Saturday Evening

Dukes (4:51 P.M. Saturday)

Erik and I are in Pop’s room with him right now. He is eating strawberry jello and acting more and more like himself. We went to McAllister’s Deli and got him a yummy baked potato. He ate about a 1/3 of it. He was thankful for non-hospital food, which is funny cause he’s only been able to actually eat it for two days now. I imagine we’ll be grabbing take-out for a while to come.

Those of you who know Pop know that he is pretty picky about food and very selective of the great food he normally eats. How can he help it having been in New Orleans for so long. His favorite restaurant is here, and Erik and I intend to take him to Drago’s as soon as he is able to do something like that – probably will be a long time before he could get in and out of a car.

Honestly, he is simply thankful to be alive and look in our eyes and see visitors and hear of the love from all of you. He is moved to tears when we tell him how many visits there are on this site. He wells up when we tell him of the comments that you all have left. Thank you so much.

Dad is doing pretty well today. He’s not a pain in the neck at all, but his neck has caused him some pain today. His arm, too. He’s been very himself, with occasional ins and outs from the pain meds. He has definitely not lost his sense of humor. He has definitely not lost his sense of listening to God, either. He told me a moment ago – “I just simply sense the Lord whispering, ‘Peace.’ And I trust Him.”

He said to Erik and me today, “It is really amazing what people have done to show us how much they love us.” And it has. Erik and I can’t thank you enough.

He is moved every time he talks about or thinks about Mom. He desperately wants to see her. I look forward to that time with both anticipation and pain. I know he will struggle seeing her. I know also how deeply he loves her and how much it will mean to him.

Jen and I were beginning to talk the other day about how we will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Their 49th wedding anniversary is next Thursday. It would be awesome if they could at least see each other that day. Erik and Erin will be married 10 years the next day – April 17th. Then Mom’s sister and her husband have been married over 55 years I believe on the 18th. Not sure of the exact number.

All this to say – pray for Dad to continue to get rest as he prepares for intensive rehab. Our friend, Don Richard, prayed today something very meaningful for Pop – “Lord, give Jimmy the grace to receive ministry.” Very important, because Dad is one of those sheep that Jesus describes in Matthew 25 who has not kept score of his good. He has simply given love as freely as it has been given to him without notice or reward. Erik and I have been blessed to witness it.

Mom is pretty much the same. Let’s continue to pray for her to “come alive again” tomorrow in some way.

We love yall so much. Very sincerely – your outpouring of love on Mom and Dad and Erik and Erin and their kids and Jen and our kids and me has meant so very much.

We’ll update again tomorrow. Have a HAPPY EASTER!!!

Reuben Lee passed away about noon today. Please be in prayer for the family.



Helen Louise “Sis” McGehee Morse
(August 10, 1916 – April 10, 2009)


Died at 5:15PM on Friday, April 10, 2009 at The Hospice House in Hammond, LA. She was a native of Hammond, LA and a resident of Amite, LA. Age 92 years. Graveside Services will be held at 10:00AM Wednesday at Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. Services conducted by Rev. Gaylord Dodgen. Survived by 2 sons, Larry W. Morse, Amite, Charles M. “Chuck” Morse and his wife, Janet, Hammond, 1 grandson, Sean Etherage Morse, Hammond, 1 sister, Anna “Webbie” Ory, Fluker, a number of nieces, Preceded in death by, husband, Aubrey E. “Hoss” Morse, She was a member and Sunday School teacher at Amite-Arcola Presbyterian Church and was a member of the Yellow Jacket Club at Southeastern Louisiana University. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Amite-Arcola Presbyterian Church, 501 Walnut St., Amite, LA 70422. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Death Notice

Bernice Monts Simmons
(September 4, 1925 – April 11, 2009)


