My apologies for the premature release of yesterday’s post: Dipping My Toes Into A Powerful Surf. Somehow an earlier version that did not include my conversation with Joe got posted. Below is the revised portion at the end of the post with Joe’s testimony of the evening . . .

. . . While I was kind of hoping to experience the Holy Spirit knocking me down and turning me inside out, I’m guessing God knew I didn’t need that. What He provided for me was a fullness of joy that was more than enough. And one more thing I know . . . I’ll take another dose of that!

Follow-up on my friend Joe

I just recently spoke with Joe. He was excited and the memory of the Night of Hope and Healing has stayed clear in his mind. Joe exclaimed that it was the most powerful encounter with the Holy Spirit he had ever experienced. He went to the event with no intention to be ministered to, but only to assist in the setup for the evening. But, when Dr. Crandall began to minister in prayer, Joe found himself in the middle of the swirling tide.

In the midst of his crumbling personal life and the fading reality of Alzheimers, Joe was overcome by God’s presence – reassuring Joe of how much God values him and loves him, and will be there to care for him. What I had hoped for, for myself, is what God did for Joe. He was left feeling turned inside out – spiritually and emotionally healed from the inside out.

I also spoke with Joe’s close friend who had invited him down to the event. Since then she has had almost daily phone calls with him, and said that while he is still dealing with his dementia, she attests that ever since that evening his speech pattern has changed – no more stammering and stuttering. He’s more clear-headed and his speech is smoother. She surmized that it was God’s healing touch from that evening.

God’s healing is not always what we expect. But, God heard the cry of Joe’s heart and God poured His love into Joe’s life and for good measure – He touched Joe’s tongue.

“At this, the man’s ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly.” Mark 7:35