Whisper their Names

Taps begin
Time adds little perspective.

Death in a hostile place, a time not chosen.
Cities hard to pronounce; countries hard to find.
Cause, clarity clouded, confused; hard to recall.

Whisper their names.

Taps begin

Time dulls memory. 
Pace pushes people on.
Space vacated, empty, gone.
Place dissolves, no trace; so it seems.

Whisper their names.
Taps begin
Time stands still; this I remember. 
Their laughter, their scent.
First smile, first step, first word, first love.
A Friday night; life was simple.
The future, a certain dream, bullet proof, not.

Whisper their names.

Taps begin

Time release; tears flow freely.
Pride in lives well lived.
Grieving for lives given, invested and gone.
The loss, the pain; broken plans, broken hearts--shattered.

Whisper their names.

Taps begin.
Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen.

Duty, honor, country; their last full measure.
No greater love, their sacrifice.

In peace, now rest.

Whisper their names--and remember.

bN tGit

A work in process

The cause/effect relationship between the way we think and the outcomes we achieve is uncanny.  

A "mind," even a poorly developed one, is a powerful force.  God blessed us all with beautiful minds; having been fashioned in His image gives us access to resources beyond the natural, built right into our DNA.  

Our minds are, of course, the most unique aspect of our beings.  So...what are you doing with yours?  It's "the first day of the rest of our lives," May 21, 2015--nearly at the mid-point of this year;  a wonderful moment to look back at what was, then gaze into the second half of the year at what might be.  



Here's a perpetual list I use to keep my life compass oriented, "true North." Quite frankly, this is a "three steps forward, two steps back" process much of the time; but even one step at a time is progress!

Finish strong in 2014...

Go to and get out of bed earlier.
Be active, body and mind, with the extra morning time.

Give up painful thinking.

Don't throw others "under the bus."

Refuse to think like a victim.
Seek balance in my life.

Look for the best in people.

Find ways to add value to the lives of others.

Give generously to a cause you feel great passion for.

Volunteer and serve in some fashion, some place.

Don't be a cynic.

Refuse to associate with negative people.

Spend time in dialogue with people who don't think like me.
Make the effort to grow my intellect and expand my perspective.

Transform obstacles into opportunities.
Begin something that makes me feel challenged.

Mentor someone younger and/or less experienced.
Find someone to mentor me; be accountable to someone.

Read and listen to good books that make me feel enriched.
Journal: keep it simple and short; then watch that discipline begin to expand. 

Leverage the dearth of resources available on the Web.
Use technology in a way that prevents me from becoming its slave.

Finally, and most significantly...

"Love justice, do mercy and walk humbly with your God."  Micah 6.8

For me, it starts by asking God (again) to empower me to resolve and retool the way I think and as result, the way I experience life. 

"Father in heaven give me clarity to know myself; give me desire to reflect Christ; give me discipline to lean into You; give me focus to remain on task; give me wisdom to make 'best decisions.' Through Chris, let it be."    



bN  tGit

I hear a Symphony

Many of my friends express concern about the fact that "God is being forced out of the public square." It's become a favorite pastime for People of Faith (yes I'm guilty)--lamenting the "sorry state" of the Nation.

What concerns ME?  It's this: People of Faith have come to embrace the notion that the symbolic presence of God is the same thing as the authentic presence of God.   Here is a short list of "hot-buttons," not intended to be exhaustive--but illustrative.

• Do we want God in our schools--disciple your children to know and love Jesus. 
• Do we want our Nation to understand that marriage is a beautiful metaphor, designed by God, of a much bigger relationship--and for this reason it is a sacred estate? Love your wife selflessly and trust your husband implicitly.
• Do we want values to govern our economy, greed to be disdained--choose simplicity and invest our resources on behalf of the poor, widows, orphans; be seekers of social justice for all the disenfranchised.  
• Are we befuddled by the seeming National obsession with abortion, perplexed by the disdain modern cultures have for human life, and high regard they show for endangered species?  Find your voice and speak up for the little Ones, consider... adoption, Foster parenting, Mentoring programs.

For too long, too many of us who profess to be followers of Jesus have routinely "phoned it in."

• We've been content to build private school sanctuaries, teaching Bible courses, that will disciple for our children.
• We've turned a blind eye to the failure rate of marriages in our churches.
• We've justified selfish ambition and the boastful pride of life as "what's ours is ours" and left social justice to government inefficiency and the dehumanizing impact of its one-size fits all insanity.
• We've ceded the heavy lifting for protecting the lives of unborn-children, the quality of life for born-children to others "called" to missional living.

Consider this: God's plan has always been to "show-up" via the beautiful music being played through lives well-lived by those who are His devoted followers--the Scripture makes clear that no law can stand against such purposeful, selfless living, "...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." Galatians 5.22,23 NASB

Lives lived this way will produce a breathtaking symphony that will bring relevance back to our Mission as His Church--no longer engaged in managing the kingdom (small ''k") but compelled to build HIS Kingdom (big "K"). 

