I wrote this quote of Carl Lewis in my Bible several years ago, when I read about what he had gone through. At that point, I was more affected by his way of tackling what they were going through. We also watched the film, crying, praying that I would come to that place in my own life. If something so painful should happen in my life, Lord, help me to come to that understanding.
The years passed, and in just a few minutes, everything changed. The fact that we all came out alive was at first a great joy. When we stood there in the snow, barefoot with only our underwear on, and saw our house burning, we thought, “Everyone came out. We can’t take anything with us where we’re going.” Only a few minutes passed – but it felt like an eternity – before the police, fire department and ambulances arrived. Then we relaxed – now they would take over.
Because of their exploits, we are all alive and the shell of our house is still standing. Now the insides are being torn out, to remove all the smell of smoke.
Everything that has been done for Håkan, by all the doctors, and the great prayer support that exists for Håkan all around the world, have made it possible for small wonders and large miracles to make way for Håkan’s life to be saved, and God has shown His power in big and small ways. Glory to God!
The pain of yesterday, when I lay burnt, looked at myself in the mirror, disfigured, with a husband in another hospital, hovering between life and death, that was for me the pain of yesterday…
That Håkan has survived, that is part of the happiness of today.
That my disfigured face has returned to normal, is part of the happiness of today.
That all the teenagers made it out alive, is part of the happiness of today.
That Håkan’s healing process has gone so well, is part of the happiness of today.
That we can look ahead together, is a part of the happiness of today.
To seize the day, live in the present, is a part of the happiness of today.
To be able to rejoice over every little step forward, is a part of the happiness of today.
To have so many friends who support us, is a part of the happiness of today.
The pain of yesterday is part of the happiness of today. Now I understand that also! We learn as long as we live!
Prayer requests:
That Håkan’s operation on Monday will go well.
That Håkan’s lung capacity will get stronger.
That Håkan’s move to Sahlgrenska in Gothenburg will come at the right time.
Thanks all you dear brothers and sisters, and friends, that you are there for us right now!
God bless you all!
Hugs,
Gunilla
Saturday 30 May 2009
Thursday 28 May 2009
What happiness, what a feeling, what a wonderful day!
Yesterday, Wednesday, I left Uddevalla with my sights set on Linköping and a visit with my husband, Håkan. I’ve been very tired lately, and realized that it would be good to be able to talk to Håkan about many of the things I’ve been bearing. The last few times I’d visited Håkan, he’d just been operated on or had his bandages changed, so he was tired and I couldn’t speak to him about the important things that I had on my mind.
When I called in the morning, they said the operation would be tomorrow (Thursday). That’s when I jumped in the car and drove to Linköping. I sent text messages as I drove, so I knew there was prayer support for the trip and the day. This was the first time I’d gone alone to visit Håkan. As you might imagine, it’s emotionally taxing to drive up alone, with 8-9 hours in the car, because there is a lot to process after visiting with Håkan for several hours at the hospital.
The sun was shining. It was only my little lavender-pink Jazz and a bunch of trucks driving along in the wind; I had to hold the steering wheel with both hands. I made it in 4 hours, even with a coffee break along the way.
When I came into the room, Håkan was sitting up halfway in a special chair with a belt, so he wouldn’t fall. He’s training several hours a day sitting in that chair and it’s also good for his lungs. Håkan was very clear and it was good to be able to talk about the things that had been on my heart for a long time.
Håkan should have been in Kenya now, with several leaders and younger guys. He was well aware of that. We spoke about that and the next question was naturally, “What should we do with the outreach we’ve planned for the fall?” The answer came from Håkan direct, “I’ve already thought about that. We carry on. You go…” We talked about the conference, ”Building,” at Gullbrännagården, and the trip to England that we’d bought tickets for before the fire.
He took my hand and this time it was Håkan who squeezed, ”I love you,” with his left thumb, which seems to be the least injured one. What a feeling! When I stood in front of him he expressed how beautiful my hair was, especially in the sunshine. I think he’s glad that only a little of my hair got destroyed when I rescued him from the fire – I had my hair in a braid, of course. Thank goodness for everything good we have the grace to experience!
We prayed and started singing praise songs together, among others:
“In You, my God, I trust,
when worry dims my view of tomorrow,
because I know that you are faithful toward me.
When difficulties surround me,
I’m still secure with you,
because I know that you never leave me.
Whether it’s night or day,
Lord, I trust in You.
God, You are always near me.
You never change.
You are my future’s sure foundation,
You who stand fast by your covenant.
You are my rock, Almighty God.
I give You the glory.”
I told Håkan what that song has meant for me these past months. He mentioned which ones he had sung inside himself, among others, Martin Luther’s old Psalm:
“A mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing;
Our helper He amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe
Doth seek to work us woe --
His craft and pow'r are great,
And armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.
