna sending off her God letter

We joined hands and lifted up our petitions in our prayer circle. It was time to give eviction notice to all the people who had been living in our minds rent-free for so long. The time had come to set our God letters out to sea as the sun emerged on the horizon in all its God-given glory. We set them on out to the ocean and released them to God, never to picked up or carried again.  “Sometimes you don’t feel the weight of something you’ve been carrying until you feel the weight of its release.” (Thanks Tracy for that FB post!)

To God be the glory! Sweet release! These things cannot and will not hurt us anymore. My friends, too many of us are carrying around burdens of guilt, shame, unforgiveness, anger, malice, jealousy, envy….whatever it may be. God never asked you to. There is no sin big enough that He cannot take care of. Trust me…I know! I am no angel as my past can testify. However, He wants to set the captives free. He wants to do so much in our lives but we keep carrying all this baggage. STOP! During the last year and a half  I have begun to realize the magnitude and depth of the restoration He wants to do in me. And He wants to do the same for you. Let it go and let God. Give Him the reins and let Him take control so He can do a good and mighty work in you. I strongly recommended every family, every group to write God letters and do as we did and set them out to sea and release to God. And when you do, DO NOT pick them up again. The weight has been lifted, and although I can’t afford to lose any more weight, I feel 10 pounds lighter!!! Praise God! I can breathe again……Glory to God!

He will again have compassion on us; He will subdue our iniquities. You will cast all our sins in to the depths of the sea.” Micah 7:19

Glorious!

Tanya sends off her God letter

Cheryl- I'm free of my burdens!

Hallelujah!

The heavens declare the glory of the Lord

Wilt thou be made whole?

I had been feeling as though the flu was coming on. Strange for me, because I usually don’t get sick, or if I do, I shake it after a day or so. That Thursday evening, I started getting chills. By that night I had fever and felt like I had been hit by a truck. Friday was no better so I stayed home. By Monday I was still sick so I scheduled an appointment with the doctor. My body was obviously fighting some mega virus here!

At the appointment, everything checked out fine… no major concerns until I told the doctor to check a lump I had found. Now this was a common thing for me as I have had a history of fibrocystic breasts- a harmful condition of cysts or lumps. By the look of Dr. N’s face I could tell she had concerns. She ordered immediate mammogram and ultrasound. We managed to get an appointment that very same day. After having my daylights literally pressed out of me during the mammogram, followed next by the ultrasound, I was told that I needed to do a biopsy to confirm. That was completed a few days after and was told I’d get the results in 5 days. As the days passed it seemed like an eternity of torture. After just two days my primary doctor called me to come in. Oh boy! Usually they would tell me the results over the phone. She called me to her office. I had never been in her office before. This was bad, very, very bad! She proceeded to tell me as gently as she could….the tests are positive, stage 3.

What! I was overwhelmed. How could this be happening to me?! I don’t want this cup Lord. Take it away from me!!! Some other way but not this…….but then, I hear Him saying to me “ I will never give you more than you can bear, but will with every trial provide a way for me to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13. We belong to Him and He will not allow any difficulty to come into our lives that we are not capable of bearing. God remains faithful and will provide a way to endure the test. And with that, I surrendered to His will and trust that He has a plan in all this even though  don't understand. I must trust His heart.

The drive home was long as it all started to sink in. I called Tony and told him the solemn news. He came home right away. Somehow, I felt a strength within me. There are moments like these when I am empowered to rise against all obstacles, and I can only attribute it to the power of the Holy Spirit. I wish I could remain in that state of mind at all times…….Tony took it hard. As he hugged me and sobbed God put words in my mouth to encourage him. I reminded him of how God had been doing a marvelous work in me, showing me how I was and doing a work of transformation in me. There had been many challenges, but through it all God had always delivered me. He wasn’t about to leave me now. God had a plan. We were both strengthened in that moment to feel God’s presence and know that He was with us, and together we knew we would beat this.

