An Encouraging Word

Recently a dear brother in the Lord sent me an email with an encouraging message and a reference to read Psalm 73:23 - 26. When I read that, it struck me that already in verse 1 it referred to those who are " pure in heart ". Well, I felt convicted already, because I am not pure in my heart. When you read on, then there is a list of sad and disappointing attitudes of those who should be trusting and believing. But thanks be to God, He does not leave us to ourselves. In His mercy, verse 23 begins with the gracious word "nevertheless ". In other words, God Who knows our sins, is still willing to have dealings with us. Then He gives a precious promise that we can hold on to, and receive comfort from.

The promise is "Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand." We, like sheep, will go astray, and wander away from Him, because of our natural inclination to be attracted to sin. But God promises to hold His people by their right hand. This is nothing else but 'amazing grace '.

I am writing this short blog post to you on my new DynaVox computer. It allows me to type using a mouse controlled by a piece of reflective tape on the bridge of my glasses. It is slow and tedious, but it gives me the freedom to communicate in various ways. It can speak out the sentences I write, and I can also email them. There is also a place where I can control my Bose sound system and iPod. This computer costs about $13,000 to purchase, but we signed for a monthly leasing plan which is fairly reasonable.

In a week or so, I will be getting a new seat for my electric wheelchair that has a seat tilting and leg raising function on it. There are many new things for me to get used to and accept and I must admit that it is sometimes difficult to process emotionally. My ability to walk with a walker and talk is pretty much gone now, and that is a tough loss for me. But I know that one day I will again be able to walk, talk, and even sing. I look forward to that day, but meanwhile I must endure and wait for God's time. He knows what is best for me, even when I think I know better. I pray for a submissive heart, and that I may be able to finish well and not dishonour His holy name.

Jack Westerink

Here is a family picture (minus our oldest grand daughter) taken on Good Friday.