God is good! Here I am typing at 12:59 A.M. My family has been struck with an intestinal virus and so here I am awake as my daughter is now affected by stomach upset! I happened to begin reflecting on the last month, as I shut my eyes to go to sleep! I thought of how our "family" was able to experience God's presence in a powerful way. Now, do we give up on experiencing it, even though we did not get the answer we wanted? Is prayer powerful and effective? How do we know? How do we stay motivated to stay close by His side? Well, I will tell you one thing! The challenges of this world do not end, and so we cannot go very far going "solo"! My own children had to ask me, if I had prayed about getting over my stomach upset! I really did not, for I just took it as part of life! Strange after pursuing God so intensely, would I forget so soon to get on my knees! When, I finally took my children's advice, God not only restored my health and energy, but also gave me peace and joy! Do not wait to pray, I waisted much time on the couch!

Anyway, as I thought and prayed in the dark this evening, God seem to cast some light on my questions! God and His Word are kind of pursued like seeking a "scientific discovery"! God cannot be put into any kind of scientific limit or formula! But, He requires dedication and study! We may even make mistakes, but that only helps fuel our knowledge of Him and His direction. He is faithful to keep going with us! It is too easy to give up when hitting a "road block"! We struggle with the fact that God requires us to allow Him to make the decisions and to decide what is good and best. This never limits our discovery, but only blows our "discovery" out of this universe! I can remember praying for Kole and not giving God, in my heart, the right to do what He wanted! I wanted Kole! God wanted Kole! I have learned that to pray under His authority, means having His authority. I also learned to trust Him, over myself. I will still pray for God's healing touch, yet under His authority. God is a good and righteous authority! We have difficulty trusting authority here on earth, because we see so much corrupt leadership! Our enemy tries to make God seem corrupt! He did that to Eve in the garden! She bit "right into it" and listened to the snake! God's authority led to the "tree of Life" and to the garden of Eden. Satan's authority led to this fallen, diseased, and sin ridden world.

Does God want us to give up on His presence? No, He wants us to learn and keep going on our pursuit to know Him, His Word, how to pray, and how to live and obey! There is no going back to living dependent on ourselves, and the "easy road"! God has reminded me with this "intestinal bug" that He still desires attention and involvement in our lives consistently and constantly! Is that a drain--- to require such dedication. No, instead He fills us with His amazing strength and wisdom that comes through His Spirit! The Spirit is called a "stream of living water". The Spirit's power and ability flows and never runs dry. "Burn out" comes--- when we attempt to take on our troubles and responsibilities by ourselves, in the limited strength of our flesh and will. We, then, run out of strength and become overwhelmed with the burdens of this life! God's burden is light! It is difficult to fight against what God wants! What He wants is much better for everyone. He knows all and is unlimited! How do we know what He wants? We open ourselves up to Him, we open up His Word and diligently seek Him in prayer! We than know we are His own, for He becomes very personal. We can truly say we "know Someone in high places". "Someone" who has all say and all power. This is the discovery of our loving Creator God and Father of this universe. If you feel like you are a "no body" in ability to impress this world! I want to remind you that we are here to build His image! His image is already complete and not lacking anything! So, we get the simple job of pointing to Him, who is worthy to be praised. No person is worthy of praise! It is hard and empty work attempting to build our own image! I was free the day God redirected me to invest my life, building His image! I do not feel like a failure anymore, when the "Jones" pass me up!

I want to remain open to His leading! I think of what Jesus said to His Father, " Not my will, but Yours be done". It takes immense trust in God to allow Him to have that freedom and authority in your life! I have found that "He does not strike you with lightning" on the spot (Ha!--I can actually remember cringing when giving God permission with my life). He does, however, light a fire in you ! He gives you a purpose, a hope, a love, and a relationship with Himself that blows your imagination. I would never want to go back. Giving Him the driver's seat in my life has led to meaningful, rich living and an close loving relationship with Him. God decides the day your born and the day He comes for you! You decide whether to cooperate in the in between! He makes our life a success! He does the "sweating", we do the "bowing on our knees"! It is much more relaxing and comforting, to be on our knees! Anyway, God's sweat does not stink! Ours does!

God is free to pursue and the reward is huge! I tell my children whenever they read God's Word or pray, that they can look at it like putting money in a "spiritual bank account"! I had them memorize Psalms 103, when Kole was first diagnosed with cancer! I paid them ten cents a verse and threw in a few more coins when they would meet extra challenges! When they were done they had a little over 2 dollars to spend at our small town coffee shop! However, I reminded them they had 2 million plus in their "spiritual bank accounts". Sometimes, we feel trapped by our lack of education, status, and finances. We do not feel, we have what we need to make our physical dreams a reality! God gives us everything we need to make Him a reality. He has already paid for our tuition. He makes life happen in more abundant ways than you can ever dream or scheme up! He is free for the asking! He unties your hands and remakes your dreams even better. He lets us out of our financial and relational prisons. Isaiah 61 states that He come to set the captives free and to release the prisoners. Sometimes, it is a blessing to have our hands tied! Then, God is the "One and Only" available to us! Being a housewife with small children, ties me down to my home! I do not have a retirement account with my own name on it! It is laughable, to look at my Social Security statement! However, I am free to study God's Word and pray!

Anyway, I encourage you to never give up on discovering what God has for you! Do not hold back! Build your "spiritual bank" account. Become a "scientist" seeking discovery. I believe that even in our failures or in God's veto, that there is even more to discover! He does not shut a door, but opens up the entire universe! Just like with the discovery of our antibiotics! It came with much failure. The discovery was really a fluke! I believe it was not a fluke, but the hand of God saying "watch this"---go my way! He pointed the scientist in the right direction! He will point you the best way as you build your "bank account" and learn from your discoveries! The Bible is a vast treasure, prayer helps you spend it or should I say invest it! God is worth it all! I would say God has made the most of our trial, by leading us to His side! He has kept us! We would not want to be anywhere else. Kole is just on "His other side"! We are both hugging God, but on different laps! It is like, we are at God's left lap and Kole is at God's right! There is comfort in that---God bridges the gap and we all share Him! Comfort would not last in having Kole here with us. Comfort lasts in having God!

Today I was fed this from 2 Thessalonians 5:24
"The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it".

