Keller: Special Christmas during trying times
Published 12:01 am Saturday, December 23, 2017
I’ve experienced many Christmases in my lifetime, and as I reflect, the one I remember the most is the one in 1992.
My oldest daughter, Ronny, after being diagnosed with acute leukemia, was undergoing treatment at the M.D. Anderson Medical Center in Houston. She was receiving chemotherapy in total isolation. On Christmas Eve, I flew to Houston to be with her. It was hard to see my daughter under those conditions and not being able to even touch her hand. We communicated through the speaker system and it was good just to be close to Ronny.
That night, I stayed in the lobby of the hospital and read the Bible. I didn’t sleep, except to doze off once in a while. I read and concentrated on God’s Word more than at any other time in my Christian walk. Christmas Day was quiet at the medical center. I visited the patients that were on the same floor as Ronny and spoke to many of their relatives who were also visiting.
It was a good day and I was encouraged by the faith that Ronny had when she told the doctor, “I’ll be home next Christmas, healed, and with my family.”
That Christmas in 1992 was so very special to me. Maybe it’s because that’s the way all Christmases should be – reflecting on God’s Word and, especially, the birth of Our Savior, Jesus Christ. It’s been 25 years since that experience in Houston. It will always be rated as my most memorable Christmas.
Today, Ronny is completely healed as the result of a miracle from God.
Jeanne and I will spend Christmas with most of our family and exchange gifts, eat too much, and enjoy the day. God has blessed our family abundantly. We are so grateful for His mercy and faithfulness.
May all of you have a Merry Christmas filled with much love, joy, and peace!
If you have any questions or comments, please write Harold Keller at Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477 or email hkeller@comcast.net.