A Mighty God

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”   The Apostle Paul

I am afraid legislative reports from me since the legislative session ended have been few and far between. In the last few weeks some health issues have contributed to that inactivity. Open heart surgery on Oct. 16 to replace an irreparable mitral valve became the culmination of a two-year health mystery. I am forevermore part bovine and not completely human. I came home Sunday night and am recovering nicely but will have certain restrictions on my activities for several weeks. From surgeon, Dr. Ray Vetsch to cardiologists, nurses, and other Freeman Hospital staff, I cannot thank them enough. They proved to be exceptional teams.

The God of creation really is the divine healer as captured by one of His names: Jehovah Rophe, and I believe that He works all things together for good when I trust Him and prefer His purposes over my own. The innumerable prayers for me and my family during this time have brought us peace and confidence. We have rested in them and stand daily upon them. God has been gracious to us, and we look to Him now for full recovery. Dr. Vetsch assures me that I will be running marathons soon because he put in the largest size tissue valve. But then, he is not a knee specialist.

Please continue to contact my office whenever you need me. I have missed traveling the District the last three weeks and am eager to return to the road. Thank you for the fervent prayers, and please keep surrounding us with them. God continues to faithfully answer them