Did we in our own strength confide
Our striving would be losing,
Were not the right Man on our side,
The Man of God's own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be?
Christ Jesus, it is He --
Lord Sabaoth His name,
From age to age the same --
And He must win the battle.”
Yes, Håkan receives strength for every day through the Word, songs and prayer. Thank you, Jesus!
”I love you; you are mine forever!” And the answer was, “I love you also, and I’m yours forever!”
What happiness, what a feeling, what a wonderful day!
Thank you for all the books, for all the things for our apartment, for all the gifts and money, for all the flowers, postcards, and greetings on the blog – without you, life would have been a lot harder to bear right now. We feel so loved, by God and all of you! THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
Thanks for continuing to pray for Håkan.
God bless you all!
Hugs,
Gunilla
When I called in the morning, they said the operation would be tomorrow (Thursday). That’s when I jumped in the car and drove to Linköping. I sent text messages as I drove, so I knew there was prayer support for the trip and the day. This was the first time I’d gone alone to visit Håkan. As you might imagine, it’s emotionally taxing to drive up alone, with 8-9 hours in the car, because there is a lot to process after visiting with Håkan for several hours at the hospital.
The sun was shining. It was only my little lavender-pink Jazz and a bunch of trucks driving along in the wind; I had to hold the steering wheel with both hands. I made it in 4 hours, even with a coffee break along the way.
When I came into the room, Håkan was sitting up halfway in a special chair with a belt, so he wouldn’t fall. He’s training several hours a day sitting in that chair and it’s also good for his lungs. Håkan was very clear and it was good to be able to talk about the things that had been on my heart for a long time.
Håkan should have been in Kenya now, with several leaders and younger guys. He was well aware of that. We spoke about that and the next question was naturally, “What should we do with the outreach we’ve planned for the fall?” The answer came from Håkan direct, “I’ve already thought about that. We carry on. You go…” We talked about the conference, ”Building,” at Gullbrännagården, and the trip to England that we’d bought tickets for before the fire.
He took my hand and this time it was Håkan who squeezed, ”I love you,” with his left thumb, which seems to be the least injured one. What a feeling! When I stood in front of him he expressed how beautiful my hair was, especially in the sunshine. I think he’s glad that only a little of my hair got destroyed when I rescued him from the fire – I had my hair in a braid, of course. Thank goodness for everything good we have the grace to experience!
We prayed and started singing praise songs together, among others:
“In You, my God, I trust,
when worry dims my view of tomorrow,
because I know that you are faithful toward me.
When difficulties surround me,
I’m still secure with you,
because I know that you never leave me.
Whether it’s night or day,
Lord, I trust in You.
God, You are always near me.
You never change.
You are my future’s sure foundation,
You who stand fast by your covenant.
You are my rock, Almighty God.
I give You the glory.”
I told Håkan what that song has meant for me these past months. He mentioned which ones he had sung inside himself, among others, Martin Luther’s old Psalm:
“A mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing;
Our helper He amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe
Doth seek to work us woe --
His craft and pow'r are great,
And armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.
Did we in our own strength confide
Our striving would be losing,
Were not the right Man on our side,
The Man of God's own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be?
Christ Jesus, it is He --
Lord Sabaoth His name,
From age to age the same --
And He must win the battle.”
Yes, Håkan receives strength for every day through the Word, songs and prayer. Thank you, Jesus!
”I love you; you are mine forever!” And the answer was, “I love you also, and I’m yours forever!”
What happiness, what a feeling, what a wonderful day!
Thank you for all the books, for all the things for our apartment, for all the gifts and money, for all the flowers, postcards, and greetings on the blog – without you, life would have been a lot harder to bear right now. We feel so loved, by God and all of you! THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
Thanks for continuing to pray for Håkan.
God bless you all!
Hugs,
Gunilla
Wednesday 27 May 2009
Hi friends!
Håkan will have surgery Wednesday or Thursday, so dear friends, please pray for him.
It is Håkan’s right eyelid that will have the same operation as the left one did a couple of weeks ago. That operation went well.
When Håkan went through the fire, it was so warm that the skin under his eye became so strained, so that he has had a hard time blinking. Now Håkan can blink with the operated eyelid.
Please pray an extra prayer for Håkan’s lungs. Here at home, we prayed this evening that, in the same way we’ve seen miracle after miracle in the healing process, we’d see a miracle with Håkan’s lungs.
Håkan had his bandages changed on Tuesday, and everything is healing so nicely. That’s something we can thank God for together.
God bless you all.
Hugs,
Gunilla
It is Håkan’s right eyelid that will have the same operation as the left one did a couple of weeks ago. That operation went well.
When Håkan went through the fire, it was so warm that the skin under his eye became so strained, so that he has had a hard time blinking. Now Håkan can blink with the operated eyelid.
