Monday, September 24, 2007

carrying her home...

It is 3:15 in the morning. Conor and I are watching Copeland struggle for each breath as we lay side by side in bed, hoping that the Lord will intervene and give us all some rest. I confess to you that our prayer - right now - is that He will embrace us in His arms and take Copeland home to be whole, complete and healed. The last few hours have been agonizing.

After the last post, we asked a friend who's also a pediatrician to come by and listen to Copeland's heartrate. As I suspected, it was low. Even as she listened, the rate itself fluctuated several times, but ultimately kept returning to about 60 beats a minute, which, for Copeland, is much lower than the 150 we had left the hospital at just yesterday afternoon. In the time our friend stayed with us, it seemed our precious angel would continue to go downhill.

At about 2:00, her breathing slowed to the point that she stopped it altogether for about a minute at a time. Her coloring was so altered that I brought her into our bedroom and Conor and I lay on either side of her, wept over her, and prayed Jesus would come and take her. He still hasn't.

An hour later, we appear to still be in the "stages of death" that our neonatologist at the hospital described to us. We know that Copeland is not in pain, but it's the most difficult thing I've ever wtinessed in my entire life. We have talked for so long with Sellers about Copeland going to heaven, and while I do believe even now the Father can heal her, we are walking with hope in the Lord that He will reveal Himself to us in a fresh and mighty way tonight - not that she will defy science or statistics, but that she will be free in Him... and that Conor and I, in the Lord's perfect provision, will perhaps defy what the world says two young parents holding their dying child can never be counted on to do: sing His praises.

Blessings...

140 comments:

Anonymous said...

I am sorry. I am praying.

Mandy

Anonymous said...

Before going to sleep, I was checking to see how precious Copeland is doing. I pray that our Father in heaven will comfort you and that when Copeland is an angel, you will always feel her sweet spirit and love.

Pam in So. California

Belle said...

Praying the Lord will give peace to each person in your household tonight and in the days to come.

Belle

Anonymous said...

I am up with you tonight. Little Copeland was weighing heavy on my heart and I had to check on you all. God is with you tonight as hold your sweet daughter in your arms. He is waiting for the perfect moment to take her in His.

Anonymous said...

I too was up and just had to check, I am praying for your peace and comfort and strength.

Anonymous said...

My heart aches for the both of you. Although I know God is carrying you through this most difficult time I can't imagine what you are going through. I found your website through Sarah's In the Midst of It, and truly your events have moved me. I am praying for you both and little Copeland. What a testament you are to "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Love from Texas. Emilie

maximus woltage said...

I am up feeding my baby, praying for yours.

Heidi Wolter

Alison said...

praying as well....

Anonymous said...

Thinking of you.

A Place For Ministry Wives/A Place For Me said...

Boothe...you precious sister in Christ. I will pray right now.

Anonymous said...

Boothe and Conor--
We're up praying right now...praying for peace for the two of you as you watch the angels take her Home.

Anonymous said...

also praying....I'm so sorry...for all of you.

Candace Donley said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
TMB said...

we love you and are continuing to pray...

Anonymous said...

All parents feel your pain and suffer with you...especially our Heavenly Father. There are many of us up with you, unable to sleep, praying for you as the minutes go by.

Anonymous said...

I am praying. That this time will indeed be sweet amid the grief.

"I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul. You have not handed me over to the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place. Be merciful to me, O LORD, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and my body with grief... But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." ... How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you... Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD." Psalm 31:7-9,14,19,24

Candace Donley said...

Boothe, we do not even know you, but we have been following your story and blog. I wanted to let you know that the Lord woke my husband and I up both at exactly 3:15 this morning and impressed upon our hearts to pray for sweet Copeland... we will continue to pray...

Anonymous said...

I awoke several times in the night and the first thing on my mind and heart was Copeland. As I prayed in the wee hours of the morning, I will continue to pray without ceasing.

Love from KY

Anonymous said...

Praying for your family along side a great cloud of witnesses,
kit and natalie

Maria L. Edlin said...

We are praying that the Lord continue with you and give you peace. Your faith is the greatest witness to Him and Copeland is helping you to share that with the world. A true testament to the love of God.

Meg said...

I am praying for you. Amy shared your story tonight and we prayed for you at our Prayer and Praise service.

Anonymous said...

Our soul waits for the Lord;
He is our help abd shield.
Yea, our heart is glad in Him,
because we trust in His holy name,
Let Thy steadfast love,O Lord, be upon us,
even as we hope in Thee.
[Ps.33:20-22]
I am being blessed by Copeland's powerful testimony, I am sharing your heartache and I am continuing to pray to and trust in her Creator.
All my love and prayers, Aunt Cindy

Unknown said...

I've been praying as I watched your journey unfold. Last night I was awakened several times with you on my heart. This morning, I opened my devotional to this exerpt I'd like to share with you.

It is dated September 24:

"In the Arms of God

'Everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.' John 11:26

We don't like to say good-bye to those whom we love. Whether it be at a school or a cemetery, separation is tough. It is right for us to weep, but there is no need for us to despair. They had pain here. They have no pain there. They struggled here. They have no struggles there. You and I might wonder why God took them home. But they don't. They understand. They are, at this very moment, at peace in the presence of God.

When it is cold on earth, we can take comfort in knowing that our loved ones are in the warm arms of God. And when Christ comes, we will hold them, too."

-Max Lucado
(Taken from Grace for the Moment)

Praying for you during this time. Rejoicing with you in the celebration of Copeland's beautiful life.

Marc and Charity said...

It's 12 noon here in the UK and I just wanted you to know that I'm praying. I'm so sorry.

MLS said...

You two are excellent parents in the truest sense of the word. You are going against your flesh and wanting Copeland to be free, healed and at peace even though it will be so difficult for you. I admire your roots that are planted firmly in Christ.
Praying for you in Memphis
Lauren

Anonymous said...

I woke up at 3:00 a.m., but didn't check the post rather stayed in bed praying for your family. Know that I will pray without ceasing for the peace of God to invade your home and hearts right now. Your desire to praise HIM in the storm must make our Heavenly Father so proud. To God be the Glory! Rest in HIM!

J said...

Thanks for the update. We will continue to pray for you guys.

Jennifer said...

No words here. Just lots of support through prayer.

Rhiannon said...

Oh my....my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time....I'm lost for words at what to say....just for you all to know...I'm thinking of you at this time. Love and blessings.
Nonnie. Wales Uk.

Darby said...

I am so sad for you. I can't even imagine the magnitude of what you face. I will pray for the Lord to comfort you and take sweet Copeland home where she will struggle no more. I pray that the Lord will give you and overwhelmind sense of peace and relief when she is in His arms. And I pray that you can rest in that. Thank you for your transparency and willingness to be vulnerable with all of us. We're praying and weeping with you!

Jenna said...

Continuing to pray for you without ceasing.

Tamara said...

So sorry...I am praying for your strength. I don't even know what else to say...

Anonymous said...

Many fervent prayers are being lifted up for baby Copeland, precious Sellers and you and Conor.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for the pain you are feeling. I am lifting you up to Jehovah Rapha - the God who heals - who heals the body sometimes, but always the heart when we invite in him. You obviously have invited HIM in and he will carry you through with a strength that surpasses anything of human nature.
much love,
pat ward

Culley said...

Praying for rest, peace, and comfort for your whole family.

Kate said...

thru tear filled eyes i write this. i woke a few times during the night and each time Copeland and your family was on my heart and each time i continued to pray. my prayers will not cease for peace in your hearts and home and protection from His angels and Him.

Elizabeth S said...

I was praying for peace and rest for you all night; each time I woke up I prayed. I hope you know that I will pray for you today as well. I am so sorry for your pain.

Anonymous said...

Conor & Boothe,
Thinking of you today in this difficult time.
Jennifer

Paulette said...

May the father be ever present to you as you let your precious baby go. I cannot even fathom the pain of losing this precious baby, however having to let her go to the Lord is the ultimate healing.
I know God is so proud of you both.
I am so sorry for your pain.
I prayed late into the morning and am up early to begin again.
You are not alone.

Anonymous said...

Boothe,

My daughter shared your story and your site with us. What a wonderful testimony! My calendar today presented an old English Legend that says, "Fear knocked at the door. Faith answered. No one was there."
God bless you and your family.

erika said...

I awoke 3 times last night with an overwhelming feeling to pray for yall- which I did. I am tearfully hoping the Lord will deliver you and allow you to rejoice over Copeland. What a difficult thing to do, but what an unbelievable God we serve, who like we've said before is able to much more than we often dream He can. Praying that the Lord will ease the pain in your hearts and be merciful to you.
Many blessings,
erika mcpherson powell

Anonymous said...

I kept the four of with me all through the night and my prayer right now is for comfort and peace. You will go with me throuhout the day and my prayers will be continual.
In only the GRACE and PEACE HE can give.

With God's people's arms and love wrapped tightly around you.

Shelli Allen Photography said...

Psalm 9:9
The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you asthe world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
loveyou shelli

Unknown said...

Conor and Boothe,
Christen and I are continually praying for you. I pray for these moments with Copeland. I pray for your continued strength. I pray for your words with Sellers. I pray for rest for both of you. I have a heavy heart for you.

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; Trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going."
John 14:1-4

I love you guys!!

Cole

Anonymous said...

We are praying!

Anonymous said...

praying that the Lord will hear your cries and that he will give you rest

Anonymous said...

I am absolutely blown away as I read the comments here how many of us were awakened through the night with precious Copeland and her family weighing heavy on our hearts. Although we are saddened by your circumstances, I was reminded as I prayed for you in the wee hours of the morning that NONE of this comes as a surprise to God. NONE of this is an "accident" in any sense of the word. Every moment of this precious one's life was ordained before the foundation of the earth, and God in His infinite wisdom and grace knew that you two would be the perfect parents for her.

Praying today that He will give you supernatural joy in the midst of your pain and tears.

Anonymous said...

I dreamed about your family through the night & woke up with you on my heart; I'm praying and crying for you.

Kate said...

What an awesome God we serve that even in this darkest hour you long to praise Him! We have been and will continue to pray for all of you.

kate in ohio

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you."
Isaiah 26:3

Anonymous said...

prayed for you during my devotional time this morning- that God would give you peace and to sing His praises in all things.
mary t. miller

Anonymous said...

I'm praying too!

www.onthehomestretch.com said...

Praying for His perfect peace....

Sarah said...

God's grace, peace, and tender care on each one of you . . .

Anonymous said...

Boothe and Conor,

I am sorry, but praying for Copeland and you.

Jena Baker

Anonymous said...

I still hear you singing praises to God in your most difficult hours... You inspire me! SING ON!!!

Rest, sweet Copeland... Yours was a journey of enlightenment for oh, soooo many!

Hugs and peace to you all.

Anonymous said...

Continuing to present your requests to Jesus....
Sharon

Melissa P. said...

i was up all through the night but unable to get to a computer. however, the Lord was faithful to keep you and Copeland on my mind. i prayed then and am praying through tears now. i am so sorry that you have to endure this. you are wonderful, loving and wise parents.

joann said...

praying and hurting for you. so, so sorry.

Anonymous said...

It seemed the Lord never took your family from my heart and mind throughout the night last night. He woke me throughout the night and when He did this, I prayed. I'm still praying this morning.

~Laurin in Memphis

Anonymous said...

Praying for all of you and for God's peace. Your faith in the midst of your pain is an inspiration.

Stressed and Distressed said...

Prayers for you through the night last night and more throughout today.

Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Anonymous said...

Your story and your precious children have warmed my heart. They have made me hold my own dear children closer. To look at them closer, to love them more than I thought possible. Hold your sweet baby. She is so incredibly beautiful and perfect. She is so perfect in God's love. He has sent you an angel. How blessed you are. I am praying so hard for your family. That Copeland will be comfortable, being held in Jesus arms, and being carried away on angels wings. I love your family so much and I have never met you. Just know that we are praying for you. God bless you.

Anonymous said...

I sit here with tear filled eyes as I type this. Dear God, please be with Copeland and her family. As a mother I can't even imagine what you guys are going through right now, Dear Jesus...please be with this family. Much love and so many prayers.....

Unknown said...

our Almighty Father ordained the day that Copeland would be born, and he also ordained the day that He would take Copeland home. praise be go God, for He alone is Sovereign. many prayers coming to you this morning from Birmingham.

Jana Rome (Nathan Luce's sister)

Anonymous said...

Ilike many others I was woken up through the night to pray for you all. I pray that, that alone is a comfort....people who don't know your family personally are being prompted by His Spirit to pray for you all...especially through your long dark night. He will never leave you or forsake you...and neither will the prayers of the saints.

Angie said...

I love you, I ache for you, and I pray that God will pour out His mercy!

Angie said...

I love you, I ache for you, and I pray that God will pour out His mercy!

LWB said...

I got up early, with you guys on my mind. I am so sorry...my heart aches for you guys. All my prayers are on your behalf.

Laurie Wunder Bolden

Anonymous said...

I have never seen anything more beautiful on this earth than your faith in the midst of this suffering. There is no doubt in my mind that our God in His infinite grace and mercy is carrying you through these moments. I am praying for you all.

Abby in Florida

Suzy Goodman said...

My heart is breaking for all of you. I am so sorry. Praying for the Lord's comfort over you all. Copeland is an angel who has touched the hearts and lives and faith of so many and will continue to do so. We love you all.

Pam said...

Still praying for all of you. May the Lord just wrap His arms around all of you each and every moment.

Anonymous said...

Boothe and Conor,
Jack and I are praying for you and your loved ones. "The Cliff" is a piece God gave me after the loss of a dear friend. Some of my most precious moments with Him have been forged in the darkest of times (Is.45:3). He will carry you.

The Cliff
There is no easy way to get there. We have arrived at the edge of the cliff__with no comfort or understanding. To trust Him at this point...in this pain...with this void...will require of us an action that almost offends our minds...to choose to "free fall". Without being able to see God in this place, we have to choose to jump, leaving everything we know and understand...and all of the things we still question__and fall...believing that God in His Mercy and Love at some point will catch us.
And He always does.
He doesn't explain how the events that have brought us to this point are a part of His plan__'though I believe all things must pass through His fingers...But as we pour out our hearts to Him__He lifts us up into is arms and holds us. And when at last we are quiet...we are comforted, beyond our understanding...by the beating of His Heart.
And we are changed.
We know in an unshakeable place His Love__like we have never known before. We are able to go back and walk through all of the things that drove us to the cliff...because, as we rested in God's arms, His Spirit spoke to our spirit making us "sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
We rest our questions in His Sovereignty.
We are able to walk out life differently__whether those around us understand us or love us well...it no longer matters__and yet, we are able to love them better because we have rested in the arms of the One who is Love.
Heaven takes on a translucency...because there are parts of life there that we begin to see from here. And perhaps for the first time... we find ourselves longing for home.

Rocks In My Dryer said...

Lifting you up every time I think of you, which is often.

jenny said...

Thanks for updating everyone even in the midst of your sorrow. We are praying without ceasing for your family. May God's peace be abundant in your lives in these painful hours with Copeland as Jesus takes her home.

Psalm 61: 1-2
"Hear my cry O God, attend to my prayer. From the end of the earth I will CRY to YOU. When my heart is OVERWHELMED: Lead me, lead me to the ROCK that is higher than I."

Jenny

Anonymous said...

praying for peace that passes all understanding for you and your sweet family.

Anonymous said...

Praying for you.
How precious to Him are the praises of your broken hearts.

Laurie in Ca. said...

I woke this morning with the same heaviness on my heart that I went to bed with. Prayers are continuous for you, not ceasing. Your hearts are so tender in God, and I know He will meet your hearts desire for Copeland and shower you with praise when the hour comes and you lift her up to His loving arms. From love to everlasting love. This is all she has known in her short life is pure love. I pray for Gods sweet rest in your hearts for the hours ahead of you today. Gods grace shines all over her life and may He give you His eyes to see beyond the agony into His pure Glory.
Praying, Praying all day long today.
Laurie in Ca.

Anonymous said...

praying for you....that the agony would pass into perfect peace. that your hearts would be soft toward each other in these most difficult days. we long for healing for you all.

"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." Romans 15:4

we pray for endurance for you...for hope in the midst of this unbelievable grief.

