By Ashley (Snyder) Frankis
Today was a special day at our church and also in Lance’s life.
Today marked the end of a series in our chuch called: CANNONBALL: All in and making waves. The idea is that we should dedicate our whole lives, our whole selves to God. Everything–our time, money, priorities, and gifts; everything we should align with the purposes of God. We are called to go deeper into the upward calling of Christ.
The thought of going off the diving board and doing a cannonball into the deep end might seem exciting, wild, and freeing; or it might seem scary. But, regardless, it requires a decision to go forward, all the way; you can’t just do a cannonball part way.
Today marked the end of the sermon series, but the beginning of this new initiative and vision to go all in with God and to make waves, thereby affecting and impacting the lives of others.
I sat in church this morning thinking about Lance and how today marks the end of a period in his life and how tomorrow will be the beginning of his cannonball.
Since Lance’s ER admission on Friday, October 8th, he has gone through a multitude of tests and appointments and a very serious surgery. There have been many questions, discussions, phone calls, visits, cards, meals, gifts, and prayers. There has been so much, so suddenly, so unexpectedly, but SO COURAGEOUSLY!!
Lance has been REMARKABLE. His attitude has been amazing; his disposition strong and courageous. He’s had a quiet confidence and humble demeanor about him. He has truly been filled with God’s grace and peace which transcends all understanding. He is a living testimony and witness to the Living God. Bless you, Lance, as you move forward into tomorrow–to day one of treatment.
We are right there with you, Lance, in person and in spirit. We pray that God would continue to strengthen you, protect you, and heal you.
Tomorrow morning Lance will first take his oral chemotherapy and then go to Shadyside hospital for a 9:30am radiology appointment. Family and friends, would you please sometime tomorrow morning find a quiet moment for Lance. Lift him up in prayer. Please also remember Francine, Mom, and Dad as they walk with him. Let us then just be still, be quiet, stop thinking, and simply listen.
Word of God speak…
I'd Rather Be Fly Fishing 
Ash,
You are one anointed writer, and moreover, one remarkable sister. You are like a tornado of LOVE on this earth! Thank you for bringing such insight and perspective to the beginning of Lance’s treatment tomorrow. Thank you for letting us see your beloved “little” brother through your eyes of faith and love.
Lance! We Colorado Snyder are rooting for you all the way! At 7:30 AM mountain time, tomorrow, we will be praying concertedly for you.
We adore you…
Much love to all from this little household =)
Cherie
Dear Ashley, what a beautiful and plaintive prayer and plea. It just so happens that I checked this blog just before 9:30 AM, as I was meant to and held all of you up as I envision the procedure happening not far from me where I work in Pittsburgh. And how I love that song by Mercy Me. I had a note right here to download this song to make a CD. I pick songs that touch me, and this is certainly one beautiful powerful song.
Lord bless this entire family this morning, as they move forward.
Love, Helen