Please pray an extra prayer for Håkan’s lungs. Here at home, we prayed this evening that, in the same way we’ve seen miracle after miracle in the healing process, we’d see a miracle with Håkan’s lungs.
Håkan had his bandages changed on Tuesday, and everything is healing so nicely. That’s something we can thank God for together.
God bless you all.
Hugs,
Gunilla
Monday 25 May 2009
Every step forward is progress, or All progress is a step forward!
After the operation on the left eye, Håkan can blink again!
Every step forward is progress!
Håkan got an infection, so they gave him antibiotics. Now the fever has gone down and Håkan is more alert, so they believe he’s responded to the medication.
Every step forward is progress!
Now, at this time, Håkan should have traveled to Kenya, and he is very aware that this is the time, so…
Every step forward is progress!
While redressing bandages, they saw that everything is continuing to heal so nicely.
Every step forward is progress!
Now the doctors have started talking about a move for Håkan to Sahlgrenska Hospital in Göteborg.
Every step forward is progress!
Pray for Håkan’s lungs...
Pray for his soul...
Pray for Håkan’s next operation...
Pray for the right timing for the move to Sahlgrenska...
Thanks for continuing to stand with us…
God bless you all!
Hugs
Gunilla
Every step forward is progress!
Håkan got an infection, so they gave him antibiotics. Now the fever has gone down and Håkan is more alert, so they believe he’s responded to the medication.
Every step forward is progress!
Now, at this time, Håkan should have traveled to Kenya, and he is very aware that this is the time, so…
Every step forward is progress!
While redressing bandages, they saw that everything is continuing to heal so nicely.
Every step forward is progress!
Now the doctors have started talking about a move for Håkan to Sahlgrenska Hospital in Göteborg.
Every step forward is progress!
Pray for Håkan’s lungs...
Pray for his soul...
Pray for Håkan’s next operation...
Pray for the right timing for the move to Sahlgrenska...
Thanks for continuing to stand with us…
God bless you all!
Hugs
Gunilla
Thursday 21 May 2009
A new visit with Håkan today, Ascension Day
Completely spontaneously, I called Miguel, a close friend of Håkan, and asked if he wanted to go with me to visit Håkan. Håkan had asked about Miguel and it felt good when Miguel answered yes. After 20 minutes, we were on our way. We picked up Lillan in Huskvarna.
When we came to Håkan, he had recently been redressed and was a little tired. He was really glad when we came. He hadn’t expected anyone to visit him today, and when he saw Miguel, he was very happy.
It wasn’t so long ago that we were with Håkan, but we were excited to see how his eyelid looked. It was completely fantastic. He could close his eye and it looked very nice.
We talked with him and we joked with each other. The nurse thought that we had a glorious sense of humor. And I got a rebuke from Håkan, when he thought I joked a little too much. “Watch yourself, so you don’t get a whipping.” Then I said to him, “You are the biggest, but not the oldest.” He agreed with me on that. It’s so nice that we can joke with each other, while at the same time, we are serious.
Today Håkan followed the whole conversation, but at the same time, he was a little tired.
We are so thankful that the healing is going so well and God is present in everything. All who are caring for Håkan are so astonished about how well the healing is going.
God bless you all
Per-Göran Gniste
When we came to Håkan, he had recently been redressed and was a little tired. He was really glad when we came. He hadn’t expected anyone to visit him today, and when he saw Miguel, he was very happy.
It wasn’t so long ago that we were with Håkan, but we were excited to see how his eyelid looked. It was completely fantastic. He could close his eye and it looked very nice.
We talked with him and we joked with each other. The nurse thought that we had a glorious sense of humor. And I got a rebuke from Håkan, when he thought I joked a little too much. “Watch yourself, so you don’t get a whipping.” Then I said to him, “You are the biggest, but not the oldest.” He agreed with me on that. It’s so nice that we can joke with each other, while at the same time, we are serious.
Today Håkan followed the whole conversation, but at the same time, he was a little tired.
We are so thankful that the healing is going so well and God is present in everything. All who are caring for Håkan are so astonished about how well the healing is going.
God bless you all
Per-Göran Gniste
Wednesday 20 May 2009
Praise and thanksgiving bear us through everything!
Lillan and I drove up to see Håkan yesterday; Jakob had been there since Monday. We were to meet one of Håkan’s doctors, who has followed him the whole time, and was one of those who received Håkan when he came in the helicopter Tuesday the 3rd of March.
It has, of course, gone well. There wasn’t much faith in the beginning that Håkan would make it. So, once again, “Thank you, Lord, that Håkan is alive!” The doctor talked about Håkan’s skin – it’s healing over and above all expectations. The healing process has gone so quickly and well, better than the doctors had dared to hope for.
