I am sorry that I haven’t been by in a while. Things have been different in out part of the world, to say the least. Last week I was in Carrollton, GA for the annual campmeeting at Central Baptist Church. On Tuesday, after the morning session, we received a call from our daughter. She is expecting a baby, and during the course of a routine exam, a problem was discovered. Joan and I started for home immediately. After all, while I am a preacher, I am a Daddy first. Anyway, her OB/GYN made Nikki and appointment with some other doctors in Charlotte. After testing the genetic material in the baby’s placenta, they discovered that the baby has Trisomy 18, or Edward’s Syndrome. Nikki and Chad found out this morning.

Essentially, the baby, now named Johanna Raye Carswell (Yes, she is a girl) has three 18th chromosomes instead of the normal two. This is a devastating prognosis for Johanna. Around 95% of babies diagnosed with Trisomy 18 never live to be born. Of those that are, about 90% die within the first year. Those who are born usually have severe physical problems, and sometimes physical deformities. Most also suffer severe mental issues as well.

So, as you can imagine, this has been a tough day for our family. I would ask that each of you pray for the Lord’s will to be done in this matter. Regardless of what we want, we know that He is absolutely sovereign and that He is in control of this situation. He can heal Johanna, and let her be born into this world, or He can allow her to be born into Heaven. All we ask is that He be glorified by whatever happens and He give grace to Nikki, Chad and the rest of the family. On that note, let me say that I am proud of Nikki and Chad. They received, what can only be described as, the most terrible news imaginable. Yet, they handled that news with grace and faith. I am amazed at how the Lord works in their lives. We would appreciate your prayers.

In spite of the problems, I stand amazed by our sovereign, awesome, almighty, glorious God!

Alan