Friday, July 23rd Update from Joni:

Friday, July 23rd Update from Joni:

I could hear you rejoicing with me at the great news we received yesterday that my scans show no indication of metastacized cancer — praise the Lord for His protection! I will still have to undergo treatment, but the good news on those scans certainly has strengthened my heart — it reminds me of II Chronicles 16:9, “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” Oh, that I might be fully committed to our Savior… a strong heart is a definite “must have” for the next phase of the battle!

Something else that’s strengthened my heart are the many “Happy Grams” I’ve been receiving from families all over the country who are attending our Joni and Friends’ Family Retreats. That these moms and dads of disabled children who face overwhelming challenges everyday should pause at Retreat to write encouragements to me, well… it’s nothing short of inspirational. If they, by the grace of God, can do it, so can I! (Our JAF Family Retreats are awesome! Want to serve as a ‘volunteer?’ Visit our Family Retreat page and check out those Retreats still in need of help).

Another heart-strengthening thing is passing on all the insights God is teaching me to others who are struggling with illnesses. I’ll have a chance to do that today, Friday the 23rd, on Chris Fabry Live which airs on the Moody Radio Network — the interview will be broadcast at 2:10 pm central time. If you know someone who is dealing with cancer or have a friend in need of a bright perspective on hardships, encourage them to call in — the live program takes callers nationwide.

Monday the 26th is another hospital appointment, so thank you for remembering me in your prayers. May God keep your heart strong… have a great weekend!

–Joni Eareckson Tada