WHEN we take seriously our empowerment, from God, to add value to the lives of people, to make hard lives easier, to model the transformational reality of the Gospel through the choices and investments we make--with our lives and resources, THEN they won't be able lock God out of the public square.  There is no law that can stand against this kind of authenticity.

"Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 21 to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen."  Ephesians 3.20,21 NASB

I hear a symphony.  Through Christ, let it be.

bN tGit

Something old, Someone New

On Thursday, May 1, 2014, we received two deliveries.

The first was a package generously provided by my sister; filled with carefully prepared and lovingly packed treasures from the life I've lived--and was lived before me.  A tapestry of  dreams, tenderness, ambition, hard work, disappointment and triumph woven through photos, cards, letters and other memorabilia.  It contained a narrative of my past.

The second was a person, fearfully and wonderfully made, named "Gabriella Grace" and delivered by our lovely daughter-in-law, Miranda, coached by our son Joseph.  "G" arrived at 11.10pm, weighed 7'10 and was just over 20" long.  She, along with our children and our grandsons and God willing, our greats...are my future.


Legacies are brittle.  Soak that in for a few moments...
I am grateful that I can look back, look around and dream about the future.
I am grateful that I have a sense of where I'm from, where I've been and who I've become. 

I am grateful that in this moment I can continue to shape character and destiny.

My story was shaped--altered, when at age 15, I made a choice to embrace Christ and believe His story.  He took my brokenness, yes even at age 15, and built me into a man whose heart's desire is to be like my savior, Jesus.  Laura, our children, know all too well the difficulty we've faced as a family and my shortcomings as a man, a husband and a father.

Here's my point: it's these challenges, these failures that add strength and color to legacies--that will give my grands and great-grands the "roots" to make choices which will empower them to continue to shape character and destiny; to build bridges from their past to a solid Christ-centered future.

Indeed..."All I had to offer Him was brokenness and strife, but He made something beautiful out of my life..." 42 years with Laura; our children Erin and Joseph; their spouses Matthew and Miranda; our grandchildren, Braden, Kellen and now Gabriella.

Something old, someone new.  Legacies are brittle.  Lean into Christ.

bN tGit

Praying through Cancer, May 2015

May 31, 2015...
"Braden was prayed for at my church today. Please know many here care, and ask me regularly for updates concerning him. Love from Canada."  Tanya Scardera

"We are praying for him in Port Isabel, TX"  Karen Jai Shockey Eis

May 30, 2015...

"Wanted to share with you something that's been developing over the last few weeks...Braden experienced hearing loss in his left ear which led to a second MRI that showed his tumor had grown. This led to the radiation that his radiation oncologist said saved his life. We asked for prayer for his hearing-the doctor thought it might be damaged by the radiation due to the location of the tumor. A few weeks into radiation, the doctor looked in his ears and said he had a buildup of wax in the left side. He gave us oil to break up the wax, which we used and cleared out his ear. From that point, his hearing on the left side has been completely restored! We don't know whether the wax caused temporary hearing loss, or whether God miraculously healed his hearing (and I don't feel that those two possibilities are mutually exclusive)...in any case, the hearing loss saved his life, and seems to have reversed. For those that don't know, Braden is a musician, and hearing loss could be a significant quality of life issue for him. So, we press on, awed by God's goodness and holding on to hope for complete healing and restoration!"  Erin

May 30, 2015...
"Hang in there. From a team mate of BJ at Thousand Oaks High School, then on to Alabama. I'm keeping track of your progress" Chip Burke

May 30, 2015...

Today we had a special guest arrive at Madi's grad party!

May 28, 2015...Father-in-heaven, thank You for being present in this storm--with us, in us, around us--most of all FOR us. Anoint us with Joy. Fill us with Peace. May we be known as Hope.
We would not choose this road we now travel, You have allowed it. Now Father, give us what we need to travel with GRACE, confident in Your promises, trusting You for every detail along the Way. May our friends, our community--and those we happen to encounter through this storm see You through our suffering-in-hope and declare--"God is Awesome."

" ...20 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 21 to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3.20,21 NASB

Through Christ, let it be.

May 27, 2015...
"Since receiving his nausea meds last night about 8 pm, Braden has slept and slept. He woke briefly, and was feeling pretty blue. The good news is that we are being discharged today! Hooray! Please pray for my boy. Pray that God will fill his heart with hope and joy. Pray that in His infinite goodness and mercy, God would continue to heal his mouth and that he would not suffer a relapse of mucositis (mouth sores). Pray that God would heal his body and restore him to health. Thank you, friends!"  Erin

May 26, 2015...
"Braden had a good trip to the clinic today. Blood work was good and mouth continues to heal. We enjoyed breakfast out on the way, and are now admitted while he enjoys some Taco Bell and waits for chemo. So far, so good!"  Erin

May 26, 2015...
"God is good. We moved the 'special meal 's Monday to give Braden's mouth time to 'heal tremendously' (see Braden's prayer request May 23rd on this Timeline)--and hosted a movie night on Sunday--EVERY meal is special these days. Well, he ate a double helping of meat-loaf on Sunday and we enjoyed the "Book of Eli." Then in round two, on Monday, he enjoyed barbecue Spare Ribs and Tips (6 to 8 ribs and all the fixens) and we watched 'Man of Steel.' Braden, Super Man has nothing on you--You, my dear grandson, are THE man. Delighted!"  Grandpa Ben

