In Mark 9 there is a story about a father who brought his son to be healed. He ended up in the middle of a huge argument because the disciples could not drive out the evil spirit that tormented the boy. Jesus came and put things in order, but I have been thinking about this father. I am sure he did not want to be the center of controversy. Who wants everyone arguing because your case is so difficult? I also doubt he wanted his lack of faith announced to all those present. When he pled with Jesus, “But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us,” Jesus said, “If you can? Everything is possible for him who believes.” In his weakness, the father immediately exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Exposed, humbled, embarrassed… why would a father put himself in such a vulnerable spot? He did it for his son. He wanted his child whole and free. A good father loves his child so much he will risk everything on his behalf.
At this time of the year, we celebrate the ultimate example of a Father’s love. The longing of the Father was to bring His children to Him… whole and free. No matter what any critic would think; no matter how painful it would be; no matter how great the sacrifice; God sent Jesus for us. The Father risked everything on our behalf. The most familiar verse in the Bible brings true joy to all who believe. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Lord willing, we’re going to visit Taylor in Hawaii over the holidays. We had enough Delta SkyMiles for three tickets and Susan found a good price on a flight that left Tuesday. She arrived safely and is as happy as a mother can be. Taylor leaves for Cambodia on the 23rd, so we hope to spend a few days with him before he departs. (As you can tell, we’ve not been dreaming of a white Christmas 
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Regarding my health, this chemo makes my blood counts crash and I’ve not been able to finish the last two rounds. Every time my counts go low, I seem to pick up some type of cold or infection. I’ve learned this is pretty much par for the course, so I just try to get through it. We are to arrive home the day after Christmas and I’ll start another round. The great news is that my protein count is dropping. The nurse called yesterday to report that just a trace of protein was detected in the last blood sample taken. This is an answer to many prayers and we thank you for interceding on our behalf. Most of all, we give thanks to the Father who loves us so. “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever!” Romans 11:36
Merry Christmas! (and aloha… )