This has been one horrific week, but one of the bright spots has come from a surprising place - Facebook. Yep. Facebook.
Eek! Don't shoot me yet! Read on. . .
I've been part of Facebook for several years and along the way I've heard a lot of criticism about the site. I've added some of my own. And it's true, when misused Facebook can be a destructive tool. But mostly I've loved the service. I have lots of family and friends who live far away and Facebook offers a great way to stay in touch. It also makes it easy for me to connect with readers and other writers.
This week I have been the recipient of one of the most beautiful gifts Facebook offers - Prayer - Support - Encouragement.
March 22nd, my grandson was in a serious ATV accident. When he was life-flighted to Portland I didn't know if I'd ever see him again - at least not until heaven.
I'm happy to say he's still with us. He's been through a lot and has a long way to go, but he's going to make it. When he came out of surgery one of the doctors told my daughter he didn't know why Ezra was still alive.
I know why. God has a plan for his life and death wasn't part of it . . . not yet anyway. God saved him, and I know He heard all the prayers that were and are being said for Ezra.
As people found out what was happening word got out and the news spread. A lot of that news traveled via Facebook. A friend set up a special page for him called Blessings for Ezra. It's a place to send encouraging notes and to get updates on his condition.
Through the hard days (and there are still lots more to come) people prayed. In part because of Facebook, people around the globe have prayed. They lifted up our family and they lifted Ezra up to God. Words of encouragement, scripture verses and prayers flew across the miles and into our hearts. We have received a tidal wave of emotional and spiritual support.
I liked Facebook before, but now I love it. And I love all of you who cared enough to pray. And those who contacted us - Thank you. You have helped us stand up under this heavy burden.
I don't know about you, but I hope Facebook hangs around for a long time.
Grace and peace to you from God,
Bonnie
I know FB can have it's negatives, but it has also been a blessing for me. It has been a wonderful avenue for me to get to know people I would have never met (such as you) and a place to share needs and get encouragement and love and support and when you need it. Ezra is on my church prayer list and will be prayed for during our service on Sunday. I am also praying for him and your family.
ReplyDeleteAnn Ellison
abilene_nana@yahoo.com
Ann, thank you for leaving a comment. Yes, Facebook has drawbacks, but overall I think it's a good site that offers support and information. I've even had some spirited political discussions, not sure whether that's good or bad, but I'm glad I was able to voice my opinion - with respect of course. And I'm glad I got to meet you.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing Ezra's journey with your church. We are grateful for all the prayers. There has been such an outpouring of support I don't have any idea how many are praying, but I know it is a LOT of people. And God hears.
Bonnie, my prayers are with Ezra, and with you.
ReplyDeleteSpot on in your analysis of Facebook. I don't use it much, but do respect the positive uses I've seen.
Thank you so much, Andrew. We can't have too many prayers. I'm thinking about the movie "It's a Wonderful Life" and how all the prayers went up to heaven. It was just a movie, but so many prayers have been uttered for Ezra, I know God is pleased.
ReplyDelete