Last week they operated on the thin skin under Håkan’s left eye. When it has healed, the doctors will do the same operation under the right eye. After that, Håkan will be finished with operations, for a while. Then they will wait and see how the skin heals itself, so join us in prayer for the continued healing of the skin. Much has healed on its own, but the skin is so thin, so pray that Håkan’s sores will heal quickly, and for protection over the skin.
The other thing is that since Håkan has been bedridden for several months, with a respirator, his lungs still need help. When the operations are finished, it will be easier for the staff to train Håkan in a sitting position, and that will of course affect his lungs. Pray for the lungs!
We took indoor shoes with us to Håkan, so he can start training at dangling his legs.
When we came into Håkan’s room, they had bathed and redressed him for the first time without sedating him, and it had gone well – it just took a little more time.
The hands were not bandaged, so I took Håkan’s hand and held it for a long time. We have had a “hand language”, and I tested * ** * I love you. * ** * What a feeling, just to be able to hold my husband’s hand and tell him I love him, as we’ve always done, by giving each other a hand squeeze.
We had David Ivarson’s new CD with us; Josefina sings on several of the songs. The worship CD is so peaceful – just what’s needed right now. I’ve lived with some of these songs these past months. Imagine that praise and thanksgiving can bear us through everything – that is so great. What a mighty God we have…
Thanks for all the support we have in you! Thanks for being there!
God bless you all.
Hugs
Gunilla
It has, of course, gone well. There wasn’t much faith in the beginning that Håkan would make it. So, once again, “Thank you, Lord, that Håkan is alive!” The doctor talked about Håkan’s skin – it’s healing over and above all expectations. The healing process has gone so quickly and well, better than the doctors had dared to hope for.
Last week they operated on the thin skin under Håkan’s left eye. When it has healed, the doctors will do the same operation under the right eye. After that, Håkan will be finished with operations, for a while. Then they will wait and see how the skin heals itself, so join us in prayer for the continued healing of the skin. Much has healed on its own, but the skin is so thin, so pray that Håkan’s sores will heal quickly, and for protection over the skin.
The other thing is that since Håkan has been bedridden for several months, with a respirator, his lungs still need help. When the operations are finished, it will be easier for the staff to train Håkan in a sitting position, and that will of course affect his lungs. Pray for the lungs!
We took indoor shoes with us to Håkan, so he can start training at dangling his legs.
When we came into Håkan’s room, they had bathed and redressed him for the first time without sedating him, and it had gone well – it just took a little more time.
The hands were not bandaged, so I took Håkan’s hand and held it for a long time. We have had a “hand language”, and I tested * ** * I love you. * ** * What a feeling, just to be able to hold my husband’s hand and tell him I love him, as we’ve always done, by giving each other a hand squeeze.
We had David Ivarson’s new CD with us; Josefina sings on several of the songs. The worship CD is so peaceful – just what’s needed right now. I’ve lived with some of these songs these past months. Imagine that praise and thanksgiving can bear us through everything – that is so great. What a mighty God we have…
Thanks for all the support we have in you! Thanks for being there!
God bless you all.
Hugs
Gunilla
Sunday 17 May 2009
Yesterday's visit...
Today, Lillan, Samuel and I have visited Håkan.
It is fantastic to see how everything is working with Håkan, how everything is healing, and how pleased the nurses and doctors are with him.
Håkan’s face is healing and his skin is getting nicer and nicer each time we visit him. When we first looked in through the window and saw Håkan, the face we saw was the one we’ve seen so many times before, prior to the accident, although a little swollen.
After the operation on the left eyelid, Håkan has got a slight fever and has been forced to use the respirator so he wouldn’t have to strain his lungs. That made it difficult for him to speak today, so he spoke as well as he could, but we understood that he had to strain himself. The nurse said that actually he shouldn’t be able to speak as well as he did, but he is really fantastic, she said. That’s my brother!
Lillan also received a task to do today. Håkan’s cheek and the tip of his nose itched. Lillan took care of that well. Håkan said it was good that Lillan had a job to do, and he said that in his special humorous way. You who know Håkan understand how he said it.
When we were about to leave the hospital, one of the doctors who took care of Håkan when he arrived in Linköping suddenly showed up. He introduced himself and told us how fantastic the healing process has gone. He said there’s nothing strange about a slight fever showing up after all Håkan has gone through. I also asked him what he thought the first time he saw Håkan. The doctor said that he didn’t think this guy would ever make it. That’s what he thought. He said that Håkan’s wounds have healed in such a fantastic way. He was very positive.
As you can understand, we are very thankful for all the prayers for Håkan. You see what a wonderful and great God we have. Continue to persevere in prayer.
God bless you all
Per-Göran Gniste
It is fantastic to see how everything is working with Håkan, how everything is healing, and how pleased the nurses and doctors are with him.
