Eliza update 3/11 2pm

Loved ones,

In the beginning, it was not suffering that God called "good." Nevertheless, it is only through suffering,the suffering of Jesus Christ, that God makes and will make each and all of creation "good" again. Through Isaiah, God calls the Messiah a "man of sorrows and acquainted with grief." It was only through the grief of the Messiah, God's son, that God could fulfill His plans to give us "hope and a future," as Jeremiah declared. As we experience this light and momentary trial, we praise God for our certain hope and rejoice in it. We ask Him to keep us listening and learning, not as the horse or mule who need bit and bridle, but as those who trust in the Lord and whom steadfast love surrounds (Psalm 32).

And what is the purpose of this particular instance of suffering? We know only as much of it as God chooses to reveal. I am convinced, however, that God has brought Eliza into your life to bring you face to face with your loving Creator. He has made you, and your life depends on your response to Him. I pray that you will seek Him with your whole heart. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you are stirred to anger or desire by God's relentless Love.

In the care of her Creator, Eliza continues to follow doctor's orders: She chunked up an additional 80 grams(n.b.: 30 grams = 1 ounce) last night. Her breaths are strong. We anticipate another extubation attempt Wednesday-ish, but the medical establishment has not been very specific in their speculation. They have said that they expect to put a bi-pap over her nose when they extubate her. This will force air into her lungs to help with inflation and deflation of them. A nurse warned that most babies hate having air blown up their nose. Indeed.

Pray.
Love,
Sam, Daniele, Luke (who, truly, remains delighted and delightful), and Eliza