I wanted to share this photo my brother-in-law sent me today of the girls as they anxiously waited for Bowen to get home.
Another of them waiting
I might be wrong, but Bowen looks like he’s in awe of life outside the hospital:)
There is a deep sense of gratitude within our family, but the last few days have also had their share of difficulties. Bowen is home, which is just one of our many hopes and prayers that have come to pass. As grateful as I am, it was really hard to leave for work this weekend, leaving Sarah at home to take care of Bowen and the girls.
My wife is the most gracious woman I know, and I pray to God that I will never take her for granted. Apparently our home nurse kept telling her yesterday, “You’re a saint!” as the kids ran wild, making a beautiful disaster of our house. It’s in the midst of this kind of chaos that Sarah lovingly tends to our boy (as well as our girls), administering his medication and cleaning up vomit. This woman is incredible, and my heart is overwhelmed with wonder at God’s gift of her to me.
Even though I had good reasons to go, and Sarah has lot a of help back home from our servant hearted family and friends, flying to Texas for the last few shows of the Hungry For Love Tour this weekend was a painful decision to make. Had we come home on November 8th, I would’ve had five days at home with Bowen, but because his infection prolonged his hospital stay, I was only able to enjoy one day at home with him before leaving. These are the times when I think long and hard about the “Lead Me” life and finding the balance between being the financial provider and being the emotional and spiritual provider for my family. Every single decision that effects our family is important to me, but the bigger my family becomes, the more weight those decisions carry. I wish I could be all things to things to all people, make only perfect decisions, and be everyone’s hero all day, everyday. Don’t we all? It’s in these moments I find a greater opportunity, to embrace humility and trust God. This by no means takes away my responsibilities, but in my weakness God is always displayed as perfectly strong. That’s why our family looks to him as our ultimate leader.
Digging Deeper into Lead Me
I believe I’ve mentioned it in a previous post, but there’s an illustration Sarah and I heard at a marriage conference that we really love. The speaker lifted his hand up high, as if to place it on the head of someone tall and said, “These are expectations.” He then lowered his hand to his waist and said, “This is reality.” After a pausing for a moment to get our attention he concluded, “Everything in between is disappointment.”
There’s a lot of people in the world living in disappointment…with their spouse, their children, their income, their house, their work schedule and so much more. It was only a few years ago that Sarah and I were living in disappointment with each other over unrealistic expectations. We fought often, struggled with feeling isolated, and were emotionally distant from one another. I’ll never forget the day that Sarah lovingly appealed to me to be a better leader in our marriage, and it changed our life. The effect of her willingness to lovingly tell me what she needed was not only the song “Lead Me,” but the beginning of most fulfilling season of our nine year marriage.
Through our experience I learned that good intentions aren’t enough to make me a great husband or father, or make me a great anything for that matter. My weakness caused me to call out to God as my leader and pray for discipline and strength to be everything I’m called to be. I also began to trust him to take care of my wife and kids in ways that I can’t. He’s been faithful in answering my prayers and proving himself to be much stronger than me. He’s also given me a passion for studying the Bible, and what I discover daily within it’s pages fuels and transforms my daily life. I share what I’m learning with Sarah and we pray together almost every day. We’ve both come to the realization that our faith in God is the only thing that has satisfied our deepest longings. We fit perfectly within the hands of our creator, and he continues to mold us (together and individually) into a more beautiful creation.
It would be hard to write down all the ways that God has been shaping and preparing us for life with Bowen. I even look at the lyrics I wrote for our latest album “Pieces of a Real Heart” shortly before we were pregnant with him. As if the album title weren’t enough, it contains the song “Keep My Heart Alive” as well as others with lyrics that speak directly to our situation. There’s so much evidence for the divine plan when we’re willing to see it. I could write for about it for hours, and I will…later. For now I’ll leave you with the video for the song “Lead Me”
Cherry
November 20, 2010 at 7:01 pm
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your story and your life with us. Its awesome to see the way God has been working in your lives! We pray for your family every day and we are so glad to see that your whole family is at home now. You have also given us so much to think about in your blog. I especially love your “digging deeper” section. Thank you for being such a good example to follow. We love yall and we will still be praying for your family (especially Sarah) and the new things you will go through.