May 25, 2015...
"Braden had blood work today, and his blood counts are fantastic. His doctor said that he has completely recovered from his last chemo and is ready for the next round. So, we head down to Indy tomorrow morning for a 2 day round of chemo. Thank you for all of your prayers and encouragement! We couldn't do this without all of the support from our family and friends!"  Erin

May 23, 2015..
"Please pray that my mouth sores heal tremendously over the night so that I can enjoy a special meal with my family tomorrow"  Braden

"Definitely will do, Braden!!! So very glad that you are home....even that's good medicine!! God is so powerful!!!!!"  Billie Freeze

May 23, 2015...
"Now, I get to say 'me too' when my bball coach says 'I used to be able to dunk.'"  Braden 

May 23, 2015...
Braden and Quincy  "Enjoying being back home out of the hospital"  Braden

May 23, 2015...

UPDATE: Braden is now enjoying his new normal in the comfort of his HOME, room, with his musical instruments, friends and family. 

Father-in-heaven we are grateful and now ask that You would make this a weekend filled with the very best life can deliver to the Hartman's. Deliver them kindness, laughter, love, delight, discovery, energy, enthusiasm, hope...and an intimate awareness of Your abiding presence. We rejoice in this confidence...
"I will lift up my eyes to the mountains;
From where shall my help come?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
Who made heaven and earth.
3 He will not allow your foot to slip;
He who keeps you will not slumber." Psalm 121.1-3

Through Christ, let it be.

"And for parents dealing with the stress and burdens...
Hebrews 12:2-4New International Version (NIV)2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." Bob Brownlee

May 23, 2015...
"May this weekend be one of Peace, and Rest. Enjoyment of Family time together...xxxx D."  Danny Young

May May 21, 2015...
2.20pm: Docs are concerned about infection. His White BC count is down. Looks like he'll be in for at least 48 hours till blood culture comes back positive/negative..and so it goes. Laura reports he woke this a.m. and declared "I feel good this morning, text my mom--tell her I'm not depressed like I usually feel when I'm in the hospital."

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds,
3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1.2-4

What a promise, what a God. In His grip--together!

May 21, 2015...
"Please pray for Matt and Erin today. They are physically and emotionally exhausted. Yesterday Braden went from having a good day and being able to visit his class at school to being taken by ambulance to the hospital. Last night/this morning the exhaustion was very evident on their faces. Braden is currently a patient at Memorial Hospital and praying he will be able to come home soon."  Grandma Ali Hartman

May 21, 2015...
"Not sure what the nurses are thinking coming in when we're watching The Walking Dead :)"   Matthew 

May 21, 2015...
1 AM update: Braden was complaining of shortness of breath, headache and chest pains. We immediately called 911 and rushed him to the ER. Turns out he had a huge buildup of mucus in his throat that was making it hard for him to breathe and causing him pain in his chest. They are keeping him overnight for observation and to make sure there's nothing else going on. Praise God that it appears to be a minor issue and not something more serious. Please pray for our strength and endurance through this as we are growing very tired and for Braden… That he Will have a very short stay in the hospital and be able to enjoy a few normal days at home.

May 20, 2015...
Just spoke with Erin, 9.40pm. Braden has just been transported to Memorial Hospital via Ambulance. Don't know what the cause his symptoms might be--Docs aren't taking chances. On my way to Memorial now--thanks for praying.

May 20, 2015... 
Braden returns to Westside Middle School for a visit--made his day--with Grandpa Baier.

May 19, 2015...

"Spending the day with Braden...Gabriella sure is loving all this cousin time. He even taught her to how to draw!"  Aunt Miranda Baier

May 18, 2015...
Father-in-heaven, make this a stellar week for the Hartman's. Through Christ, let it be.

May 18, 2015

"I wanted to post a quick update on the fundraiser--with two weeks left we are only $450 short of our goal of $12,000. That is amazing! People have been so generous and it makes my heart happy every time I see the amount inch closer to the goal--because I know that this will make a real difference in helping to take some of the financial burden off of this wonderful family. The link to the fundraiser is below--hopefully we can take this over the finish line!"  Lori Schuster VanderLende who headed up a $12,000 fund raising effort on YouCare.com

May 17, 2015...
"Braden woke up pain free this morning. Thank you for your prayers!" Erin

May 16, 2015...
Father-in-heaven as we contend with cancer for mastery over Braden's health, we face setback after setback. We've learned that this is the nature of the fight which we have engaged...we ask for endurance to run this marathon--to keep picking ourselves up off the mat and pressing forward in faith, confident that there is none like You--that suffering children are safe in Your arms, that healing comes from Your hand. So Father, we knock--we seek--we ask--touch Braden's body and empower him to take a massive step forward this week--his strength, his vitality, his outlook--grant to him the ability to enjoy, to savor, a series of "deep-breaths" that will restore, and re-engage him--he is weary. Carry him to a place of safety and relief. In this period of respite, give us insight for wrestling with this disease that we might stand firm, unmoved, unshaken by the battles that lie in front of us. May Your mercy flow like a river around us, refreshing us, transporting us to a higher place. Through Christ, let it be.

