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September 06, 2005
9/6/05 pm update from mom!
This is Rick's mom. Although you've not heard from me, Shannon and Candi have captured the sentiments of my heart with each and every post. But I wanted you to hear from me personally. Words cannot express my humility when I see God's people come together in unity over a purpose for one of His own. It is even more humbling when that person is my only son. Yesterday, being Labor Day, was typically a day to be with family and eat lots of food, and yet I am blown away by the response to the call to fast and pray. It was such a sacrifice and God will honor each and every one of you. I am so thankful for each of you who are consistently praying for Rick. I keep a notepad and write down the number of comments under each post so that I won't miss a single blog. You truly have no idea how much encouragement and strength we gain by reading each one. This has been an emotional roller coaster and I admit that at times all I can do is cry. But then I get in the Word, or read the blogs and I am empowered to keep going - to keep praying for healing for my son. I know that my God has the last word! Right now, I still feel the urgency to read the Word over my son and to keep praying for his healing. We feel victorious! Thank you, thank you, thank you for praying the same prayer with me!
Someone said that in the short time Rick has been in the hospital, he has done more for the kingdom (without even realizing it,) than most people do in their lifetime. The stories of people coming to know Christ for the first time or getting to know God more or gaining strength in their prayer life - these are the stories that make me cry "Glory to God in the Highest." These are the stories that make Rick's suffering worth it. We want nothing more than for God to reveal His glory and honor through all of this. I know that I'll never be the same and so many people that have been a part of all this feel the same way. I am so proud to be Rick Pearson's mom!
Posted by Rick at September 6, 2005 05:36 PM
Comments
Hello Pearson Family,
Through the past week I have been listening to music to comfort my heart. Candi about two years ago I was an intern with Rick at Big Stuf and during our training we went to the Passion Conference in Texas. The song of the summer was "Sing to the King" my current cd that I am playing is you singing it. It reminds me that we need to be singing to our Lord during this time.
You are all an encouragement. Keep it up. Here are the lyrics for all of you who are not familar with the song.
Sing to the King!!!
Sing to the King Who is coming to reign
Glory to Jesus, the Lamb that was slain
Life and salvation His empire shall bring
And joy to the nations when Jesus is King
Come, let us sing a song
A song declaring that we belong to Jesus
He is all we need
Lift up a heart of praise
Sing now with voices raised to Jesus
Sing to the King
For His returning we watch and we pray
We will be ready the dawn of that day
We'll join in singing with all the redeemed
'Cause Satan is vanquished and Jesus is King
In Him, Steph Brom
Posted by: Stephanie Brom at September 6, 2005 05:44 PM
Elaine,
I too am proud that you are Rick's mom! It is a testimony to you as a Mom and woman of christ too have raised such an awesome son (and daughters too). It is my honor to be able to post on this site and be inspired and empowered by your family. It has brought me closer to the Lord and I will continue to pray for Rick's 100% healing and your continued strength.
I love you ,
Kim
Posted by: Kim Mathews at September 6, 2005 05:49 PM
Even though I don't know you personally, this
website has been such a blessing to me. I am overwhelmed by the words that I have read here. They have deepened my faith and brought me to tears time and time again. What incredible children you have raised! I just listened to Rick's song on the website and wept as I heard the words and thought about how revelant they are in his life right now. I will continue to pray that he will be fully healed and that our God will be glorified through it all.
Cherie Crabtree, NPCC
Posted by: Cherie Crabtree at September 6, 2005 05:50 PM
If any of Rick's friends or family need lodging, please contact me. We live very close to Mtn. Lake Church on 369. This might be a bit of a drive for those visiting Rick at Northside, but we're more than happy to lend free lodging (your own bed and bathrooms, plus Meals) during your stay with Rick.
The Priegos
770.888.0194
Posted by: Traci Priego at September 6, 2005 05:52 PM
I have thought so many times, "I wonder what Rick's mom is thinking." and then all of the sudden there you are! There are so many things I feel like I'd like to say to you.
