August 2025 Update

Dear Ones:

A favorite chorus we’ve sung at the Mission chapel is: “My Lord knows the way through the wilderness; all I have to do is follow. Strength for today is mine all-the-way and all I need for tomorrow.” This expresses my present sentiment as I continue to mend in body and soul. Over the years I’ve heard it said, “God can make a way where there is no way!” That makes sense considering that He IS the Way! But frankly there have been times on this difficult journey when I questioned that truth as I walked in utter darkness and agony. I identify with Paul’s testimony, “we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life...that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead." (2 Cor. 1:8, 9)

How come when we pray for healing things can get worse? Has God turned a deaf ear, or forgotten us? How the enemy would “rattle” or slander our faith in the all-loving Savior! But God is doing a deeper work through suffering and a delayed answer is not denial. Jesus himself in Gethsemane agonized under the full force of Hell, even sweating drops of blood! As the God-Man, he questioned if there was “some other way” to accomplish His redemptive mission. But then he responded with “not my will, but thine be done.” So it is with us; like it or not, there’s only one thing to do at any stage of our journey and that’s the Right thing! Amen.

I’m gaining in strength and stamina, anticipating a limited teaching schedule by October. I’m headed for the Cleveland Clinic on 9/24 for a prostate and bladder testing regimen; this will determine whether there’s an optional treatment or procedure to “ditch” the urinary catheter and return to some “normalcy.” I still battle the neuropathy in my feet (10 yrs.); to walk again unattended would be a real plus. Thanks so much for your intercession regarding this matter, along with the other challenges.

I know all of you face daily challenges and I pray that our faithful God will minister loving grace to each of you. Your prayerful concern in my behalf is greatly appreciated. Without question, God has used you mightily to bring me where I am now.

With much love and gratitude,

Pastor Bill

Lam. 3:22-23