Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Hospice

7 months ago we found that our family was taking a voyage aboard a ship and we were not just going for a ride we were going to be the the crew. There was only one problem - none of us has ever sailed before. We voraciously studied charts of the waters we would need to navigate through trying to become familiar with what we might encounter. We read the journals of others that had sailed this route before and scoured them for tidbits of knowledge that might warn us of hidden dangers. But the sea is unpredictable and with variations in tides and weather conditions each crew must face the unknown as best they can. And with inexperienced crews there naturally comes navigational errors, improper training, poor judgement calls, and worst of all fear. All of this makes the journey so much scarier and that much more perilous. We knew that our ship was nearing the most treacherous waters in our journey in the shallowest waters with the most hidden wrecks, rocks, and unexpected sandbars. We were scared and so we studied harder and prayed more.

And then suddenly a Captain boarded our ship. Our captain has navigated these shallow waters many times before and helped many scared first time sailors make it through where our ship must also go. They know what hidden traps might set our ship off course or run our ship aground. With our new Captains experience, confidence, and patience our crew feels a greater sense of calm and we feel more confidence that we can see this journey through safely.

Hospice is our Captain, and we are elated to have them on board.

4 comments:

  1. Good... I'm glad... I loved when I read the word "calm". That's exactly what you need right now.

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  2. So glad you are getting some comfort right now!

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  3. I was recently forwarded your Christmas letter this year by my mom. It's hard to believe it's been over 20 years since Chris and I lived in Brea and were over at your house all the time playing with Brian, Lisa, and Mark. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

    Katie Gade (Elliott)

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  4. You tricked me... I was sure the captain was going to be Jesus.

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