This reminded me of the verse in Philippians 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".

He truly does the "sweating"/work in us and through us.

Jodi

Hello my dear friends and prayer partners,
I am so sorry that I have not posted anything for quite some time. My hands became quite full with a newborn baby and my precious Kole needing so much attention during his illness. I have wanted to post many times but we just got internet capabilities a couple of days ago.

Anyway, I just want to thank everyone for all of your prayers, comments, bible passages, cards, gifts, love, concern, hugs, and tears. Kole was surely loved and we as a family have all felt it.

I cannot explain the emotional roller coaster that has gone on but what I can say is that God continues to bless our family. We miss Kole greatly but we are thrilled that he is healed, running, and laughing at us that he made it to heaven first. Everyday, we look at his cute pictures on the fridge and we want him back but we only would want him if he was healed completely. But then we realize that Kole wouldn't want to come back. Why would he? He has everything he ever dreamed of and much more in heaven. Knowing this gives me great comfort. Everytime I think I should have given him something or taken him to a special restaurant that we never made it to can make me feel bad. It does not take long for me to get out of the pit and realize that he eats much better food and plays on the fastest gators in heaven. He has not missed out on one thing. Praise the Lord.

I have to thank God for his great mercy. I can actually say that I am very happy. Even though I miss Kole I am happy. It is amazing how God takes care of every part of me. Someone was telling me that some people were very concerned for me because of the fact that I had faith that Kole was going to be healed by God. I don't know if these people thought that I would go into great depression or be mad at God if Kole would not be healed here on earth. I will yell it from every mountain top that our GOd is good and a loving God. No one, I mean no one, can go wrong having faith that our Lord Jesus can and will heal you or a loved one. With this faith and seeking the Lord through His word and prayer is healing in and of itself. God has healed Kole and he has healed my heart. I am constantly thinking about this verse in Philipians 4:4-7

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Refoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. THe Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to GOd. And the peace of GOd, which trancends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

YOu see that part that I put in bold print is the important part for me right now. The bible speaks constantly about trusting GOd or having faith in HIm. I did not need to guard my heart or my ego because GOd will do it for me. In fact, I asked my sister why wouldn't someone trust God. He is the best you can get. She replied with something Beth Moore says, "People do not want to be wrong." After going through this, I know that this is part of it and the other part is that we want to guard out emotions so we can prepare ourselves for the worst. But what I have learned is that it is ok to be wrong because God is never wrong. ALso, that we do not need to guard our emotions because GOd does it for us. Who do you want guarding your heart? God or yourself? I choose GOd. I know that if it were up to me to guard my heart I would be a mess. Only God can heal a heart that has lost a precious child. I know that Jesus has guarded my heart. He did not allow me to torture myself with anguish. Jesus is doing the crying for me. We put all of our trust and faith in HIm and He has shown His love for us better than any earthly father could do. For my own father cannot prevent me from having great sorrows but my heavenly father sure has. All I can do is praise my GOd because sometimes I just sit and think wondering how I am functioning. I know my God is so big and he has taken care of all of my needs.

Psalm 40:1-3
"I waited patiently for the Lord: he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our GOd. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord."

Please continue praying for us as we know and can feel all of your prayers.
God Bless,
Janni

There are many questions that we have! What I witnessed from Janni and Steve was amazing trust! They truly trusted God with Kole! That has not changed! They are glad Kole is truly in God's hands. That trust came from studying God's Word and intense prayer! They had to know who they were trusting. They discovered in depth and detail, our loving God! He walked beside them and Kole the whole way, never leaving them or forsaking them! They will always cling to Him for clinging to God has been engraved into their being! My Aunt Jane had taught me about Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego passing through the firery furnace in Daniel chapter 3. Her Beth Moore Bible Study pointed out that passing through a firery trial leading a person into heaven is the best refinning we can imagine. Why, because it brings the ultimate healing of body, mind, and soul! If Kole's body would have been healed here, he would still have to struggle with his fleshly sin nature. His mind and soul would still be struggling with sin. Now ,that has been healed as well. I did not necessarily see it that way before, but I do now! I was willing to take the sin nature and work with it! I was thinking today, as I was talking to a friend about our childhood memories, that our biggest growing times in childhood comes through failure! God does not need to be taught! He also never fails nor needs to. He does not need to grow or learn. His love is perfect. His plans are higher than our ways. We need to be taught and so, in His great mercy, He allows His children to experience disappointment! I am sure it is hard for Him to allow us to struggle and yet He knows that our character will never grow deep, if all is well all the time! We become stuck in a way! Our minds would be stuck here on this earth, if we had everything we ever wanted right now! God will reward faith and belief in bigger and better ways than we can imagine! It might not come the way we expected it or when we expected it! It all boils down to believing what we cannot see yet! I look around my church on Sunday and say to myself, "we are all here in this building to worship God, who we cannot see and touch"! God told "doubting" Thomas that you believe because you see, but blessed is the man who believes even though he cannot see! Everywhere we are tested on this! We believe we will get up in the morning, even though we cannot see the inner workings of our bodies or the unseen dangers in our environment. Today, my four year old said that we cannot hide from God, because He can find us anywhere. Nothing is hidden from God. There is so much hidden from us! We really are blind in a way! Why did God take Kole when we prayed and believed? Right now the answer is hidden from us. Heaven is hidden from us! Kole is hidden from us! The Throne Room is hidden from us! However, we can find some answers through seeking God through prayer. Also, God's Word is not hidden from us! The enemy of our souls does not want us to discover the hidden treasure found in God's Word! I can tell you that God is pleased not to hide His love for you! It written in the rainbow, in the sunset, in fields of harvest, in the mountains and valleys, in the ocean and in all the beauty of His creation! It is written in His Word and than He inscribes it on your heart! I find myself asking God all the time to reaffirm His love for me. He never fails to do just that! There is no one who loves you, like He does! Believe it or not, God's answer of "no"---was not a mean and unloving answer! It was not a punishment! It was His best answer for both Kole and the rest of us! We just have to believe in what we cannot see!