May 16, 2015...
"This song came across Pandora this morning, and was so encouraging to me. I hope you find encouragement for whatever things you're facing!"  Erin

http://youtu.be/LO36F--Vn1g

May 16, 2015...
"After much prayer, I have decided to fast and pray for Braden and family every Wednesday. I pray everyday, but will add fasting, from sun up to sun down, only liquids. If anyone would like to join me, please do so privately. I will do so until Braden is cancer free. Sometimes more than just praying is called for. God Bless you all."  DY CO

May 16, 2015...
"While spending time with the family tonight, the "reality" of their lives set in. Watching Braden endure his gtube feedings/hydration was hard, but watching the nightly routine of medicines was even harder. This has become their new "norm," one that no one would wish upon their child. Yet, Matt and Erin had comedy and gracious spirits throughout. It just hit me again how much this family needs our daily prayers and support. Day in and day out, this wouldn't be easy. Prayers not only for Braden, for strength and courage to face each day, but also for Matt and Erin (and Kellen too), for encouragement, grace, and strength to take care of Braden's needs without weary. Guys- YOU. AMAZE. ME. God has you in the palm of his hand and will carry you, but just know when you need it, there are HUNDREDS of us willing to stand in the gap to help. Love you guys!"    Kara Sears 💗

May 16, 2015...
"Braden is having some pain that is typical of the treatment he just finished. But, if it doesn't improve tomorrow, he'll have to go back to the hospital. Please join us in praying that Braden's body can heal without further intervention!"  Erin

Father-in-heaven as we contend with cancer for mastery over Braden's health, we face setback after setback. We've learned that this is the nature of the fight which we have engaged...we ask for endurance to run this marathon--to keep picking ourselves up off the mat and pressing forward in faith, confident that there is none like You--that suffering children are safe in Your arms, that healing comes from Your hand. So Father, we knock--we seek--we ask--touch Braden's body and empower him to take a massive step forward this week--his strength, his vitality, his outlook--grant to him the ability to enjoy, to savor, a series of "deep-breaths" that will restore, and re-engage him--he is weary. Carry him to a place of safety and relief. In this period of respite, give us insight for wrestling with this disease that we might stand firm, unmoved, unshaken by the battles that lie in front of us. May Your mercy flow like a river around us, refreshing us, transporting us to a higher place. Through Christ, let it be.

May 15, 2015...

"We are checking out today between 4:00 - 5:00! Just in time to stop on the way home for steak... Per Braden's request :) Braden has done so well with his treatment that they were able to subtract 4 hours from each day which moved up his check out almost 1 full day! The doctor was so impressed by Braden's strength and increased healing since she saw him last. She said that he looked dramatically better than he did a month ago and clinically all signs are pointing to great scans in a couple weeks! God is good!!! We are so thankful that He is carrying Braden and our family with His loving arms through this process. Thank you all for your continued prayers!"  Matthew

May 14, 2015...
Father-in-heaven thank You for Mercy, for Grace--for bringing us through heart-break and fear and grief and anger and exhaustion and confusion and...hidden moments of distress as we lashed out at You for allowing cancer to sweep into our lives and devour this season in Braden's adolescence. We ask that you fill our hearts with calm-delight, knowing the Savior has invited us to come and lay our burdens at His feet--so now we bring heart-break, fear, grief, anger, exhaustion, confusion, distress, along with any "anchor" or "strong-hold" the enemy would employ against us and give it ALL to You--because we are Your children and we can. We embrace your promise...

28 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11.28-30

Through Christ, let it be.

May 13, 2015...
"We are about halfway through Braden's chemo round and his spirits seem to be lifting slightly. He mainly spent yesterday catching up on sleep. However, he awoke to a couple bright spots... His little wish of a new Xbox1 arrived and we were able to set it up in the room. And.. He continued to get compliments from nurses and doctors (that have not seen him in a month) on his appearance and his drawing skills. :) Pray that he wakes up on the bright side today and can begin the day thinking about all the Lord has done!"  Matthew

May 11, 2015...

"Please keep Braden in your prayers this week as we are back for a week long chemo visit. Pray first for his mood. Braden's not feeling great about being back in the hospital or wanting to be here for a week! Pray that he can enjoy some relaxation and that it goes quickly. Also, pray that the chemo will do its job with few or zero side affects. This will be his first time with these 2 chemo drugs."  Matthew

Father-in-heaven fill Braden's hospital room with Your awesome presence. Carry Braden where his will doesn't want to go--produce in him joy that transcends the natural response to this hard road he walks. Give all those who invest in him this week compassion that sees past his "being cranky" or quiet or in a funk. Fill his life with smiles, encouragement, sweetness and in him--contentment; to wait and to suffer in hope because of Your promise never to forsake him. Give him an understanding heart and insight about who we are as Your fragile children and who You are as our "Abba--daddy" that will equip him to make hard lives easier for seasons to come. Matthew has large shoes to fill without Erin "right there." Give him wisdom, rest and confidence. Love our two guys extravagantly this week... Through Christ, let it be.