First, I'd like to say this:
Thank you.
Thank you for raising a son that ended up being Rick Pearson. I know him through MLC; I had the priviledge of cooking him dinner once; and through his illness...like you said....I will never be the same.
There are no words of comfort that seem good enough to say. I am of no use at the hospital. All I can do is pray (and give platelets :)) I want you to know that as a mom, I cannot imagine the all of up and down feelings that you must have but the demonstration of your faith is an example to all of us. I pray one day that I can meet you face to face and give you the most tremendous hug. I truly mean it when I say, call on me if you need anything. I stand with you.
In Him,
Pam Majerus
Posted by: Pam Majerus at September 6, 2005 06:04 PM
We are praying for you all and for Rick's complete recovery. We are humbled and blessed that God would give us an opportunity to pray for Rick. You keep up praying and reading the word. Never give up, no matter the circumstances and no matter what the physicians say. There is only one Physician to whom we should listen. Keep fighting for you son. We are behind you!
Posted by: Rhonda Flynn at September 6, 2005 06:09 PM
Elaine and family,
God is a wonderful God! I am praying for you and Rick and even when we can't seem to pray and all we do is cry, that is still a language that God understands. I was practicing a few songs last Sunday and Granny Merl ask me to sing Under His Wings and I thought of you and Rick. When I got finished Granny said "You see we don't need to worry even through the storm in Rick's life God has Rick under His wing!" We are praying for you and May God receive all glory and honor!
Amy Holland
Posted by: Amy Holland at September 6, 2005 06:11 PM
I just listened to "Even When" for the first time. What an honor and privilege it is to intercede on behalf of your son! Thank you for your words tonight.
Posted by: Nadine Neville-Turpin at September 6, 2005 06:20 PM
TO EACH OF YOU - Elaine, Bill, Candi, Haley and Rick, and Bryan family,
What can I say but thanks from ALL the HOLKS. You have been such a blessing to us, as a brother, sister-in-law and your children as nieces, nephew and cousins. We join in your pain and cries to our Lord BUT also in praises that HE is KING and LORD and THE MIGHTY and WORTHY GOD. Thank you again for more than we will ever be able to say. Love and prayers continue,
Julia
Posted by: Julia at September 6, 2005 06:22 PM
Elaine -
Your faith is also a testimony to all of us. I often look at my children and can't imagine what you must be going through - but your faith is so strong we can feel it even though we don't know you. And Rick's faith is so strong he has been a huge inspiration to countless numbers of people. I too would be so very proud to have a child like him. I keep you in my prayers also - for strength and for peace. Know that we all stand behind you petitioning our Father to heal your son. Sending you lots of love and hugs. Heidi
Posted by: Heidi at September 6, 2005 06:32 PM
Dear Rick's mom:
We have never met but I read about your son daily! I have 3 sons and can't even begin to imagine what you are going through, but I pray for your son and family as I do my own. I only hope I raise my sons to be godly men like your son Rick. I talked to my sister on the phone a few nights ago and told her your story, so you have people praying for your family in Florida. What a testimony you have and what a testimony Rick will have when he is healed and able to tell his story. It is amazing how many people he has touched! We don't even know him and he has touched my family's hearts. As soon as my middle schooler gets in the car everyday, he asks how Rick is! I hope we meet very soon so I can congratulate you on what an awesome job you have done raising your children and what a blessing your blog was to me.
Posted by: Vicki at September 6, 2005 06:32 PM
Mrs. Holk and family,
Even as I sit in California- afraid for the wildfires not even a mile away- I pray for Ricky and your family. My husband has even started to pray for Ricky. I listen to him singing of His love and reminds me of the school days when we all loved to hear Ricky sing-- and you and Haley and Candi, Amber, Krista, Megan, Caitlin-- I love to listen to you all sing especially when you sing of the Love and Mercy of our Great Father. I hope you all are doing as well as can be expected-- I will continue praying as will my family.
