I awoke very early Mothers' Day morning after a mostly restless night. As usual, my first instinct was to draw back into the peaceful painless world of sleep. Saturday had been one of the worst days I've ever endured and I didn't know how I'd hold up for the family on Mothers' Day. But it was different this time around. There was no anger, questions of God's goodness or withdrawal into my self protective shell. And as I heard the birds sing their first morning song of praise, inside of me I heard the voice of God say, "Look up Cora; Your redemption draweth nigh." I immediately looked up, half expecting to see Jesus standing there. A strange happiness washed over me as the Lord now taught me from Ps. 23, "When you walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, you will fear no evil for I am with you."

I always thought that meant no evil would touch me but, for the first time, I realized the Lord was not talking about the removal of a circumstance, but of fear. And I saw how much my trust has wavered with my circumstances as I have continued to travel through the Valley of the Shadow of Death. I felt a new ability to face the day no matter what it held for the Lord had truly prepared a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Although we truly believe the time of coming out of the valley is close at hand, whatever I may have to endure through the rest of the valley, I am convinced He is with me.

We have had some very special encouragements. As you have prayed for us God has created unity of vision and Kingdom purposes in us as a family as never before. We have had some unusual visitations of the Holy Spirit to strengthen us. And we have seen more and more that God desires to not only visit but take up residence in this home. He is restoring to us in our little "home church" such things as the power of communion, laying on of hands, and above all, knowing the Truth of the gospel. Sensitivity to sin has grown and even others who enter here at times come under conviction, awareness of spiritual need or spontaneous bursts of prayer (which has happened even with a 6 year old child who came in my room). We know God is preparing us. The way has been harder than anything we have ever known and full of tears and anguish. But beneath it all is forming the answers to our deepest prayers to know and serve God in His way, not our own.

Mothers' Day turned out to be wonderful. Although flat on my back, my husband and children arose to call me blessed what more could a wife and mother want? And I was given one of the most pain free days I've had in months. How I thank Him even for that refreshing respite.

May our next letter be the victory song. We hoped this one would be. You have stood long and hard with us and we know God has great reward for us all just ahead. Thank you dear friends. Please continue remembering us as we await the Lord's day of deliverance. Thank you also for the wonderful cards and letters. I wish I could answer I wasn't sure I could even do this much. But believe me, I treasure you and the work God is doing in and through you. We all love and appreciate you very much.