Our kids normally wear a helmet when they ride a bike, they don't play with fire (at least I hope not), and they don't jump on the furniture (most of the time) and they know to look both ways before crossing a street and not to run with scissors.  These, and many others, are all lessons we hope to instill in our children for their own safety.  There is a responsibilty and desire as a parent to protect your children from danger and even possible danger.  As a father, it is our 'knight's duty' to protect our family and provide for its needs.  We relish this opportunity and look forward in passing the medieval code to our own sons.  But then comes a situation that knocks you off your horse and leaves you terrified and vulnerable. 

"We believe that your 3 year-old son has a tumor in his left chest."  The scariest words I have ever heard.  The horse has lost its status, the shield and sword have lost their luster and I am no longer able to protect my family from every dangerous situation.  It is from this point, not of a knight, but of an everyday commoner that I have seen the community of Christ like never before.  Our heavenly father has used many of you, and people that we have never met from all parts of the world to comfort and encourage us in a time that can leave you reeling.

Payton is our blonde son with long eyelashes and a large crooked smile that drives the girls crazy.  He admires his older brothers and like them, wants to grow up and be Luke Skywalker, a futuristic knight that prevails over evil.  He wants a light saber for Christmas, which for him is always tomorrow.  He loves packages of Skittles from Grandma, hugs from momma and likes to wrestle with dad, complete with sound effects.  He is more dear to me than any possession on earth and my heart cries in pain for his suffering.  Of course, I would gladly switch places with him in an instant and take the suffering from his little precious body.  My every thought today is about him as they prepare to surgically remove this tumor tomorrow (Monday, May 28th) in Prague.

Please remember Payton and his mother today in your prayers.  Take an extra moment today and give each of your kids a big hug and some Skittles would be nice too.

tc