Håkan’s face is healing and his skin is getting nicer and nicer each time we visit him. When we first looked in through the window and saw Håkan, the face we saw was the one we’ve seen so many times before, prior to the accident, although a little swollen.
After the operation on the left eyelid, Håkan has got a slight fever and has been forced to use the respirator so he wouldn’t have to strain his lungs. That made it difficult for him to speak today, so he spoke as well as he could, but we understood that he had to strain himself. The nurse said that actually he shouldn’t be able to speak as well as he did, but he is really fantastic, she said. That’s my brother!
Lillan also received a task to do today. Håkan’s cheek and the tip of his nose itched. Lillan took care of that well. Håkan said it was good that Lillan had a job to do, and he said that in his special humorous way. You who know Håkan understand how he said it.
When we were about to leave the hospital, one of the doctors who took care of Håkan when he arrived in Linköping suddenly showed up. He introduced himself and told us how fantastic the healing process has gone. He said there’s nothing strange about a slight fever showing up after all Håkan has gone through. I also asked him what he thought the first time he saw Håkan. The doctor said that he didn’t think this guy would ever make it. That’s what he thought. He said that Håkan’s wounds have healed in such a fantastic way. He was very positive.
As you can understand, we are very thankful for all the prayers for Håkan. You see what a wonderful and great God we have. Continue to persevere in prayer.
God bless you all
Per-Göran Gniste
Thursday 14 May 2009
Håkan is newly operated again…
Thanks for all your prayers. The operation went well. This time it was Håkan’s left eyelid that they took care of. The skin was taken from behind his right ear. The doctors are fantastic! The eyelid will be closed for 10-15 days, and then they will operate on the right eye.
Now Håkan’s wounds are down to 10%, but much of the skin which has healed on its own is very thin and vulnerable. Everything has gone so quickly, but Håkan still has a long road ahead of him. Håkan is in good spirits. His faith and the spiritual life that babbles inside of him are his strength and his security.
On Tuesday, Håkan sat for several hours without the respirator. We thank God for every small step forward. We are so thankful for all support and all prayer that all of you are a part of. It warms our hearts and makes everything a little easier.
THANK GOD FOR ALL THE LOVE WE ARE RECEIVING…
Thanks for the hug in the parking lot – it warms our hearts…
Thanks for the beautiful bouquets – they mean so much…
Thanks for all the posts on the blog – they minister…
Thanks for the set of dishes for Håkan’s welcome-home dinner – I’m speechless…
Thanks for all the tearful eyes we meet – that’s concern…
Thanks for the cookies we received in Linköping – we were touched…
Thanks for all the cards and text messages – they mean so much…
Thanks for all the gifts – it wouldn’t have worked without you…
THANK GOD FOR ALL THE LOVE WE HAVE RECEIVED…
Here in Uddevalla, it’s been sunny and I’ve started working a little in the garden. I’ve put out the garden furniture, trampoline and swings, fixed the sandbox and play house. Now it’s easier to be there – we’ll need the garden this summer. There’s a lot to do since I didn’t have the energy earlier, but we’ll just have to take one thing at a time. Thanks, John – you came like an angel to the rescue today!
God bless you all!
Thanks for your support!
Hugs,
Gunilla
Now Håkan’s wounds are down to 10%, but much of the skin which has healed on its own is very thin and vulnerable. Everything has gone so quickly, but Håkan still has a long road ahead of him. Håkan is in good spirits. His faith and the spiritual life that babbles inside of him are his strength and his security.
On Tuesday, Håkan sat for several hours without the respirator. We thank God for every small step forward. We are so thankful for all support and all prayer that all of you are a part of. It warms our hearts and makes everything a little easier.
THANK GOD FOR ALL THE LOVE WE ARE RECEIVING…
Thanks for the hug in the parking lot – it warms our hearts…
Thanks for the beautiful bouquets – they mean so much…
Thanks for all the posts on the blog – they minister…
Thanks for the set of dishes for Håkan’s welcome-home dinner – I’m speechless…
Thanks for all the tearful eyes we meet – that’s concern…
Thanks for the cookies we received in Linköping – we were touched…
Thanks for all the cards and text messages – they mean so much…
Thanks for all the gifts – it wouldn’t have worked without you…
THANK GOD FOR ALL THE LOVE WE HAVE RECEIVED…
Here in Uddevalla, it’s been sunny and I’ve started working a little in the garden. I’ve put out the garden furniture, trampoline and swings, fixed the sandbox and play house. Now it’s easier to be there – we’ll need the garden this summer. There’s a lot to do since I didn’t have the energy earlier, but we’ll just have to take one thing at a time. Thanks, John – you came like an angel to the rescue today!
God bless you all!
Thanks for your support!
Hugs,
Gunilla
Tuesday 12 May 2009
The sixty-eighth day
This past Saturday, Gunilla Gniste, Jan Griffith, and I visited Håkan. He was awake and we could have a conversation. It is encouraging to see, from one time to the next, what is happening with Håkan – the healing process is moving forward.
