tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76746637599510133402024-03-19T14:02:51.863+02:00The Kinsley's Journey With JesusOn June 13, 2012 my sweet wife Teresa was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. This blog will be our thoughts and expressions of walking out this portion of our lives, while exhibiting our deep trust in our Loving Jesus. It is our deepest prayer that we will be faithful and prompt others to examine where their faith lies.Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-5112754758439083742015-06-22T16:21:00.001+02:002015-06-22T16:21:34.305+02:00One Final Blog - Live Well. Love Better. Speak Jesus.<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Teresa's courageous battle against cancer ended on May 22, 2015 at 10:45 AM. Many have asked me to share the tribute that I read at her Celebration Service. It follows here:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Live well. Love Better.
Speak Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">If my
sweet wife, Teresa, had a life mission statement this would be it. Her whole
life revolved around these three things. It’s probably best summed up by the
verse printed on your program <i>“The Spirit
of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good
tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim
liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;
To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our
God; To comfort all who mourn, To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them
beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the
spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The
planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> Teresa lived life well. She had so many relationships
with so many of you. Friend, mentor, champion, encourager, motivator, daughter,
sister, aunt, Gogo, Mama, Wife, Hero. Many of you have stories about how she
touched your life. Over the last few days, I have received numerous texts,
emails, calls and social media posts about how Teresa Kinsley touched your
life. Some of them described a gentle word that spoke to a deep hurt. Some
described a powerful prayer that opened your heart. Some described a kick in
the pants to get you out of self-pity. Many described the unconditional love
she carried for people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> For the life well lived was exceeded by the way that she
loved. Some of you didn’t know Teresa but she loved you. She prayed for many
that she never met because she heard of your trouble. Love motivated her to
pray for you. But those of you who did know her have no doubt that you were
loved with a deep compassion and motivated by wanting you to have all that God
had planned for you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;"> She loved her friends. Some of you have known her since
school days and through Alta Woods Baptist Church. And you always knew that
when you were with Tutta, no matter how long ago the last conversation was, it
was like you had never been apart. She carried this ability to instantly
reconnect friendships.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">She
loved her Mama and Daddy. For these past three years, Sara and Robert put their
lives on hold and were with her most every day. She told people constantly that
we couldn’t have made it through this journey without their sweet support. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">She
loved her brother and sister and their families. Family was so important to
her. Just having you guys around brought her so much joy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">She was
deeply in love with her grandchildren. For seven years, she would light up as
each one of you would bring wonder to life. Even the smallest accomplishments
were celebrated and cherished. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Perhaps
her deepest love was for her children. From the day Chris was born, through the
surprise birth of twins, Craig and Kim, to the discovery of her sweet Alfie in
a squatter camp in South Africa, the role of Mama brought her deep fulfillment
and defined much of how she loved. She prayed for you without ceasing … truly.
She never quit and I suspect she is interceding before the LORD right now for
the welfare of her kids. You continue to be her greatest joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 200%;">She
loved her husband </span><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px; line-height: 37.3333320617676px;">in spite</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 200%;"> of himself. She lovingly supported me through all of life’s challenges. She worried more about me than she did herself during the
last three years. To watch her daily fight for life, has inspired me to be a
better man. But the greatest thing that she ever did for me was to help me
choose a life of significance over a life of success. She did this because as
much as she loved all of us, it didn’t hold a candle to how much she loved her
JESUS.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Teresa’s
life can really be divided into three distinct parts; Life before Africa. Life
in Africa. Life after Africa. Teresa’s family was faithful attending church in
her formative years. At the age of six, she asked Jesus to be the LORD of her
life. She has told many of you that despite her tender age, she knew that she
knew that she knew that at that very point in time her eternity was secure. On
that, she never had a single doubt. And that began a road of simple faith.
Teresa’s faith, while deep, was very simple. If Jesus said it, that was all she
needed. She didn’t need to dissect it. She didn’t need to read commentaries on
it. She didn’t need to question the validity of it. HE said it so it was TRUE. As
she grew up, her faith grew incrementally as she made life choices and matured
into adulthood. She was active in church and as she entered high school,
missions became a more important part of her life. She went to Costa Rica, New
York, Minnesota and Ohio where she worked with kids and shared the love of
Jesus. It was on one of those mission trips that my eyes were opened to the
beauty of the person that Jesus was creating. We became inseparable (that is
unless I did something stupid to separate us).
And then in June of 1977, we were married. We lived life, raised
children, endured and survived crises. By every account we lived the normal
American life. But in Teresa’s heart, Jesus was on the move. She became
somewhat restless in her faith. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">When the
empty nest hit us in 2000, Teresa went to Hong Kong on a three week mission
trip. It changed her. She came back and immediately began to look for an
opportunity to go again the next summer. She discovered a three week trip to
the Ukraine where she could teach English at a former communist camp by using
Bible stories as its basis. It was during that trip that we had a family crisis
and she was too far away to do anything about. So she went to the woods outside
the camp to pray and intercede. As she began to pour out her heart in prayer,
she heard the voice of Jesus say “Stop! The bowls of intercession are full of
your tears. Stop! And begin to Praise me for what you have yet to see”. And
that’s what she did. For the next few hours she sang every praise song she
knew. She read all of the Psalms and other Scriptures that praised the LORD.
