“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth”—Psalm 121:1
Dear Cornerstone Family,
For those of you who may have missed the big news coming out of the Shurden household, let me take a moment to get you up to speed. Much to our surprise, Christy (my wife) and I recently found out that we’re expecting a fifth child. Yes, you read that right. #5! And, yes, we’re as surprised as you. Check that: we’re more surprised than you! Thankfully, God has given us a deep love for children, so it didn’t take very long to start getting excited about a new little Shurden (Due date is Dec. 30th).
Just as the excitement was taking hold, some difficult news broke. We learned last week that the prenatal blood screening test indicated a high probability of a chromosome abnormality in the baby. To be more specific, the doctor said there’s a 90% chance the baby will be Down Syndrome.
That news knocked the wind out of us.
After the appointment, we took the evening and next day to prayerfully let this news sink in. We took time to speak with our kids, parents, and a few close friends. We asked questions. We worried. We cried. Then, we’d collect ourselves and be fine for a while. And then something would be thought or said, and the cycle of questions and worries would start back over.
Thankfully, with each passing day, the questions and worries lessen, as we learn (again and again) not to face tomorrow’s troubles with today’s grace. Jesus tells us not to be anxious about tomorrow for a reason. For starters, we’re not there yet. Moreover, we’re not even promised tomorrow (Matthew 6:34). This is why we must do what Christians have done for centuries, drawing near to the throne of grace in our time of need knowing that His mercies will be new each morning (Lamentations 3:23; Hebrews 4:16).
During an anxious season a few years ago, I penned what I’ve come to call the five R’s.
Remember God’s promises (Isaiah 26:4)
Rest in God’s providence (Romans 8:28)
Redeemed by God’s love (Romans 8:37-39)
Release all worldly fears in prayer (1 Peter 5:7)
Relax into God’s perfect peace (Philippians 4:6-7)
As you might expect, Christy and I revisited these precious realities this week when we sensed our heads falling below the water line. As we meditated, talked and prayed, we were slowly lifted out of the waves until we finally regained our footing on the Rock of our salvation. We’ll undoubtedly be rehearsing these truths again and again as the waves of fear and sadness come in the days ahead. On that note, I’d ask you to pray for us in five specific ways:
Pray for a healthy baby.
Pray for unwavering trust in God and ever-increasing peace and resolve in whatever path He has for our family.
Pray for wisdom on decisions we have to make on future testing, since the most confirming test also has increased health risk for the baby. We’ve got a few weeks to think and pray about it before we have to make a decision.
Pray for God’s good and perfect will to be done.
Most of all, pray for God’s glory to be put on beautiful display no matter what!
We’re so grateful to be a part of a church family that loves us. We’re especially thankful right now for the opportunity to lean on your love and be assured of your prayers on our behalf.
Love you all.
Your servant,
Nate