We noticed that Håkan was very clear when we spoke about spiritual things. I had bought a prayer book for him and he liked it when we read out of it. He sighed several “amens”. Håkan has used this prayer book in his personal prayer times these past several years.
We explained that we would go to Heby and he knew at once that we were going to Center Church’s 20-year anniversary. We asked if we should greet them from him and he joked at first that we shouldn’t. Then he said that, of course, we should, and that we should tell them to continue to evangelize, witness, and pray for the sick. He even had a Bible verse for them – Phil. 1:7 – where Paul says that he has them in his heart even while he is in chains. Maybe that’s how Håkan feels right now. He has chains that hold him “bound” to the hospital bed due to the burn injuries. We pray for the day when Håkan can come out of these chains. It won’t be like it was before, but it will be good. It’ll be a new time.
We will continue to gather for prayer in the church, Monday-Wednesday evenings at 6 pm. Several are continuing to fast on Mondays for Håkan, and for a breakthrough.
Thank you to all of you who are praying and believing.
Janne Sääf
We noticed that Håkan was very clear when we spoke about spiritual things. I had bought a prayer book for him and he liked it when we read out of it. He sighed several “amens”. Håkan has used this prayer book in his personal prayer times these past several years.
We explained that we would go to Heby and he knew at once that we were going to Center Church’s 20-year anniversary. We asked if we should greet them from him and he joked at first that we shouldn’t. Then he said that, of course, we should, and that we should tell them to continue to evangelize, witness, and pray for the sick. He even had a Bible verse for them – Phil. 1:7 – where Paul says that he has them in his heart even while he is in chains. Maybe that’s how Håkan feels right now. He has chains that hold him “bound” to the hospital bed due to the burn injuries. We pray for the day when Håkan can come out of these chains. It won’t be like it was before, but it will be good. It’ll be a new time.
We will continue to gather for prayer in the church, Monday-Wednesday evenings at 6 pm. Several are continuing to fast on Mondays for Håkan, and for a breakthrough.
Thank you to all of you who are praying and believing.
Janne Sääf
Thursday 7 May 2009
Hallelujah!
The surgery went well! They operated on Håkan’s upper arms, hands and the lower part of his stomach yesterday. The operation was from 8 am until 2 pm. So now it will be calm for a few days and Håkan can recuperate. The next surgery will probably be next week. Yes!
After a day like this, when Håkan has been anaesthetised, it takes a few days to revive him, so it’s good for Håkan to take it easy and rest. Pray for rest for his soul. We delight in the news that Håkan says he has been living in Psalm 23.
Here at home, a big container has landed in our driveway. A contract has been signed, so the work on the house starts today. Everything on the 2nd floor and in the attic has to go, plus the ceiling, floor and walls on the 1st floor, so it’ll be a big renovation. The insurance company has been fantastic so far. If you want to know the name of the company, let me know.
The lists of everything we had, when it was bought and what it cost, have been sent off. They take off 8% for every year, so we’ll lose a whole lot. Thank the Lord for all the churches and individuals who have sent gifts. Without you, we never would have made it through this financially. A BIG THANKS TO YOU ALL. I have written down everything we’ve received. Imagine the day when I can share that with Håkan. I’m already looking forward to that moment. Thank you!
Today I got an email saying that someone wants to give completely new shirts to Håkan. Such wonderful people there are. Naturally, I said ”yes”. He doesn’t own a single piece of clothing yet! We spoke about that the last time I visited him. It hurt so much to tell Håkan that all his clothes were gone, but there at his bedside, we thanked God that everyone had got out of the burning house, and that Håkan is alive.
On Friday, Rebecca and Johan will drive up to visit Håkan. Janne, Jan and I will go up on Saturday, and a little later on Saturday, some of our kids – Johanna, Daniel, Josefina, Bella and Amelie – will visit.
On Sunday, all the kids will meet in Jönköping and celebrate several birthdays together. We take one step at a time, and thank goodness, life goes on – that’s nice. Thank you, Lord!
We’ll meet in prayer, all of you dear brothers and sisters, new and old. Thanks for being there!
God bless you!
Gunilla
After a day like this, when Håkan has been anaesthetised, it takes a few days to revive him, so it’s good for Håkan to take it easy and rest. Pray for rest for his soul. We delight in the news that Håkan says he has been living in Psalm 23.
Here at home, a big container has landed in our driveway. A contract has been signed, so the work on the house starts today. Everything on the 2nd floor and in the attic has to go, plus the ceiling, floor and walls on the 1st floor, so it’ll be a big renovation. The insurance company has been fantastic so far. If you want to know the name of the company, let me know.
