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Sam Kimbriel's avatar

Daniel, I remember that night. The time playing games and laughing a nervous laugh, knowing that we were all scared of the outcomes of this kind of surgery. Will the doctors know what to do? Will the machinery work as intended? And most agonizing...will the new heart beat in your chest and sustain your life?

We watched with your mom and dad as the doctors pushed your bed through the doors into the operating room. The peace that God had given you was apparent on your face. The metal of their faith was revealed as the night drug on.

The waiting...

As I sat and waited through the night with your parents, I saw what I prayed I would see. Perseverant Faith. A faith that held fast to the Jesus who held them. A faith that had been well exercised in their lives as they faced the many storms of life and ministry. The chaff of big faith was gone. All that remained was the kernel of faith at the core of their lives.

We waited hour upon hour...

That terrible night, that tear-filled night... that holy night.

One of the doctors finally came out and gave us the words of life. "The heart has started to beat in Daniels body." Tears erupted again, but now tears of joy. Thank you, Father!

The next weeks were so hard as your body recovered from the trauma, but you, and your faith, and the skill of the doctors, and the prayers of the saints, and the sovereign hand of God brought your body to health. It is a fragile health, but it is just enough for you to be the man God has called you to be.

I love your story, Daniel. I love how you are growing into the enormity of your story.

And I love you, sweet nephew.

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Crystal Nitz's avatar

Daniel, the wisdom you have gained in reflecting on Truth along your journey of suffering is inspiring. I am so thankful for you and for the extended years God has granted you already; you - and they - are answers to prayer. Losing Kerri has clarified my desire to both live and die well…to reflect Christ to others and to nurture the relationships God has blessed me to curate in this life. Thank you for sharing your story and encouraging the world toward those two things that matter most. You are so loved and often prayed for!!! To God be the glory!

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