It is Sunday afternoon and I am publishing my blog one day late because in spite of frequent attempts yesterday, I was unable to get through to my blog page until today. Ah Technical difficulties, the byproduct of this wonderful computerized world we live in. I continue to make measured progress in my recovery every week. Although the progress is taking longer than I had expected, I've been told this is often the course it takes. It would be easy to look on the negative side of things, but that would be a mistake. I am grateful that I am neither going backwards nor standing still; slow progress is still progress and every week I show more strength and stamina. Thank the Lord for His provision and marvelous grace. My focus must stay upon how far I've come, not upon how far I have yet to go. God bless you for your concern and prayers - they are treasured blessings.
In Christ,
Mel Brown

Good morning on this 10th of February. I continue to gradually improve in strength and stamina. Each week shows some improvement and my wife tells me that it shows in my preaching week by week on Sundays. For this I am very grateful. I realize that these improvements take time and that realistic expectations and patience are necessary ingredients of my recovery. Scripture teaches that tribulation produces patience and hopefully I am gaining more by going through this process. Thank you for praying for my complete healing and restoration. Lord willing, tomorrow I will preach part two of the series, Peter's Prescription for Getting Along with Others, which will focus on likemindedness, compassion, and tenderheartedness. I hope to see you then.
Mel Brown

Hello on this cold winter Saturday, February 3rd. I continue to slowly recover and am gradually improving in increasing my strength. The major concern is not to undergo any more setbacks such as infections, relapses, or complications. I am trying to avoid encounters with people with the many "bugs" going around during this flu season. An intestinal bug has been sweeping through our staff in the church office and various family members have suffered from respiratory bugs, so folks have been thoughtful to stay clear of me when they are sick and I am very appreciative. I am rigidly following my post-treatment diet and am beginning some light strengthening regimentation. The shingles continue to slowly improve but still make their presence known. I continue to find much encouragement from God's word on a daily basis and am blessed by your continuing prayers and concern. Tomorrow's sermon is Peter's Prescription for Getting Along with Others. I hope all of us will be able to make it, Lord willing.
Mel Brown