God makes us all so different! He tutors us "One on One" (Psalms 119)! He prepares us for our individual roll on this earth! Mine is quite small! For I spend so much time pondering, I do not always get a whole lot accomplished in the physical realm. I am not very efficient. I would make a terrible doctor and an even worse secretary! Anyway, do not feel unworthy if you question and struggle! Your heavenly "Tutor" is preparing you for His assignment for you. He is a patient teacher. Through this whole process with Kole, I have fallen many times. I have struggled with doubt and have mis-interpreted what God was trying to say and where He was moving. In times alone with God , I almost felt God brush back my hair in a very tender way and say to my heart "you are learning my dear child, get back up so I can continue teaching you"! He is so patient and does not expect perfection, just our attention and willingness to learn. He is the most kind and loving teacher! The enemy of our souls is trying his hardest to get us to give up on God or to get us to "think" God has given up on us. God never gives up on us!!!! We have to be tenacious in our pursuit of God, because we will get hit with these two temptations daily. God will never be tempted to give up on you. Reading the Gospel books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the New Testament will give evidence of this. I love the fact that Jesus chose very regular people, who had much to learn! They had their share of failure and still remained His beloved disciples. However, Jesus never failed them. His love never failed them. His death did not fail them! They did not understand everything Jesus was attempting to teach them when they were with Him, and yet it all became clearer as time went on! Now, I am sure the 12 disciples see Jesus' teaching as crystal clear as they are seated around the throne of heaven by the crystal clear "river of the water of life". Perhaps, Kole is sitting with them, who knows! Out of all the humans who were a part of Kole's journey, Kole is the only one who understands God's decision right now!


Here is an example of the Disciples feeling sad over and not understanding God's plan.

Matthew 17:22-23

"When they (Disciples and Jesus) came together in Galilee, he said to them, 'The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men. They will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised to life.' And the disciples were filled with grief."

Even when the disciples got to see Jesus come back from the dead, they only had the short extra period of 40 days with Jesus, until Jesus ascended up to heaven.

John 15:17
"Some of his disciples said to one another, "What does he mean by saying, 'In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,' and 'Because I am going to the Father'? They kept asking, "What does he mean by 'a little while'? We don't understand what he is saying."

"Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, "Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, 'In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me'? I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy."

Jesus also says in John 14:1-3
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."

Kole loved a song by Audio Adrenaline ---It is about the Father's House--- it goes something like "It's a big big house with lots and lots of rooms---It has a big big yard where we can play football---That's my Father's house". Kole's favorite sport was football! I can still remember him singing that song sitting on his mom's lap in my dinning room.

May our grief be turned to joy!

Jodi

Janni and I enjoyed talking on the phone yesterday! I shared with her some of the comments you have made! She does not have internet access at her new home, as of yet! It was good to hear her voice chipper and full of hope and love! It is only God, I know! He continues to carry them through this lonely time! My mom is staying with Janni! I know today they are going on a shopping trip to the Detroit, Michigan area.

I was told a cute story about Jaelle! Kole has always taken on the roll of "policing" Jaelle! My mom had allowed Jaelle to use permanent markers with her aid. Jaelle, said she cannot wait to go to heaven and tell Koley, that she is allowed to use markers! My children were pretending yesterday and made a place for heaven and another place for hell! They have had their world expanded beyond the borders of this earth! Leah, keeps saying she cannot wait to go to heaven. Today, she said it would be fun to go to heaven as a child! My oldest son had said the same thing, when he was younger! I must say that I had my eyes closed so tight, to the thought of heaven coming at an early age! However, God in His wisdom has shown our entire family that heaven is not far off and not to be feared, even at an early age. Hell is to be feared, not heaven! Jaelle had counseled Leah, the night of Kole's death that she should not cry because Kole was in heaven with Jesus! Jaelle was smiling and happy to have Leah sleep in her bed and yet Leah was sad! Jaelle said "I know Leah , I will pray for you. Jesus can fix everything"! It was healing , hearing Jaelle pray for Leah. It was not long after Jaelle's prayer, that Leah drifted off to sleep! Jaelle however took a little longer, I have grown closer to my little niece as well. She is generous with her love. I soak it in like a sponge. I enjoyed her little frame sitting on top of my round belly and her small arms wrapped around my neck at the funeral! She has a new girl cousin to meet and love soon! Kole has helped grow our love for one another! I cannot tell you the love I have for my sister, it is amazing how God has knitted us together! Mostly through praying together and loving Kole together next to his bed! Those conversations we had, I will never forget! I will never forget how Kole could make Janni chuckle with delight and how her chuckle would never fail to bring out the most precious smile on Kole's face! There was one priceless moment I recall between Janni and I. We both were talking about our love for our Lord and the spiritual battle we had been fighting together alongside one another. This moment took place as we sat on Kole's bed around a week before Kole went to be with Jesus! We promised we would love each other's children as our own and work together to raise them to love Jesus! It was a beautiful moment that I will never forget. I ache to see her, as I recall it! I am proud to share so much "blood" between her! We share our physical heritage and the blood of Christ! We share our burdens, our triumphs and our children! We share love! This is the body of Christ! If you read in the beginning chapters of the book of Acts about the body of Christ, you see that they shared everything and became one family and served one another! I read those chapters and desire "history" (early first church history) to adopt me on the spot! It is a reflection of the great love of Christ working through whom He indwells! We welcome you, into our family! There is plenty of room and plenty of love. You know God takes us just as we are! There are no strings attached! The greater your difficulty, the greater His love and forgiveness! Amazing grace is what saved a wretch like me! We are full of struggle and far from perfect! God has taken us and made something amazing. He is the only one who can turn us around in our dysfunctions. He is our only hope for wholeness and healing! A testimony states how God has taken us from point A---despair and defeat, to point B---joy and victory! I sit back and marvel at His work! He has brought joy and victory out of the home-going of a small child. Show us your glory God,--- through your beautiful transforming work in our lives! To those who have joined the body of Christ, my heart swells with love for you----I say welcome! Zephaniah 3:17 "The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love, He will rejoice over you with singing".

Acts 4:32-34

"All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them."

You have done a wonderful job taking care of the needs of Kole and his family! Your prayers were and are the biggest blessing! We can tell you are praying! How can something so intangible be so affective! We will one day see all that prayer accomplished and accomplishes! Kole is seeing it now!

