Three months ago, we reported that we were well in the Spirit but were having a bit of a setback physically. The news we received was a lot to absorb all at one time, BUT God was so faithful and so present to us through this time. You prayed – God answered. We have many answered prayers to report.
Answer #1. Anne underwent a double mastectomy on February 14, which was completely successful. The outlook for cancer-free living for the rest of her life is excellent.
Answer #2. Our son, Jason, completed immunotherapy prior to having surgery on March 12 to remove a malignant tumor in his colon. He has since been pronounced cancer-free.
Answer #3. Our daughter, Amy, had help taking care of us both for a couple weeks when Anne’s sister flew down from northern Virginia to assist in our care.
Answer #4. The above caption, “…surrounded and battered, but not demoralized…thrown down, but not broken,”describes my journey up to this point. I was able to quit wearing my sling two months ago but I’m still undergoing physical therapy to rehabilitate my surgically repaired shoulder. Most days the pain is constant and intense. However, I do detect a slight but definite and favorable turn for the better.
I just had a follow up visit with my surgeon this morning. He told me that I was not quite halfway through the recovery phase. He stressed that I needed to be patient because the recovery is slow. Then he ordered six more weeks of physical therapy, with more likely to come. The result is I will not be able to travel to Guam and Micronesia for the rest of the year. And because of the constant pain, it’s also been difficult for me to work at my laptop and properly coordinate all the activity and communication needed with key church leaders, disciples, and other Liebenzell missionaries in Micronesia and the Pacific Rim.
Answer #5. God has graciously called a veteran missionary out of retirement to travel to Micronesia for me this year and with me next year. Bill Schuit has spent numerous years in Micronesia and knows the islands well. I am extremely grateful for Bill’s assistance for the next couple of years. He is a true and valued friend and brother in the Lord.
Meanwhile, Anne and I have still been able to continue the online Zoom training we do with stateside Micronesians every Saturday. Keep praying for that too.
We remain humbled to “carry this precious Message” with the support of such a faithful team. We thank God for you and your prayers, support, love, and concern.
In the Name of Jesus Christ, the Master,
Steve and Anne
2003 Crestview Dr.
Columbia, TN 38401 |
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