Joan
November 24, 2010 at 8:27 pm
Sudan,
This is not the forum for your very ugly letter. If you are so upset about what is happening in Indi go and
help them. If you do not like living here or the way that our country is run then you are free to LEAVE.
Do you think anyone is going to respond to your web site with the letter that you sent to these wonderful
parents?????
Amber Aden
November 24, 2010 at 9:26 pm
I’ve got news for you Sudan – no one’s next life will be in India. If you want to see the hereafter – choose Jesus. I’m actually glad you posted to this site. This is just the sort of forum where you will find the type of people to pray for you. You need it. Bowen needs it. Africa needs it. Believe it or not, there is enough prayer to go around.
William Studer
November 24, 2010 at 9:28 pm
I agree with 100% with Joan. You will NEVER meet anyone as loving as these parents. A friend and I helped them set up a show indiana, and just from talking to Matt a very FEW moments, i could sense the love in his voice, and from his heart. It is very wrong of you to post something like that on this website, and I will be praying for you
Amy D.
November 20, 2010 at 7:26 pm
Praying for you guys- always wishing we could do more! You and Sarah are incredible warriors for the Kingdom and I pray that, in the intensely crazy days to come, that you both find rest in Him and in the arms of one another. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!
Thank you for tearing yourself away for a few more nights. You blessed us last night, so much (the entire concert was incredible and was a much needed spark for Dillon and me). We are honored to call you friend.
Don’t forget those hugs to Sarah, the girls and cutie-pie Bowen!!!
Much love,
Amy, Dillon, and Ethan
Matt Hammitt
November 20, 2010 at 7:31 pm
Being with you, Dillon, and all my heart friends last night was a great comfort to me, as usual. I will certainly pass on your love to my family:) GIve Ethan hugs for us as well.
Amy D.
November 21, 2010 at 12:28 pm
Hugs given :-). I tried to video him looking at the pic of you and Bowen b/c it’s so cute how he says your names, but once he figured out what I was doing, he clammed up and ran off :p.
Kathryn Bonnett
November 20, 2010 at 7:31 pm
We brought our HLHS baby, Seth, home after 50 days in the hospital (During which time, my mom stayed with our “big kids” 10, 7 & 2 at the time for 3 weeks, and our church family picked up babysitting duties for the remainder). I cried the day before we were to bring him home becuase I didn’t think we could do it.
I know the anxiety of all those meds, and tube feeding, and caring for older kids, and germs, etc.
I have been praying for smooth transitions. For peace in your home, for calm and ease with all things necessary.
I completely forgot 5pm meds once and it dnd’t seem to harm Seth..
God is big enough to cover our human weaknesses. I KNOW you two know that.
mom2lo
November 20, 2010 at 7:43 pm
Just wanted to say a quick hello and welcome sweet Bowen home! You don’t know me (obviously) but we have that whole “six degrees of separation” thing… My husband’s cousin is Ali (Washburn) Leininger, who I understand is high school friends with your brother-in-law? Something like that anyway… Our son Chase had his Norwood at 7 days and his Glenn at 4 1/2 months old. The big guy turned ONE last month! This journey is not easy but IS doable. Keep up your strength, Sarah, because it WILL get easier! We didn’t come home on 15 meds, but we had several and today we’re down to TWO. Ahhhhh! We’ve had our share of struggles but it’s amazing how richly God has blessed us throughout this journey. I also wanted to tell you how very much “Lead Me” has touched my life as well. My guess is that going through a life-altering experience such as having a child with HLHS can either strengthen a marriage, or weaken it. It has been a difficult road but I am so grateful that God has strengthened our marriage through this journey, and He used your song to help us. THANK YOU! And I’m definitely not trying to solicit you or anything by sharing this, but I wrote a song for Chase about this journey and I assume you can identify with it as well, so I wanted to share it with you here. God put the words in my heart to express what I was feeling (and you can imagine the gamut of emotions from diagnosis to birth to surgery to beyond…). Anyway, I apologize for the crazy-long comment, but I guess I just wanted to introduce myself as a fellow “heart mom” and wish you the very best! You all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers! God bless!
((Heart Hugs))
Kathy
Tammi T. (a mom of an HLHS boy)
November 20, 2010 at 11:12 pm
Thanks for sharing such a personal and heart-touching song.