May 11, 2015...
"The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing."

Zephaniah 3:17

May 11, 2015...
Father-in-heaven prepare us for the week of treatment and healing ahead. We trust You...no matter what.


Chris Tomlin - Sovereign
A son on Burning Lights

May 8, 8.36pm, 2015...
"Braden had a checkup today with his oncologist. His blood counts continue to improve, and his mouth is healing. He was able to eat both Five Guys AND IHOP today! Looking forward to enjoying time with family this weekend before he heads down to Indy Monday for chemo. Now that his radiation is over, his doctors feel the chemo will be much easier on his body. Thank you for your prayers!"   Erin

May 5, 7.57am, 2015...
Laura and I, Erin's parents, want to express our thanks to everyone who made Saturday's Jazz Cafe such a wonderful day. So many people serving to make it a great success in every way--registration, set-up, clean-up, MUSICIANS. The participants, the generous gifts given for the silent auction, those who purchased items, all the attendees, the foods classes at EMHS, the entire EMHS teaching cohort and administration. Then too, A special shout out to Kurt Weimer and Kara Sears for making it all happen.

Thank you all for loving our kids and grandkids so selflessly. We will do all we can to play it forward. Profoundly grateful.

Us two old Baiers.

May 8,  7.32am 2015...
Yesterday was a thrillingly normal day. No new update. Thanks be to God!

May 6, 2015...
"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him." 

Nahum 1:7

May 5, 2015...
Father-in-heaven bring joy to Braden today. Lift his spirit and renew his strength that he might be able to fully experience the sublime pleasure of "home," family and friends. He has suffered serial disappointment over the last few months and absorbed such stress physically. Lift him out from the distress that seeks to hold him in its grip. Do not allow the accusations of hopelessness the enemy hurls at him to stand, or establish any deceitful morsel of credibility. Do for all of us what You did for Jeremiah as he lamented his difficult estate, lift us Father and write these words on our hearts... "22 The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. 23 They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness." Shalom L'Chaim, through Christ, let it be. (Lamentations 3.22.23 NASB)

May 4, 2.10pm, 2015...
Braden is recovering well. No sign of a definitive bacterial infection, and he continues to receive IV antibiotics, as well as some antivirals. He is fever free for 36 hours, so if all goes well, he will go home tomorrow. He's sleeping the day away right now, while his healthy cells regenerate. His chemo that was scheduled for today has been postponed to next Monday to let his body heal. As of this morning, he has also gained 7 pounds in the last week! So thankful for his doctor's foresight in placing a g-tube. God is good!  Erin

May 4, 7.23am, 2015...
Father-in-heaven, make this a GRACE day for the Hartman's.   For Matthew's first day back in the classroom in seven weeks--pure joy.  For Erin's vigil at Memorial--tranquil confidence.  For Kellen doing what every 9 year old does on Monday's--security.  For Braden--healing.  "Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom (Psm 90.12)."  Through Christ. Let it be.

May 4, 3.24pm, 2015...
"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They will mount up with wings like Eagles: They shall run and not walk."

Isaiah 40.31

May 3, 12.04pm, 2015...
"Thank you for your prayers! Braden is fever free since 8 am, hoping that will continue! He will be on IV antibiotics until Monday night, but so far, no definite diagnosis of infection. The doctor adjusted some meds to help with his mouth sores and pain. He is also very anemic, and will be receiving a transfusion today to help with that. His doctor was amazed that he hadn't needed a transfusion yet based on how much chemo he's had. Truly, an answer to prayer that he finished radiation with no delays!! We will be released to go home after he is fever free for 24 hours, and has finished his antibiotics. He did have chemo scheduled for tomorrow, but that will probably be delayed for a week."  Erin

May 3,  12.00am 2015...
"Braveheart family please pray for Braden. He is on his way to memorial hospital with a temperature of 101. Please pray for quick admittance and healing tonight." Matthew

Father-in-heaven we are up against it. We wait on You. Our strength is fragile BUT our hope is steadfast We cry out to You. Come to Braden as the Lion-of-Judah, the One who has conquered sin and the sting of death and destroy this beast that seeks to take his life. Do not permit fear to steal our joy and our confidence. Give us boldness to declare Your sovereignty over this battle we have engaged. Give us faith and discipline to remain on our knees marshalling weapons in heavenly places, taking down strongholds that have been established against us. Give us endurance to finish. Give us wisdom to trust in Your promise--You will not forsake or abandon us--and surrender our fear to that promise. Raise Braden to full strength and a bright future. Through Christ, let it be.

May 1, 2015...

"Braveheart family please pray for Braden today. He his mouth sores have returned and is having some side effects from the chemo this week. Pray for a good day. We were planning to go to school to see friends and teachers. He would really be lifted up by this. Pray for comfort and strength today."  Matthew

Father-in-heaven, grant Braden strength for the day and grace for this moment. Use him today as he reaches out to classmates, teacher and administrators. Be strong through his weakness and bless him with relief from pain. May he have the endurance he needs to embrace the day. Through Christ, let it be.