That night at the camp, 70 Ukrainian kids said YES to Jesus. That night also
marked a change in our lives together. Two weeks later on the way home, she
asked the LORD Why she was so privileged to live in America and have such
wealth and freedom. LORD, there has to be more of You. The LORD responded by
telling her that she would live overseas and preach the Gospel. BUT … Don’t
tell your husband yet because he is not READY.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">After
she got home, the LORD performed a miracle. While Teresa had always been
willing to share Jesus, those of you who knew her back then knew that she
really hated being in front of people. She was fine in front of five year olds,
teaching them in kindergarten but if you got much older than that, she just got
really nervous and scared, almost sick to your stomach scared. She continued to
pray about this discontent that she had, until one day during that summer the
LORD decided to unleash the Holy Spirit’s power that had been living within her
since salvation. I distinctly remember her coming into the house and she looked
different. There was a confidence, a boldness, a smoldering compassion that was
on her face. Scared the fool out of me. I watched as my timid bride became an
instrument of the Gospel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">For two
years she honored that command to not tell me about the LORD’s promise. But
there was one day, in the midst of a failing business that the LORD said now
you can tell him. She did and I’m the better man for it. It took us two years
but finally in 2004, we packed up two suitcases each and a trunk of stuff and
moved to Johannesburg South Africa where we only knew two people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">But in
that move, the Teresa Kinsley that the LORD created in 1956 was unleashed on
one of the darkest places on the face of the earth and Hell itself trembled at
her arrival. The thing that Teresa did best was carry the very Presence of the
LORD into places that the enemy held a stronghold. When she walked in, no
matter the situation, peace reigned. Then she opened her mouth and either spoke
words of truth and encouragement or words of spiritual warfare and
intercession. Whatever the situation called for, she was prepared through the
Power of the Holy Spirit to meet it head on. And oh how she loved the African
People. It didn’t matter your age (she always loved the children), your race
(oppressed or oppressor), whether you lived in a shack or the suburbs, whether
or not you liked her or not, whether or not she was seen as the enemy She
showed you the Love of the One Who Died For You. It was unconditional love,
unblemished love, completely, utterly without end love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Teresa
had many jobs while in Africa. She worked in a hospice tending to dying
patients that were the ages of her own children. Even without speaking the
language she prayed for them to know her Jesus. She worked in a mobile TB
clinic assisting the nurses in dispensing life-saving medication. She planned
and ran day camps. She preached in church. She counseled the hurt and needy.
She took food to the hungry. She sought out those who were sick with Aids and
had been hidden by families fearing the stigma. She mentored young people who
had been sent to us to learn what life was like to serve in a different
culture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">But her
favorite thing was going out in the impoverished community rescuing children of
abuse and neglect. And it was here, that the LORD took another step in building
our family. As she was investigating reports of abuse at one shack, she met a
family at the shack next door. A man who had fathered four children had taken
in the three children of his deceased sister; a thirteen year old girl, an
eight year old boy, and a 19-month toddler. As Teresa often did, she struck up
a conversation with the family and discovered their needs. She went back and
brought them much needed food purchased with her own money and worked to get
the two older children enrolled in school and the toddler placed in a day care.
And she continued to go back to this family week after week. This little boy
toddler would not leave her mind. The little boy never made it to the day care,
and with his two older siblings in school he was left to fend for himself. One
day Teresa arrived to find this little guy lying lifeless in the dirt; snot
dripping from his nose, drool coming from his mouth. She scooped him up, found
his uncle in the bar next door and as all good school teachers do, asked
permission to take the boy to the medical clinic. The uncle granted permission
and he was diagnosed with double pneumonia, and multiple symptoms of
starvation. Having no place to put him, the clinic asked her “Mama Teresa do
you want to take him home”?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">Teresa
loves to use this as an illustration of obedience. In an instant she said YES.
Alfie came to live at our house that day and he never left. Whenever she shared
this story, she reminded people that how in an instant of obedience destinies
are changed. Alfie’s destiny was changed. But so was Teresa’s and so was mine.
So was our family. And many of you have been forever changed by hearing that
story of mercy and seeing the fruit of it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">But then
Teresa would go on to share that your life can be changed in an instant by the
word YES. Jesus is calling you. It may be the first time you have heard his
voice. It may be that you have known him for 50 years but HE is now asking
something of you. An obedient YES will change destinies … yours and countless
others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">In the
days since the diagnosis almost three years ago, Teresa showed tremendous
courage and fight. But it wasn’t in her own strength. Someone would comment
about how well she looked and she would say “It’s Just Jesus”. The nurses would
greet us with how are you feeling and she would reply “I’m good. It’s ALL
Jesus”. As we talked to our doctor about the status of the cancer she would say
“I know I’m a miracle. Jesus is not done with me”. Jesus always got the credit
and I truly believe that her testimony kept her going. Revelation 12:11 says “And
they overcame [the enemy] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their
testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 200%;">If there
is one thing Teresa would want from today, it is that someone hearing these
words would respond with a YES to whatever Jesus is asking of you. YES to
salvation, YES to turning away from sin, YES to serving, YES to going. It’s a
short word, but it defined her life. It was always YES to Jesus. We all should
leave this world with that word on our lips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-27599498471738545092013-06-13T21:14:00.001+02:002013-06-13T21:14:38.104+02:00365<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
I’m pleased to share with you that we are taking a NO CHEMO Summer
Break! Our last scan at the end of May showed the same status as the previous
ones, so there has been little change in the tumor size since we began chemo.
