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A Full Heart

The FIRST thing Isaac said when Levi and Samantha went to see him in the hospital was, 'we need a family picture!' Since he has a strong aversion to group photos, I was shocked and found it hilarious.  I can't believe I failed to take one! This morning as we typically piled on the couch, he said it again.  So, with a full heart, I share this image. 




Your support has bolstered my full heart.  Thank you for the prayers, the hugs (even virtual ones) and for sharing your own trials.  To those who were spurred to sign up for CPR training or swim classes for your kiddos, you've provided a greater purpose for me sharing this story so publicly. 

The drama of it all is over. Isaac's follow up appointment was fantastic. One would never know he was in intensive care (besides the ankle bracelet he refuses to take off since it 'keeps boo boos away'). 

I echo the repeated sentiments "God had his hand on Isaac", "God is good" and "praise the Lord", and I am reminded that these statements are true no matter the outcome of this story. 

God is good, and I don't say that lightly or without evidence. He is good not because Isaac is restored, but because that is His very nature and character; and despite the conversations we have endured of how drowning is preventable, this did not happen out of God's control.  No event does.  

It is no coincidence that the morning of the accident I was engrossed in the book, The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom.  I was drawn in by the story itself, yet it was the Ten Boom family's steadfast faith through multiple horrific events that left me in awe.  Corrie's real life accounts are disturbing, yet her heart was full of the truth and that sustained her. The truth revealed through the Bible that God is in control, He is good and His mercies are new every morning. 

My trial pales in comparison with what Corrie Ten Boom faced and what many people are facing today.  It is easy to see God's goodness and mercy in Isaac's recovery, but I pray as I learn more from His word and fill my heart with truth, I will have eyes to see His goodness and mercy in EVERY circumstance- especially when outcomes don't turn out as I long for them to.

So, although this image of our family is not the picture perfect shot, I'm so glad I took advantage of the moment this time.  It will serve as a reminder to keep a full heart.  One that trusts God is in control, He is good and He generously gives mercy in every circumstance
- it just may not come in the form I am looking for it.

This God- his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. Psalm 18:30

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