On Healing and Miracles

Winding Winter Creek, Juneau Alaska by Lynda Edwards

As Norm has sought for healing, we all prayed for miracles according to the Lord's will. In each difficult moment, Norm asked for a Priesthood Blessing. There were several occasions over the past two years where the tumor waxed and waned. Each time, Sam was usually the one who administered to his father. There were promises of healings, even complete, miraculous healing. And as Norm listened to and acted on promptings for wholeness, we rallied behind him. Elan, Aaron, Sarai, Scott, Zack and Jessica have all made tremendous sacrifices to do, just what Sam has done, in serving their dad so fully and with a whole heart. I hope they get a chance to write about their experiences.

In the meantime, I can tell you about my small glimmers into this amazing transition. First, I learned that healing and miracles are given on God's timeline. Furthermore, physical healing is just a portion of the potential for one who seeks wholeness, even Atonement.

Second, there have been miracles here. Part of these miracles are recognizing the small victories and seeing the little sacrifices made by all. In particular, I have watched my husband serve selflessly as he helps his parents. I am amazed at his strength and courage considering the struggles we face daily. He lives with faith each day and it shows.

A casual observer might see Sam's responsibilities as daunting and too much for just one person. He did a lot this year: moving cross-country, managing a fundraising project, succeeding at work to obtain a promotion, filling-in day-to-day when I can no longer care for my life-limited child and care-taking for his ailing father. This casual observer may have great concern for Sam. But that person does not know Sam or quite grasp the promises he's made and the what God has given him in return.

Abraham Lincoln said "A house divided against itself cannot stand." What is happening here as the family rallies around Norm is exactly the opposite to this. I see a house with walls of amazing strength, courage, and sacrifice. These walls sheltered by bulwarks of service and renewed commitment. But cornerstone of all of this, is the first rock laid by the goodness embraced by Norm and Lynda: the relentless expectations that God will provide a way for complete healing. This miracle of love in its fullest is happening as our family pulls together and our bonds are strengthened. These links of love shine with the light of Christ, as we move through time and eternity together.

On Monday night, Norm went to sleep and he has yet to reawaken from what appears to be a coma. Family members and friends are making plans to gather for a memorial and military honors within the next week.