((Heart Hugs))
Misty
November 30, 2010 at 7:56 pm
Your song and video is WONDERFUL!!! God has given you that song and I am so glad you have shared this. You have a wonderful gift for music and your voice is beautiful. I am so thankful to the Lord that he has given your family hope in the midst of what others would see as a tragedy. God loves to take the impossible and mold it into something glorious for His Kingdom. May Chase always be an inspiration to those around him and I pray that what God has in store for him will be even more magnificent than even we can imagine right now! Beautiful children! Thank you again for sharing your story and your song! God Bless You!
Misty
susie michaud
November 20, 2010 at 7:56 pm
All the pictures you guys send are so wonderful! I love the look on Bowen’s face! It’s like he’s saying,” I don’t know what this magical land is they’ve brought me to, but I’m loving it!” I don’t know if you read the message I wrote earlier, but, wow. You wrote exactly what I needed to hear, like God was speaking right through you or something. Those words are painful, but I need to hear them sometimes, that good intentions don’t really get us anywhere. I tend to be the kind of person that just wants to run away or act like nothing’s wrong when things need to be dealt with. That’s a humbling thing to admit. I’ve been letting things get a bit out of balance at home. When I get overwhelmed by all the mommy responsibilites instead of tackling them,I run from it like its a scarry monster. My husband and some of the kids are the kind of people that the harder it gets the more they want to fight and win. I think we do all wish we could be all things to all people and make perfect decisons.I pray a lot that I could just accept myself with the love God has for me. I have such a long way to go. When I let myself down I get really frustrated and grumpy and that’s not the way to be. My husband and I have finally learned how to not have unrealistic expectations with each other. There was a time when I think the top of the invisible person’s head you were referring to must have been as tall as Goliath! It can be difficult to want to always be successful, but to have to remember with humility that we need to be faithful to God. That we are all imperfect, fallen people that need God to be contiunally at work on us. Thanks for the posts and for sharing your heart. I’ll be praying for you and your awesome family to have an awesome week!
Lis
November 20, 2010 at 7:57 pm
Continuously praying for you and your family and ministry. The “lead me” song is my prayer. My daughter and I try everyday to serve the Lord and still respect and honor our “leader” who doesn’t. It’s a terrible place to be. Having gone through the loss of loved ones, jobs and belongings, vehicles, and homes, well, it just brings new meaning to that song. I’ve followed you on this journey for weeks now. My heart breaks for you during the more difficult times and I rejoice with you when Bowen’s having “good” days. I’m so happy he is home but I truly cannot imagine having a child with those needs. My daughter has some, but nothing to that extent. Your children are so amazingly blessed to have two parents leading them. We are so blessed to have your ministry in our lives and I just wanted to thank you for your devotion in the midst of the storm that you all face each day. God Bless ~ Lis
Micah Peacock
November 20, 2010 at 7:57 pm
Awesome photos! I am so glad you’re home!!
Bunches of Love and Prayers,
Micah
Micah Peacock
November 20, 2010 at 7:58 pm
I’m glad you are all home! Mark 11:24 🙂
Bunches of Love and Prayers,
Micah
R.B. Pray
November 20, 2010 at 8:09 pm
Matt,
Every day I thank the Lord for my wife. She really is my ‘help mate’ There’s no way Asher (HLHS) does as well as he is doing without the Lord and her. Praying for you all.
Blessings,
R.B.
lisa carlin(hlhs mom)
November 21, 2010 at 10:35 pm
THAT’S SO SWEET 🙂
Jenny
November 20, 2010 at 8:16 pm
I am so happy that you guys are finally able to enjoy having all 3 of your beautiful children in your home. Congratulations and stay healthy until Feb 😉 See you then.
Jenn
November 20, 2010 at 8:52 pm
Heart mamas are a special breed- capable of performing tasks we never would have dreamed we would be doing. I am sure that Sarah is already proving herself to be a pro. My husband had to go out of town shortly after we brought C home, and I learned that I could do more than I thought- I even figured out how to put in a new NG tube all by myself. I can’t say that Charlotte enjoyed it, but I was pleased with myself.
And the vomit- bless it! We learned the hard way that the Rooms to Go upholstery cleaning plan does not extend to baby puke. It became comical to see the different means we would employ to keep her at just the right angle towards the end of a feed.
I am still praying for all of you. Being home has its own set of challenges, but it’s still home, and that is so sweet. I know that you guys will have such a precious Thanksgiving all together.
