An Anchor in Glory

Good Evening Dear Friends,
Isn’t the rain a blessing?! While many farmers (including ourselves) are eager for the ground to dry so we can continue planting we are grateful for His faithful watering of the earth! As Acts 14:17 says, “Yet He has not left Himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” I haven’t written an update for some time and I suppose that in itself is good news as God continues to make new and heal and provide opportunities to once again do work in the areas He has called us to minister in. On Sunday, with many of you, we remembered the resurrection of our Savior and its tremendous all-encompassing implications on our lives as Christ followers. We were discussing the providence of God with good friends and someone said, “What if we could see suffering as a trial from God for the purpose of sanctification rather than an onerous, terrifying circumstance over which God (who is good and thus could “never have anything to do with pain”) has no control?” Cancer is sometimes seen in the latter light and yet as Mama said a few moments later, “It is a gift...” A mark of His special providence for His glory and for our good that we might be drawn closer to His likeness. Remembering Jesus’ word’s to Pilate, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above.” (Jn 19:11)
I wrote in the last update, Mama has a mild case of lymphedema. The wraps and gloves are definitely helpful and hopefully will work to prevent any further symptoms if the Lord wills. Her radiation burn (or as we were emphatically reminded...it is not a burn but rather a skin reaction) was healing speedily until four days ago when it began to show signs of infection. She will see her doctor tomorrow and will receive an antibiotic and we pray conclusive advice in treating it. Mama’s hair has grown out short and curly so she is starting to go about all the time without her wig or a hat on which is immensely exciting for us and an answer to prayer! Charlie’s surgery for his broken wrist is scheduled sometime on Friday morning; we won’t know the time for sure till Thursday evening. We continue in prayer for Mama’s mother, Laurie Rees, who is undergoing surgery tomorrow. She is a wonderful example of patience in suffering. Many blessings on your week!
With Love,
The Lenz’s

“Praise is awaiting You, O God, in Zion;... You visit the earth and water it, You greatly enrich it; The river of God is full of water; You provide their grain, For so You have prepared it. You water its ridges abundantly, You settle its furrows; You make it soft with showers, You bless its growth.” ~ Psalm 65:9-10