Here in Ontario it is common to have a week of summer-like weather in the fall which we call Indian Summer. I think that this week is it. I still enjoy times in the back yard soaking up some sun. God is so good to me.
My jaw muscles are weakening so that it is difficult to open my mouth for eating and tooth brushing. Another peg in my tent is being pulled out.
God is my Creator, Sustainer, Provider, and only does what is good for me. He is my hope and expectation.
Jack
September 25, 2013
September 19, 2013
Condition Update - September
ALS is a progressive disease that slowly, but surely kills off all of the nerves controlling the muscles of the body. At the present time, it has basically left me paralyzed below the neck. My neck muscles are now getting weaker making it difficult to hold up my head and to operate my computer. I control the cursor with a piece of reflective tape on the bridge of my glasses. Imagine the scenario: a wobbly head chasing a cursor across a keyboard.
It is for this reason why I will no longer be able to write many more blog posts. Hopefully other members of the family will take over.
Best Regards
Jack
It is for this reason why I will no longer be able to write many more blog posts. Hopefully other members of the family will take over.
Best Regards
Jack
September 11, 2013
Why I Love the Psalms
The book of Psalms has been my favourite book of the Bible and most helpful to me throughout my ALS journey. I have read the Psalms three or four times a year for the last three years. I keep going back because I find that it describes my heart so closely and prescribes helpful solutions for my struggles.
Psalms written by David when pursued by Saul, Asaph when questioning God's ways, pilgrim Psalms or Psalms of Ascent (Psalm 120 - 134), or even a Psalm penned by Moses (Psalm 90), all follow a similar pattern. The cycle is one of seeking, crying, hungering, thirsting after God, followed by a confession of sin or admission guilt, ending with a hope, trust, deliverance or beam of light (except for Psalm 88). The Psalms are experiential, that is, they agree with the experiences of God's people, especially those who are afflicted.
When I was growing up, we learned many of the metrical versions of the Psalms found in the Presbyterian Psalter. Looking back, I am thankful for this, because now I am benefiting from it. It helps me in my prayers and meditations. "Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee." (Psalm 119)
The Psalms are God's own words meant for singing in worship. Words that are put to music are much easier to memorize. Proof of this is in the advertising business use of songs in most commercials. When you hear an ad three or four times, it sticks in your mind for a long time.
So my advice is, get busy reading and singing the Psalms and expect a blessing.
Jack
Psalms written by David when pursued by Saul, Asaph when questioning God's ways, pilgrim Psalms or Psalms of Ascent (Psalm 120 - 134), or even a Psalm penned by Moses (Psalm 90), all follow a similar pattern. The cycle is one of seeking, crying, hungering, thirsting after God, followed by a confession of sin or admission guilt, ending with a hope, trust, deliverance or beam of light (except for Psalm 88). The Psalms are experiential, that is, they agree with the experiences of God's people, especially those who are afflicted.
When I was growing up, we learned many of the metrical versions of the Psalms found in the Presbyterian Psalter. Looking back, I am thankful for this, because now I am benefiting from it. It helps me in my prayers and meditations. "Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee." (Psalm 119)
The Psalms are God's own words meant for singing in worship. Words that are put to music are much easier to memorize. Proof of this is in the advertising business use of songs in most commercials. When you hear an ad three or four times, it sticks in your mind for a long time.
So my advice is, get busy reading and singing the Psalms and expect a blessing.
Jack
September 3, 2013
Electric Wheelchair For Free
I have a powered wheelchair that I no longer am able to make use of. It is controlled by means of a joystick, with three speeds, and a power seat (up and down). It is a Quantum 3000 (make), and is in good shape. Includes manuals and two chargers. Someone generously donated it to me, and now we would like to give it to somebody who could really use one. Please email us at jlwesterink@sympatico.ca
Jack
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