Jodi

I believe Kole would have been overcome with your love, if he could have attended his own funeral! My sister would worry that his head would expand in pride. Of course, that is not a danger anymore! He no longer struggles with his fleshly weaknesses!Thank you for such compassion and support shown. I am sure Kole would be relieved to know his parents were well taken care of! I believe Kole has indirectly rescued more people in his six short years, than most people whose lives spans through many decades has had opportunity to do. He is pleased I am sure. We can call him a "rescue hero" for Christ! We love you Kole! You are forever engraved on our hearts! I am sure Jesus is entertained with your conversation, we certainly were! I also know that you are enjoying Jesus! We only see Christ in part here, and have difficulty keeping Him the center focus!

Getting back to a normal routine, for me, has been difficult! The emotional and physical drain of the last few weeks has taken most of my "energy"! I have not been home to call Janni and so I wonder if she feels the same! Looking around my house I see the neglect and the work to do!Our "historical" home always has repairs waiting! I am looking at a window screen flapping in the wind, reminding me of my two year old who had taken it upon himself to take a small screen tear and make it bigger---much bigger! When it happened it did not phase me, for Kole's struggle was so much more significant in my mind! I look around and at all the burdens of this life and know for sure that God never intended for this to be our permanent home! My plea to God is that He will keep us in the palm of His hand! I marvel at our journey and how He blessed us with His presence! I never want to live without Him! That would truly be darkness and despair! Getting back to His Word and to our knees is everything we need to keep moving fore ward. I want to be like my nephew, having his courage. He really never worried about saving himself! I believe he has inspired us to focus on rescuing the perishing. We tried to rescue his life for him here, and yet Kole must have already known Jesus was his "Rescue Hero" and heaven was his home.

Now what do we do? Isaiah 50:4-6 and 10.

"The Sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He awakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught. The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears, and I have not been rebellious; I have not drawn back."

"Who among you fears the LORD and obeys the word of his servant? Let him who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the LORD and rely on His God."

Amplified version "Who among you who [reverently] fears the Lord, who obeys the voice of His Servant, yet who walks in darkness and deep trouble and has no shining splendor [in his heart]? Let him rely on, trust in, and be confident in the name of the Lord, and let him lean upon and be supported by his God".

God's word is truly a light to our path and to our healing!

Jodi

Here is the website to see Kole's obituary. It is www.grofffuneralhomes.com/obituaries.

Jodi

Many thoughts and feelings run through our hearts and minds at this time! Time with God is of utmost importance, to talk to Him and sort out all that has happened! In many ways, some things have become clearer and other things we have to practice our trust in our God! The good news is that we have gotten to know the most wonderful and only God of this universe! We know ALL His plans are good, even though they do not feel good or seem good! We believe some day He will share why he took Kole at such a young age from loving parents who loved God! For an example of how we can be mistaken, we have seen in our environment such things that we thought we were helping God out and the opposite has held true. I have heard of a story (my facts might not be exact) where a country had brought in snakes to eat poison frogs to get rid of the danger of the poison frogs. The snakes became poisonous and the problem became much worse! We trust that God knows what He is doing and for that reason His way is best for Kole and the Kellers! If we would try to force our way (which would be impossible) I believe that we would miss out on God's best design! We did, however, do all we could do to pester and beg God for what we wanted! We even had many believers help in petitioning before His throne! For God to veto our petition for Kole's continued life here, must have meant we were lacking understanding of some unknown factors. God basically said He had a better idea and to trust Him. We as humans are so limited in our understanding of things. We live a relatively short time period! We see little of the past and none of the future. We live only at one place at one time and only experience a small portion of the geographical locations of this earth! Our minds are limited and flawed! Our morality is flawed! What we might think sounds and looks right sometimes can be dead wrong to God! We as believers see ourselves underneath His loving wings and underneath His authority. There is only room for God to be on the throne of our lives! He decides and we stay in awe of Him bowed at His feet! He is all loving and all kind. God is beyond time! It will be no time at all before Kole sees us again. Time is not important in heaven! Time was created by God when He created this earth and the heavens that surround us! That is how we have our lunar calender and our 24 hour day! God is everywhere all the time! God made the past, makes the present, and is the future. We are limited by time and space! We did not get to walk this earth when Christ walked, we believe so much and have experienced so little.

He sees our hearts and is able to fully love us and mold us to be more like Him! He gives us experience and understanding, if we allow Him! God gives true ever lasting joy and peace and love. It does not come from everything going smoothly in our lives! We could have gotten to keep a healthy Kole with us and yet experience a deep dark depression. Getting what we want, does not guarentee our happiness. True joy is not based on anything but Christ alone.I have always longed to be married and have children. I have gotten that and yet what I was so graciously given was not enough to give me joy. Christ has given me all joy and all love. My family is a bonus. We also realize that this earth, is not our home! God does not want us to be too comfortable here making His creation "our god" and our all! We can easily make this earth our focus, people our focus, careers our focus, entertainment our focus, nature our focus, hobbies our focus, materialism our focus and ourselves our focus! God wants Himself to be our focus! He wants us looking to the cross and not ever taking it forgranted that we have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb! He wants us not living for this earth where every living thing must die! He wants us living for His Kingdom, where every living being will live for all eternity! I believe God when He whispered to my heart that Kole will live! He lives as our Lord lives in the unseen heavenly realm! We believe, have faith and trust in that more than anything! We believed God for Kole to be healed here, and Kole was not! That does not make our faith null and void! It just says that God chose a better plan for our faith, a faith that takes more wait. We will wait to experience Kole's healing with our senses! We did not see Kole's healing yet, though we know it has happened! Just like it took 120 years for Noah to experience the promised flood to occur, all the time preparing the Ark for that moment! We have to wait to see the healing that heaven promises. We will not have to wait 120 years to experience Kole's promised healing. But while we do wait, we will be preparing the "Arks of our hearts"!

