Day of Rest

Ben was exceptionally bright and alert during his parents' visit today. He still itches to get out of the hospital ASAP, yet knows he's too weary just yet. Ben got very quiet toward the end of the visit, then slipped into sleep.

He's still dealing with a fever, and his heartrate today was in the 110s. Gone is the oxygen mask he required for the last couple of days, though, so that's great.

Mom asked Ben if he knew what he'd need to do to get better. Yes, he said, pray a lot. What simple faith.

I was struck today by a hymn sung in church. It's one I don't believe I've ever heard before, "Does the Journey Seem Long?" -- number 127 in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hymnal. Here are the first three verses, penned by Joseph Fielding Smith:

Does the journey seem long,
The path rugged and steep?
Are there briars and thorns on the way?
Do sharp stones cut your feet
As you struggle to rise
To the heights thru the heat of the day?

Is your heart faint and sad,
Your soul weary within,
As you toil 'neath your burden of care?
Does the load heavy seem
You are forced now to lift?
Is there no one your burden to share?

Let your heart be not faint
Now the journey's begun;
Thre is One who still beckons to you.
So look upward in joy
And take hold of his hand;
He will lead you to heights that are new.

We're right beside you in this journey, Ben. We love you!

Jenni