Matt Hammitt
November 20, 2010 at 9:13 pm
Jenn,
I’ve been meaning to tell you, you’re blog is great.
Connie Toole
November 20, 2010 at 8:59 pm
Sarah and Matt, the two of you are awesome parents !! Sarah, we know how overwhelming it can be, especially when you have so many meds, but you are doing a great job and it would be nice if someone could let the two of you go to dinner or something occasionally. My granddaughter Emerson, just came home yesterday from the hospital after her Fontan surgery. She is three and hates taking meds. We were all invited to a wedding tonight and I told my daughter that I would keep Emerson and let she and her husband go, because I felt they needed a night to themselves. I’ve got two grandaughters here tonight, Emerson and Lauren, and I just sit and watch them sleep and My eyes well up with tears of joy of how blessed I am to be a part of there lives and to get to spend alot of time with them !! My grandson, Joseph Carson, who is 12, decided he didn’t want to be apart of the girls sleep over tonight. I told him that he and Nana would do something fun real soon by ourselves. Matt, we would love to talk and share with the two of you if you ever want too. We would love for all of the families of these heart babies all over the world to join together and try to find out why so many babies are getting this heart defect, HLHS, and help to raise more money for more research !! Well, I think I am going to lay down while these two little princesses of mine are asleep, because you never know when one may wake up. I’m sure yal know all about that !Sweet Dreams to the Hammitt Family !!! Praying for Continued Healing !! Connie Toole, [email protected], EmersonBanksMay, http://www.carpages.com
lisa carlin(hlhs mom)
November 20, 2010 at 9:09 pm
sarah will be able to handle anything that all of us heart moms do…when I brought dylan home for the first time, my husband was in germany for work..and I fired the home nurse the 1st day! I felt very overwelmed to say the least…but here we are, all doing well…2 years later… glad you were able to make it home in time for thanksgiving! with love LISA
Tammi T. (a mom of an HLHS boy)
November 20, 2010 at 11:30 pm
Lisa,
It is funny that you mention firing the home nurse the first day. We didn’t do any firing but I remember that we knew more about Daniel’s defect than our home nurses did. I actually had to explain his defect to one nurse. Another nurse come and said, “Well, I see there is not g-tube leakage”. This was all while Daniel was sitting on my lap, fully-clothed. I asked him, “How can you tell? You haven’t even looked at him.” I’m not trying to put down their job but I guess, at least in our area, there is so little known about the defect. After we had been at the hospital for months, talking with doctors and nurses every day, we just knew more about it than our local “home” nurses.
I know Sarah will do fine, too. It is overwhelming and nerve racking but it sounds like she has plenty of help. My biggest adjustment was being able to sleep. Even if everyone else was sleeping, I would have to get up so often just to go check on Daniel to make sure he was still breathing. We had a baby monitor on and his room was just across the hall but I just needed the reassurance that he was OK. Here we are about 4 years to the day since we were able to come home from his last surgery and we are doing well, too. We’ll just keep praying for Sarah, (as well as, the rest of the family).
Happy Thanksgiving to you!
lisa carlin(hlhs mom)
November 21, 2010 at 10:39 am
thanks tammi! it’s nice how we relate so much to eachothers experiences…it does sound like sarah has alot of help,thankfully..that was not the case for me at all. I couldn’t have felt more alone…that was my own fault for not seeking help. I didn’t have a blog(still don’t) and I didn’t have home support with friends or family, being that they didnt know how to help either…I’m great at being helpfull to others but not very good at asking for help..however, I am pretty strong and have great survivor instincs..I am grateful for that. dylan needed a mom who can spring into action, thats for sure…I won’t take complete credit though,..my husband travels alot for work and I’m used to managing the homefront while he’s away..as for home care nursing,,,it’s very hard to find a good fit. it’s true that some nurses don’t have much knowledge even when it comes to simply changing a gtube button or other related care issues that seem to require common sense,LOL..luckily after many have come and gone, we finally found 3 nurses that we can rely on…I am so glad that daniel is so far out from all of this and I know you hold a special place in your heart,just as I do, for other heart moms and kids…happy thanksgiving to you too! love Lisa
Lauren Colley
November 20, 2010 at 9:10 pm
Great blog Matt. Thanks again for your each inspiring blog. Only one more show of the Hungry for Love Tour! Then home to Bowen and Sarah and the girls! Love and prayers…
Lauren Colley
November 20, 2010 at 9:13 pm
Also love the pictures by the way. :))
Becky
November 20, 2010 at 9:49 pm
I have commented on your blog a few times, but you don’t know me. I heard about your story while listening to KLOVE a while back. I have shared your story with some family and friends and we all have been praying for you. I had a sister that was in a car accident and almost lost her life and during those long months in the hospital and being scared she wasn’t going to make it was the worst feeling ever. It was comforting to know we had strangers from all around the world praying for her. The power of prayer is amazing!! I thank god and all those people that prayed for her. when I heard about Bowen on KLOVE, I immediately starting praying for him and for your family. I will continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers!