God was good and kind and loving all the way! No person brought peace in those last hours. It was only God and His Word! How can God love us through death? How can He not? For that was what was required of Himself! His death led to life and Kole's death led to life. Kole is alive and well! He has helped to take our eyes off of this dying world and up unto Jesus and His heavenly Kingdom! That is the future vacation we are looking forward to in the future! We want many to come with us! All are invited! Kole would be pleased to show you all, his new healthy body, the beautiful body of Christ seated around the throne, and of course Christ! "Oh what manner of love the Father has given unto to us---to behold the beauty, the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in His temple"! We do not know true undying, unending, unyielding, surrounding love yet.....the best is yet to come! We should feel sorry for ourselves that we have to wait! I believe that Judah was such a promise of new life to Janni and Steve! No one could replace Kole and no one can replace God! God just gives us hope through His creation, and through new birth!Judah is evidence of God's handiwork and God did a beautiful work forming Judah in his mother's womb. God performs a beautiful work in birth, of which we see now---- and in death, in which we do not see yet. God knows we need something to see and touch while we wait! This new baby who lays curled up on our shoulder is such a reminder of the glory that is to come. I have learned that there is glory in death---for those who believe in Christ and who are called according to His purpose.The darkness of death comes in not believing!

I love this chorus "In Christ Alone"

In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song
This Cornerstone, this Solid Ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when striving cease
My comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save
Till on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious day
Up from the grave He arose again
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life's first cry to final death
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell, no schemes of man
Can ever pluck me from HIS HAND
Till He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I stand

Jodi

To our dear friends, family and support team we are thankful to announce that Kole Joseph Keller is now at home with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! He left this earth with a smile and a tear around 10:00 PM on Monday night, and was welcomed into the arms of His Heavenly "Da-da". We desired to have him "tough it out" here on this weary world with us, but God knew best and knows best!!!

God always keeps His promises and even in death His promise is kept!We believe God had given Kole some extra time here on earth, from March 23rd until April 9th. It was only a few short weeks of extra time, but they were a gift! Kole was given time to get to see his new baby brother and more time to get hugged on and kissed on by his loving mom and dad! We had more time to get to be loved by Kole, love him, and learn from him. God gave Kole amazing comfort during that time! God allowed us to see this world has no hold on us, for it is all lost and dieing without God. We saw that death is a welcomed relief to those who love Him and know God. That is not the case with those who choose to not allow God to be their Father.

Kole's last few days became more difficult starting on his birthday, Saturday April 7th. However, I believe God was with him in a special way and that his discomfort was seen by us more than felt by him! He was able to have his hospital bed placed in his new room and yet his favorite decoration was of course his mom and dad! They prayed and stood beside Kole morning, noon, and night! They were tender beyond measure and full of love for their boy! They were also full of love for our God! They are still full of love for our God! Kole had hospice come to the house. They were so kind and comforting to Kole! One hospice worker told me that she has learned a lot about life and death through her job! I have to admit that hospice work was and is my one occupation that I am afraid of the most! This one hospice worker sees beauty in death all the time! As I pondered Kole's death and God's desire to take him home, I have thought of all that God was teaching us about heaven! Heaven should not be feared, but welcomed. Heaven is where the glory of God shines the brightest!Heaven contains the perfect love of our perfect Father! Heaven is a promise! Heaven should be welcomed! My pastor said once that this time on earth is like a dot at the end of a ray! Heaven is the ray! It goes on forever. We are to live this short time/dot on this fallen earth for our God and His eternal heavenly kingdom! Our fingers have been pride off of this world in way, and they have been placed around the ankles/feet of Jesus! We have learned to cling to Him! What more can we ask! It is a miracle! We have seen His Word deliver us time and time again! We have known that He has heard everyone of our prayers! We know He is a good God! Nothing brought us joy like God and His Word did! We have gained an intimacy with Him, that will carry us through this difficult world and give us the strength and courage to get through the Kingdom work left to do. One day we will be with our precious boy again! Oh boy, do we miss him! We know we will spend eternity together having a running , leaping, and praising God party all day long! Forever! I hope there will be twinkies!

Steve and Janni are truly believing God! Steve says the thing he is going to miss most is the empty arms and not being able to carry his son! They both are pleased and relieved that Kole is not limited but completely restored and with His true Father! Steve's mother puts it like this----Our children belong to God! He gives them to us as a blessing. We are to take care of them, but they are ultimately His. We need to be thankful that He gives them to us for any length of time.

He can ask for them back, and many times He does not ask for their earthly lives back so early! He does ask for us to raise our children for Him and give them to Him in a spiritual way. But, when He does call them home, He has a perfect plan! This was God's perfect plan for Kole. We believe it and trust it, even though we do not understand yet and do not see the whole picture yet! Until then, we get to know God in the "here and now" more and more. He is the only One who will never leave us or forsake us! We do not have to wait to know Him! There is never a parting with Our God. He follows us and is with us from conception into eternity and beyond. There is nothing like "the With of God" or like His presence! People pale in comparison.

He has wrapped Janni and Steve in His love and is pleased with them! They have believed Him, even at the risk of being wrong! In that, they were right! Believing God is the right way to live! We believe even though we cannot see all and know all, for we trust our God who sees all and knows all for us! We trust His Word and are not afraid to believe! We are afraid not to believe.

Death of King David's young son---2 Samuel 12:18-22

"On the seventh day the child died, David's servants were afraid to tell him that the child was dead, for they thought, "While the child was still living, we spoke to David but he would not listen to us. How can we tell him the child is dead? He may do something desperate." David noticed that his servants were whispering among themselves and he realized the child was dead. "Is the child dead ?" he asked.
"Yes", they replied, "he is dead"
Then David got up from the ground, After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped......His servants asked him, "Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!"
He answered, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought 'who knows? The Lord may be gracious to me and let the child live'. But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me".

Kole's funeral is Friday at 11:00 A.M. at their large church called "The Chapel" in Sandusky, Ohio. There is a one hour visitation before hand at 10:00 A.M.

On Thursday (At the Chapel church) visitation will be (I believe) from 5:00-8:00. If I am wrong I will send an update!

Jodi
Have fun with Jesus, Kole! Your mommy and daddy glow their love for you! Your life has impacted us forever! God has imprinted His love, faith, and truth way down deep in our soul through your life!

Hello, I thought I would run by a quick update on Kole! I just talked to my dad and he said he is amazed at the progress Kole has made this week! My father said this with joy in his voice! Kole happened to be weak on his left side last week. However, this week Kole is using mostly his left side. He even uses his left hand to eat! Kole's left side seems remarkably stronger! Is that not God or what! Also, my dad (Kole's grandpa Sprunger) over heard Kole tell his father (Steve) that he is going to take a picture of his mom and dad with him to college! That just gives a tiny hint to the strong bond of love that they have established. My dad said I do not remember even thinking about college at his age! My mom told me he keeps turning down tylenol! He actually has hospice nurses working with him. He gets a massage every day! I have heard Kole enjoys his massage! He is very talkative and alert! His mind is sharp as a tack, which is quite amazing, since it is his brain that should be the most affected.