One may ask why? Why me? After all, I’ve been a vegetarian for about 20 years. Lately I had even become vegan, even eliminating sodium-loaded meat substitutes, canned food, sugar, and processed foods from my diet. Well, why not me? We live in a sin-ravaged world, and none are exempt from its effects. Several months ago, my prayer partners and I had been studying the health message and God’s healing methods. 1Thess. 5:23, 24 says “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly, and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it.” God’s healing is threefold- spiritual, physical, and mental. Without one, you cannot be truly healthy.  In the story of the paralytic in Matt. 9:1-8, Jesus says “Be of good courage (mental healing)…Thy sins be forgiven (spiritual healing)…..Take up thy bed and walk (physical healing).

“There are today thousands suffering from physical disease, who, like the paralytic, are longing for the message, “Thy sins are forgiven.” The burden of sin, with its unrest and unsatisfied desires, is the foundation of their maladies. They can find no relief until they come to the Healer of the soul. The peace which He alone can give would impart vigor to the mind, and health to the body.” (Desire of Ages, pg. 270.)

The Lord had been working in me spiritually over the past few years, and had been directing me to physical healing through the health message and taking care of my body. But one area that had been lacking was the mental/emotional side. Ultimately, negative emotions WILL affect one’s health and it had certainly done so with me. I had been carrying around a lot of baggage for a long time and the load was breaking me. These unresolved issues make us more susceptible to illnesses. I truly believe that my present condition resulted from unresolved issues from childhood, teenage years, and throughout my life. Nevertheless, the time had come to let it go. After all, He never asked me to carry it but said “cast all your cares on me.” As long as I kept carrying this baggage I would never have complete healing. Jesus said to me “Wilt thou be made whole?” Yes, I want to be made whole, for only to the degree that we are made whole will our lifestyle, our behavior and actions, our thoughts, our manner of living, and our relationships be wholesome.

Please watch the following video entitled "Wilt thou be made whole" by Dr. Thomas Jackson (www.meetministries.org). It was life changing!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuYYLNl7dF0

My prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son, Jesus Christ to give us life more abundantly. Lord you know everything about us. We are as open books waiting for you to erase the mistakes of the past, and to engrave your ways in our hearts. Help us to fully understand what it means and what it takes to be made whole- physically, mentally, and spiritually. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

 I can hardly wait to tell you in the next blog what God impressed me to do to be set free. Join me tomorrow for Part 3.  

My family and friends....hope you all are doing well. There is no easy way to say it except to say it. Recently, I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma- breast cancer in the left breast, stage III. I know!!! Sorry to shock you like this…..and what is even more surprising is that I, a strong advocate for the health message is facing this. I can hardly believe this is happening to me. But it is. However, that is only part of the story. Come back with me a few years to understand that through all of this God is doing a marvelous work in me. As we journey back through my past experiences and move forward in the future, let me share with you what God has been doing. What He has done for me He surely wants to do for YOU.

One thing is clear, He wants me to share my story so others may know how much He wants to set the captives free and give us life abundantly. "Our confession of His faithfulness is heaven's chosen agency for revealing Christ to the world. That which will be most effectual is the testimony of our own experience. We are witnesses for God as we reveal in ourselves the working of a power that is divine. Every individual has a life distinct from all others, and an experience differing essentially from theirs. God desires that our praise shall ascend to Him, marked by our individuality. These precious acknowledgements to the praise of the glory of His grace, when supported by a Christ-like life have an irresistible power that works for the salvation of souls." Desire of Ages, pg. 347

Like the people of Israel as they were taken out of Egypt into the desert, let us set up our stones of witness- our testimony- and inscribe upon them the precious story of what God has done in us and through us. I’m telling everyone please do not shed a tear for me, but to start singing my victory song!!! God is in Word has surely said that He “heals all your diseases“ Psalm 103:3; “ I am the Lord who heals you” Exodus 15: 26.  

 “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” John 10:10.

My prayer: Dear God, I praise your name in the good times and in the bad. Blessed are You, Oh Lord whose ways are perfect, who order my days, and who give me the strength to overcome each trial through Your strength. For you will never give me more than I can bear, but will with every trial provide a way for me to endure. You have done it for me in the past and surely You will do it again. So I thank You in advance and in faith for what You are doing in me and through me.

In the beautiful name of Jesus. Amen.

And so here goes......my story. Come and see what the Lord has done.

Continued tomorrow………