Lisa
November 20, 2010 at 9:58 pm
The first time I heard “Lead Me” (quite a while ago, on Positive Hits PER Radio in Virginia) — I cried. I just loved the words and what they meant (to me, before I read why you wrote the song) — then when I heard that you had Bowen, I thought, WOW, how those words (to that song) take on so much more meaning! WOW! And all of the parallels with the album, it is CLEAR that God has a plan. We are so blessed to have Him “Lead” us– Your blog humbles me and reminds me that I need to be a better wife and mother. I have a sweet chd heart baby as well… a precious little baby girl. She’s my 4th living child. I have 5 angels in heaven. I can only thank God for each and everyone of those precious babies, even the ones I’ve not yet met, who sit on the knee of Jesus.
My sweet Cait was born in March, diagnosed in May, and is doing well and hopefully will not have to undergo any procedures with her 2 defects. She was a motivation, sent by God, to get me involved in the CHD community. I have learned so much. I just finished my 2nd fund raiser today, for the Children’s Heart Foundation. If I can help save even one life, then I am so grateful!
Your music is a blessing to me, your blog is a blessing to me, your CHD journey is a blessing to so many, and I cannot thank you enough for publicly walking this road. God is clearly working through you and sweet Bowen, Sarah and the girls to bring Glory to His Kingdom.
THANK YOU! Your family is gorgeous. God is amazing!
Morgan
November 20, 2010 at 10:12 pm
God is truly a great God and the ultimate Healer and sustainer of life. So glad to see that Bowen is home, Praying for you guys as you transition. You’re digging deeper posts are always so thoughtful and God uses every time. Seeing what God did here and continues to do through Bowen..lets me know he can heal my sister too.
Dana Sears
November 20, 2010 at 10:15 pm
I have wanted to comment for awhile now. Your family shows what the grace of God can bring. I have been encouraged through your storm as I go through mine. I just wanted to say thank you.
Also, completely out of context, but it has helped me greatly is a product from Boon. It’s a drying rack for bottles & such but we use it for our syringes, they dry really well and are so much easer to manage!
http://www.booninc.com/products/Grass This drying rack can hold several 1ml to 35ml syringes. Has been my latest find & after seeing the pics…you may just want two! (They sell them at Target)
God Bless to your family.
The Sears Family
Lisa
November 20, 2010 at 10:37 pm
thank you for sharing your story with us. Praying for your family. What a testimony of having faith, and being lead by God in all we do. From a mom of special needs boy..lots of challanges, but a true gift…
Tisha
November 20, 2010 at 10:52 pm
Thanks so much for your posts! I’m sure it takes a lot of time but it is such an encouragement to so many people. You and Sarah are a great testimony and you can see God’s love shine through. We continue to pray for all of you. Wonderful pictures!
Sherry Jansen
November 20, 2010 at 11:00 pm
I wish I could be all things to things to all people, make only perfect decisions, and be everyone’s hero all day, everyday. Don’t we all?
Matt, I hope one day you will realize how many lives you have touched and in how many ways. We are not perfect, but we each have our gifts. And your gift of putting things into words, figuring things out, and your music have touched so many people in so many ways.
Andrea Simmons
November 20, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Thank you for sharing Bowen’s story. My son also has HLHS and I will never forget those first few weeks at home. Sorting through the medications, life continues on but with much more responsibility. Sarah will be a seasoned pro at home in no time. It’s been 2 1/2 years with Owen home and the oxygen, feeding tubes, therapies… it’s so routine.
Bowen is lucky to have such an amazing. He is a miracle and we love reading each update.
We continue to pray for you sweet family.