May 1, 2015...

Father-in-heaven, we are preparing for a weekend filled with joy. Celebrating G's birth with family, celebrating the generosity of friends, colleagues and new friends at the Jazz Cafe; rejoicing over the progress Braden has made....Make this an amazing pause in our lives....Give us the gift of vision to reflect on what it means to be Yours and determination to live our lives intentionally, transformationally. Empower us to be kind, gentle, compassionate and generous. Through Christ, let it be.

Praying through Cancer, April 2015

April 30, 2015...

Father-in-heaven, we rejoice in glad expectation that You have brought us to this day: Braden's final radiation treatment. We thank You for dedicated Dr's and the healing team at Riley Hospital. Their work in making hard ives easier is a transcendent kindness. This cup is difficult to bear, yet Your grace is sufficient and Your strength shines through our weakness. May the reflection of Your image, in Braden, Matthew, Erin and Kellen--point these selfless healers to You, the Great Physician. Today, make it GRACE. Through Christ, let it be.

We are eager to have you back home. Celebrate "today." Braden, Matthew, Erin and Kellen...The sprint event is nearly complete.  The marathon continues. Breathe. Smile. "This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad." Love you all. 

April 29, 2015...

Father-in-heaven, thank you for stairs and strength You've given my grandson to "run to the top" because he COULD. Give us eyes to see, in our own lives, a thousand simple gifts given each day--that we might lavish You with praise and lounge in Your provision. Through Christ, let it be.

April 29, 2015...

"Loss isn't abandonment. It isn't the death of hope. It's an intersection where one can step back and see life, not just for what it isn't, but for what it is; it's at that place, in that moment, we see the goodness of God, and it's easy to be grateful."

From a recent Blog posting...Lost & Found
bN tGit

April 29, 10.15am, 2015...

"Thank you all for your prayers today! Braden's energy level, mouth pain, and nausea got much better as the day went on. He was able to get 5 feedings in with all his required meds! Please continue to pray for the next couple days as he finishes up radiation and gets ready to go home."  Matthew

April 28, 1.15pm, 2015...
"Prayer warriors please pray for Braden today. Braden woke up with a lot of nausea and pain from his mouth sores. Pray that the nausea ceases and that Braden is able to keep his medicine and food down today."  Matthew

April 27, 2015...

Father-in-heaven we are asking that You kill this tumor once and for all as Braden's radiation ends on Thursday. Through Christ, let it be.

April 25, 1.04pm, 2015...

"So this medicine called "irenitecan" was given to me three weeks ago, it caused horrendous mouth sores, so bad that I could hardly talk, much less eat... This past week, I took irenitecan again (it's one of the required chemo regiments) my mouth is starting to get bad again, so please pray that I feel relief from the mouth pain and that my mouth sores heal quickly. Pray that I am still able to eat."  Braden

April 25, 10.50am, 2015...
"Please cope with me - I miss having responsibilities with school... The only true responsibilities I possess now are making sure I get enough to eat, and making sure I don't get bone-skinny... It sounds like heaven doesn't it? No school, just eat and play video games all day; well... I'm telling you it is not. I wish I was back in school and had work to do and was surrounded by my friends and teachers everyday. Count your blessings my friends I have quite the testimony to share with My friends in Elkhart, granger, and... The WORLD - as the the truth said: "go and tell all the world and preach the good news to everyone" (Mk.15:16) Honestly, through all of this, I have never felt as much joy in my life as I have since diagnosed with cancer. Through all of the pain and suffering I have experienced, I have experienced double the relief and comfort, and I have found amazing pure excitement in being alive and seeing the buds grow back on the trees, and most of all, being with my family... My parents have told me that I seem like a different person, (in a good way), and I know jesus is really working through me and in me to influence others, and that is truly what I want to do with my life for the rest of my life. Thank you jesus!"  Braden

April 23, 2015...

Father-in-heaven, grateful for the team of healers you have surrounded Braden with. Humbled by the faithful friends you have surrounded our family with. Awed by the disciplined intercessors you have surrounded this entire journey with. Lifted-up by Your unfailing love surrounding us; empowering us for each next step. Thankful. Through Christ, let it be.

April 23, 2015...
"We saw Dr B, Braden's radiologist, for our official appointment Today. He said that Braden is doing really really great! He said that Braden has dodged a huge World War II style bomb and he's going to get through this. This tumor was going to take him out, but now we are giving it the middle finger(dr b's words)! He also showed me images from yesterday because I asked... and I saw no tumor from his nose down! That's the only pic he had in the system. He said 5 weeks earlier is was huge. Braden also had some hearing back today... He said about 70%! Off to chemo. Another good day!"  Matthew

April 22, 2015...
Psalm 46:1-2 "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea." 

Thought: God is not only our protector; he is also our helper. Even when our world seems to be crashing around us, he is there. He will deliver us from death or deliver us through death. He will deliver us from evil < sickness > or he will deliver us to overcome evil < sickness >. Our task is totrust that in the midst of our earthquakes and tidal waves we are not alone or abandoned.

