Date March 21, 1999

The four letter word "wait" is a very significant word in the Bible. It has taken on deeper meaning for me personally. In the past  weeks which led up to my experience with cancer surgery, and the following weeks of convalescence, I have been "a patient in waiting." 

For me, waiting has meant trusting the promises of God.  It has meant complete trust that God in Christ "makes all things work together for good."

Jeremiah said (Lam. 3:25)

     The Lord is Good to them that wait!

The Psalmist said (Psalm 27:14)

Wait On The Lord; Be Of Good Courage,
And He Shall Strengthen Thine heart;
Wait , I Say, On The Lord.

My ten inches of incision is healing.  My severed rib is healing.  My single kidney is effectively doing double duty.  My traumatized flank muscle is gradually moving towards normalcy.  Energy and strength are slowing returning to my body.  I can almost get in and out of the bed on my own.   The warm days have given me a chance to "walk my neighborhood."  My nutritionist has stirred my appetite.  My nurses have challenged increased activity.   This Tuesday I will meet my surgeon for evaluation.  In the midst of affliction I am blessed! God is so good!

In one of his periods of struggle Job said (Job 14:14),
All the days of my appointed time will I wait."

David said (Psalm 37:7),
Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him.

The purple and gold crocuses are in bloom in my garden.  The tulips and daffodils are beginning to push themselves up out of the cold,damp earth of winter.  They also know how to wait (smile).

I continue to be spiritually lifted by your cards, notes, and prayers.  You have blessed me in "waiting period."   May God bless each each of you in a very way.

Gratefully in Christ,

Michael E. Haynes