However, Teresa’s tumor marker continues to decline. This month it was down to
75, which is great news. So Teresa will spend the summer not having to battle
the side effects and have time for her body to begin to recover from the
toxicity of the treatments.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Today (June 13) marks the one year mark on this journey of cancer. If
you look at pancreatic cancer survival from the medical perspective, she is a
walking miracle. If you look at it from a spiritual perspective, you fall on
your face and thank Jesus for the gift of life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, it’s been 365 days. What have I learned? Teresa has her own
thoughts and I will encourage her to share them with you soon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>My Jesus is all sufficient.</u></b>
From the first day battling fear and doubt to chemo treatments to dealing with
side effects to hospital stays to demands of living life with this ever-present
demon, I can tell you that HE is all sufficient. HE has sustained us spiritually,
mentally, emotionally, physically, and financially. Have I doubted? YES. Has HE
ever NOT come through? NO!!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>Family is invaluable.</u></b>
We would be wiped out without our immediate and extended family. They never
cease to pray. They never cease to help without prompting. They have picked up
Alfie from school while I was working and Teresa was not well. They have tutored
him and did homework with him. They have helped transport. They have sat with Teresa
during her 5-hour sessions of chemo. They have called and sent texts of encouragement. They have given us money to go to out-of-state doctors for second
opinions. They have loved beyond measure.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>The Church works in crisis.</u></b>
From the first week our church family rallied at our home to pray. They brought
us meals. They checked on us. They always called when Teresa was down the most
and lifted her spirits. They went out of their way, in spite of busy schedules,
and ministered to us and our family. They truly acted out “When I was sick, you
visited me”. There are hundreds, if not thousands, around the world that pray
for us daily. I know because I get texts, emails and messages from them that
tell me so. It’s overwhelming to know that so many intercede for you by name so
often.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>FRIENDS!!!!</u></b> I cannot
say enough about those we count as friends. They let us be real. They allowed us
space to be down without judgment. They provided a safe place to vent without
trying to fix it. They woke up in the middle of the night at the prompting of
the Holy Spirit to pray for us. If we called out for help of any kind they
responded immediately and extravagantly. Simply put, they helped us “bear our
burden”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><u>My Bride.</u></b> Teresa is
the most amazing woman you will ever encounter. Jesus broke the mold after HE
created her. She has the strongest spirit. Even at her worst, she never loses
TRUST. She constantly declares the Goodness of Jesus in the midst of the
sickness and the struggles. Is she ever down? Of course, she is human. But the “Power
that raised Jesus from the dead” lives in her. She is more than a survivor. She
is ALIVE and a CONQUEROR. I tell her often that she is MY HERO. She is so
Brave, Courageous and Heroic. She picks me up much more that I do her. She
makes me a better husband, dad, and follower of Jesus. She is my all. The
testimony that is coming out of her life as she lives out her faith in the face
of cancer is changing lives all over the world. I know her life has changed mine. I long for the day that she can
be cancer free and continue to declare the goodness of God.</div>
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It’s been a long 365 days. I would not wish a similar experience on our
worst enemies. However, HIS plan for our lives will come to fruition despite
the cancer. HIS WORD says that no one can shut a door that HE has opened. I
believe that. I trust that. You should too.<o:p></o:p></div>
Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-86045403346029103572013-03-09T03:01:00.000+02:002013-03-09T03:01:49.931+02:00Baltimore ... Update from Johns Hopkins<br />
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We certainly felt each and every prayer today. We have been in a place of continual peace.</div>
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Everything went fine with the scan and the visit.</div>
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Dr. Zheng had not received a copy of Teresa's last scan so the visit was a bit incomplete but we will take care of that Monday.</div>
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Dr Zheng said that the tumor was slightly smaller than when he first saw her 9 months ago. But he wants to compare this can with the one we had a month ago.</div>
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His opinion was that since we continue to the tumor markers decrease that tells us the chemo is working. He thought was to continue the chemo protocol we have been using but at a reduced dosage and less frequently, three weeks apart instead of two.</div>
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He also said that he will contact the National Association of Health in Bethesda MD that is conducting clinical trials in immunotherapy and see if Teresa is a candidate for that.</div>
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So staying the course looks like the recommendation.</div>