Died at 8:33AM on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center in McComb, MS. She was a native of Maben, MS and a resident of Kentwood, LA. Age 83 years. Visitation at her residence Kentwood, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday and at Line Creek Baptist Church, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Tuesday. Services conducted by Rev. Ken Irwin. Interment Line Creek Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. Survived by Daughter and son-in-law, Charlotte and Larry Raborn, Kentwood, son and daughter-in-law, Tommy and Wanda Simmons, Kentwood, Kelly and Donald Hart, Summit, MS, 8 grandchildren, Wayne Raborn, Jeremy Raborn and wife, Ashley, Miranda Raborn, Stan Simmons and wife, Bethany, Dooley Simmons, Stacey Simmons, Heidi Hart, Hannah Hart, 2 great-grandchildren, Tanner and Laney Raborn, and 2 expected, 2 brothers, Grady Monts, Starkville, MS, J. D. Monts, Jr. And wife, Shirley, Maben, MS, numerous nieces and nephews, Preceded in death by, husband, Thomas Stanley Simmons, Sr., Brother, Thurman Monts, infant brother. She was a member of Line Creek Baptist Church and O.E.S. of Osyka, MS, and was a retired teacher at Kentwood High School. She was a member of Line Creek Baptist Church and O.E.S. of Osyka, MS, and was a former teacher at Kentwood High School. She was owner and operator of Kentwood Oil Company and Simmons Texaco since 1969 and Simmons Gulf from 1958 until 1969. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.

Saturday

“God showed His great love for us

by sending Christ to die for us

while we were still sinners.”

~Romans 5:8 NLT~

Jimmy and Retia Dukes and family

Friday, April 10, 2009 10:29 PM, EDT

Today was a busy day with Pop and more of the same with Mom.

Early this morning, they transitioned Pop out of the ICU. They moved him to his own room. There they will continue to help his bones heal, manage his pain, and begin rehab. His rehab will consist for several weeks of simple things – moving his legs and arms in his bed, transfering him out of bed (by carrying him – he can’t put weight on his legs yet) to sit in a comfortable chair, and watching the news while displaying his stellar sense of humor to the nurses and visitors.

Still no word on when they will repair his wrist. Erik and I saw his arm and legs without bandages and splints today, while they were changing his dressings. WOW. Lots of road rash. Lots of bruising. Pretty rough stuff. The doctor said it all seems to be healing well.

Pop complained of his head and neck more today. Not worried yet, but definitely gonna keep an eye on it. He does have the fracture in his neck they said would heal. He also had a minor head injury with some bleeding, which they said resolved.

Mom is still in a deep coma. She continued to make baby steps common for head injury patients – like basic reflexes to discomfort. She cringes prettily heavily and moves around a bit when they are suctioning her and cleaning her teeth and mouth. The response subsides completely afterward. She is still not interacting with us in a noticable way.

We were encouraged by the rehab doctor. He said their team would work hard to get Mom and Pop in the same rehab facility. We hope that will be the case.

We continue to be so blessed by the prayers, the visitors, the food delivered to the hospital and to where we are staying, and more. Thank you all so very much – in New Orleans, in Booneville, in Orlando, and in so many other places. It is so clear that they have loved on so many folks. We are so thankful.

Jen walked through all the comments on the Caring Bridge site the other night and counted at least 30 states and 5 countries represented among the comments. SO AMAZING!!!

There will be a news story aired tonight or tomorrow night here in town on WWL about Mom and Pop. They told us it would be posted online, as well. So, we will post a link in an upcoming update when we find out the URL for the video.

We love you all. Please keep praying for Mom and Pop. Please keep praying for for Mom to show some kind of interaction – any kind. Please pray for Pop to rest and heal and be patient in this very long recovery process. Please pray for Erin and Jen and the kids as they continue to hold down the fort at our respective homes. We have been video chatting with them some. We miss them. Thanks to all who have loved on them and played with them there.

One of the ladies in the waiting room who is with a family we have connected with there keeps grabbing me by the shoulders, giving me a hug, and telling me this – “God can. God will. God must.”

We hope and believe He will. Thanks for your support in this difficult time. You all have blessed us richly.

-jason


Friday, April 10, 2009 11:24 PM, EDT

A local news station, WWL, and a very kind reporter who found out about Mom and Pop’s accident from a friend, covered Mom and Pop’s story today. It was a featured story – 2nd in the lineup at 9pm and 10pm.