The lists of everything we had, when it was bought and what it cost, have been sent off. They take off 8% for every year, so we’ll lose a whole lot. Thank the Lord for all the churches and individuals who have sent gifts. Without you, we never would have made it through this financially. A BIG THANKS TO YOU ALL. I have written down everything we’ve received. Imagine the day when I can share that with Håkan. I’m already looking forward to that moment. Thank you!
Today I got an email saying that someone wants to give completely new shirts to Håkan. Such wonderful people there are. Naturally, I said ”yes”. He doesn’t own a single piece of clothing yet! We spoke about that the last time I visited him. It hurt so much to tell Håkan that all his clothes were gone, but there at his bedside, we thanked God that everyone had got out of the burning house, and that Håkan is alive.
On Friday, Rebecca and Johan will drive up to visit Håkan. Janne, Jan and I will go up on Saturday, and a little later on Saturday, some of our kids – Johanna, Daniel, Josefina, Bella and Amelie – will visit.
On Sunday, all the kids will meet in Jönköping and celebrate several birthdays together. We take one step at a time, and thank goodness, life goes on – that’s nice. Thank you, Lord!
We’ll meet in prayer, all of you dear brothers and sisters, new and old. Thanks for being there!
God bless you!
Gunilla
Wednesday 6 May 2009
Thanks for everything
Thanks for all love, encouragement, text messages, flowers and gifts! I prayed for an extra encouragement, when Håkan wasn’t home on my birthday.
It started already in Horred. A couple of friends gave me money to shop with. I saw all kinds of things that we needed for our house. When I put the things I’d gathered on the counter, someone who had heard that it was my birthday came and paid for everything. I got so happy and started gathering more things – it was so cheap. When I came to the counter to pay, that was also paid for! With money in my pocket, I drove to IKEA and bought a beautiful lavender-pink vacuum cleaner. Talk about surprises! My prayers had really been answered. It just continued. The day was so nice, cozy, and fun with a bunch of surprises, both at school and here at home.
The greatest present of all was of course that Håkan ate real food for the first time since the 2nd of March. Thank you, Lord, for every step forward! Today, Tuesday, it was time for a bath and re-bandaging for Håkan again. It was the first time they didn’t anaesthetise Håkan, but only gave him pain medication.
PRAYER REQUEST: Tomorrow, Wednesday, they will operate on Håkan, on the lower part of his stomach, lower back, left shoulder and both upper arms. Thank you for standing with us in prayer, that the operation will go well.
The nurse said that the legs and feet have healed well, but that the skin is so thin that they are bandaged for protection. What a victorious report! I am so thankful for all the progress in Håkan’s body. Thank you for all your prayers!
”When I rest, Jesus works in me, when I rest from my work, when I rest, rest, rest in God, the Spirit of God works through me.” We sing that over and over again, by Håkan’s bed. God is there. God’s rest is there and Håkan gets to rest and heal in that environment.
A big thanks to all the fantastic staff, a big thanks to all who pray and are thinking about Håkan, a big thanks to our Lord and Master that Håkan is alive and that the healing process is moving forward so quickly. “Thank you, thank you, my Jesus. Thank you, thank you, my Jesus…I just want to thank you, I just want to thank you!”
God bless you all!
Hugs
Gunilla
It started already in Horred. A couple of friends gave me money to shop with. I saw all kinds of things that we needed for our house. When I put the things I’d gathered on the counter, someone who had heard that it was my birthday came and paid for everything. I got so happy and started gathering more things – it was so cheap. When I came to the counter to pay, that was also paid for! With money in my pocket, I drove to IKEA and bought a beautiful lavender-pink vacuum cleaner. Talk about surprises! My prayers had really been answered. It just continued. The day was so nice, cozy, and fun with a bunch of surprises, both at school and here at home.
The greatest present of all was of course that Håkan ate real food for the first time since the 2nd of March. Thank you, Lord, for every step forward! Today, Tuesday, it was time for a bath and re-bandaging for Håkan again. It was the first time they didn’t anaesthetise Håkan, but only gave him pain medication.
PRAYER REQUEST: Tomorrow, Wednesday, they will operate on Håkan, on the lower part of his stomach, lower back, left shoulder and both upper arms. Thank you for standing with us in prayer, that the operation will go well.
The nurse said that the legs and feet have healed well, but that the skin is so thin that they are bandaged for protection. What a victorious report! I am so thankful for all the progress in Håkan’s body. Thank you for all your prayers!
”When I rest, Jesus works in me, when I rest from my work, when I rest, rest, rest in God, the Spirit of God works through me.” We sing that over and over again, by Håkan’s bed. God is there. God’s rest is there and Håkan gets to rest and heal in that environment.
