Inch by Inch, Step by Step — We’re Still Believing

Last Tuesday brought another reason to say, “Thank You, Lord!”

Our dear Jack Malouff made another step forward. He is off the ventilator and breathing through a tracheostomy. His medical team continues to carefully monitor him and help keep his airway clear. Oh, but hold on! Last evening Jack was able to speak and give glory to God for the prayers of so many! His first words in 12 days… his thank you to all of you praying and standing strong with us!!

What a beautiful strong boy who even in this -- is giving glory to God.

DAY 12 UPDATE from Ryan -- Jack's dad -- JACK, BREATHE

Jack began initiating more of his own breaths. He wasn't completely breathing on his own yet, but it was a HUGE step forward. So grateful!

And then something else happened that honestly felt like a gift to all. Jack was able to use a speaking valve with his trach, and the family could hear his voice. And once he started talking, he did not want to stop. It was the BEST. After days of tubes, machines, mouthing words, and trying to understand what he needed, they were able to sit there and TALK WITH THEIR BOY.

Ryan sent praise for those who stood with them, believed with them, and carried them through the first 12 days. Thank God, we are all celebrating this precious moment.

One step. One victory. And we celebrate it!

But we haven’t finished praying.

We are still contending for the miracle -- inch by inch, step by step, prayer by prayer. Because nothing is impossible with God.

What has touched me deeply is watching so many people stand in the gap for Jack. Hundreds -- perhaps thousands -- are praying.

Family, friends, churches, students and people who may never have met Jack are pleading with God on his behalf.

And here's the thing -- those people have problems too.

Some are facing health concerns. Financial worries. Exhaustion from caregiving. Family heartaches. Private battles nobody else knows about.

Yet, for a moment, they set their own burdens aside and carry someone else's.

Isn't that LOVE?

Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

And maybe something beautiful happens when we pray for someone else. While we're carrying their burden to God, we suddenly remember -- God is carrying ours.

So, let's keep praying. We keep believing. We thank God for doctors, nurses, medical wisdom, every breath and every bit of progress.

And we continue expecting more.

I believe we are watching a miracle in the making.

Great Physician, we thank You for how far You've brought Jack.

And we're still believing You for the rest of the story.

“Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul. Thank you, Lord, for making me whole!”

YES! That is our prayer for Jack and dear Jack’s prayer to Father God!