Thank you, Susan Edwards, for your compassionate heart and your sincere concern for our family. We appreciate the story highlighting the love of Mom and Dad shared all these years and the amazing outpouring of love toward them since the accident.

Here’s the link:

http://www.wwltv.com/video/news-index.html?nvid=350935

Just wanted to share it with yall.

-jason

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, April 10, 2009

“Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead” (Matthew 28:5b-7a, ESV).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the Office of Global Prayer Strategy, praying with you for those who do not know the joy of Easter.

In the Philippines, many traditions surround this week of remembering Christ’s death and resurrection. Most businesses are closed for part of Friday, and most public transportation is suspended. Much emphasis is placed on Jesus’ suffering and death as devotees walk several kilometers, some carrying crosses or beating themselves to pay penance for their sins.

The majority of the people in Taichung, Taiwan however, will spend Easter just like any other Sunday. They will work, shop or spend some time in a park with friends or family. Pray that this Easter, the wonder and miracle of Christ’s resurrection will be proclaimed in such a way through the bold witness of Taiwanese believers that many will be “added to their numbers.”

Sadly, the words “He is risen! He is risen indeed!” are not heard in Saudi Arabia unless they are whispered between believers. As in Taichung, Easter is just another workday. Please pray that believers will radiate the love of Jesus during this special season. Pray that their Saudi coworkers and neighbors will see the joy in their faces and ask genuine questions.

* Please pray for new Waray-Waray believers in the Philippines to grasp the truth that Christ has come down from the cross and risen again, claiming victory over death and the grave.

* Ask God to help immature believers understand the assurance they have in Jesus’ complete sacrifice.

* Pray for yourself and for Christians in such diverse places as the Philippines, Taiwan, and Saudi Arabia to have boldness to share with their families, friends and relatives the message of the good news of salvation through Christ alone.

From Annie’s Home Page:

The NEW Jelly Bean Prayer

Red is for the blood He gave,
Green is for the grass He made,
Yellow is for the sun so bright,
Orange is for the edge of night.

Black, white, brown, yellow and red is for the children He made
All of these colors receive the grace He gave,
Purple is for the hour of sorrow,
Pink is for the new tomorrow.

Give a bag full of jelly beans,
Colorful and sweet,
Tell them it’s a Prayer….
It’s a promise..
It’s an Easter Treat!

Also from Annie’s Home Page:

“Resurrection Cookies”
~Also known as Easter Story Cookies~


This is a great recipe to teach your Children the REAL story of Easter.

So Grab your Apron and Let’s Get Started!!!!!!!

You will need:
1 cup whole pecans
1 teaspoon vinegar
3 egg whites
a pinch salt
1 cup sugar
a zipper baggy
1 wooden spoon
scotch tape
Bible


Instructions:
These are to be made the evening before Easter. Preheat oven to 300F.
*** (this is very important — don’t wait until you are half done with the recipe).
Place pecans in zipper baggy and let children beat them with the wooden spoon
to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested. He
was beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read: John 19:1-3


Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 teaspoon vinegar into mixing bowl.
Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross He was given vinegar
to drink. Read: John 19:28-30


Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life
to give us life. Read: John 10:10&11


Sprinkle a little salt into each child’s hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest
into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus’ followers,
and the bitterness of our own sin. Read: Luke 23:27


So far the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 cup sugar. Explain that the
sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to
know and belong to Him. Read: Psalm 34:8 and John 3:16

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed.
Explain that the color white represents the purity in God’s eyes of those whose sins
have been cleansed by Jesus. Read: Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3


Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoon onto waxed paper covered cookie sheet.
Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus’ body was laid.
Read: Matthew 27:57-60


Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.


Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door.
Explain that Jesus’ tomb was sealed. Read: Matthew 27:65-66

Cozy Bed
GO TO BED!

Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight.
Jesus’ followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read: John 16:20&22


On Resurrection Sunday (Easter) morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked
surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter Jesus’ followers were amazed
to find the tomb open and empty. Read: Matthew 28:1-9

Jesus is the reason for the season!