A big thanks to all the fantastic staff, a big thanks to all who pray and are thinking about Håkan, a big thanks to our Lord and Master that Håkan is alive and that the healing process is moving forward so quickly. “Thank you, thank you, my Jesus. Thank you, thank you, my Jesus…I just want to thank you, I just want to thank you!”
God bless you all!
Hugs
Gunilla
Monday 4 May 2009
Monday’s visit
Dave and Chris Richards and Mats Nordén went visit to Håkan Monday 4th May.
O how encouraged we were today! Håkan had his first meal! A little fish, potatoes and sauce, but he doesn't feel hungry, as he's been fed good nutrients so far.
I could see much progress since our first visit in the early days after the fire. A lot of the swelling is down. He is bandaged from chest down but he now moves his arms. His lungs are doing well. He can see and we had conversations! All in two hours either side of his first lunch. Hallelujah!
His voice is different, as he speaks through his throat, but his spirit and sense of humour are still Håkan. His English was amazing and he spoke it more than he spoke Swedish! Mats and Chris were seeing him for the first time. Mats says, “Håkan was very lucid and that made us glad. The nurse says they will feed him less through the tube and then he will get hungry for more real food.”
Håkan has been living in his spirit in Psalm 23, so we said it together after he had amusingly said to me, “Bishop, say the Blessing!” We told him of the excellent Nordic Conference we had just finished in Horred and how thrilled he would be to have seen his hard work and prayers answered. Håkan was very moved several times. We reminded him of Hebrews 6:10 “For God is not so unjust as to overlook your work and the love which you showed for His sake in serving the saints, as you still do.”
Pray for continued healing for his head, particularly the back area. Pray for a rest of faith to be Håkan's so that the healing continues. Chris asked what Håkan wanted us to pray for and selflessly he asked us to pray that Gunilla would not be overstretched having to do so many things! Please keep praying with us! We need you and we greatly appreciate your prayers and our Incredible God who is answering them.
Glory to His Holy Name!
Dave Richards
O how encouraged we were today! Håkan had his first meal! A little fish, potatoes and sauce, but he doesn't feel hungry, as he's been fed good nutrients so far.
I could see much progress since our first visit in the early days after the fire. A lot of the swelling is down. He is bandaged from chest down but he now moves his arms. His lungs are doing well. He can see and we had conversations! All in two hours either side of his first lunch. Hallelujah!
His voice is different, as he speaks through his throat, but his spirit and sense of humour are still Håkan. His English was amazing and he spoke it more than he spoke Swedish! Mats and Chris were seeing him for the first time. Mats says, “Håkan was very lucid and that made us glad. The nurse says they will feed him less through the tube and then he will get hungry for more real food.”
Håkan has been living in his spirit in Psalm 23, so we said it together after he had amusingly said to me, “Bishop, say the Blessing!” We told him of the excellent Nordic Conference we had just finished in Horred and how thrilled he would be to have seen his hard work and prayers answered. Håkan was very moved several times. We reminded him of Hebrews 6:10 “For God is not so unjust as to overlook your work and the love which you showed for His sake in serving the saints, as you still do.”
Pray for continued healing for his head, particularly the back area. Pray for a rest of faith to be Håkan's so that the healing continues. Chris asked what Håkan wanted us to pray for and selflessly he asked us to pray that Gunilla would not be overstretched having to do so many things! Please keep praying with us! We need you and we greatly appreciate your prayers and our Incredible God who is answering them.
Glory to His Holy Name!
Dave Richards
Sunday 3 May 2009
The sixty-first day
It’s been four weeks since Inger and I last saw Håkan. What a change! Inger, Lillan and I went up to Linköping the 2nd of May and were able to visit him twice in the same day.
Same old Håkan, with his humor. When I said that I had a CD with me with a very famous group from Västergötland, from the 70’s, he figured it out at once and said, “Qvinten,” with a twinkle in his eye.
It was so fantastic to hear his voice, and to know that he could even see us. He asked how it was in the corps in Varberg. Everything was completely clear – there wasn’t any loss of memory.
When we tested him a little, there wasn’t any problem at all. We asked him to move his fingers as we named them one by one – no problem. We talked about music and he asked for calm music, rather than lively.
Thanks for all your prayers.
We have a big and wonderful God.
Greetings
Per-Göran Gniste (Håkan’s brother)
Same old Håkan, with his humor. When I said that I had a CD with me with a very famous group from Västergötland, from the 70’s, he figured it out at once and said, “Qvinten,” with a twinkle in his eye.
It was so fantastic to hear his voice, and to know that he could even see us. He asked how it was in the corps in Varberg. Everything was completely clear – there wasn’t any loss of memory.
When we tested him a little, there wasn’t any problem at all. We asked him to move his fingers as we named them one by one – no problem. We talked about music and he asked for calm music, rather than lively.
Thanks for all your prayers.
We have a big and wonderful God.
Greetings
Per-Göran Gniste (Håkan’s brother)
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