Prayer: Holy God, I pray for those today who are in the middle of life's earthquakes.  Braden, the Hartmans, and the Baiers,  You know those for whom I am concerned. You know I care about their struggles which are too big for me to mitigate and too painful for me to truly bring comfort. I ask you now, to bless them, be with them, and please deliver them quickly. You are our only true hope and Jesus is our only sure redeemer. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray. Amen."     Mark Rote

April 20,  12.54pm, 2015...
"Just talked with the oncologist... She was amazed with the weight gain and by his appearance today! Braden has gained 7lbs since last Monday and the mouth sores are almost completely gone! She also said all signs are looking really good!!! Braden noticed more feeling today in his face and clinically looks much better every time. When we started radiation 4 weeks ago, Braden was completely numb from his ear to his chin on the left side. Today he has almost all of his feeling back! Praise Jesus! 'His mercies are new every morning; great is they faithfulness!'"   Matthew

April 20, 6.26am, 2015...

"Braden starts a five day chemo regimen today, along with continued radiation therapy. The last round with this medicine left him feeling pretty rotten. His doctors have adjusted some meds to combat the worst of the side effects and we are hopeful that this week will be better. Please join us in praying that this medicine would eradicate the cancer cells while sparing his healthy cells; that Braden would have the strength and stamina he needs, and that he would find joy in the journey. Thank you, friends!"  Erin

April 18, 2015...
"Awesome to be home together this weekend! Headed to Shipshewana, at Braden's request. Have a blessed day!"  Erin, Matthew, Braden and Kellen

April 17, 2015...

Spoke with Braden last evening via phone call. This made my heart leap "Grampa, I feel normal today." 

Father-in-heaven thank you for giving Braden (and me) the kind of day he needs to keep moving forward in confidence and hope. Bring Matthew and him home today in safety--put us all in touch with joy, filled with hope and overflowing in gratitude; not because of a good day, but because that good day reminds us that we are loved by You, the Master and Creator of the Universe.  Through Christ, let it be.

April 16, 2015...

"As we were getting breakfast this morning we ran into the Pacers rep that set us up with the on court passes and autographed shoe on Tuesday. He came over to say hi and said he wanted to get Braden a couple more things. We followed him to the Pacers merchandise store and had Braden pick out some things he wanted. He bought Braden over $150 of Pacers merchandise on his dime! He also invited Braden to come back to bakers life next week to shoot some baskets in the gym. Thank you Brandon and thank you God for continuing to bless our journey!"  Matthew

April 14, 2015...

Father in heaven, thank You for cheese cake...and for the simple grace Braden enjoyed by eating a double measure Sunday evening. What a blessing it is to see a teen-age boy, acting like a teen-age boy. So grateful for this subtle answered prayer. You come to us through the details of our lives. So grateful. Through Christ, let it be.

April 14, 2015...

Coach Pagano came over to give Braden a hug. "Have faith, God has this!" Inspirational words from a cancer survivor! Thanks Coach! Go Colts!

April 14, 2015...

"Braden has his first physical therapy appointment today and He has not been looking forward to this. Pray for strength and for sense of purpose as he tries to gain his strength back. Also, pray that Braden is able to enjoy the day! We were given Pacers tickets for this evening… with a chance to watch pre-game and meet the players. Pray that Braden is feeling great and able to enjoy all of the festivities."  Matthew

"Braden did great with his physical therapy session today! He worked hard and had a great attitude about getting started. Continue to pray for energy, strength, and stamina as he works through his daily exercises and begins the journey back!"  Matthew

April 12, 2015...
Father-in-heaven, asking for a "strong heart" for Braden in the week ahead. It's been a tough two months--he feels it. I ask that Your instruction for us in 2 Corinthians be REAL in him this week. For though... "8 We are pressed on every side by troubles...we are not crushed. We are perplexed...not driven to despair. 9 We are hunted down...never abandoned by God. We get knocked down...we are not destroyed. 10 Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies." Encourage BraveHart. Through Christ, let it be.

April 12, 2015...

"With all of our family back under our own roof this weekend, Matthew and I spent some time going over household tasks--making sure bills were paid, groceries bought, needs met for next week in Indy and at home. At one point in the process, I just realized that every one of our needs at been met-and more- and I thought, "It's like the loaves and the fishes!" Well, of course it is. Because the very same God that fed the 5000 on the shore of the Sea of Galilee is alive and working in my life. I want to extend my deep, heartfelt thanks to the BraveHart community for your precious gifts of prayer, time, encouragement, food, donations, and the list goes on. Thank you for your part in God's provision for us through this storm. 'Now to HIm who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.'"  Erin

Ephesians 3:20-21.

April 10, 2015...

"Today is swallow study day! Braden's test is at 11:00 am. Praying for a normal result-he could use some good news today!!!"  Erin

"Today's swallow study: NORMAL!!! No more dietary restrictions! PRAISE GOD!!! Braden will have radiation this morning, then we will be heading home for the weekend. His first time in his own bed in a month. God is good!"  Matthew

April 9, 2015...