Anna Lee

Good Friday

“But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer.

Again the high priest asked Him,

“Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?”

~Mark 14:61 NIV~

Would you please add Ms. Margaret Huber to the prayer list. She is having surgery today. They have found a tumor where the large and small intestine are joined.

Mary Margaret Kundler

Caring Bridge Update on Dukes

Spoke with Jason and Erik for the latest update:

They got news that they did NOT actually fix dad’s wrist. Because the skin abrasions were severe enough there, they did not want to risk infection. So they DID fix his humurous, but NOT his ulna.

As the day went on, dad got a little bit more sensible. He struggled a bit coming out of the anasthesia. They did write orders to begin transition to a step down room out of ICU. They expect that to happen tomorrow. He will still be under close watch in a room with a sitter.

As for mom, the neurosurgeon told us that there is really no change. The positive, she is not digressing. Her swelling is going down and the swelling in her face is going down. They said she is making normal progress for a head injury patient but she is still in a deep coma. They are specifically using that terminology.

Please be praying:

1-mom would in some way demonstrate some kind of interaction – sometimes people don’t have that kind of response for 3-4 weeks.

2-pray that both are protected from infections and from clots since they are laying flat all the time.

3-regard to infection for dad – found some issues with skin on legs as result of traumatic type of issue that it was – soft tissue damaged. being diabetic – big cause of concern – don’t want issue with legs and circulation.

4-dads bones would continue to heal and manage pain well.

They continue to be encouraged by the incredible response from friends and family. Jason and Erik’s church families have stepped up to help Jenn and Erin back at home. Please be praying for them as they walk through this with the kids. Erin’s mom is with her and Jenn’s sister Lindsey is staying with her.

Thank you all so much for being the church.

Pray for Dwayne and Trisha Wilson and others as they participate in a mission trip to El Salvadore during the Easter holidays. Pray for the Wilson children and their grandparents as they enjoy this time together.

I look forward to Fridays so I can read KOMpray (Kids on Mission Pray). You can read it too by going to http://kompray.imb.org.

Baptist Press

April 9, 2009

ILLINOIS–FIRST-PERSON (Mark Coppenger): God the Son & His Victorious Resurrection. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30248

TENNESSEE–Oprah doctor: ‘stem cell debate is dead.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30249

TENNESSEE–Rick Warren: ‘I … never campaigned.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30250

PENNSYLVANIA–Philadelphia churches sweep city with God’s Plan for Sharing. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30251

KENTUCKY–Resolutions Committee named for ’09 SBC . http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30252

TENNESSEE–Obama tax proposal shouldn’t hurt churches, exec says. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30253

TENNESSEE–INTERNATIONAL DIGEST: Luis Palau draws 425,000 in Guatemala City. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30254

VIRGINIA–WORLDVIEW (Erich Bridges): Hope for the hopeless. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30256

KANSAS–FIRST-PERSON (Phil Boatwright): Films celebrating Jesus’ resurrection. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30257


FBC, Kentwood will have an 8:15 service this week in addition to the normal Sunday School and worship times.

Monday, the Louisiana College Chorale will be in concert at FBC, Kentwood at 7 P.M. I heard this group many times while Jennie and Jason were students at LC. The students in the group will be different, but the high quality should still be the same. Don’t miss this special night!


THE REWARD FOR FAITHFULNESS

I thought you would enjoy the following list of “Rules and Regulations for Teachers in 1872”:

1. Teachers each day will fill lamps, clean chimneys, and trim wicks.

2. Each teacher will bring a bucket of water and scuttle of coal for the day’s sessions.

3. Make your pens carefully: you may whittle nibs to the individual taste of pupils.

4. Men teachers may take one evening each week for courting purposes, or two evenings a week if they go to church regularly.

5. After 10 hours in school, the teachers spend the remaining time reading the Bible or other good books.

6. Women teachers who marry or engage in unseemly conduct will be dismissed.

7. Each teacher should lay aside from each pay a goodly sum of his earnings for his benefit during his declining years so that he will not become a burden on society.

