"Staying by the stuff"

It certainly isn't coincidence that I borrowed a book from Beth, and read this passage just last week, and am now having to act on it's advice.

"But why was this frustration of sickness allowed?  One cannot always discern the reason for these things, but two are plain to us: (1) We learned that when one member of the party was thrusting out into Satan's territory, it was also necessary to put a prayer guard over those who stayed at home.  We were all praying for John and his party as they pressed into the demon-plagues territory of Goomoo.  Those prayers cleared the party's way (they were much blessed there) so Satan, in furious spite, struck at the unprotected home base.  Both those who go down to battle and those who stay by the stuff need prayer-coverage.  We have never forgotten this lesson." -Isobel Kuhn, In the Arena

Josh is heading out on the Sr High Retreat tomorrow with Heritage students, and we're praying that this would be a rich time in the Spirit for each student and staff member.  But we are very aware of our own need for prayer-coverage as well.  Caleb has had a fever for 5 days, and it has broken, but he is still coughing and sniffling.  And Seth's nose has been running, but now his own fever has begun.  So I'll be home alone with two sick boys until Saturday evening.  Will you pray?  Pray for Josh and the retreat- but also pray for us.  We are so grateful.

And though these days will be trying, I am excited to see how Jesus will meet us.  Nothing like trials to push us deeper into His heart.  And for that I am grateful.