Father-in-heaven. Asking for a great day for Braden, Erin and Matthew. Encourage, empower and delight them today. Today--living fully in THIS moment lead them to joy that can't be touched by circumstance, confidence that can't be shaken by fear and love for each other that produces deep contentment. In Christ, let it be.

"Due to a miscommunication, Braden didn't have his swallow study today, but he will have one tomorrow at 8:30 am. Two doctors checked him out though, and from those exams, we know that Braden does indeed have his gag reflex back, appears to be swallowing normally, has more feeling on his left side and his hearing has also improved. He also has some symptoms (I'll spare you the details), that tumor cells are dying and being carried off by his immune system. PTL, PTL, PTL!!! On the flip side, the chemo he's on is causing a fair bit of trouble getting adequate nutrition and hydration, and he has continued to drop weight. We are on day 3 of switching up his routine to get more calories, and are hoping with a couple tweaks today, he will get the 3000 calories he needs. Thank you for your continued prayers!"   Matthew 

April 8, 2015...

"Braden had a great night's sleep and woke in good spirits. He was also able to get some much needed nutrition. Thank you for your prayers-we feel them!!"  Matthew

April 8, 2015...

"O LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief. — Psalm 143:1

Thought: Some days are just plain tough! Those we care about are hurting. Our plans are falling through. Our prayers seem to bounce off the ceiling and fall at our feet. We cry out to God — sometimes in anger, sometimes in desperation, but especially for mercy. We need relief! We need hope! We need the Father to respond.

Prayer: Faithful and righteous God, loving Father, please come to my aide and bring me relief from my struggles with sin, with disease, with discouragement, with friends who are untrue, and with enemies who work for my humiliation and destruction. I need your help. I need your mercy. O, dear Father, I need to know your presence and power in my life today. In Jesus' sweet name I pray. Amen."  Mark Rote

April 8, 2015...
Father-in-heaven, make it a GRACE day. May we have eyes to see Your GRACE working for us. May people we touch experience Your GRACE through us. May this difficult journey we are on become an archive of GRACE, filled with victory, praise, thanksgiving and transformation--we ask this, gracious Father, through Christ, our Lord, let it be.

April 7, 2015...

"Braden is a facing a few hurdles this week. He has continued to lose weight, and we are trying to increase his calories, but he is also struggling with nausea, so it's a delicate balance. He has also developed some pretty rough sores in his mouth, which are causing him a lot of pain. In addition, he has a follow up swallow study on Thursday. Three weeks ago, the doctor noticed that Braden had no gag reflex. This week, he has been gagging on his pills, which means, Yay! The gag reflex is back! We are hoping the study will be normal, which will mean he will have no more dietary restrictions. Thankful that Braden is continuing to show improvement-please join us in praying for his side effects to ease up so that he can regain some strength!"  Erin

April 6, 2015...

"Update: Braden continues to get more feeling on the left side of his face and the doctors are very encouraged by his progress! However, Braden's mouth sores continue to get worse from the radiation and chemo. Please pray for comfort and pain relief this week as we press on. Also, with mouth relief that he is able to eat the things he enjoys. Thank you friends!"  Matthew

April 3, 2015...

Father-in-heaven, the sun has come up on another Resurrection Day weekend. As we consider Your suffering, and celebrate Your victory over death, remind us of our access to Grace--through faith; remind us that You are present and involved in every detail of our lives; remind us that You are holding Braden securely in Your arms--and carrying us all through this valley. Remind us that it's Friday, but Sunday's comin'. Through Christ, let it be.

April 5, 2015...
"Praying for you Braden, my Warrior brother! Blessings from Colorado. So admire your courage and strength."  Danny Young

April 5, 2015...
"Happy Easter! He is Risen, He is Risen Indeed. Thinking and praying for your family today. Keep your chin up Braden. Blessings from Canada."  Tanya Scardera

April 5, 2015...
Hi Hartman Family! Wanted to show our support for Braden while visiting beautiful Mesa Falls in Idaho!

April 5, 2015...

Thank you Ronald MacDonalds an Coke for sending the family to the Final Four...
So grateful for such a fun night with family. Braden felt good all evening and loved the experience!

April 2, 2015...

We ran into someone today at Riley... Go Irish!

April 2, 2015...

Father-in-heaven, grant all those blessed by the hospitality of the Ronald McDonald House a stellar night of rest. Through Christ we ask, let it be.

April 2, 2015...

"Braden's spinal tap results are negative! Doctor just called with the news, No cancer in his spine! Although it was only a precaution, such a relief to hear. As always... Thank you all for your prayers! Please pray for a restful evening tonight. Braden is having some nausea, mouth discomfort and anxiety from it all. Thank you!" Matthew 

April 1, 2015...

Giving thanks today for the generosity of friends, family and strangers who have given so generously in so many different ways to ease the burden and help carry the load for Matthew, Erin the boys. Never experienced anything like this. So very humbled by the goodness, the sacrifice, the profound concern you have extended...praying God's rich blessing on each one of you. Thanks--Ben & Laura Baier.

"We couldn't have said it better. It has just been amazing to see all the support the community has given us. Love you guys." Harold and Ali Hartman