Friday, December 16, 2022

Dear Trinity Baptist Church Family, 

Psalm 23:1 “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” (NIV)

First, I want to thank the many who have been praying for Lin and me. We appreciate your love and care. We had a conversation with a kidney cancer doctor from Froedtert today. The two tests I had last week (one was an MRI) confirmed in his mind that I have a tumor that is renal cell carcinoma or kidney cancer. As we talked he compared recent scans with earlier ones and said he believes I have had this tumor for years. What makes it concerning now is that it seems to be growing. Because of its size and location, he does not want to attempt to remove only the tumor, so he recommends removing that kidney. Removing the kidney will be the only treatment I will receive at this time. They will monitor me afterwards. He is currently booked for surgeries until March! As he said, “It’s a good thing I am not a must-have-it-next-week case. I’ll know more when his office calls to schedule.

I continue to feel fine with no definite symptoms. Lin and I are confident that I ought to follow his recommendation and have this kidney removed. We are also confident that God’s will for us is to take the next step – the one in front of us – towards our long obedience. And may Jesus be glorified. 

We had a great TBS Christmas program last night. Much was accomplished in 42 minutes! I was especially wowed by the large number of the Trinity Baptist Family who attended. I think it was the most ever. Congratulations to Pastor Shaeffer for the great program idea, Sarah L for writing the script, and Amber S for the awesome job on the keyboard. And woohoo to all the students who played their parts with character and zeal. We had good response from many for the evening. Oh may God be glorified in our simple efforts.

Join us for an adult Christmas party at the parsonage tomorrow evening at 6:00 p.m. Bring a party-type dish to share (savory or sweet) and come prepared for a good time.

On Sunday morning at 10:00 a.m. our church choir will present 6 choral numbers directed by Devin Scherck. Two numbers have instrumental solos as part of the accompaniment. I think Devin has picked some fun numbers. I believe you be blessed.

As you make your plans for the holiday weeks, we have no Awana or Wednesday evening Bible Study on the 21st or 28th. We will have our Candlelight Service on Christmas Eve at 6:00 p.m. On Sunday, Christmas Day, we will only have our 10:00 a.m. service. There will be a family game day on New Year’s Eve beginning at noon.

May you know the presence of our Creator God in your daily walk. May you receive instruction and comfort from His Word. 

Embracing Truth, 

Pastor