Kristi, Josh, Devin, and Dakota Hughes
Posted by: Kristi (Rigby) Hughes at September 6, 2005 06:33 PM
I could never imagine all of the feelings you have gone through these past several weeks. I, also, had to opportunity to cook food for Rick twice before he entered the hospital and I have to say I was very glad to do it. Rick has no idea how he enhances my worship at MLC. His voice and songs take me to a higher level of intimacy with God when I am in that place. I thank God for leading Rick to us and letting us love on him and y'all for as long as you need it!
Please let me or someone know if you are in need of ANYTHING!!
Posted by: Val Gurr at September 6, 2005 06:40 PM
Elaine, I just listened to that song. I had not forgotten Ricky has a beautiful voice, it was so sweet to hear it again. All I can see is that cute little boy in childrens church. My heart cries out with you for Ricks healing. I want to see him sing again. That is selfish I know, but that is how I feel. My mind can not imagine what you must be going through, but I know all of you are constantly on my mind and in my prayers.Sending you much love,,,Susan and Melton Bethea
Posted by: Susan Bethea at September 6, 2005 06:44 PM
Rick,
Joseph, Sarah, and I just gathered around my laptop to listen to your song. God's fingerprints were all over every word that came out of your mouth. Amazing! You just helped me teach two of my children their first lesson in what it means to praise God in the midst of suffering, even when we don't understand. I'm sure this song will be played in the Ward home over and over.
We love you, friend. We miss you. Joseph wants me to let you know that he is still praying because God can do anything; He's God. Sarah wants you to know she loves you. She also says she wants you to know she would come and see you but I won't let her. She has that look when she is upset with me. You know the look. And yes, her arms are folded.
We will all continue to pray for God's will and that He will be glorified in every way.
Much love,
Autumn
Posted by: Autumn Ward at September 6, 2005 06:44 PM
Pearson family,
I constantly check this website for new updates. I pray everyday that God will heal Rick of any abnormalties he might have. I also pray for ya'll, that God will continue to bless each and everyone of you, that he will give you peace and comfort, and will always, always keep His loving arms wrapped tightly around ya'll. I, too, wondered how you, Rick's Mom, were doing. I cannot even begin to imagine what thoughts cross your mind. It has been extremely evident, through the updates, that you have so much faith, and for that I would like to say thank you! Thank you for your inspiration and witness to me. What a strong faith you have in Christ!! I want each and everyone of you to know that ya'll are constantly in my prayers and will be forever. You have raised an amazing individual. Rick has touched my life in so many ways, and I agree with the many other people who say he is still touching their lives today. God bless each one of you!
Love, Marandy
Posted by: Marandy Robinson at September 6, 2005 06:44 PM
Dear Rick,
Rick we wanted to tell you, but we are sure you already now that you have one of the strongest and most amazing families we have ever seen. Your family amazes us each day with there strength and faith. We love you and miss you and can’t wait until you take the stage again.
Dear Candi and Family,
God can overcome all adversities and can cure all illnesses. Your faith will be rewarded. Your prayers do not fall upon deaf ears. Last night as we gathered with the Majerus’s and Gurr’s last night to pray for Rick and for you all we could feel the Holy Spirit in the room. God is working and is control of the situation. Our prayers remain the same for Rick to shock the doctors when God restores him. We continue to be vigilant in our prayers. We are your army of Christian soldiers and we consider it a privilege to stand shoulder to shoulder with you in the gap battling for Rick. (PRAY FOR RICK; 4 FOR RICK; RESTORATION FOR RICK).
P.S. – Rick’s song is amazing. We love listing to it and we play it for our almost 4 month old (Abby). She loves it to; you can tell because she always smiles when she hears Rick’s voice.
Much Love,
The Richardson’s
John 14:12-14
12 I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.
13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.