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But as I said this morning, we are going to takes man's wisdom and ask the LORD about it. So pray that we get a clear answer from HIM.</div>
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And aren't you glad HIS ways always trump the natural.</div>
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And by the way, Teresa and I had a date night at <a href="http://www.phillipsseafood.com/" target="_blank">Phillips Seafood Restaurant</a> on the Inner Harbor. Great Food. Better company. If you're ever in downtown Baltimore, we certainly recommend it.</div>
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Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-10303057272800493832013-03-08T17:56:00.001+02:002013-03-08T17:56:09.180+02:00In Baltimore ... Status<br />
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We are in Baltimore MD this morning. No SNOW. Good for travel bad for the view.</div>
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We are having a CT scan at Johns Hopkins Medical Center at 1:30 ET followed by an appoint with Dr. Zheng at 3:30 ET.</div>
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Dr. Zheng is the physician that we saw early in our journey that recommended the chemo protocol that we used for the last 8 months.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
While it was a very harsh treatment and the tumor doesn't appear to be any smaller, Teresa's tumor markers (which measure the activity of the tumor) has been dramatically reduced from 78,000+ to 200+. Positive things.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
We reached a point after completing the last treatment about a month ago that Teresa needed a break from chemo. Our local oncologist agreed that we needed a break. She told Teresa that she had not expected her to be able to do 6 treatments of that protocol. Teresa did 15! Only Jesus.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
So we've been off chemo about 5 weeks. Teresa is certainly feeling better without putting highly toxic poisons in her body. She is still struggling with extreme fatigue and numbness in her hands and feet but that should come back in about 6 months.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">So now we are here asking for man's opinion as to what our next steps should be. We will take that info and take it to the LORD and see if HE agrees.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
<span style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">We are in a good place. We really are. No despair, no depression, little discouragement. Our heart is to see Teresa healed as a testimony to Jesus' goodness, HIS love and HIS power. Rev 12: We overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and the WORD OF OUR TESTIMONY.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
This is a good story. Not a fun story but a good one. It's a story that will draw people to Jesus. We just want a lot of time to tell a lot of people.</div>
Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-79671269259933049762012-11-12T22:29:00.000+02:002012-11-12T22:29:43.204+02:00And so I believe …. (Scan # 2 Version)<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I started this blog I intended to update it often. I
expected to find it therapeutic and for a few days it was. But then the grind
of living life and trying to keep things normal just sapped the desire to write
frequently. So here we are in November a full two months from my last post.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had scan number two today. The results? We have reached a
place of “stabilized disease”. Stable is good, right? It means the tumor has
not grown any but neither has it shrunk. We are “stable”. Our doctor says that sometimes
this is the best that can be achieved with metastatic pancreatic cancer. If I
sound perturbed by that status you would be correct. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have entered that state of faith in which I trust in what
the LORD has told me. I truly heard him say “This is NOT unto death”. When I share
that, I get a few different responses. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Silence. What do you say to someone who has
heard the LORD speak?</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">“Are you sure that is what you heard?”</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">“She is saved. Her soul lives forever with
Jesus.”</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">“She may not be healed in this life.”</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">“I admire your faith.”</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">“I wish I could believe like that.”</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Silence with the look that says “You’re crazy”.</span></li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But what should the response be when someone trusts in the
WORD of the ONE who asks “Is there anything too hard for ME?” <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+18:14&version=NIV" target="_blank">(Genesis18:14)</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My answer is to simply believe. It’s not easy. It’s only because
I know my Jesus that choose to NOT go running, screaming into the night. HE is
the ONE who sacrificed his own life so I could supernaturally be spared my own.
HE is the ONE who has supernaturally provided money when I have had none. HE is
the ONE who supernaturally healed by daughter in ICU when she was 5 months old.