8. Any teacher who smokes, uses liquor in any form, frequents pool or public halls, or get shaved in a barber shop will give good reason to suspect his worth, intentions, integrity and honesty.

9. The teacher who performs his labors faithfully and without fault for five years will be given an increase of 25 cents per week in his pay, providing the Board of Education approves.

I was intrigued by the wording of #9 above. It sounded somewhat familiar to me. Then it dawned on me that there is a similarity to what Jesus had to say to the seven churches of Asia Minor in Revelation 2 and 3.

“Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Rev.2:10b)

“…[T]hey shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” (Rev. 3:4-5)

There are a couple of significant differences, though, between the promise given to teachers in 1872 and the promises given by Jesus. Jesus doesn’t require that we live “without fault” (and oh, how I’m thankful for that!). The reward that Jesus promises is considerably better than 25 cents for every five years of service (and I’m thankful for that as well!). And it’s not a matter of gaining the approval of a group of men. The only approval that matters is the smile we’ll see on our Father’s face.

Father, thank you for the promises that you have given — not just the promise of a crown or of white garments, but the promise of an opportunity to be in your presence, to be held in your arms. I don’t live before you “without fault”, so I thank you for your grace as I seek to live faithfully as your child. I commit all that I am and all that I have to be used in your service. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Jesus is the reason for the season!

Anna Lee

Thursday

“Because Jesus was raised from the dead,

we’ve been given a brand-new life,

and have everything to live for,

including a future in heaven.”

1 Peter 1:3-4 MSG



Continue to pray for Mrs. Faye Price and her family as they travel down “unfamiliar paths”. “Miss” Faye is back in the nursing home in Kentwood.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
THE BLOG TITLE read, “Moron turns in $140,000.00…”
The title refers tot he news story that broke last month. Eli Estrada, a 40-year-old Palm Beach resident found a bag containing $140,000 in unmarked $20 bills.
Mr. Estrada certainly could have used the money. About six months ago, he opened a landscaping and artificial-grass business and is in debt; he says his child support payments are tough to make; and he supports his mother, who moved in with him last year after she lost her house to a fumbled refinancing plan. Yet Mr. Estrada went straight to the police and turned in all $140,000.
Apparently a Brinks armored truck somehow lost the money. Brinks rewarded Mr. Estrada for his good deed by giving him $2,000.
So now, was Mr. Estrada really a “moron”? Only if one views such values as honesty, integrity, and the “golden rule” as foolish. But what about the cheap reward that was offered? Some on this blog said that if they knew the reward for turning in the money would have been so small, they would have kept it. But do we have to be financially rewarded for doing the right thing? Are our values so degraded that we feel we deserve a reward for doing what we’re supposed to do?
A moron? Hardly. Here’s a man who has demonstrated that he had sufficient intelligence to know that some things are more valuable than money–things like integrity, honesty, and doing the right thing. Thank you, Mr. Estrada, for your example. May your tribe increase!
Now then, truthfully, what would you do if you found the money? (Steve Higginbotham)
“..But that you should do what is honorable…” (2 Corinthians 13:7).

Have a better day today than yesterday!

Anna Lee

Wednesday Afternoon

Ora Lee Wilson just called to ask for prayer for her daughter-in-law’s niece. Trisha’s niece, Annie Ford, will be three on the 12th and was diagnosed with a brain tumor today. She will be going to Children’s Hospital in Dallas tomorrow. Her parents are Bently (Trisha’s brother) and Melissa Ford of Tyler. Texas.

Hi, Friends….I just received a call from my brother (Bently Ford) this afternoon telling me that his daughter Annie who will be 3 on the 12th has a brain tumor. We don’t have much info. right now. Last week they took her to the ER because she fell to the floor and said she couldn’t walk. By the time the ER doctor saw her, she was back to her normal self (isn’t that just the way?). My sister-in-law (Melissa) just didn’t feel right about it, so she took Annie to her pediatrician on Monday. They went for an MRI this a.m. and then received this news this afternoon. They are going to Children’s in Dallas on Thursday. They also have a 7 year old, Katie Beth. They live in Tyler.