Anonymous said...

JOY comes in the morning! I don't know how the night unfolded, but my prayer is that JOY, in spite of the pain, will be with you today. Your family is glorifying Christ in the midst of it all...
I feel so honored to know your family even if it is just through your blog. Praying continously in FL.

jenni said...

I am so sorry. I was thinking this morning that your Copeland has changed so many people's lives & has touched so many hearts in the little time she has been on this Earth than most people in their entire lives. She is an amazing sweet girl & I pray for a sense of peace for your family....

Sunshine said...

I just got up this morning and saw this post - am praying. You two continue to so preciously walk before God. I join you in prayer that He continues over the next hours, days, weeks, months and years to completely blow your mind with who He is. I pray He also holds you and Connor so close to Him right now as you walk through this. Sunshine

Mary Alice said...

I am another who was awakened in the night to pray for you.

I am aching, crying, praying and rejoicing with you.

I love you all.

josh and darci said...

My son goes to OC preschool with Sellers and I have been asked to pray for you by many of your dear friends. My heart is aching for you right now, as I know the depth of a mother's love for her child and how we, as parents, truly feel physical pain when we see our children struggling. You have a beautiful soul and this experience has touched COUNTLESS people for the Lord. Praise GOD that he can bring good from all things. I am lifting you up before Him as I type this and praying that his heavenly arms will hold and comfort you just as you have held and comforted Copeland.
Darci Belville

Anonymous said...

praying for you...

Anonymous said...

May His kingdom come, His will be done. Boothe and Conor, may you feel His embraces and comfort. Praying with you...
Phemie

Household6 said...

You don't know me, I found out about you from a high school friend. I was up every couple of hours last night thinking of little Copeland. I pray the Lord has peacefully taken her home. My parents had a full term still born before I was born, I know your situation is different, BUT it has been 30 years and they still grieve (not the way the did in 1977 but it is still there occasionally), so give yourself a lot of grace in the coming days, weeks, months and years.

Praying for you.

Heather Spencer
Fort Belvoir, VA

Kelley Brown said...

Boothe, if it is any comfort at all, the Lord answered your prayer for Him to stir in our hearts and remind us of Copeland so we could pray. I prayed last night before I went to bed that God would wake me up in the night if you all needed prayer. Indeed, He awoke me a little after 3 am and I felt impressed to pray. Looking at the other posts, how neat to see how many others were awakened or felt impressed to pray during those hours. God has heard your prayers and hears them now, even if they're just in the form of cries. We are all lifting you, Conor, and the rest of your family up, and we will praise God for taking sweet Copeland into His loving arms when He does so.
Kelley Brown

Anonymous said...

El Roi - the God who sees you is watching with eyes of love. He hears your heart, and He loves you all. Well, done, my good and faithful servants is being echoed through the heavens! We're praying - ease this suffering, Lord.

Michelle

Anonymous said...

I pray for peace and strengh for copeland and your amazing family. God Bless.

Anonymous said...

My prayer is that you find some comfort knowing that your precious daughter has impacted lives in a powerful way. I will not take for granted the health and well-being of my precious children and I will continue to remember your family's steadfast faith during this tragedy. Thank you Copeland for changing our family and thank you Farley family for sharing this heart wrenching journey with the world. May you rest in our Savior's arms when He takes you to your home in paradise!

Amy in Murfreesboro

Anonymous said...

praying for you this day...

D'Arcy

Anonymous said...

Boothe and Conor,

We prayed for you guys last night in our Life Group....interesting that our Life Group prayed for Copeland life.....we are all lifting you up in prayer daily

Roland

nick, robyn and taylor said...

Conor and Boothe, I am absolutely amazed and so very encouraged by y'alls faith in the midst of this trial. God has been incredibly glorified through y'all. I will continue to pray. Here the words to one of my favorite songs and I felt so many of the words are fitting for this time. I hope it speaks to your hearts.

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation.
Oh my soul praise Him for He is Thy health and salvation.
All ye who hear now to His temple draw near. Praise Him in glad adoration.

Praise to the Lord who o'er all things so wondrously reigneth.
Shelters Thee under His wings and so gently sustaineth.
Hast thou not seen how thy desires e'er have been granted in what He ordaineth.

Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah.

Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee.
Surely His goodness and mercy here daily attend thee.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do, if with His love he'd befriend thee.

Praise to the Lord o let all that is in me adore Him.
All that have life and breath come now with praises before Him.
Let the Amen sound from His people again, gladly for I we adore Him.

Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah.

Anonymous said...

We are praying constantly
Two verses come to mind;

Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted
Matthew 5:4
May God comfort your soul and heal your broken heart.

Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere
Psalm 84:10a

Anonymous said...

Praying for you from Memphis

Anonymous said...

weeping and praying for you both this morning. I wish that I could take the pain away!

I pray for submitted hearts for you both, not to fight against God's soverign plan for Copeland. I pray that He gives you signs to show you that she is being comforted by Him.

2 Cor 1:3-4
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,
who comforts us in all our affliction...

with an aching heart yearning for peace for you all...

Anonymous said...

Isa 40:11
11 He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

May you & Conor feel His sweet, gentle leading and presence in the moments, hours & days to come.

PinkCat said...

My God hear your prayers and hold you all tightly in his love.

Praying for you in Phoenix.

Take care xx

Anonymous said...

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present or the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38

We are all praying for you.

ashley sasser said...

My heart goes out to you, Conor, and Sellers at this time. May the Lord be merciful and wrap you in His comforting arms and give you peace at this time. All my love - Ashley

Anonymous said...

With tear stained eyes, I can't help but be amazed at the Lord's provision for sweet Copeland. How amazing to know that each day of her life was laid out before one of them had come to pass. He knows her coming in and going out, is behind her, and He has gone before each of you. Know that you are covered in prayer.

Anonymous said...

Boothe and Conor I have shared this with my daughter in college and now her friends are keeping up with your sweet Copeland. I know she has touch so many kids who is so far from home. My daughter's Pray group is praying for her. It is such a blessing how a sweet little Angel Girl can touch so many people. Thank you for sharing your blessings with us. May God be with you.

Anonymous said...

Praying for peace
Love-a mom who has been there

Debra Kenney said...

I woke up several times during the night burdened to pray. It is amazing to see how many others were awaken to pray as well. Not sure what the rest of the early morning has brought, but continuing to pray. Praying for peace, rest, comfort, and ultimate healing in the arms of Jesus.

Donnetta said...

Praying for His embrace, peace and very presence to be so real and evident in a way like never before!

Anonymous said...

Boothe,
You and Conor are in such an amazing place with the Lord Jesus. Because of this, you will get through this time, even if it doesn't feel possible. You have an army surrounding you and prayers stretching the world. God is using you, Copeland, Sellers and Conor! Love you and praying continually.

Anonymous said...

I slept fitfully all night long, and came to work to your most recent posts. Your family has been on my heart for the past week. I think of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When faced by the king to worship his image, or go to the funace they respectfully told him not thanks, and said that the God they serve can save them, and can rescue them from the king's hand, "But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." Dan 3:18

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were faithful in spite of severe circumstances, they knew the possible consequences of their words, and were willing to step out on faith.

I know that you faith, of greater worth than gold, will not perish, though refined by fire. Hang in there, and know that you are contintinually bathed in prayer.

Jenny in Illinois

Anonymous said...

praying the Lord will wrap his arms around you and bring peace and praying for precious angel, copeland. jennifer and will godwin

maggiemae and family said...

weeping with you

Anonymous said...

I sit here choking back tears at my desk at work--not in fear of a young child losing her life but because she had the incredible experience to be in the presence of unconditional love of her parents and of course, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Your testimony has been incredible. I've been following for a little over a week--and to see your heart is encouraging. The pain of watching a child gasp for air is more than I could ever wish upon anyone and I know this hasn't been easy for you.

My prayers go to you and your family during this extremely difficult time. I hope you're able to rest in the unchanging and unfailing love of Christ during this tough patch.

kristin and matt said...

oh boothe...weeping and praying for y'all.

Unknown said...

Dearest family, praying for sweet rest and peace for you all.
shelly & adrian

Whitney Akin said...

