Page 29 - Journey of Hope by Raymond Moldenhauer

DAY42

A GRANDMOTHER'S THOUGHTS

When Ray asked me to share my thoughts, I hesitated at first
because it would mean sharing my heart – and my heart is very
fragile right now. As many of you know, I am a physical therapist
with a specialty in infants. Because of this 30-year carrier, I am
aware of all of the possible scenarios that can occur in a
preemie’s life, and sometimes that knowledge becomes too
overwhelming. Our Lord tells us “Do not be anxious, but in all
things, pray and rejoice”. I cling to this verse, and through
various ways, our Lord has comforted me and assured me that
He has a plan, and in His timing, we will bring Alyssa home.

I am constantly in awe when I look upon my tiny, frail
granddaughter and realize that she is created in the image of
God – perfect in every way – and I love her. When I gaze into her
big round eyes, I am whisked back to a day 27 years ago, when I
gazed into my daughter’s eyes for the very first time. The
resemblance astounds me, and through it, I experience God’s
love to me and His overwhelming love for my two girls.

I have been honored with a glimpse of God’s love when I watch
my beautiful daughter tenderly care for her tiny child. When I
see her unconditional love, and her sacrifices (pumping 8 times
a day, staying each day at Alyssa’s bedside, holding her frail
body for hours without moving so as not to dislodge the
breathing tube, and in countless other ways), again, I experience
His love. I also get a glimpse of God’s love when Heidi softly
sings “Amazing Grace” or “How Great Thou Art” to Alyssa, and God has used a helpless, frail infant to bring us all closer to Him. May our
she immediately calms down. Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, bless all of you, and may you too, glimpse His
love as we travel this long journey.
I reflect back on the many experiences in Heidi’s life that have
prepared her and paved the way for her to handle this
extraordinary journey. God can, and does use “all things for
good to those that love Him”. This is so evident by all of the love
and prayer support that has showered Alyssa and her family.