Thanks praying friends,

Tricia


Please put Chance O’Hern on your prayer list once again. He is having complications. We are going for heart cath soon. No date yet. We are hoping the protein enteropathy can be fixed through heart cath. Otherwise we will have two start giving him two shots a day in the stomach of heparan. Long term, once we start that therapy we have to look at heart transplant. Your prayers are appreciated.
God Bless,
Alice



Updates on the Dukes

Tuesday, April 7, 2009 6:39 PM, EDT

Dad is scheduled for a CT on his arm tonight and surgery on his arm 1st thing in the morning (they estimated 7:30). They just did xrays on Mom’s arms. They have become very swolen and are showing bruising. They think they may be broken. We will know soon.

We are hoping and praying for signs of improvement in the next 48 hours. Thanks so very, very much for all of the prayers and support from so many places. The New Orleans Seminary family has provided us places to sleep and meals. Thanks to them for their local support. We love you and feel your love.

-Jason and Erik



Wednesday, April 8, 2009 1:21 PM, EDT

Update:

Pop is out of surgery. Seems good. Struggling with pain as expected.

Mom is still in a coma, but the doctors encouraged us this morning that they saw some very small progress in her CT. They said they thought she would have disabilities if she makes it, but they ARE HOPEFUL that she will make it.

Keep praying!!! It means so much. We love you

-Jason and Erik


Wednesday, April 8, 2009 4:31 PM, EDT

Erik and I left the hospital this afternoon for a few minutes, just to get some fresh air and a cup of coffee, before we head back to be with Mom and Dad. Neat little coffee shop on the corner of Camp and Girod called PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans. The white mochas aren’t as good as yours Josh, but I dig the spot. In the heart of downtown NOLA.

Anyway, you didn’t ask for local entertainment and eatery recommendations I know. So, we thought we would put a new post here to update you on Mom and Dad. With Erik here with me, I will be able to give you a better description of the medical side of what’s going on. Sorry if stuff is redundant. Days and news are starting to run together, and we’re a bit tired. Sorry if stuff is redundant. Days and news are starting to run together, and we’re a bit tired.

It’s Wednesday afternoon I know now. It’s funny. I thought it was Thursday earlier today. I even texted one of the college students I teach on Thursday mornings to update them on mom and dad, and tell them I hope they enjoy class with the amazing substitute that’s coming. Thanks, Bill Faulkner. But it’s not Thursday. It’s Wednesday.

Dad came out of surgery around noon central time. He was quite groggy. Same kind of reaction as from the surgery Monday. Struggling to come out from under the meds and struggling with the pain. But his left arm is now on the way to recovery. They surgically repaired his humerus (the bone between the shoulder and the elbow). They also fixed his ulna (in his wrist). He will probably be transitioned out of ICU tomorrow, at least we think so, into a step-down room.

It was kind of funny and tough to take all at the same time. In a matter of 20 seconds, he looked me in the eyes and said, “You stole money from me…(a few second pause)…I love you so much.” We are praying he will get good rest today and tonight and be more like himself tomorrow.

Mom is about the same, as far as you would know if you visited her yesterday and then again today. Still in what the doctor called a “deep coma.” The doctor that talked with us this morning explained a little more about the next steps, assuming Mom continues to progress, even if it is really, really, really small baby steps (this is going to be a long road). He said she would need a tracheotomy (for breathing) and a peg tube (a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube) for feeding. They told us that the swelling was down some more, and that on the CT they could see the ventricles in the middle of her brain carry fluid to and fro – something they had not been able to see before because of the swelling. THAT’S GOOD NEWS, EVEN IF IT IS A VERY MINOR PROGRESSION. At least it’s some kind of progress. No word yet on when they think she could leave the ICU and transition to a long-term care facility. She is still not responsive.

Erik and I sang some hymns over her together. Jen sent me a voice mail with the kids wishing her “get well’s” and asking her to come play. I played it for her twice today. One time this morning in the left ear, then one time this afternoon in the right ear. Just in case she can only hear in one of them.

People continue to pray and send cards and emails and texts and facebook messages and twitters and more. THANK YOU SO VERY, VERY MUCH. Erik and I can’t thank you enough.

We spent time once we got to the apartment last night reading through your amazing notes on the guestbook of this site. We were able to get through 8 pages before being too sleepy to read anymore. We plan on reading more tonight. WE ALSO PLAN ON READING THEM TO DAD ONCE HE IS SETTLED IN A ROOM. I have shared some with Mom, already, as I have been able to, just so she could be encouraged by your love.

With all the sincerity I can muster – your prayers mean so very much. We don’t take them lightly, and we don’t take them for granted.

Thanks to everyone from so many places. Keep praying, please.

OH, BY THE WAY – my dad taught for me on Sunday morning at Westpoint’s worship gathering (our local church there in Orlando) back on March 29th. I asked him to teach that day, because of the specific passage of Scripture we were on. We are walking through 1st John right now, and it was the chapter on how the Father lavishes His love on us and calls us His children. I wanted him to teach that passage, because he has been an amazing picture of the heavenly Father as both a father and grand-father. He did, and it was awesome!

So many of you who were there that Sunday morning have commented to me in some form of how much it meant to you. If you were there, could you please take a minute to go to my blog where I am also posting this update and leave a comment for Dad. Click on the title of the post (“april 8th update on mom and dad”), then leave a comment below the posting – something about what His teaching that day meant to you? I will read it to him after he is more himself. That would mean so much. My blog is www.JasonCDukes.com

Thanks so much. Erik and I love you. Thanks for loving on Mom and Dad and Erin and Jen and the kids!!! It has been an amazing display of the love that Christ desires from His church.

-jason and erik

Wednesday

“Trust in Him at all times, you people;

pour out your heart before Him;

God is a refuge for us.”

~Psalm 62:8~

Two Easter dramas in two nights! Both were good. There were similarities and differences. I was blessed by experiencing both of them. I hope you have been able to participate in something special to help you remember the real meaning of the Easter season. Just like Christmas, Jesus is the meaning of the season!

Don Denton

Today is Tuesday and Don will taper down to 10mg of steroid tomorrow. He has had more headaches and some nausea, but he has not had a relapse. He had a good day today as well.

Joshua is doing somewhat better. He is still having to use the nebulizer as his cough is still holding on.

And for that matter, I have gotten some much needed rest. I just felt that I had hit bottom this weekend with not much sleep for about a week. So I am thankful to have more rest.

We rescheduled Don’s day of testing up in St. Louis for April 17th and then his biopsy will be the last week of April.

Our blast of Winter came and went and we are glad for the hint of Spring again.

Today Don walked without a walker in physical therapy and his therapist says he can start using a cane by weeks end. He will have to take it very carefully as his dizziness is what makes it so difficult to keep his balance.

We are hoping that we all are well enough to go to church this Sunday. It has been most difficult not being able to be in church and be with our church family. WE look for the day that we can be back.

Thank you for continuing to reach out to us and walk with us it means so much to hear such words of encouragement.

…

Bless you our family and friends.

Diane

WEDNESDAY WINDOW ON THE WORLD – April 8, 2009

UNENGAGED PEOPLES OF CENTRAL, EASTERN AND SOUTHERN AFRICA. “For the last few years, prayer requests have been submitted on behalf of the Tsonga-Shangaan (pronounced T’SON-guh shon-GAHN) people of the Limpopo province of South Africa. Approximately 820,000 Tsonga-Shangaan live in the Gazankhulu area of the province, with no IMB personnel living among them. With joy, missionaries serving in the Southeastern Africa Cluster share that the Tsonga-Shangaan of the Limpopo province have been adopted in a prayer partnership by a church in Kansas. What a blessing to begin to work with this church to provide prayer support for the Tsonga-Shangaan people! Pray for unity as we begin this ministry together. Ask the Lord to provide personnel to help and assist in starting new work and developing leadership among the Tsonga-Shangaan.” prayerplus@imb.org