14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
Posted by: Matt, Gina, and Abby Richardson at September 6, 2005 06:48 PM
Elaine,
I am drawn to check on Rick several times a day, also hoping to hear how you are. I know you are standing faithfully by his side and I pray for your continued strength as well as Rick's healing.
Love to all of you standing by Rick's side,
-Teresa
Posted by: Teresa Watford at September 6, 2005 06:49 PM
WoW! I just listened to the song. You can know for a fact that Rick is continuing to minister to people. What truth it is. I broke down crying for him. Our God is awesome, and we will continue to beg Him for Rick's life. Keep the faith. God is being honored!
Posted by: Andy Park at September 6, 2005 06:49 PM
Rick and famliy,
I want you to know that the believers at First Baptist -Cumming are praying for you.... what a testimony you all have been to us. May God bless you and keep you in His marvelous arms.
Please let me know if there is ANYTHING that FBC can do- we will be at the Benefit concert...
In His Hands, Kim Campbell
Posted by: Kim Campbell at September 6, 2005 07:10 PM
Dear Ms. Elaine:
When I first met Rick a year ago we spoke about his background and being raised in the Assemblies of God church, just as I did and he told me about how the whole family have this passion for music. How do I know that this young man is special? Because I have never in my life felt so strong and so much pain over someone being sick before. We are a military family and I've gone through two deployments with my husband of 20 years, but I have never felt so close to anyone at such difficult time. I have never prayed for someone else as much as I've done for Rick. You have such a beautiful son! It is overwhelming to see how many people love him! He is part of our church, our community, our ears, our mouths, our hands! He has a big responsability at church, to lead us into worship, and he does an awesome job at it.
You have been an amazing mom, from the moment that child was in you, the Lord blessed you and will continue to do so. You gave Rick to the Lord as a child and God is giving back to you right now, right there, He's by your side. God bless you and fill your life with peace.
Posted by: Ruthie Baumann at September 6, 2005 07:14 PM
Dearest Rick's Mom,
You are such an inspiration and tower of strength!! I pray daily for the healing of your son. As a mother of 2 sons, who are both pilots in our military, I lean on our loving God every day to watch over them and protect them and have added Rick to my daily prayers. Sons are so very precious to us Moms! Your Rick has touched my heart in ways I can't express in words...he is truly a child of God, working as an angel in unexplainable ways to bring us all closer to God...oh, you have to be such a proud Mom. May God continue to abundantly bless you and your family during this difficult time and bring miraculous healing to Rick, your most precious son.
Posted by: JGates at September 6, 2005 07:18 PM
Dear Pearson Family
Rick and all of you are in m prayers. God is Great and still performs miricles. Here's my miricle. I was serving in the Army as a Tank commander and about to become the youngest promoted E-5 in peace time history. On Feb. 12th, '80 I was involved in an accident that knocked me out fo two weeks. During that time I flat lined 18 times. The doctor ordered my death certificate to be typed.
After I woke up I was informed that if I could recover enough to learn how to sweep and mop a floor I would be lucky.
Through the prayers of many others God placed his hands on me. It took time, learning how to remember again, regaining strenght, I lost most of my muscle from the neck down.
God not only healed my body but my soul. Twentyfive years later I now have 2 degrees, hold a professional career, been blessed with 2 healthy sons and have a church family that has been a powerful spiritual blessing in my weakest moments.
No one knows what God has in place for each of us as we walk in faith everyday seeking his will in fulfilling his plan. I do know that God is great and in control and his comfort is there for you as it was for my family.
May God bless you and keep you close.
Dennis
Posted by: Dennis Skaggs at September 6, 2005 07:22 PM
Pearson family,
I've seen Rick sing one time and have never met him. But he is my brother in Christ and I pray for him every day and check in on this website. There is obviously something very special and powerful about Rick and his faith in our God. When I first listened to the song I knew that for sure. God is infinitely good and He wants us to trust Him, especially in times like this. Your faith blows me away!