HE is the ONE who supernaturally made a way for us to minister in Africa for 6
years. HE is the ONE who supernaturally led us to a sick, neglected 18-month
old who is now our son. HE is the ONE who supernaturally conquered infertility
to bring us our first granddaughter. HE is the ONE who supernaturally speaks
through me every time I share HIS WORD. HE is the ONE who supernaturally calms
my fears, dispels my anxiety, and soothes my heart.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So why wouldn’t I choose to believe HIM? If I allow the
natural circumstances and “realities” of life to countermand HIS supernatural
nature, what does that say about my faith in HIM? So I say “NO” to those things
that want to mock HIS CHARACTER and say “YES” to HIS WORDS.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Is this journey any fun at all? Not really. Does this
journey have any joy in it? Abundantly. I have the privilege of being able to
testify to HIS NAME and HIS CHARACTER in the face of the whispered lies of the
enemy. I have the privilege of choosing in word and action to stand for HIM as
HE stood for me at Calvary. I have the privilege of allowing HIM to use my life
as a proving ground for HIS NATURE. In that there is much joy accompanied by
many tears. But I wouldn’t trade it for an existence without HIM. And so I
believe. <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+5:36&version=NIV" target="_blank">(Mark 5:36)</a><o:p></o:p></div>
Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-45946470186605910312012-08-24T16:26:00.000+02:002012-08-24T16:26:11.106+02:00Scan Results and the way forwardToday (Friday August 24 2012), Dr Young shared with us the results of the CT Scan that was performed yesterday.<br />
<br />
Teresa's tumor is smaller than the original scan. That is good news, certainly, from our original scan. Dr. Young was very pleased that things were moving in the right direction, especially since we have only had 4 rounds of chemo.<br />
<br />
Teresa is still in Baptist Hospital receiving fluids and trying to get her digestive system back on track. We are to receive a different medication to help that along today and then tomorrow morning we will be discharged.<br />
<br />
Our next round of chemo won't be until the day after Labor Day, which gives Teresa a much needed break. We will continue on the protocol that we have been following with a slight reduction in the dosage of the drug that is the source of our digestive issues.<br />
<br />
Keep praying. This is good news but it is not the best news which is a complete healing from cancer!<br />
<br />
Nothing is too hard for our Jesus and we are trusting simply in what He has told us.<br />
<br />
We are going to celebrate Alfie's baptism on Sunday. It will be a great start to a great week.<br />
<br />
We love you all and thank you for your prayers, your support, your food and your embodiment of the Spirit of Jesus.<br />
<br />Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-91425084536581143102012-08-23T22:04:00.000+02:002012-08-23T22:04:21.120+02:00A Scan and A Hospital Stay<div class="MsoNormal">
I want to give everyone a quick update. Teresa finished her
4<sup>th</sup> round of chemotherapy on Monday August 13, 2012. Our first
follow up CT Scan was scheduled for Friday, August 24.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This past week the severe side effects from the chemo became chronic. Home health care came to the house on Tuesday (the 20<sup>th</sup>)
to administer IV fluids. On Wednesday (the 21<sup>st</sup>), the side effects continued so Teresa was
admitted to Baptist Hospital that morning.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She continues to receive fluids and the staff is working to
get her system back in working order. Since we were already in the hospital,
Teresa had her CT scan today (Thursday the 23<sup>rd</sup>). We anticipate
having the results of that test tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Teresa is resting well and her spirits and her courage
continue to be high, which is extremely normal for her. She is my hero.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will try to post updates here as we get them.<o:p></o:p></div>
Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-79311427595160638002012-08-08T17:16:00.000+02:002012-08-08T17:16:59.920+02:00Mixed Emotions<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Oay72u08x8IhiDZOCyKfbZ31jCIL0jdmGYD6MH-gl2m0hgve2n89mZA0ZHRr6k0iO6Hewvoj7SLbXoGEOvmlYHrgzN2Y8lL6Zj0PN_g_GTJ0Xa5KebEyfpt11DoF42WO-ef-c76OoYE/s1600/484541_4356504032674_1327618645_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Oay72u08x8IhiDZOCyKfbZ31jCIL0jdmGYD6MH-gl2m0hgve2n89mZA0ZHRr6k0iO6Hewvoj7SLbXoGEOvmlYHrgzN2Y8lL6Zj0PN_g_GTJ0Xa5KebEyfpt11DoF42WO-ef-c76OoYE/s320/484541_4356504032674_1327618645_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s been about 3 weeks since I have been able to post a
blog. Sorry about the delay, it’s just been a busy time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Someone described their journey through cancer as one big
roller coaster and I couldn’t agree more. There are up days and down days. You
can attempt to predict them but those are hit and miss as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then there are the days of mixed blessings. This is one of
those days. Today our 8-year old, Alfie, started 2<sup>nd</sup> grade at Madison
Station Elementary. After being home-schooled by Teresa for the last two years,
we are so blessed to have a quality school with a quality teacher to continue
his education. And at the same time, Teresa and I both feel that something special
has been stolen from us. That may seem trivial to some of you but it’s a real
burden for us. We trust that Jesus will protect him and that he will learn the
right things, the good things. And I pray that the LORD will grant us peace as
we release him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As far as her treatments, overall, Teresa seems to be
tolerating them. We have had one really lousy week but most of the others have
been manageable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pain seems to be under control for the most part and
that is a blessing, although she experiences 4 days of bone pain from an
injection that helps boost her white cell production.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We will have one more treatment before we have an updated
scan. I will try to keep you posted.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thanks for following us. I know you take time out of your
day to read these. I don’t have much in the way of a spiritual challenge or
application, but some days you are just living out life with Him at your side.
Some days that has to be enough.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-37790489424247479142012-07-16T21:09:00.000+02:002012-07-16T21:09:01.106+02:00Prayers of the many<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;">We started our 2</span><sup style="background-color: white;">nd</sup><span style="background-color: white;"> round of chemo today. The LORD
came through again (we are not surprised, are we?) when we found out that all
of Teresa’s blood counts were completely NORMAL! Dr. Young was really pleased
with how Teresa responded to the first round. They have adjusted her pain
medication so we can even out the spikes of pain and relief. So please pray for
this to be effective.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I continue to marvel at how the LORD continues to remind us
that “He has been mindful of us” (Psalm 115:12). Just this morning, a long-time
client of mine in another state emailed me and said that the LORD had awakened
him this morning with Teresa on his mind. He knelt before the LORD and prayed
for us. Then at breakfast, he wrote our names on a chalkboard in the restaurant
to ask others to pray!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know I have said it before, but we have so many people
taking us before the LORD and interceding for his mercy, grace and healing. We
have felt every prayer offered to Abba. I know they have been offered in
humility, and I believe they move the Heart of God. We cannot thank you enough
for your perseverance. The journey will continue. It will probably be long and
there will be times it will be difficult. But the prayers of His saints will
sustain us and ultimately His Name will be glorified.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We value each and every one of you. You have been moved to pray
at all hours of the day and night, in all the time zones of the earth. We
cannot thank you enough.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But selfishly, …. KEEP IT UP!<o:p></o:p></div>Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-11570581358035309432012-07-06T21:57:00.001+02:002012-07-06T21:57:24.322+02:00Chemo + 4 Days Update<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have to start by giving thanks and praise to Jesus. We are
now 4 full days beyond our first chemo treatment and the side effects have been
manageable. Teresa has been extremely fatigued and she has had pretty intense
body aches, but the other promised side effects have failed to materialize. I believe
that this is nothing short of the LORD’s supernatural (His “normal”) response
to all of your prayers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While Teresa’s appetite hasn’t been great, she is good about
eating. Last night, she ate the best I’ve seen her eat since we got the
diagnosis three weeks ago.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve had a great response to the last blog asking for four
people to intently pray for breakthrough for Teresa’s healing. I don’t think we
necessarily have to take the idea literally and have only four. If you are
feeling called, don’t hesitate to let me know. I’m reminded of Jonathan’s
admonition to his armor bearer in I Samuel 14:6. “Perhaps the Lord will help
us, for nothing can hinder the Lord. He can win a battle whether he has many
warriors or only a few!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I expect Teresa to become stronger over the next week. Our
next treatment is July 16. You can begin to pray for continued protection of
her body as we go for the second round. As I was praying for her the other
night, I felt as though I heard the Holy Spirit tell me that He was putting a
cocoon around her. That is a comforting image for me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We continue the journey. There is nothing easy about it, so
pray that we will remain strong and faithful.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love you all.<o:p></o:p></div>Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-69025125088113948422012-07-04T15:50:00.000+02:002012-07-04T15:50:51.922+02:00Four friends and Breakthrough<style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Cancer affects your prayer life. Either you begin to pray or
you begin to pray without ceasing. I’ve landed on the latter.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over the last few days, I felt the Holy Spirit impress upon
me to meditate on the passage in Mark 2 where four friends brought their
crippled friend to Jesus. Many of you remember the story. Jesus was teaching in
a home and the friends couldn’t get near Jesus. So they went to the roof, cut a
hole, and lowered his bed to Jesus. The Master healed the man, after first
declaring his sins forgiven.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I went back and read it again this morning. Here is what
struck me (emphasis and highlights are mine) in verses 4 and 5.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>"And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd,
they uncovered the roof where He was. So <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">when
they had broken through</b>, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was
lying. When <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Jesus saw their faith</b>,
He said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven you.’"</i> </div>
</blockquote>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Breakthrough</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These friends had to labor to get the sick one to Jesus. I
know that Jesus is sovereign over sickness and disease. He speaks and illness
bows, dissolves and disappears. In that, I have no doubt. But many times, I
believe that He desires to use those of us around the sick to seek
breakthrough. In my experience, this is never an easy task. It requires labor
and sacrifice, usually in significant ways. The four friends had to work to
carry their friend. He couldn’t walk. He was dead weight.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When they couldn’t get near Jesus, they had to labor to get
him to the roof. Maybe there were stairs. Maybe there was a ladder. But maybe
not. They were undeterred and somehow lifted the man and his palette onto the
roof.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They had to cut through the roof of the home. They ignored
the possible damage because they were so desperate to get this man to Jesus.
I’m sure they didn’t bring tools to do the work. I suspect they worked until
their hands were sore, cut and bloody to make the hole.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With their remaining strength, they lowered their friend to
the feet of His Only Hope.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the end, they had a breakthrough and the result was the
restoration of their friend’s body and his life (both physical and eternal).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Their Faith</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was the collective faith of the four friends and the one
needing healing that moved the heart of Jesus. The faith didn’t begin at the
point they lowered him down. It began in days of intercession for their friend.
