Time goes by so quickly. It is hard for me to believe that “fourteen years ago today” I went in for surgery to have a tumor the size of a peach removed from the left side of my throat. It had been growing for a few years, and eventually it became difficult to swallow. Looking back I remember witnessing God’s hand through the entire adventure because when it first developed I didn’t have insurance, much less the money for the deductible payment to have it taken care of. Because of this specific event I came to trust God on a completely different level because of His providence and provision. On my mission trip, I was able to minister to many along the way and still am because of all that happened. When I first met the surgeon, it was quickly made evident that he was a man of faith and for that I have been blessed because he became more than my doctor, he became my friend, and more importantly an encouraging brother in Christ. On our first meeting I was blessed in ways that are uncommon and I believed he gained for himself treasures in heaven. During our initial time together he shared with me that he was mourning the loss of his father and by the time of my surgery two years later, I was mourning the loss of mine. Those moments of shared grief reminded me that none of us walks through difficult seasons alone, and that God can bring people together across circumstances, backgrounds, and experiences. I have learned that our struggles do not make us less worthy of being used by God; instead, they can become places where His compassion and grace are made visible to the world around us. And sometimes the very people God places in our path are there not only to help us, but also to remind us that we belong to a much larger family of faith. The day of the operation while I was on the operating table I was able to pray with the entire surgical staff prior to them putting me to sleep. Right before they put me out, the radio was playing, “I Can Only Imagine”, and I had peace, trusting that I was going to be alright however the surgery turned out. The reason I say this is that there was an artery that needed to be cut because of it being intertwined in the tumor and for me, I had some concerns. There are many verses that encourage me to continue on in the midst of whatever the current trials and tribulations are that I seem to face on a consistent basis. One of my favorites is written in *Romans 8:28 And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.* I believe without a doubt that our God has a plan and purpose for each of us and all that we endure. I have come to understand that when being used by God we need to take our eyes off of ourselves and our problems, and set our eyes on Him, the problem solver, and praise and glorify Him. I have come to see that when the Divine is involved in our lives, there is no problem or situation that our human weakness and frailties are not overseen by our Sovereign God. One thing that I can say for sure, it wasn’t pleasant but it was definitely worth the journey. I like what Charles Spurgeon said, “If God has fit you to be a missionary, I would not have you shrivel down to be a king.” And on that note, please be praying for me as I have other missionary events coming up in one way or another for a variety of reasons. I am often reminded that even when I do not know what lies ahead, God is already there. I do not want fear or uncertainty to keep me from seeing the opportunities He places before me, and I want to remain available to serve Him wherever He leads. We must be aware that there are people around us who are hurting, searching, and needing hope, and we cannot assume that tomorrow will always give us another opportunity to reach them. So I am asking you to pray with me now, but not only for me but for all those who read these words that God would give us courage, wisdom, and urgency to continue the work He has entrusted to each of us. I don’t know what this next season will bring, but I trust that He will give me the ability and opportunity to glorify Him in all that I do. In Jesus’ precious and powerful name, Amen.

My BeLoved, may the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. In Christ Love, douglas. HE>i. pastord.blog

Special Note: I want to thank those who read what I write and are encouraged to support the ministry God has entrusted to me either one time or have decided to give on a monthly basis. I am encouraged to see certain verses playing out before my eyes like what is written in *Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.*

To any who are interested, please feel free to reach out to me with prayer requests, questions, encouragement, or for information on how to come alongside me with financial support at pastord.blog@gmail.com or I do have a Zelle account associated with my phone number, 5202720387 last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.