My daughter who is now in her forties has battled allergies since childhood. Many years ago she and her family moved to Colorado with its crisp mountain air and clear blue skies. But a few years later she was offered a position with a firm located in southern California. It was an exceptional offer with a handsome pay increase together with a fistful of lucrative perks. It was hard to reject and made this father overflow with pride and love.
Soon after they moved her allergies came back with a vengeance. Recently the doctor arranged for a series of tests and found her to be highly allergic to oak trees. No big deal, right? Well they bought a home in Oak Park and she works in Thousand Oaks. Now that’s a very big deal. The allergist said he could control the problem with medications. We will find out more next season.
Her son, my grandson, not only has allergies but asthma. One year we were asked to spend a few days with him as his Dad had earned a corporate trip to a famous Rocky Mountain ski resort. We arrived a day early so his Mom could explain the notebook she made showing how to care for her little one.
A few days later I heard some unusual sounds coming from his bedroom. When I checked he was kneeling on the floor gasping for breath. I had been taught to use the inhaler and the breath-a-lizer and in a few minutes his breathing was back to normal. What a scary moment for a three year old and his grandpa.
The experience reminded me of a passage from the book of Daniel,
“How can I, your servant talk to you, my lord? My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe.” Daniel 10:17
There is nothing more horrifying than struggling for air. As a congestive heart patient I am beginning to see the signs. I now use two pillows to sleep, I am winded after climbing a flight of stairs and my daily crisp walk around the neighborhood has been reduced to a couple of days a week at a much slower pace. Someday I’ll be carrying the necessary oxygen tank.
Until then, I will continue to introduce people to Jesus through my writing or by the spoken word. It is a message I long neglected but by His mercy and forgiveness I am now a witness for His love, compassion and healing.
Read with understanding Lamentations 3:32-33
Manna and Coffee 