Their faith was birthed in Heaven-inspired love for one who meant so much to
them that they would sacrifice whatever it took to see him whole.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The actions of the day were the outward demonstration of a
faith that was growing by leaps and bounds through interaction with The Father.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jesus’ words of healing were in direct response to the faith
that He would heal if these four friends could get the afflicted one to the
feet of the Son of God.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Calling for Four Friends</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am moved by this passage to ask if there are four friends
out there who would specifically ban together and seek breakthrough for
Teresa’s cancer. I believe this is a prophetic word for four individuals to collectively
intercede and stretch your faith as you implore Jesus for healing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t believe in formulas for anything in the Kingdom. God
is too creative and too big for that. But I do believe, there are times that He
moves us to act as those before us have acted. Just acting like the four
friends will not move the Heart of God. But true labor for breakthrough and
true faith are things He will not ignore.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is not a frivolous request and your response should not
be given without asking the LORD. But if this is you, you can email me at <a href="mailto:Stephen.kinsley@gmail.com">stephen.kinsley@gmail.com</a> and I
will put you in touch with the others. I will be praying between 5 and 6 each morning with you and for you and Teresa.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you are not one of the four, this doesn’t mean that your
prayers and faith are any less worthy. This is a particular assignment for a
few. Your prayers have brought so much comfort and protection as well as
miraculous open doors. Don’t stop! A prayer movement is re-emerging as each
person enters His Presence.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love you all, but not as much as Jesus does.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Steve</div>Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-7059423797073021532012-07-04T15:04:00.000+02:002012-07-04T15:04:08.418+02:00Update from First Chemo Treatment<style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
We are in day three of our first round of chemo. Teresa
received two infusions on Monday lasting about 5 hours, and then was fitted
with a pump to infuse the third drug over a forty-six hour period. It’s due to
be finished this afternoon (July 4). </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Teresa did great on Monday. We had a private room at the
oncologist’s office. I have to tell you truthfully that the Peace that passes
all understanding took up residence in that place. We played praise music on
the IPad and thanked the Father for his mercies. Teresa was relaxed and rested
the entire time. She even ate a part of chicken salad sandwich in the middle of
it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dr Young did increase the dosage of the pain medicine and
that has certainly reduced the amount of pain Teresa has had to deal with. That
helps in so many ways … mentally, emotionally and spiritually.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We were warned about a multitude of side effects including
nausea, diarrhea, mouth sores, cold sensitivity, neuropathy (tingling in the
extremities), sleeplessness and fatigue, and a suppressed immune system. The
list was pretty overwhelming and we immediately began to pray for supernatural
protection from these.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Monday night’s sleep was fitful and Tuesday she has had some
queasiness, but as of Wednesday morning she has not experienced any major side
effects. The LORD is so good and HIS mercies are new every morning.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We were told to expect the worst days to be day 3 – 5, today
through Friday, so please continue to join us in prayer for protection from the
side effects as these chemicals do their work to shrink the tumor.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Teresa hopes that she feels well enough to blog soon, so
stay tuned.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keep praying. We value your prayers and your love.</div>Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-75084186488982537602012-07-02T18:32:00.002+02:002012-07-02T18:32:13.679+02:00Chemo has begunWe have begun chemotherapy this morning (Monday). We will be here for about 4 -5 hours, then we will be home.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We don't expect side effects until Wednesday but we are praying for the best outcome there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Dr Zheng at Johns Hopkins and Dr Young here were in agreement about the treatment, so our prayers of unity of wisdom were answered!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'll post and update later tonight after we are home and settled.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-40264952699247390292012-06-30T03:29:00.000+02:002012-06-30T03:29:08.459+02:00Report from Baltimore<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We’ve had a mixed bag today. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the good side, our appointment with Dr. Zheng went very
well. He outlined three different chemo regimens that their research has found
was much more effective than the treatment we thought we were going to receive.
A significantly higher number of patients respond to these methods than the
single chemo drug. Moreover, he was encouraged because of Teresa’s good health
(other than the cancer). These treatments will have more side effects but the
upside certainly outweighs those. Dr. Zheng planned to call Dr. Young in MS to
discuss the options and we anticipate that will begin chemo at the first of the
week. All treatments will be in MS.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the downside, Teresa has had a great deal of pain today.
Dr. Zheng encouraged her to discuss a different, stronger pain medication with
Dr. Young. Getting the pain under control will do so much for her in so many
ways physically, mentally and emotionally.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On top of all of this, Teresa’s father went to the emergency
room last night and has been admitted with an intestinal blockage. CT scan was
clear so they are not sure what is causing it. So please pray for Mr. George.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We will be returning home Saturday afternoon. We are looking
forward to hugging Alfie and sleeping in our own bed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We value and covet your continued prayers. They are what
sustain us and also what move the Heart of the Father. Your faithfulness is being
