I was doing a little reflection about the blog today and I came to realize I have said very little about my humble unassuming "brother-in-law",Steve . Sorry, Steve , blood should not be thicker than water (especially when we have Jesus's blood in common). I have had very little opportunity to talk to Steve since the "storm of illness" hit in November. I can only tell you what I have witnessed at the hospital and what I have heard from Janni and my parents. I am very proud of my brother-in-law. I can say I felt that he would be a perfect match for my sister from first meeting him. I was introduced to him, by Janni, at a soccer game (sporting event can you believe that) at Malone College. I immediatly thought he was special and told Janni he was a good guy. I am happy she took my advice on this one. Anyway, Steve was raised by devoted parents who are also devoted to the good Lord. Steve's dad was very wise in raising his sons to grow up to be godly leaders. Steve has learned much of his ability to instill discipline, character, and hard work into not only his players but also into Kole. God knew that Kole would need a godly coach of a father to help him win this battle.

At the hospital I was impressed by Steve's gentleness with Kole. In a loving tone he attempted to tell Kole a little about what would be happening to Kole as far as his surgery. I remember Kole lying in the crook of Steve's arm, as Steve was bent over Kole in a very fatherly way. I can remember Steve praying with Kole and most of all I remember his faith. He seemed so strong to me. He was at times worried about his wife and I appreciated his love for my sister.

One thing I really appreciated about Steve was his boldness with the doctors. Kole had been blessed by his opperation being performed by a very skilled and important surgeon. Steve was not ashamed of the fact that he was a believing man. He also was not intimidated to approach this surgeon, and request to pray with him concerning his son. I can guess that he prayed that God would guide the skill of the surgeon's hand. I can just imagine the hand of God working during that surgery. It is amazing that there was not one piece of the tumor left behind. St. Jude's doctors have commented on this fact and they were impressed with the skill of this surgeon. Here is one example of the "One True Heavenly Father" answering the prayer of a humble loving earthly father. God knows what it is like to watch a son suffer. For God watched his own Son, Jesus, suffer to the point of death. That is death on the cross.

My mom has relayed to me some stories concerning Kole and his dad after the surgery. My mom and dad were impressed with the tenderness Steve had for Kole. My mom said there were many times that Kole only wanted his dad to give him a bath. Kole seemed to feel much comfort in the arms of his earthly father. It says in the Bible that God longed to gather up "Israel" under his wings like a mother hen gathers up her chicks, but they would not go to God. Kole has let his dad gather him. Kole has wanted his dad. I feel the bond between father and son has been solidified in a way we cannot even imagine. I am sure Steve loves the fact that Kole wants him and needs him. I realize from God's word that our "heavenly Dad" longs to gather us under His outstretched arm . He is the only one who can truly sooth our hurts and He longs to do it. I am witnessed to the fact the "Heavenly Father" is carrying Steve Keller. I understand the poem "Footprints" in a real way as I watch God carry Janni and Steve through this difficult time, in His strong arms.