Jean
November 20, 2010 at 11:45 pm
Matt just the other night at our fitness class, which uses some of your Sanctus Real songs, “These Things Take Time” was playing (and we always pray for Bowen every time we exercise to this song). And as I was listening to the first part of the song, I was thinking how you must have a new perspective on the lyrics from the time you wrote it to now. “I want to know why pain makes me stronger” We have all become stronger through the pain you and Sarah (Bowen) have gone through, as well as Paislyn, and other heart babies and families. I thank God for the new perspective I have on suffering, for the faith I have built, and for His goodness. He is going to continue to “lead you” in all of your decisions. Thank for sharing with the rest of us.
Mary Heyneman
November 21, 2010 at 10:28 pm
great comments, Jean! trusting Gog while He “leads us”! praying for the best Thanksgiving ever!! Jesus answered our prayer having Bowen & Paislyn home for Thanksgiving!
Tammi T. (a mom of an HLHS boy)
November 20, 2010 at 11:51 pm
Matt,
Thanks for sharing again about the illustration the speaker shared at the marriage conference you and Sarah attended. The difference between expectations and reality has been something that I’ve struggled with most of my life. God has been teaching me where my focus needs to be but there are times I need reminders. This was a day that I needed a reminder. Thanks.
We are so thankful that Bowen is home and we love the picture of you holding him. You can almost here him saying, “Wow! I never imagined “home” was like this! Where are the monitors? Where is my telemetry? This place is great!”. That picture is definitely a keeper. So are the ones with Emmy and Claire, of course.
As one heart mom has already said, we had several meds when we came home but not 15, but now we are down to only 2, (if you count the baby aspirin). I’m sure as time passes, your meds will be become less, too.
Thanks again for sharing. Also, I like that you mentioned how God was directing you path in the title of your last album and the lyrics of the song. When I first listened to this album, the same thoughts crossed my mind. I could tell by the “thanks” part of the liner notes that you knew you were expecting and got the impression you probably hadn’t found out about Bowen’s condition yet and I thought, “Wow!” That is so amazing …. it had to be God!” Isn’t He so amazing!?
lisa carlin(hlhs mom)
November 21, 2010 at 10:46 am
tammi,,dylan came home on 13 meds including methadone and diazepam…I’m happy to say, he weened off of both about a year ago and now he just takes lasix,aldactone,prevacid,levothyroxin,baby aspirin,zyrtek and flonase…yeah!! we are down to 7 meds!! hopefully down to lasix and baby aspirin after fontan…
Tammi T. (a mom of an HLHS boy)
November 24, 2010 at 12:41 pm
You know, I didn’t count Daniel’s flonase, but he is taking that, too. I guess I was just thinking “heart’ meds, but flonase is his only other one.
Cindy K.
November 21, 2010 at 12:19 am
Thanks so much for sharing with us an update of how things are going………the pictures are wonderful. I also appreciate the honest way that you describe the challenges that your family is working through. Your commitment to God and to your family is such an encouragement to us all. When I read your blogs, I always come away challenged to go beyond good intentions……….to really strive to be everything that God has called me to be.
I’m praying for your family……….that you’ll be able to get into a routine quickly, and that everyone will stay healthy. I’m also going to pray that God gives Sarah the strength she needs to cope with everything when you have to be away at work. And, that God will give you discernment about when it’s ok to be away, and when you need to stay home. Balancing work, and all of your family’s needs is hard in the best of circumstances, and with Bowen’s extra needs, it is even more so. I’ll be praying that God gives you His peace this weekend, and all the other times you have to leave to go to work.
It is still so amazing to me that while you are going through the greatest challenge of your life, you are willing to to take the time to minister to all of us who follow your blog. God is using you and Sarah in a great way.
Ginger Weems
November 21, 2010 at 2:24 am
I am so excited for you guys and Bowen. I am sure he is in awe of his new surroundings. The few times we have gotten to take Nathan on wagon rides outside of the unit, you could see the amazement in his eyes. It was awesome to get to hang out with everybody last night. It was nice to get a break. I will keep Bowen and the rest of your family in my prayers as we continue on this journey.
Our God is Awesome!
lisa carlin(hlhs mom)
November 21, 2010 at 10:48 am
hi ginger!! have a nice thanksgiving and I’ll catch up with you on facebook!! xoxo LISA
Brittany Hildebrand
November 21, 2010 at 4:03 am
Hey Matt. Been praying especially hard for you and your family right now.