Boothe-- I just can't imagine what all of this must be like, but I can't stop thinking about you and your precious family. Praying that Joy will come this day and that you would be able to sing His praises! He knows your needs....and He knows the way in which He is taking all of you. You will come forth as gold just like the book of Job says. I am amazed at your diligent faith and pursuit of our God.
still praying.....

Anonymous said...

I pray day and night that the Lord brings you peace and comfort. I am so sorry. I know there are no words to say to make it better, but please know that you are surrounded by God's love and the prayers of many. I am so sorry.

Dayla...Logan's mom

Anonymous said...

The Lord is constantly bringing you to mind and I am praying for comfort and peace for each member of your little family.

Jane

Anonymous said...

You have reminded us all of what is sacred in this life...any time I even think to reach for the remote at night to turn on the TV, it doesn't even appeal to me. I've sat in the quiet of my bedroom instead many times just praying for you all, thinking upon the Lord and just listening for His heart and His voice. We all know you are human, we know you are going to grieve and hurt with much pain over this, and probably eventually experience every emotion in the book - but you have, by faith, displayed beautifully the Kingdom of God in every turn of this journey with Copeland. Thank you for sharing her story with us, and for your extreme courage in it all. Whatever has happened between the last post and now - may He show you that His mercies are new every morning. I pray too for Sellars that she would have a supernatural understanding - and that God would speak to her little heart and give her things to say that would comfort you deeply...
the prayers continue - christy nockels

Anonymous said...

I can't imagine what you are experiencing, but your words and actions are inspirational to me. Thank you for sharing something so personal with us all. My thoughts and prayers will be with you all, all day long.

Anonymous said...

I am thinking of your precious little girl.

Susan said...

I came over from a link on Becky's site. I have been reading and weeping. I just want you to know that this is one 69 year old grandmother in Oklahoma that is touched by your hearts and love and I care and I hurt along with you.
Susan

june said...

i sang this song in church yesterday, and as i read your most recent post- a beautiful image of you singing His praise in the midst of sorrow- i am reminded of the lyrics...

Blessed be your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where the streams of abundance flow
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

Blessed be your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's all as it should be
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, Blessed be your name

Anonymous said...

Continuing to pray for all of you this morning. Copeland, you have incredible strength just like your Mommy and Daddy!

Boothe and Comor, may you feel the loving arms of the Lord wrapped around you both and Copeland today.

I lift you up today and know that He is with you!

Anonymous said...

Still fervently praying for your family. You all are constantly on my mind. May the Lord give you strength and peace.

Anonymous said...

I have been following your blog. Came to it through Poppy Joy's. As I sit here with tears flowing down my checks, I am reminded of my time in your shoes. I remember agonizing over watching my baby girl 'slip away'. I remember not having peace until I came to the point of praying "She is yours, Oh Lord. You are just letting me borrow her. Thank you for letting me love her, but I give her back to you. Take her, keep her from suffering." NIght after night we watched and waited to see if we would have just one more night. Because of other medical conditions, not just the genetic, we stayed in NICU. They gave us a private room so we could stay with her. As I rocked her, I would just pray, "Lord, take her now. I can't do this any more, take her now. Don't give her to me for some months and then take her, take her now." I remember getting a lot of flack about that from family and friends; but they just didn't understand how my heart was being ripped out piece by piece.
I pray for you now, because I understand. I pray for you now because I have been there. I have been praying for you because the Lord has reminded me what an awesome God we serve. God is good All the time, not just in our 'happy' days. God will see you through this. Just lean on him. Love on babye Copeland, take your pictures, make your memories; but lean hard on our Lord and stay strong in your Faith. That will be what gets you through this time. Miracle or not, God is in control and he has ordained this very moment and trusting Him is the only way through.
We are praying for you and will continue to pray for you in the months ahead.

Missy said...

Weeping with you and praying for you, that you would continue to rest in the peace of Christ.

Anonymous said...

I am praying for your sweet family. How Great is our God!!!

Anonymous said...

Crying with you and praying for you . . .

Kristy said...

Precious, precious family.
Praying for you.......

Unknown said...

It is so desparately painful to see precious, innocent Copeland suffering as a result of creation's travail from the fall --but we can find comfort in the fact that our Father God grieves along with us, bathing Copeland with His tears.
Your friend,
Byron Williamson

Anonymous said...