Posted by: Scott Alka at September 6, 2005 07:30 PM
Mrs. Holk and family,
We miss you soo much! We all can't wait to see you here at Northview! We pray for y'all everyday! We love you all very much!
Dani
Posted by: Dani Tyree at September 6, 2005 07:35 PM
Dear Rick's mom:
I know I'm not the first to say this, but your children (Rick and Candi) have been and continue to be such a HUGE blessing to my family. We first heard Candi sing in 1997 at a BigStuf camp, and have continued to be blessed by her, Rick, and Jonathan at NPCC for a several years now. First it was their talent--their incredible voices that captivated us. Then, it was their sweet spirit---they drew us into the presence of God as they sang and led in worship. More recently, as a result of Rick's illness, it has been their unwavering faith and their love relationship with Jesus that have just drawn me into the presence of God. What a legacy you are making!! As the parent of 2 teenagers (& Candi is one of her all-time favorite singers!), my prayer is that my children will fall in love with Jesus as yours have!
My husband was able to give platelets for Rick today--they got 2 bags from him, and almost a 3rd. Said he was a good candidate to give! I'm unable to give blood or platelets, so I'm glad he could do it.
My family and I have been in your shoes (though the circumstances were a little different---my brother was in a head-on car collision, instead of cancer). Doctors gave him no hope for him to ever wake up from his coma, and said it would take a miracle. He now has his own ministry, and my mother makes herself available to minister to and encourage others who are going through similar circumstances. I asked them to be praying for Rick and for you and the rest of the family, and my mom is one of the greatest prayer warrior's I know. She (and I) are available to talk or come to the hospital should you ever desire that. I remember strangers who came to see us at the hospital (to encourage us) when we were going through our battle---simply because they'd been through it themselves.
Know that EACH of you are being lifted up to the Father's throne, and that we love you. THANK YOU for drawing each of us into God's presence---it's SO incredible how God is using Rick in such a powerful way to change lives everywhere----as Rick rests in Him.
We are praying.......
Donna Vonfeldt (770-887-2379)
Posted by: Donna Vonfeldt at September 6, 2005 08:04 PM
Elaine, my prayers go out to our Lord Jesus Christ for the complete and quick healing of your sweet son, Rick Pearson! Thank you for sharing your heart with us. As parents, our hearts go out to you. Our children capture our hearts when they come into this world and they never even realize it. Only the love of Jesus Christ is greater than a parent's love for their child! Praise God that Jesus loves us so!! Praise God that Rick is in His hands!! Praise God that you, Elaine, are too in His hands!!
Praying...praying...praying...
In His Love,
Charles & Terry Allen
Posted by: Charles & Terry Allen at September 6, 2005 08:12 PM
Dear Elaine...We all look at Rick in this situation through different lenses. Rodney looks at him as a brother...well, I am a mother, and that is how I look at him. I cannot imagine the anguish you must feel at times. When I think of Rick, I immediately think of you. Thank you for raising Rick to be the man of God he is today. He has the most kind and gentle spirit of anyone I have ever met. God has worked through Rick so much lately...I often wonder if as Rick rests, if God is revealing to him all he is doing through him. I also want to thank you and your family for demonstrating such grace and genuine faith in our Father. You have taught us all alot about determination! I pray for you to feel nothing but peace! I love Rick, you , your family and Suzanne dearly.
In Christ,
Jenny-MLC
Posted by: Jenny Rutledge at September 6, 2005 08:23 PM
So many thoughts go through my mind when I think of your family. You Elaine should be so proud of the children you have raised!!! One day a few months ago in church we were asked " if you were to leave this earth today how many lives have you truly touched?" Most of us had to pause and give this question alot of thought. Time went on and that question moved to the back of my mind. Lately I have thought of that question alot. Mainly because of Rick. He is an awsome young man. Candi is not too shabby herself!! So many lives have been touched by your story. Your faith is never ending and that shows everyday. God has a plan and I can't wait to see what that plan is. I am waiting with bated breath. Until then I am praying morning, noon, and night for the healing of your family. When you look at Rick tonight, thank God for sharing him with us, and for touching so many of us deep in our souls. Candi what a wonderful sister you are!! Keep smiling and singing!!!
