Thursday, August 14, 2008

It's no coincidence


I love Mark Schultz. And I specifically love his song He's My Son. Honestly, I've known several girlfriends who told me that Bob Carlisle's Butterfly Kisses made them cry. And okay, yes. That song chokes me up if I dwell on the lyrics for more than a moment (and yes, dh used to think it was a silly "gravy train" song as he calls it. That is, until he had a daughter. Now it makes him swallow lumps with the best of them, lol).

But back to Mark Schultz. It's no coincidence that I made it the music of my blog this past week. In fact, it is there to honor a little 4 year old boy named Connor. Connor is my second cousin, the son of my first cousin Mark and his wife Cynthia. Connor has two older siblings and a a beautiful baby sister too. And Connor has something else too. Courage and lots of it (you have no idea). In August of 2006 at just 2 years old, Connor was diagnosed with T-cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma (Non-Hodgkin's). His diagnosis came swiftly, as did the grueling 2 year treatment.

Often, when I would get updates on his progress and what his family was going through, I would get the most vivid images in my mind. Images that completely mirrored the words in Mark Schultz's song. And so, it became a prayer point for me. Every time I heard the song (or any Mark Schultz song for that matter), I was reminded to pray. Of course, our family was (and is) praying regularly for Connor. But the song, it deeply connected me with their need for constant prayer. Incredible how we can be touched by a song, isn't it? How much more our God must be moved when we worship Him in song.

I am so happy to report that on Monday, August 11th, Connor finished his chemo treatments. Two full years after his diagnosis. He and his family are understandably eager to enter this new season together. Won't you please join me in praying for Connor's continued health and God's continued provision for his family as they courageously (and excitedly) move forward. And thank you to those who already knew of Connor's illness and have been praying accordingly. To God be the glory.




Toni

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6 comments:

Hunny Bee said...

I'll be praying!!

Kim said...

Hi Toni
I am praying!
We miss you in PAI. I have been concerned about you. If you have time, please email me. ktrsmom@comcast.net

Hugs,
Kim C.

saner4 said...

Lots of prayers for Connor and his family and tons of praise to God for all he has provided so far. Many blessings to you and Connor's family.

He's my Son gets me choked up too :)
xxx Lisa

Unknown said...

Praying for that sweet boy to resume life and enjoy every second!

Julia Phillips Smith said...

Amazing how such a little person can show everyone what true grit is made of. So glad to hear that he's starting this new chapter of his young life.

Susan said...

To God be the Glory is right. I am so happy to hear that Connor has made it through that stage. Even though I don't know him my heart goes out to him and his family. Please continue to keep us all posted and prayer will be lifted up for him.