SAUDI ARABS OF SAUDI ARABIA (SAU-dee). “He is risen! He is risen indeed!” are words that are heard in Arabic across the Arab world as Christians greet each other on Easter morning. Unfortunately, these words are not heard in Saudi Arabia unless they are whispered between believers. In fact, Easter is just another workday. Please pray that believers will radiate the love of Jesus during this special season. Pray that their Saudi coworkers and neighbors will see the joy in their faces and ask genuine questions. Pray that believers will have the boldness to share the story of Easter and how Jesus has changed their lives! http://www.lovesaudis.com/

TURKS OF TURKEY’S MEDITERRANEAN REGION. “In a country where soccer is the national sport and American-style football is not played in any high school that we know of, college and ‘professional’ football are attempting to take root. This is a dream come true for our son’s best friend in this country. He first played football when we arrived here a few years ago. Our son, who loves football, taught him the basics of the game. This year, this young man went to a university that has a football team. He has been able to play as a freshman on the team. It is an exciting new sport here, and there are opportunities to share the Good News and build relationships through this sport. It is illegal for adults to share the Good News with a minor in this place, but our children can share with their friends. Over a recent school break, our son was able to share a good deal about the Scriptures with this friend. Please stop and intercede for him. ‘Almighty God, we ask that Your Holy Spirit will quicken this young man’s mind and that he will seek to know You. May the truths that he heard resound in his mind until he comes face to face with Christ, the lover of his soul. Father, we ask You to draw his entire family to Yourself. Please open doors to share the gospel through sports all across this country, and let this be the generation that follows Christ.’”

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
ARISTOTLE SAID, “WE are what we repeatedly do…
Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” We are creatures of habit. Habits–overeating, thumb-sucking, breath-holding, nail-biting, smoking, and the like–run the gambit from unpleasant to unhealthy. Other habits, like reading, healthy eating, exercise, money management, and getting adequate rest, greatly improve our quality of life.
Our lives are all composed of habits from the time we wake up all the way up to bedtime. If a habit is negative, a cycle that includes triggers, feelings, and impulses can be broken anywhere along the way. If the habit is positive and needed, we can nurture that cycle by continuing in it.
Think about certain spiritual matters that are matters of habit–faithful attendance, daily Bible study and prayer, pure speech, visitation, welcoming visitors at church services, involvement in church works, controlling the tongue, and any number of personal growth matters.
Aristotle was right. Excellence does not consist in doing something once. it is not even found in sporadic, occasional engagement. We cultivate excellence by focusing on certain areas with repeated, persistent effort.
Paul urged the church at Thessalonica to “abound more and more” (1 Thessalonians 4:1). That consisted in knowing how “to walk and to please God.” Peter told the Christians dispersed abroad to keep their “behavior seemly among the Gentiles” (1 Peter 2:12). In the second letter, he included excellence–virtue–as a Christian grace (2 Peter 1:5).
Excellence is not something we are born with or just wake up possessing. It is, as Aristotle said, a matter of our habits! (Neal Pollard)
Having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation” (1 Peter 2:12).

May you and I feel the presence of God as we walk, run, or crawl through this day!
Anna Lee

Tuesday Afternoon Addition

We received word today about rioting in Moldova. They held elections this past Sunday where the Communist Party “won” the majority of votes to gain control of the Parliament. They will now choose the new President. As there is much speculation of unfair voting, many are reacting with violent protests. So far the rioters have invaded the Presidential Palace and the Parliament Building. …here is a link to one news article http://en.rian.ru/world/20090407/120965373.html

Pray for the two IMB missionary families in Moldova. They are safe and trying to stay out of the hot spots. Pray for their continued safety. This Sunday will be Palm Sunday there. Pray for God’s presence to be felt among the Moldovans and they will realize the need to seek God’s direction in their lives.

Pray for an end to the violence to stop.

Thank you for praying!

Melinda