rewarded.</div>Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-88461678997332378732012-06-28T22:35:00.000+02:002012-06-28T22:36:28.011+02:00In Baltimore<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We’ve arrived in Baltimore MD and are resting in the hotel
after an uneventful flight. We will be meeting with Dr Lei Zheng tomorrow at 11
AM ET. He is one of the leading researchers at Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research
Center at Johns Hopkins Medical Center. Only the LORD could orchestrate an
appointment like this so quickly and we are so thankful for our friend Peggy
Howard who was the impetus for this. Our son Chris is flying up tonight to meet
us and provide a much needed additional set of eyes and ears to all that we’ll
see and hear.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have no idea what tomorrow holds. So here are some
specific prayer requests:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-indent: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -0.25in;">That Teresa will rest well tonight</span></li>
<li style="text-indent: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -0.25in;">That any anxiety or worry will be taken away</span></li>
<li style="text-indent: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -0.25in;">That Dr Zheng and his staff will have wisdom</span></li>
<li style="text-indent: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -0.25in;">That Teresa, Chris and I will have wisdom and
peace for any decisions that we have to make</span></li>
<li style="text-indent: 0px;"><span style="background-color: white; text-indent: -0.25in;">That Jesus will be glorified through our thoughts,
words, actions and attitudes</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;">That’s it for now. Keep praying. The nation of Israel has
now represented in our prayer covering.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-11877858911770979322012-06-26T04:57:00.003+02:002012-06-26T04:57:46.039+02:00Prayers Around the WorldAs part of our battle against the plans of our enemy, we have contacted many friends who have been mobilizing prayer around the world. We've received news of prayers in South Africa, Swaziland, and Mozambique in Africa, Peru, Brazil and Honduras in South America, Spain in Europe and Cambodia in Asia.<br />
<br />
And of course so many people in North America have been emailing and texting us, sending us messages on Facebook, tweeting us and commenting on this blog.<br />
<br />
The prayers are deeply felt in our spirits and we draw physical, emotional and spiritual strength from all of them.<br />
<br />
And God Himself is mobilizing prayer in some unexpected places. A couple that served with us in Africa now live in Atlanta and her father is part of a prison ministry at Angola Penitentiary in Louisiana. I received this text message yesterday.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<em>"Mary's Dad was at Angola Prison today visiting friends there. He has all of the believing prayer warriors on death row praying for Teresa. Those guys pray with fire!"</em></blockquote>
Wow! Wow! The Body of Christ in full force! You cannot help but be excited about what the LORD is willing to do when His Bride sets its collective heart on Him!<br />
<br />
So Keep Praying!Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-68358437795089077382012-06-23T17:40:00.001+02:002012-06-23T17:40:49.162+02:00First Visit with OncologistWe spent Friday morning steeling our minds and our hearts for our first visit with the oncologist. After visits with our surgeon, terms like "bad diagnosis" and "worst case scenario" had framed our thinking. But as we entered the offices, a peace swept over us.<br />
<br />
We loved our doctor. She was matter-of-fact but not negative. She described Teresa's disease and said it was not curable. She did tell us that the chemo protocol for this type of tumor was universal and typically the disease did respond to treatment. At some point, the tumor would become resistant to the chemo and we would then have to switch protocols. That's the report in the "natural". However, in the Kingdom of God, the Word of the LORD is the only one that counts. Read Psalm 41:1-3. That's my God.<br />
<br />
Our doctor also encouraged us to pursue our appointment at Johns Hopkins on Friday June 29. She was more than happy to work with the research physicians there. That was more encouragement. So we'll take that appointment and then begin chemo treatments on Monday July 2. We will have 1 treatment a week for three weeks and then have a week off. We will have 9 treatments total then we will do another scan and evaluate where we are.<br />
<br />
We are also working different things for pain management. We'll keep you posted on that progress. The doctor said there was really no reason Teresa had to deal with any severe pain. They could manage it.<br />
<br />
So specific prayer requests:<br />
1. That we will qualify for an advanced clinical trial at Johns Hopkins.<br />
2. That the pain medications will have the desired effect while allowing her to live normally<br />
3. That Teresa's body functions will regain balance<br />
4. Of course, that Jehovah Rapha will heal her completely of cancer<br />
5. That HIS NAME will be made famous in the lives of everyone we meet<br />
<br />
We love you all. The Body of Christ is fighting this together and I'm so excited to see what work HE brings in all of our lives as we walk this out.<br />
<br />
Your prayers are our best medicine, so keep them up.<br />
<br />
We love you all.<br />
<br />
Steve<br />
<br />
"We are pressed but crushed, persecuted not abandoned. Struck down but not destroyed. We are blessed beyond the curse for HIS PROMISES endure and HIS JOY is going to be my strength. Though sorrows may last for the night HIS JOY comes in the morning."Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7674663759951013340.post-26152712500772427182012-06-21T23:11:00.002+02:002012-06-21T23:11:47.181+02:00Praises and PrayerWe have a huge praise today. Because God never wastes any relationships, a friend of my mother has managed to cut through the red tape and get us an appointment at <a href="http://pathology.jhu.edu/pc/" target="_blank">Johns Hopkins Pancreatic Cancer Research Center</a> in Baltimore MD. We will be meeting with <span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">Dr. Lei Zheng, </span><span style="background-color: white;">the physician who is one of the leading researchers.</span><br />
<br />
Another praise is that Alfie will be home from Birmingham tonight. The house has simply been way too quiet with him gone. We love our little man so, so much and cannot wait to hold him. He brings such joy to our lives.<br />
<br />
Also, please pray for us as we have our initial visit with Dr. Tammy Young, our oncologist tomorrow. We really want to begin chemo by Monday so Teresa can be a few days beyond it when we travel to Baltimore.<br />
<br />
We feel all of the prayers. They are our best medicine. Trust the LORD with us and for us. He is a good God. He gives perfect Love. We will be victorious in Him.<br />
<br />
<br />Mission Sebenzelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01805259466826382565noreply@blogger.com8