Tammy
Posted by: Tammy at September 6, 2005 08:59 PM
Dear Pearson Family,
Your strength and faith sustain us all during this time. Thank you for sharing this very difficult time with us all. Your family is amazing!! We are praying for God to heal Rick, we are praying for miracles to happen, we are praying that He continues to give you and your family strength, and we thank God every day for this time of worship that we have all shared. The life of your precious son has changed the lives of so many people forever…they now have a personal relationship with their loving savior. How incredible!!! We continue to pray without ceasing.
With love and support,
Amy and Jason Dykes
Posted by: Amy and Jason Dykes at September 6, 2005 09:00 PM
Elaine,
As a Mother I know how difficult it is to see your child in sickness. I praise your strength and faith in God and this has also made me closer to my family because I realize how things can change fast. I have a grandson, Ryan, who is 5 years old and if he grows up to be like Rick than I am blessed over and over again. He seems to be thrilled with a song "All God's Children" which he listens to on 104.7 radio. For some reason that song stands out amongst all the others.
I feel your tears as they flow and the ache in your heart, but I also feel your faith as you read the Word over Rick. I may not be present in that Hospital room, but know I am there for you and continue to pray also.
May God glorify His Name and heal Rick and let your family rejoice in a celebration that will surpass any others. God bless each and everyone of you for not letting go and believing in the healing we all are praying for. I have played "Even When" so many times and it gives me peace just hearing Rick's voice.
Love,
Elaine
Posted by: Elaine Thompson at September 6, 2005 09:41 PM
Elaine,
You and your entire family are in our prayers here in Walnut Hill. I can not imagine the pain you all must be going through.... Now there is the incident with Granny Myrl... God is in control and He makes no mistakes. "He carries His children through, like He said He would... even in the valley.....God is good!"
"We know that all things work together for good, for those that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose." We love you, God Bless You...
Luanne
Posted by: Luanne Ward Tharp at September 6, 2005 09:44 PM
Dear Elaine,
I am so sorry to hear about Rick's condition. I just found out a few days ago. If there is anything I can do for you please let me know. You know that I will do whatever you need. We are praying for Rick and the the whole family. Your whole family has been an inspiration to me, and especially to Jody as he grew up. Rick is a great influence on more people than you know and Jody has admired him for along time. It is good for Jody to have someone like Rick to look up to.
Elaine I hope you know how much we care and if there is anything you need call me. I know what you are going through because we too had a daughter with leukemia. I truly believe what was posted about the people being saved from all of this is a great reflection on how Rick has touched other people's lives. I know it is impossible to understand why,but God has His plan and He knows what is best. I never thought I would understand the reason our daughter had to go through what she did, but after a period of time I came to understand. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Remember I am just a phone call away, 327-6894, call collect.
Love, Donna, Joe, and Jody Nezovich
Posted by: Elaine and the entire family at September 6, 2005 09:56 PM
Elaine,
Rick and your family are in our prayers throughout the day. He is now on our Fellowship of Christian Athletes prayer list as well. We know Rick through North Point and Big Stuf. (We are in Rockmart,Ga.) We have also sent this web site to another youth group at Hope Methodist in Dallas, Ga. This group knows him through Big Stuf. And, there is yet another group praying in Rome, GA. Rick touched so many lives before his illness. But, many more are being touched now.
Bless you,
Haley Morgan Smith, Karen and Troy Smith
Posted by: Haley Morgan Smith And Karen Smith at September 6, 2005 10:42 PM
Elaine -
It was so good to read your post! As a Mama of a son, I have empathized greatly with what you must be going through. I know you must take comfort in the testimonies of all the people Rick is ministering to! What an amazing son you have raised. I'm so proud for you. I completely agree with what was said about all that Rick has been accomplishing for God's kingdom in these few short weeks than most will acheive in their lifetime.