By the way volunteers are cleaning the Keller's new home today and are beginning to move their belongings into their home. By tomorrow they should be in their new home! Tomorrow is also Kole's birthday. Happy sixth birthday Kole!

Here is the passage I read today, to my children. It comes from Acts 27. Paul has been on a ship off the island of Crete. There has been a fierce storm for a number of days and the crew has given up hope of survival (vs.20). Paul goes on to encourage the crew with this message from Acts 27:22

"But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. Last night and angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me and said, "Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you". So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me.

Jodi

Janni and I just finished talking on the phone! I could hear Judah on the other end of the line getting impatient! He has only nursed most of the day and yet 15 minutes away from the comfort of his mom, was just too much!! Janni said he was good yesterday, but it all hit the fan today with this little newborn! How could a small 8 lb bundle be so demanding and consume so much time and energy? Janni said with Jaelle being sick, her three children call for "a four man job"! Kole takes one parent, Jaelle takes one grandparent, the newborn takes up Janni and then they need someone to feed them! She laughs at the craziness, because it is rather ridiculous. She also knows that it will get better. She has been blessed by all the volunteers who have painted her new house, put in the appliances, and who will move her stuff into their house on Saturday! By the way, Kole's birthday is Saturday and he wants to see some of his friends. That is something, for he has been too sick to desire guests. Steve and Janni will not be able to help their volunteers move their belongings into their own house! This is so against their nature and yet God has caused them to require the love of so many to takeover for their physical housing needs. They also require much spiritual support as well, which "big time" includes prayer! Thank you to the person who sent the verse from Zechariah 10:6 "I will strengthen the house of Judah and save the house of Joseph, I will restore them because I have compassion on them....". That verse made Janni's day! And as her big sister, I love it when she sounds uplifted! Kole's middle name is "Joseph" as most of you already know!

I can imagine that everyone wants to know how Kole is doing! Janni said he has been doing better everyday since he got home from the hospital! He is using his left hand more and has asked to eat, which is always a blessing and answer to prayer! Janni said he really does not ask for pain killers, even though they are offered to him! I can just imagine the hosts of Angels that are ministering to his physical needs even at this very moment. This type of brain cancer usually results in horrible pain, especially head pain and leg pain! The doctors can usually help with the leg pain, but not with the head pain unless they put in a shunt, surgically, to remove some of the pressure! Why he is not in pain, is purely God and your intercessory prayers! This week the Lord has spoken to my heart about truly trusting Kole into His care! I have to laugh at myself, for what in the world did I get off thinking I could help Kole's pain or discomfort or anything along those lines! Prayer is my best bet, for helping my darling nephew! I love him so, for there is something about sitting around a sick child's bedside and praying your heart out for that frail and oh so valuable child! I need to devote myself in that way, to my own children! There is a tenderness that comes to one's heart, when one prays to the God of Heaven and Earth on any sick/needy person's behalf! We as a church grow our love for each other through intercessory prayer for one another! I know many of you do not even know Kole, but love him through your prayers and even gain more love for this unknown child! I bet you feel like you almost know him! Janni cannot wait to tell Kole of you and your love for him! She just told me that tonight! Pray that Janni gets time with the Lord. She misses the hours spent in His Word and in seeking His presence! She is so busy that she barely gets a shower! I told her that her spiritual bank account is full to over flowing! But that does not matter to her, she misses her time with her Lord and Savior!

Tonight my church had a special church service! I cannot remember the Latin name for it! I had such "need" to be there tonight! It was what I call a "Divine Appointment". I have been confused this week! Almost as if there was a dark cloud over me! Funny, because the weather changed at the same time, and warm sunshine was exchanged for cold snow! Anyway, I started wondering if we were really hearing God and if maybe I had been mistaken! I really don't doubt God, but I do doubt myself! My good friend Liz Ward, at church encouraged me not to doubt God's work in us! Tonight, as we took communion, I got down on my knees asking for this dark confused cloud to be removed! It was as if God was saying (as Beth Moore said God has said to her) "You have only begun to believe me"! I believe God was saying to me and even to the church "I am pushing for more belief out of you"! I know I short change myself and say to God in my heart "haven't I believed you enough"! God has more confidence in us than we have in ourselves! We really do not have examples around us of "extreme believing believers". My oldest son said that he wants to be a missionary. He really does not like the idea of the discomforts of the third world. However, he (Josiah) said to me that he wants to go to the places where Christians face persecution, because we have it way too easy here! I thought to myself, where did he get that kind wisdom at twelve years of age! He is right you know! It seems that it takes "extreme fire" to produce "extreme belief". Unless we make a decision on our own to surrender to the Most High God! The more we know Him the easier it will be to trust Him with our lives and the lives of our family! I felt His calling tonight to extreme belief, trust, and faith! He wants us to be equipped to minister to this dying and hurting world! It seems so depressing but that is how the enemy has deceived us ! I believe the riches of this life are found in ministering the way Jesus did, when He walked this earth! Those poor disciples lived a rather sheltered life away from the "unclean" and diseased people around them. This was before they became followers of Christ! Their "law" and society required their separation from anything considered "unclean", if they were to be "good Jews". I am sure they did not put up much of a fuss, because it is of course easier to live in our "comfort zone", ignoring the pain in this world. After they put down their nets, they picked up the poor and needy and became fisher's of men! I bet they discovered the most rewarding job of their entire lives! They were "hooked"(or netted) for life, I am sure! I never thought that I could face being at the bedside of a child fighting brain cancer! I thought I would emotionally fall apart, and go into a pit of despair! The opposite has held true! There are times when it is difficult to see him suffer! God has been gracious and has made those times relatively short lived! He has given us victory after victory over all of Kole's pains and sufferings. For the most part Kole is resting comfortably or talking! Facing this hardship, has instead made us become more "real" and our Lord-----He really has become REAL!!! God is AWESOME!! He is kind and entertaining and delightful to know! I must say I believe He has the kindest eyes and the most warm loving smile you can imagine! He deserves our awe and worship and yet He is approachable, hugable and lovable! Instead of the "pit of despair" we get to experience a bit of the "throne room of heaven"! He has rewarded us, with Himself!

These verses hint at the kind of reward that God has for us when we allow Him to use us as His representatives before a hurting world. Christ did this and now He does it through us!

Isaiah 61:1-3
"He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners........to comfort all who mourn and provide for those who grieve in Zion----"
"TO BESTOW ON THEM A CROWN OF BEAUTY, instead of ashes"
"THE OIL OF GLADNESS, instead of mourning"
"THE GARMENT OF PRAISE, instead of the spirit of despair"
"They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor".

Is. 61:9
"Their descendants will be known among the nations and their offspring among the peoples. All who see them will acknowledge that they are a people the Lord has blessed."

I was sharing with my precious church "sisters", how this valley has seemed so long! I told them how I could relate to the movie, "Facing the Giants"! There is a portion on that movie where the football coach has his player perform this amazing feat of strength. Anyway, he crawls across the entire length of the football field using only both hands and both feet, while carrying a 160 lb fellow player on his back! The coach blind folds him so that he does not see how far he has to go!This was pointed out by my good friend, Kim Allison. I finally got the fact, that we too have been "blindfolded" in a way. This wise coach knew the player would give up if he saw how hard "this coach", was planning on pushing him! The coach was teaching him to give all he had and not to reserve anything based on what the player could "see"! We get overwhelmed if we see the distance, for in our minds it seems impossible!

Sometimes, it may seem impossible to have great faith---but with God "all things are possible"! It may even seem that God is expecting way too much out of us! He has more confidence in us, then we do in ourselves! God will not steer us wrong! He wants our lives to mean something and to be used for God's great glory! We have many "crowns" at stake! Crowns that we get to cast before His feet! God is a great coach and does He ever love his players! He laid his life down for them and has given us His "resurrection power" to overcome! We just need to keep listening to His encouragement and keep going! By the way, God also adds fellow players to help. I am thankful for my teammates, Grace Community Church of Lima, Ohio and all of you out there!


Jodi

Hello,
As most of you know things have been kind of crazy. But nothing that our good Lord cannot handle. The devil continues to want us to think that we are alone and that Jesus will not save Kole. God continues to reassure us everyday. I know all of these turmoils are all for His glory. Lets face it. Only by the work of the greater power would Jude be born on the same day that Kole would have to be taken to the hospital. Then, our house should finally be finished by the end of this week. All of these huge issues in our lives are coming to a beautiful end.

God continues to pour blessings on our family during this time. He has yet to dissapoint us and we are confident that He will continue. As it says in Psalms 119:116 "Sustain me according to your promise and I will live, do not let my hopes be dashed."

I know our hopes will not be dashed and that God has something perfect in mind.

A couple of months ago a friend of mine came to me and said that he had been walking his dogs real early in the morning and he felt the holy spirit come across him and say that the Kellers cup will over floweth. It is so easy for me to get into a pit and feel sorry for myself. But let me tell you that God continues to bless us over and over again. Forever we can rejoice in His holy name. For our God is near. Let me tell you about some of these blessings. Judah of course was a perfect blessing. He is a good baby and he slept pretty good last night. Kole continues to do ok. He is very tired but he does not complain of very much pain. He cracked me up today. He was so alert that he wanted to hold Jude. He had a great smile on his face when Jude was in his arms. Kole started talking to him and making sweat baby sounds. It was quite precious. Then Kole went to give him a kiss and Jude began rooting. Kole threw up his arm and said, "No, no! No boobies here." It made us all laugh. God is good and continues to sustain him. How about, Steve's dad called today. He went over to our house and met the floor people. God used them to bless us too. Steve's dad ended up buying them lunch because they worked until 4:00 am on our floors, slept on the floor for a couple hours and then finished laying the carpet this moring so we could get into the house as soon as possible. What a sacrifice. Another friend of ours was so kind to give us his appliances. He even has gone to the trouble of getting them to our house for us. What a huge blessing. Steve was named teacher of the week by some local radio station. I guess one of his students nominated him. What an honor. God has our cup overflowing.
Please continue to pray for us all day long as the devil is always attacking or trying to attack. Today, Ellie has now come down with a fever and she is sick. Thank goodness for all the help. Please pray that Ellie gets over this illness quickly and that the rest of the family stays healthy.

Oh, here is another praise. Kole just asked for peanut butter and jelly toast. He has not wanted to eat for quite some time now. Ya!! He has also asked for chili. Our neighbor brought us over some and Kole said he likes to eat chili on days like today. He ate three bites and liked it. Praise the Lord.


God Bless,
Janni

Thank you for the encouragement on the blog. I read many of the comments to Janni over the phone, while she was still in the hospital. I could hear her weep on the other end of the line. She was overcome with your kindness.

I feel a need to pray. God you are kind, we see your kindness through your body of believers. Lord, you cannot be predicted, even though we have tried to pin you down! You, Lord, are not limited by anything! You have power over all cancers and all of man's abilities. Dear Lord, you are patient as we seek you and sometimes get you wrong! You see our attempts to love you, worship you, learn about you, believe you, and trust you! You are a patient coach and teacher. When we fall you brush the hair from our brow and help us to stand to our feet. You call us to stand in our "God given shoes" and not be swayed by this world! Lord, we trust you entirely with Kole! We have seen how you have provided for him over and over! You appointed the most adoring parents to be his guardian. Parents who have laid down their life for their son! You have flooded these two human parents with a love for you that overflows to those around them. You have called them to your side and have led them all the way with you outstretched hand and staff. They have looked to you alone as much as is humanly possible! You have spoken to their hearts and spoken through your Word. They have believed you, they do believe you, and they will believe you! Lord, please pour out your peace and rest on their spirit. You know they are weary and have come to a place where the need to rest is written all over their faces! We worship you for you have felt all that they have felt. You have spent time on this weary earth and were acquainted with much grief. You, yourself, became tired and overcome with the task at hand. Jesus inside of one day, you were beaten until you were not recognizable, forced to carry a cross while loosing blood, and than nailed to the cross you carried. Jesus, your Heavenly Father was forced to turn His back on you as the entire load of all man's sins rested on you! Then, it was finished. You were buried and than in three day you rose again. You conquered sin and death. Lord, please teach us to honor and worship you even when the enemy accuses you of forgetting us! Let us not forget you and the cost you paid for our sinful selves! You never forget us, you never leave us, and you never forsake us! Teach us to wait on you as you are busy caring for Kole right now! You are providing for him in many unseen ways! You are keeping him company and have your angels encamped around Kole as he rests underneath your wings! It is in your wonderful glorious hands to give him back to us. We know it is far better for you to keep him with you! We believe what you have spoken in our heart and soul! We will wait for you as we worship you and learn of you through your word.

