Here is an update on Josiah as of 7:00 PM on Thursday, December 30^th:

I want to stop for a moment and once again just thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, notes of encouragement and even gifts during this time.  The outpouring of love shed on us has been a comfort and encouragement each day.  There will never be words to express our gratitude, and certainly no way that we can repay all of you for the energy and time spent in prayer for us.  Thank you!

Today brought another round of highly active therapy for Josiah.  The difficulty of his sessions has really increased, especially his physical therapy where it is a solid, non-stop exercise and brisk walking.  He has responded well to all of it, both physically and with his attitude.  He just keeps pushing on!

Here are some highlights from the day:

• He was told yesterday that he could now walk with parental supervision, and today, his physical therapist told him he was going to take his wheelchair away very soon!  That made Josiah a bit nervous (and I would have to admit, it did me as well).  But it is exciting to know that he is that much closer to going home.
• He has gained about 4 pounds in that last two weeks! I knew his appetite was good!
• Jennifer and the kids arrived safely this afternoon! We are glad to be able to spend the weekend with them again.
• Josiah also had several family members come up to see him also.  It is really nice having the family up, and Josiah loved having visitors!
• Football! Josiah and I have looked forward to having some bowl games to watch during the day!  Our weekend will be filled with football and family.  We are also hoping to get out and catch a church service here in the area this Sunday!

We would ask for you to pray for the following specific things with us:

• Continue to pray for the right side of his face as it heals.  We are asking God to heal Josiah completely without any surgery if that would be His will.  I believe God will do this!
• Our next team meeting is next Tuesday. This is where we meet with the entire team of doctors and therapists that are working with him to get updates progress reports.  We will also get a better idea of the length of stay they are thinking about.
• Please pray for his release date.  The hospital is getting pressure from Medicaid for a release date.  I certainly want to get home but I want it to be at the right time for Josiah and his recovery.
• Pray for the light of God’s love and grace to shine through us here.  We are part of HIS story as it intersects with the stories of people up here that are experiencing hurt, sorrow, joy and victory.

Phil. 1:6 “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”