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Discharged Again: A Glimpse of Grace

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Posted on: July 18, 2025
By: James Long, Jr.

Many of you have been faithfully praying for Amy, and I want to share an encouraging update with you today.

Earlier this week, we were preparing for yet another procedure after her bile numbers suddenly began to rise again. The team suspected a bile duct stricture and scheduled a procedure for Wednesday. But by God’s grace, the adjustments made to her anti-rejection medications seem to have made a significant difference. Her liver numbers improved dramatically, and the scheduled procedure was canceled.

Even more encouraging, the doctors approved Amy‘s discharge from the hospital once again. She’s now back at the transplant house, and while we still have a journey ahead, this is a clear sign of God’s mercy and the power of your prayers.

At the same time, I want to gently acknowledge those who are still waiting, those who are praying, aching, or grieving the news they didn’t want to hear. My heart is with you. We live in a world that is broken, where healing doesn’t always come at the time or in the way we hope for. And yet, because of Christ, it is well, even when it doesn’t feel well. That’s the truth I’ve had to hold onto in hospital rooms, in silent tears, and in the moments where faith requires more than feeling.

Psalm 46 has carried me this week:

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way…”
– Psalm 46:1–2a

We don’t have to be unshakable because our God is unmovable. He is not absent in adversity. He is active, present, and faithful. He calls us to “Be still, and know that I am God,” even while the storm still rages (v.10). His promises anchor us, even when life feels adrift.

Please continue to pray:

  • For continued healing and stability in Amy’s liver numbers
  • For no recurrence of complications like stricture or rejection
  • For strength, rest, and protection as she recovers
  • And for the living donor, whose recovery may take 6–8 weeks. Please do not forget them. Their sacrificial gift has given Amy life.

We thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus to us during this season.

With all our gratitude,
James

“The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” – Psalm 46:11

Note from James:
As we’ve walked through these intense weeks with Amy’s surgery and recovery, I haven’t been able to post regular content on the site. Thank you for your grace and continued prayers.

If you’re new here and would like to explore more of our ministry, over 1,000 resources are available on this platform, including blog articles, podcasts, and tools to support emotional, relational, and spiritual growth.

If you’re interested in deeper engagement, I’d love to invite you to join our free Navigator-level community at community.jameslongjr.org. For those looking for more focused support through membership or group coaching, you can learn more at jameslongjr.org/signupnow.

Thank you again for being part of this journey with us.

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