I sense a struggle in your soul. You wrote and sang the song Lead Me never imagining how much sacrifice it would really require. How real the line “chasing dreams, that I could give up” could really be. The Christian life isn’t easy. To follow Jesus we have to surrender all and be willing to sacrifice whatever asks of us. Talking about being obedient is one thing. Actually doing it is another thing entirely. Matt, the world is looking for a Christian whose life is more than just talking aboout what God wants and actually doing it. It also happens that the world’s eyes are on you right now. I am praying so ferventlyfor you right now. I’ve been where you are right now but I won’t pretend that I had to give up even a fraction of what God is asking of you. Remember the summary in Hebrews of all the men of faith. God ask them to do difficult things that required great personal sacrifice. But these men trusted God. They had faith in God’s faithfulness. And God was faithful everytime. You can do this Matt. Yes, we are weak and He is strong. So draw from his strength to do what He has asked of you. He gives us His strenght so that we will be capable to walk in obedience where otherwise, on our own strength we could not. You know what God has called you to do for Him, your family and the witness of Jesus Christ. I am praying so hard for you right now Matt. I know how tough it is. Trust God. Just trust Him. He is more faithful than you can fathom.
-Brittany <
Janie
November 21, 2010 at 5:24 am
Praying for you every day. I love the song. I am always happy when it comes up on The Message.
Kelly Wagner
November 21, 2010 at 8:12 am
Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us….Lead Me has been a favorite long before I knew about Bowen or signed up for the blog. It spoke to me in profound ways…because we have been struggling in out marriage….for the exact reasons you sing about in the song and have talked about. I wish he would listen to the song intently….and I wish he would look at the link I sent him when you and Sarah discussed the story behind the song….We do love each other and we’re working hard. Your comment about intentions spoke to my heart in a very significant way…Bless you and your family….praying that Sarah manages well with 3 kids until you’re home again…You have been such a blessing….
Lizzie
November 21, 2010 at 8:18 am
Thank you for sharing so much of your life and journey with us. It has been an incredible experience to pray with my family for Bowen and your family. Watching my children pray for Bowen (and your family) each day has been such a blessing. It has been awesome watching the Lord work in so many amazing ways…
Sarah, your strength, perserverance, determination, and love for your family is inspiring! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey. I will continue to pray for you…through all the stresses and changes of being at home. May God continue to bless you with His strength, mercy and love!
Matt, thank you for your willingness to be away from your family to share your talents and love for Christ with all of us! Your testimony is an inspiration to so many. Being at a Sanctus Real concert is truly a blessing. Thank you for allowing the Lord to guide you and use you to make a difference in the lives of others. Your commitment and love for your family is inspiring.
We will continue to pray for your family as your journey continues…
Brandi Weinette
November 21, 2010 at 8:37 am
Matt,
Thank you so much for sharing through your blog, your music, and your concerts. The concert in Amarillo, TX was Awesome last night, and knowing that Bowen had just gotten home, I feared you would not make the concert. I truly appreciate the sacrifice it takes to leave your family behind to minister to the rest of us. As a wife of a Pastor and mother of 2 boys, it is a hard life. But as you said, that is when it is more necessary to follow His leading. I really needed to hear all that was a part of last nights show from you and all of the other bands. As it was pointed out that we all have our ups and downs, our struggles, and our trials, we are who we are, and He knows us. I am continuing to pray for your sweet little Bowen and your whole family through these times you have ahead of you. God has blessed you and will continue to. Thanks for your willingness to serve Him.
Blessings
yanna westmoreland
November 21, 2010 at 8:54 am
Matt and Sarah, thank you. Bowen’s journey has been a journey for me as well. I saw a prayer request KSBJ had posted on fb and so I went to this blog and began falling in love with a baby boy named Bowen. Matt and Sarah I understand the struggle in a marriage and the redeeming love of God who can heal it. Our Almighty God through your story is leading me. Bowen’s journey is teaching others to lead and live life in Him. He can do more than we can ever fathom. Matt, I understand when you said you have a hunger for the Bible and being in God’s Word. I cried to Him to lead me through marriage difficulties, and once I gave Him me He has given me Him. God is bigger than any obstacles. Father, I continue to pray and praise You for Bowen. Cover this sweet family with Your feathers, give them refuge under Your wings and Father I thank You that You do lead and Your faithfulness will go before them and all of us as a shield and rampart. Thank You my Abba. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen (Ps 91:4) Matt, if you’re ever in College Station Texas you have a home away from home and a prayer warrior who will pray beside you anytime. Travel safe and have a good gut feeling that when you sing Lead Me you are teaching us to sing to Him as well.