Kole should now be home in Oak Harbor with his family and new baby brother! They have given him a catheter to release his urine. He sleeps peacefully most of the time! He will awaken for short periods of times to talk. He is given demerol, a pain killer, as needed. He only had it once yesterday morning. He has taken in very little "physical food" but I am positive Janni and Steve are feeding him the bread of life/God's Word. The Word of God has been Kole's main staple! He does wake up from time to time to talk and always looks for his "Mamma and/or Dad-da"! When he calls for his "Dad-da" it reminds me of what our Heavenly Father is called in the Bible. He is call "Abba"! You cannot imagine better parents for Kole! My heart swells with pride for the fine job that they are doing! Kole trusts in their care for him. We must trust in God's care for us! I think that is why God calls us to be like little children.

Isaiah 40:28-31
".....He will not grow tired or weary and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Isaiah 40:28-31 Amplified "......there is no searching of His understanding. He gives power to the faint and weary, and to him who has no might He increases strength [causing it to multiply and making it to abound] . Even youths shall faint and be weary, and [selected] young men shall feebly stumble and fall exhausted; But those who wait for the Lord [expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired.

p.s. Janni I have tried to call you, my dear sister. I have sent you an email!

Love,
Jodi

To our wonderful friends and family! We have a wonderful God deserving of all worship and praise! Even when things seem difficult, He is good and kind and full of mercy and grace. God is beyond our ways and way above our thinking! We are under Him, under His good plan for us! We trust Him and believe Him. We believe His Word!

Kole is not in pain and is sleeping restfully! Last night, Kole had a cat scan. He still has brain tumors. His main difficulty is eliminating his urine! Other than that, and a few leg pains here and there he is comfortable. By the way they had to take him off the IV due to the fact that the extra fluids build up pressure in the brain.

We know that the comfort Kole is receiving is from the loving hand of God! Last week, Kole was in agony. That has not been the case this week! Janni and Steve are committed to God's ways. They are committed to His Word and to prayer! They will remain in Him! It says in John 15:5 (My favorite chapter) "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing"! They are His children and have sought God with their whole being and found God to be true and good and all powerful. His ways are far above our ways. It is good that He does what He sees as best, for we cannot see past the end of our noses. We trust God's sight! He sees and He knows! They have faith. Faith that will last through the fire! They also have hope! All their hope is in God alone! I know God is delighted by their love for Him. Janni said today that God was good! Satan tried everything to tempt Job to deny God, and yet Job held firm to His faith and to His God! We can sure relate to Job during this time! As I say that, I am filled with love for God. He has performed a miraculous work in our lives already in the "change of heart". He has set our hearts towards Him and away from this world! We have gotten to experience His presence in a real way! Steve said last Saturday that he has never longed for the return of Christ more, due to getting to experience a small taste of his glorious presence! We cannot put into words what happened last weekend, for we have nothing to compare it to, on this earthly realm.

Hebrews 11:1 (Amplified) "Now Faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of things [we] hope for, being proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses].

Please continue to pray for God's direction and His glory! Pray for God's love and presence to surround them.

Love,
Jodi

Kole and his new brother Judah

taking a nap together.

Well, we have a new baby report. Janni and Steve and I were upstairs praying together late Saturday night when she reported a contraction. I told Janni that since she was already almost 4 cm dilated that she better head for the hospital. Steve fearing that he would have to deliver his own baby, could not agree more. He had a sparkle in his eye and his loving smile betrayed such pride and loyalty for his wife and children. Janni decided to go natural and actually did not have much of a choice. By the way, she does not recommend it. Steve lovingly said Janni was hilarious! Of course, it did not feel "hilarious". When they got to the hospital, she was transitioning from 7 to 8 cm to 9 cm. Judah David Keller was born about 45 minutes after their arrival. His was born around 2:17 A.M. this Sunday.He weighed 8 lbs 2 oz and was 21 inches long. He has a lighter complexion and a different look than the other two. I would say he looks more like Jaelle than Kole. He is a good newborn, rarely making a peep.

Also, both Janni and Steve prayed and made the decision to bring Kole to the hospital this morning as well. He needed fluids and is on an IV. The good thing is that his room is separated by a wall from Janni's. The nurses were so kind and accommodating. They said they have never had this type of situation happen. One nurse had been there for over 30 years. The nurses were so touched and full of compassion. God takes care of the Kellers wherever they go! Please pray for Janni and Steve and Kole. They hardly had any sleep the night before and their lives are in such an "uproar". We are thankful God is in control and knows what He is doing. I happened to sleep with Kole the night his parents were gone. I told him stories and we talked. He told me everything he knew about cheetah's/leopards for he enjoys learning new information. I have to ask myself continually how old this boy truly is, for his thoughts are way beyond his years. Janni and I both were pondering the same verse, out of the blue, during this time. It comes out of Matthew 7:7. The verse says "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you shall find; knock and the door will be opened to you". This is a very overwhelming time for them. Please pray! My heart feels heavy. I cast my cares upon Him. In the same way, my love has grown and I feel overcome with compassion! God is with them and I am glad. He is all sufficient. This family is truly special. They are kind and offer smiles to all they meet! All who know them, love them. They too have much love to pour out and they give bold testimony to their loving and faithful God wherever they go! If there was ever a time when they needed extra encouragement and prayer, it is now! Don't ever forget that God is good and that He has the whole world in His hands. Thank you for praying. I had asked God to lay it on your hearts to pray over the last two days! They have needed the loving out pour of the body of Christ! Please put them on prayer chains and tell many to pray.

Love,
Jodi