I'm marveling at the courage, faith and peace that you are demonstrating to so many. I'm praying for you and thinking about you during this difficult time.

Jenny Oldham

Anonymous said...

Boothe and Conor,
Your post this morning was so powerful. What love, what wonderous love. God bless you and may He be merciful to you this day. One of Amy's songs comes to mind, "Somewhere Down The Road" "Why, why, why does it go this way? Somewhere down the road will be answers to the questions....and mighty arms reaching for you..." Praying for you all so much and that you will feel His mighty arms even now.

To Carol Nuismer...thank you for posting "The Cliff", these words spoke right to my heart: "We rest our questions in His Sovereignty. We are able to walk out life differently__whether those around us understand us or love us well...it no longer matters__and yet, we are able to love them better because we have rested in the arms of the One who is Love." Thank you, Carol. ~Renee

Anonymous said...

I just said a prayer for your family. I am asking that God give you relief in your pain, whatever that may be.

Emily

laura said...

Your precious family is in our thoughts and prayers constantly. May He be the lifter of your heads...and we pray you will continue to find your hope and comfort in Him.

Anonymous said...

Thank you for sharing Copeland's sweet little life with us. I will be forever changed by the strength and faith that you have shown. I will continue to pray for you and your family. God bless.

Jami in CA

Anonymous said...

Ps. 34:18
The Lord is close to the bokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Ps. 147:3
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Praying for you all on this day.

Jennie-Marie said...

We pray that God will continue to comfort each of you and that when Copeland's time does come that you will share in the great peace and perfection that fills her precious heart and body. That the same way she has been comforted through your faith, you will feel peace knowing she is with our Father in heaven. Praying...

Anonymous said...

Last night in Community Group we all marveled at the example you have laid out for us of how to proclaim Christ even through immense suffering. In a time when many would be questioning Him, you are praising Him. You are amazing and point to an amazing God through your trials. You lean on Him, knowing everything is in His hands - thanking Him for the precious time you have with your sweet daughter while she is here on earth. Your strength, your weakness, your joy, your sorrow all laid out before family, friends, and strangers who all care for your family and pray diligently for you. And all of this glorifies God. I am sure you can see from all of the comments you receive, you have not only touched so many lives but changed many as well. I know I, for one, pray differently now. I understand "pray without ceasing" far better than I ever did. My six year old daughter is learning to pray. She has always been very liturgical with her prayers. They must be said the same way every night - no changing any part of it. Since she's begun praying for Copeland she has learned to pray specifically for changing needs. She has always been one that says bedtime prayers and that is all. Friday morning I found her in her closet and asked her what she was doing. She told me she was praying for baby Copeland. Our prayers go out for your family...without ceasing.

Karla Porter Archer said...

there are so many others who comment who are able to find the right words so much better than I can.

Just know that you are all so very loved and covered in prayer.

The Father hears them all and He is doing a mighty work through each of you.

Blessings,
Karla

Anonymous said...

I woke up at 4:30 and felt like I needed to pray for y'all. Our family has not stopped praying all day for you. We pray for Jesus to carry you all right now and to be your "peace that passes understanding". I can imagine you are weary and just pray for Jesus to hold you up.

Anonymous said...

Connor & Booth,
I am amazed at your great faith and your sharing has so touched my heart in a very personal way. I am sorry I didn't get to hold my own daughter before she went to be with Jesus. I am sure that the Lord is pleased with your choices and that you will rest in knowing you did the right thing in allowing this precious angel to visit you for a time. I can't imagine the difficulty in all of this for you, and I'm so glad God has held you up. Three doctors told me that I should terminate my baby that would never make it to term. No one ever counseled me otherwise. I wasn't strong enough to insist otherwise. I made a poor choice years ago, and then I had to live with that. I am finally free from that guilt by the grace of God, but I'll forever wonder how it could have been different. Your little Copeland will be greeted by my little Grace. They are complete and free to dance in heaven until we join them. I am praying for you.

Robfitj said...

praying the Lord will wrap his arms around you and bring peace and praying for precious angel, copeland. jennifer and will godwin