~ Sweet Tricia ~

 

"No doubt need mar your peace." - Come Away My Beloved

For those of you that also follow me on Facebook you know that for years I've been posting updates, prayer requests, and photo's of my sweet friend Tricia . Tricia and Nathan are dear friends from my time at Liberty University . Nathan sang on a traveling ministry team that I helped do administrative work for and I met Tricia through him .  Instantly I loved her too. Nathan and Tricia allowed me the wonderful opportunity while I was in Seminary to use them for my Marital Counseling project . They where newly engaged and planning a summer wedding at the time . It was so amazing of them to be my counseling guinea pigs . Through that project I was able to learn so much more about them both as individuals, a couple , their romance and Tricia's illness . I think it's because of that project that I feel so attached to them both . It takes a lot to let a person PRACTICE counsel you . I'm grateful for their willingness and honesty through the project . It was a project I had originally dreaded, but ended up being so much fun . I'm confident it's because of my guinea pigs :-)

Several years ago Tricia underwent a lung transplant and late yesterday she was listed with UNOS for a second lung transplant .  The lung transplant wasn't the only miracle to come from that time in their life . At the time Tricia was first listed for her first transplant she was praying for a child . To read all the amazing details of the first part of her journey with her transplant please check out her husband, Nathan's blog here or Tricia's blog here .  They both are wonderful at keeping everyone up to date on Tricia's progress as well as the journey of their beautiful daughter Gweneth. Gweneth is a walking miracle and reminder that God hears us so very clearly .

"Yet, all this time, since before we were even married, Tricia had been praying a secret prayer…it was even a secret to me. Tricia had been praying for a miracle baby." - Nathan Lawernson -

 The Story
 

I must say  to read Nathan's updates and telling of this time in their life is a wonderful testimony . I often find myself amazed at both of their strength, but  his as a caregiver, husband, father, foster parent, and minister continues to be a reflection to me of God's love and sacrifice for His children .

When I am feeling sick, complaining , or just being a punk about life God quickly reminds me of Tricia . I know I'm not with them during this journey physically so I'm sure there are days she is upset about it all . I mean who wouldn't be ?! But the grace they each have shown , the honesty that they have shared via their blogs and FB pages , and the out pouring of love they have been shown by people all over reminds me that God is still at work and He will use ANYTHING if you let Him for His glory . The rough spots of life aren't so rough when God's in control . Tricia's life and testimony really puts my poor attitude into check . I'm grateful to her for that . She may never realize what a picture of grace she is to so many .

"But I hold onto my faith, God's promises, hope, and optimism. No matter how difficult it may seem." - Tricia Lawerenson - Faith Hope and Love
 

Why am I writing about these people ? Not just to publicly praise them for the strength and faith they've shown , though I do believe they deserve a pat on the back or twenty . Mainly I want to share their story and the work that God is doing through them both in such a difficult time . I want to call out for prayers from those of you that are believers and even those of you that aren't, but believe in the power of prayer . And then there's support - I can't imagine the expense financially this is for their little family . Many in their community have held fund raisers on Tricia's behalf , baby sat for free and made meals in times when they are so busy who can think to cook ?! I know they both are grateful for God's provision and believe He will continue to provide.  If you are interested in supporting please, check out Nathan's blog to see how you can do so , Confessions of a CF Husband .

I can't say I'd be as graceful as Tricia has been if our roles where reversed . Matter of fact, I'm sure I wouldn't be .  I feel like everyone needs a couple like Nathan and Tricia in their life . I'm blessed to have them as apart of mine . Miles don't matter when God has orchestrated the relationship .

Check out their blogs to read the full story of Nathan , Tricia and Gweneth . I am confident it will remind you of the mighty power, grace and love of our God . I think it will challenge you as well . Join me in prayer for them as they set out on the journey of a lung transplant once again .

Psalm 107:28-30 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven.

 

Matthew 21:22 And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”

 

John 14:13-14 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it

Philippians 4:6-7 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus