It never occurred to me that this TT blog would serve as a news-wire for all the drama that the Lyle clan is participating in. For a few years I’ve used this blog to share thoughts about the Kingdom & God’s Word and our walks of faith. I’ve treated this place as a mini-pulpit to share some Kingdom truths in hopes to throw a little fertilizer on your faith and life. For now, I’ll be asking God to utilize this forum as a way for me to share with all of you what He is doing in our lives and hearts. Some of what might be learned will be because I’ll try to throw in some teaching; most of what will be learned will come from the realization that nobody is immune from God-ordained trials and, when they come, the relentless God of Heaven purifies our faith and glorifies His mighty name. He is an awesome God and we sense His steadfast presence in these difficult days. Below is a summary of things that we have gotten solidified as we move forward into the next phase.
Amy will be moved to acute rehab today where they will focus for a week on teaching her how to live and function with her injuries. She’s not expected to walk for three months and we’ve accepted that but submitted it to the Healer in prayer. Range of motion, getting dressed, bathroom needs, and moving on and off the bed will be focused upon in her therapy sessions.
The kids will come see her today for the first time. They are hanging in there pretty well but little Landon is struggling somewhat. He asks me each time I see him if mommy died yet; he is simply looking for reassurance and we are giving it to him in bunches. Tomorrow I will take them to a family friend about an hour from our home where they will spend a week distracted by fun and a normal routine under the watch of one caregiver. Landon will spend his 6th birthday without us. This makes mommy sad. Daddy too.
I will be in a hotel near the hospital for a week. God graciously provided this for free through a friend of Amy’s aunt in the hospitality industry. Provisions like this through other Christians is part of the amazing lessons I’m being impacted by.
While the kids are away and I’m not at the house, a group of men are going full throttle at modifying our home to be wheelchair friendly. Some doorways have to be widened and our bathroom has to be completely done over. I’m humbled at the proactive manner that these brothers in Christ took charge and have excused me from the process. It’s being done in the Spirit of, “Pastor, we love you so much that we are moving you out of the way and making decisions on your behalf that will greatly help your family. Please don’t interfere.” I’m obeying with tears of gratitude.
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PastorJeff… wow I just learned of the accident. I sometimes read your blogs. Empowering. I was just telling my wife what had happened. I couldnt stop crying for you and yours wich I dont even know. Yet through our Lord Jesus Christ I do know you and yours. I wish I could say something that could make everything ok. I cant, but I know who can. My wife and I will go before the throne of grace and ask our God of the universe to comfort your family at this time. We love you in Christ Jesus.
Pastor Jeff….wow what an amazing church family God has brought Glen and I into! Witnessing what our Savior is carrying you and Amy through and reading the outpour of love and support is inspiring indeed. We are praying for you and are burdened to serve within this wonderful body in any way needed.
Just wanted you to know that your family was lifted up in prayer at both our Men’s prayer breakfast and the Sunday school hour here at Florida Gardens Baptist Church. Our family will continue to pray for all of your family, and stay abreast of what God is doing in your lives.
God Bless you, Deacon and Christian Brother, Ray
Dear Bro./Pastor/Friend, Polly and I are praying for Amy,Debra and your family. I think it is amazing how GOD has all of our needs meet, before we even know what we need.Thank goodness GOD is in charge. Mom and Dad send there love and prayers. GOD bless. Love, Polly and Daniel
Pastor Jeff:
Jim & I just returned from vacation and learned of Amy and her mom’s accident. Wanted to let you know we are praying for you and your family. Please tell us what we can do to help you!
Love,
Jim & Judy
Jeff – You may not remember me, I went to church with the Samples at Northside years ago. Deborah was my SS teacher, faithful friend and prayer partner for many years, and Amy blessed us with her beautiful voice. Thank you for the example you have set before us during these trials. Thank you for keeping us informed through the blog, as many of us in the Northside family are praying for Amy, Deborah, you, Danny, Alicia, Landon, and the rest of the family. I am praying also for the doctors, nurses, techs, and any other hospital personnel that have anything to do with Amy’s and Deborah’s care. I am encouraged daily by your words, and check often for updates, praying each time I check. I remember when you and Amy were first married, and Deborah called you ‘Amy’s Preacher Boy’. Please know that this tragedy is affecting many lives, and that God is working in lives through all of this. Love – Angie
Dear Lyle famly: We have been praying vigilantly for you all. God is at the helm and it is obvious that He has a greater good in mind. Your path may not be easy for a time, but it will take you ultimately to a glorious place. Please continue to keep us updated and never hesitate to tell us what you need. We will be watching for opportunities to help. Glen, Marge, Hannah, Michael and Chase Roberson
Mark and I are in constant prayer for your family – my heart goes especially to little Landon as he is in my children’s church class on Sundays – his questions must be hard for you – He is a very smart little boy and seeing his Mommy today will certainly help him and Alicia as well. Rest assured that their Heavenly Father will fill in the gaps left by the absence of you and Amy at this time. We miss you so much at Church and Praise God already for the day the Lyles return as a Family Unit.
Bro. Jeff, my heart is full right now reading the comments made this morning. God is GOOD! We have been through some difficult times as most have and we know the strength Our Lord gives us during these times. Watching His children come together and serve those in need are such a blessing. Just stand back and watch Pastor, let us do what we can for you and your family. We want to be a blessing and in turn we may be blessed. We are drawing closer to the Lord and as a family during these times. Ya’ll are such a blessing to us, you are in our prayers always.
Love, Lorna
Hello,
I almost feel a little deja ve reading about the caring, God prompted people remodeling your home. Going through something similar with Jose’s Dad, makes us relate a little. It’s absolutely, undeniably, amazing how God shows Himself in these trials. His love, provision, how He seems to take care of things before you even think of them. (He even showed me the gift of mercy He’s given our daughter Lydia.) I know everything might seem like a blurry dream right now but it will get better! We love y’all and can’t wait for the Lyle family to be whole again. [My Refuge and My Fortress] He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1
Dear Pastor Jeff and Amy,
We are praying for both of you and for the kids.May the Lord deliver you from this tough situation much stronger in faith so that you can minister to those who are going through trials.We are sure the Lord will heal Amy much earlier than expected.Your sermons will surely be stronger and more effective in helping the weak.God bless you,
Sam & Zack.
Pastor Jeff,
I have been following your blogs daily, eager to see how you and the family are doing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family constantly. This event has really put things in perspective for me. Amy is an inspiration to me, even from the hospital bed! I am reminded of a sermon you gave not long ago when you said that you hope for a trial in your life so that you may perservere and bear fruit! I know you and your family will make it through this and be stronger even stonger than before! You and your family is loved and blessed! Thank you for showing me the way! Melissa Apel
Pasor Lyles,
I have been following your blog since I heard of the accident. My son, Timothy, was in Landon’s class for the past 2 years (I also taught Landon Music in K4 and am a 1st grade teacher at CHCS.). I wanted to let you know that my children and I have been praying for Amy, her Mom, and the kids/you. We will continue to uplift all of you in our thoughts and prayers in the days ahead. Thank you for sharing through your blog~~I have been humbled and reminded to stop and enjoy the people in my life.
~CIndy Lamb
Jeff,
I have a friend in management for Starwood Hotels, and I am sure he can get you a good rate after your week’s free stay, and I would be more than willing to pay that rate for at least a week.
I am praying that Landon’s & Alicia’s visit with Amy will be both reassurance for them and encouragement for Amy. Enjoy your family reunion today.
Nadine
Hi Pastor,
I just want you to know that I have a wheelchair, potty chair that you are more than welcome to use as long as you need to use it. I am going to check with my former boss to see if they have any shower chairs that they are not using right at the moment.
The pottychair is a bedside comode as well as a riser for over the toilet. I will also check about a walker.
I am praying for you and your family as well as the Sample family.
Love,
Marie
Pastor, Dan and I have a walker that you are welcome to use when it is needed. It has a an attached seat to rest when tired. Heal, Amy Heal!!! Carolann Robertson