I'm frequently asked how Russ is doing. I'm never quite sure how to answer. Compared to what point do you want to know? He's made remarkable progress since the spring of 2006 when he had a massive stroke and fought for his life. Compared to most other people, he's remarkably content in spite of his many limitations. Compared to this past winter? Though very gradually losing strength, we've had these three victories:
• he fell twice, but was not seriously injured
• he answered the phone in Japanese and was able to arrange for maintenance on some mobility aids without my help (He does not want me to remember this accomplishment next time he needs a phone call made. Smile.)
• when I asked him to say the books of the New Testament to me for speech and cognitive practice, he said he'd go a step further and say them backwards. He did it!
No doubt, like you, my to-do lists feel endless. Over the summer I'm working on reorganizing resources in the SSS office where I work. In July I'll have two summer worker to help me. I'm excited with how things are shaping up!
In order to effectively minister to others, our own faith journeys need careful attention. I'm grateful for daily encouragement from the Bible verses and thoughts from the book Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I'm being challenged by reading aloud to Russ Christian Counter Culture by John Stott. At the international church we attend, our pastor is giving a thought-provoking series on the Sermon on the Mount. All these things together both encourage me and make me thirsty for more and more of Jesus.
Endless isn't always bad. Enjoy the seemingly endless journey of growing. It's worth the struggle.
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