Rick feels like everybody's kid brother - we all love him like that. Keep resting in the arms of your savior and be sustained by his strength as he is petitioned by the prayers of his people around the globe.
We love you! We are firmly planted in the gap! All our hope is in Jesus! We are steadfast in our prayers~!
Jen Carrozza
Posted by: Jen and John Carrozza at September 6, 2005 10:58 PM
We are constantly praying that God's strength, healing, comfort and peace will be with Rick and all of you. Your family is an awesome witness for Jesus Christ. Love, Glen and Jean Wiggins Family
Posted by: Jean at September 6, 2005 11:03 PM
That song is incredible! Thank you for sharing it with us.
Elaine and Family of Rick, You are truly incredible and such a wonderful witness! I appreciate each and every word you post on this website. I know you are tired but yet you still give us the information that we need. Thank you for that.
I am so sorry about Granny Myrl. I will pray for her to recover and get back up here to see Rick real soon.
You guys take care of yourselves. Know that He is God and is with you every second of the day.
Love and prayers to you, Robin
Posted by: Butch, Robin, Eric and Kristina Smith at September 6, 2005 11:23 PM
Dear Elaine,
You have no idea the inspiration you and your entire family have brought to so many. You are truly symbols of Christian Faith. So many people are coming to know Christ as a friend these days because of the daily prayers they are sending out on Rick's behalf. We have never prayed so much, talked about prayer so much, and passed on the Word so much as we have these past few weeks. I read the posts so many put up and cannot believe the number of people being reached. Rick continues to work for the Glory of God even from his hospital bed. He may not be out there singing right now, but he is reaching others who didn't know Christ prior to Rick's illness. We can't begin to understand, or even try to understand; all we can do is trust in Him and have faith that he is going to be glorified as he shows us the plan he has. You are a very strong person to be going through all of this and yet taking time to post to all of us, too. God Bless you, your family, Granny Myrl, and all of the friends who cont. to keep us updated. What a wonderful, loving support system you all have in each other. Tonight I listened to "Even When" for the first time and was moved to tears. God is so good. I will remember that even when I don't understand, I can trust in Him and I will continue to praise Him always. Rick has gone from being a "cute" singer that my girls swooned over to being a true inspiration for leading a Christian life that glorifies God in every way. I am so happy that we met Rick at Big Stuf a few years ago. We missed him this summer! We will keep you all in our prayers. Stay strong and hold out your hand-He will always take it and walk with you.
God Bless,
Betsy Martin Spfld. IL
Posted by: Betsy Martin at September 6, 2005 11:49 PM
Elaine and family,
I love, and miss you greatly. My prayers are with you. This website is an awesome testimony of God working in your life through harsh circumstances. I am so happy to see the success of your faith. Hold on, God is with you even until the end of the world. I wish I could hug each, and every one of you. Ricky, Elaine, Billy, Candi, Haley, Annie Ruth and Ronald. Emilia, and I will continue to pray. Over the years, all of you have been an encouragement to me to see the endurance of your faith through thick, and thin. You are loved dearly. At times, I feel moments of weeping, and I weep with you. When you rejoice, I pray God continues to make me sensitive enough to rejoice with you. Again, we are standing with you. love ya' much - Rachel Chambers (One last comment, I pushed play on Ricky's song, but it didn't work. I'll keep trying.)
Posted by: Rachel Chambers at September 6, 2005 11:58 PM
I, too, am the mother of a son, age 24. I can only imagine what you must feel. As I read your words today, I felt much love and compassion for you. There is no love closer to God's love than a mother's love.
May God bless you with His presence and give you stength for the days to come.
Posted by: Jane at September 7, 2005 09:20 AM
Dear Elaine,
Thank you for your post, it only goes to show the
the fiber form which your faimly is knit,and the selfless love of God, that you all operate in. Your son Rick is my worship leader, he has been for two years now. I've been in the intiment places of Gods presence with him, and because of him. There have been times that I could only stand and weep during the worship service, the annoniting he operates in is astounding. I adore your son because we have shared those times together, even tho I have never even had a conversation with him, I love him as if he were my own brother. I dont' know his favorite song or his favorite food, but his precious heart has periced my soul many, many times. His life has impacted mine over and over again. I am a mother of 6 children, there are 4 boys and 2 girls, they are my lifes mission, my whole reason for being on the earth. As a Mother my heart is torn for yours, and I pray for your peace, and your joy in this hard place. I come to this site several times a day, expecting to see a post that reads; "Rick told Mom he was hungry only momentes ago, he is sitting in bed and he is compleatly whole", I know that their are many others who are expecting the same. I am speaking the word over him, knowing that Gods word does not come back to Him void. I remind Satan, the theif, that he has no authorty over Rick, and absolutly no power in this sitution! That power and athuroty belonges to you and Ricks father, and you family. God gave Rick into your care for such a time as this, You are his Mother, and Gods heart is for a Mother. God built you to have everything your children need, whenever they need it. That is by design of our heavenly Father. I also remind our Father that Rick has so honored His Father, and His Mother, and that this is the only command with a promise, that our life would be long on the earth. Again this is the incorruptable word of the Lord, and that is the reality, these sercumstances are only temporary. I often remind myself, if you put your trust in man, man will let you down, but to put your trust in God, He will never let you down, He will never forsake you. Ricks song on this site is a message to us all, that Rick isn't afraid of this situation, he is resting in his faith, and knowing that the God he serves loves and cares for him above all else. Rick is a mighty man of God, a man after Gods own heart, he has nothing to fear. Also I want to let you know, that I know, Ricks spirit hungers for his time with you, as you sit and read the word over him, feeding him just as you've done his whole life, it brings him great comfort and joy. The power of the spoken word, has created all that we can see, and touch, and hear, and feel. And You are laying a foundation of the word, that God will use to preform a creative miracle with every word you speak over your sweet boy! God bless you, and sustain you, as you go about "His good pleasure". I know you please God abundently momenet by moment, day in, and day out. I will continue to be the armes that hold you up, bringing you befor God, reminding Him to contend with those things, which contend with His sweet deaughter Elaine, You are His pearl of great price, His Great tresure.
Your Sister who loves you,
DeLynn
Posted by: DeLynn Gibson at September 7, 2005 10:33 AM
Our Father in Heaven has every single one of your tears. What is the goal of a mother? That she would raise her children to the honor and glory of God, that they will know Jesus and serve Him. I believe you have certainly accomplished that. I don't know your family or Rick, but I am praying for all of you everyday. I am believing God will restore Rick to full health and we should meet to dance in the joy of the Lord on that day! What awesome people I have "met" on this site! I pray that we can all worship together, with Rick leading us very soon!
Posted by: Jean Pierson at September 7, 2005 12:44 PM
My first comment is for Elaine, thank you for posting your thoughts to us. I have prayed for you so many times. As a mother myself of three, a son and 2 daughters as well, I know that a mother's love for her children is a love that our heavenly father entrusted us with in the beginning and I thank him for that. Please know that you have so many people praying for Rick, you, Candi and your other family members. Candi, thank you for being a wonderful sister and daughter and I know your mom is blessed to have you caring so deeply. Thank you also for the song from Rick, what a blessing it is to hear him sing praises to God. My family, my church and I will continually lift these prayers requests to the throne of God.
Love in Christ Karla
Posted by: Karla at September 7, 2005 04:35 PM
Rick passed last September and I didn't find out until this June that he was my cousin. We did this bio thing at BigStuf Camp this year about Rick and I didn't know who he was and that Sunday when I got home I found out that he was my cousin.
God Bless All,
Adley Joyce
Posted by: Adley Joyce at July 30, 2006 06:22 PM