DUKE and ANGIE MURDEN
November 23, 2010 at 11:49 pm
what a heart warming comment our sentiments exactly. So blessed to be apart of this blog with so many prayer warriors!
Vicki R
November 21, 2010 at 9:08 am
Hi Matt and Sarah,
You and your family have been such an inspiration to me. I am so happy that Bowen is home and you are all together as a family. I pray for all of you, and know God will give you the strength to continue on this journey. This site has been an incredible witness to the power of prayer. Your faith, hope and love shine through to give me and so many others the light of Christ. I also pray for you Matt, that God will give you clarity and peace in the decisions you must make daily regarding work and family balance. I know that is something that I have always struggled with myself.
God bless you all,
Vicki
Riete
November 21, 2010 at 9:54 am
Your girls are so sweet! And Bowen loooks a bit overwhelmed indeed, lol. But it’s great to see him home!
Thanks again for your thoughts. You and your family are such an inspiration to me! God bless you all! ♥
Grace Mae
November 21, 2010 at 9:56 am
Hi Matt and Sarah,
Ever since I heard about you guys on K-love radio I’ve been praying ever since.
I can’t begin to imagine what you are going through but I believe God has a great plan in store for Bowen.
I’d love to hear from you guys. In Christ, Grace Mae
carolyn larson
November 21, 2010 at 9:58 am
MATT;
IM WRITEING YOU BECAUSE YOU HAVE REALLY TOUCH MY HEART WITH YOUR STORY I LOVE I SINED UP UP FOR YOUR EMAIL ON BOEN HEART YOUR SONG HAS REALLY TOUCHED ME IN SO MANY WAYS I FEEL JESUS HAS PUT ME IN THE LEADER SHIP OF MY HOME YOU NO LITTLE OVER A MONTH MY DAUGHTER INJURED HER EYE LATER ON IN OCT THIS YEAR SHE HAD TO HAVE HER EYE REMOVED THEN A WEEK LATER MY HUSBEND SISTER PASSED AWAY I FEEL JESUS IS SAYING TO ME YOU NEED TO BE STORNG AND STND UP TAKE CONTROLL AND LEAD YOUR FAMILEY I PRASE YOU SO MUCH YOU MADE ME OPEN MY EYES ALOT EVERY TIME I HEAR THIS SONG IT MAKES ME STORNGER GOD BLESS YOU IVE ASKED JESUS TO PLEASE HEAL YOUR BABY MAKE HIM WELL HE ANSWERD ME HE’S IN MY HANDS I WILL HEAL HIM. YOU AND YOUR WIFE LOVE THIS BABY GIVE HIM WHAT HE NEEDS GOD SPEED HIS HEALING HEART FOR HIM TO LIVE A NORMAL LIFE LOVE YOUR MUSIC REMEMBER JESUS LOVES AND WILL BE THERE FOR YOU GOD BLESS JESUS WATCH OVER AND PROTECT THIS FAMILEY GOD BLESS AMEN
Krista
November 21, 2010 at 11:32 am
i know that had to be so very tough for you to leave. I can’t even imagine. Well, I can just a little. I’m the main breadwinner of our family but I’m also the mom. It’s so very hard because my heart wants to stay with my Annabelle and take care of her all the time, and that I think is what God calls moms to do. But my family needs to eat. My mortgage needs to be paid. I’m entering into my crazy busy season at work too, so the juggling is only getting harder. I’m constantly showing God my schedule and saying, “How am I going to do this?” His answer to me is, “I’ve got it covered. Don’t worry.” but… that’s hard to accept when things pile up around you. But accept it I shall! I remind myself that things could be so much worse. I could have to travel for my job.We could live hours away from the hospital where I wouldn’t be able to even try to juggle both, in which case our finances would be in shambles. God’s provided for us amazingly, and I’m so grateful for that!
I LOVE the song Lead Me. Although, I have to be careful not to shove it in my hubby’s face and say, “SEE? THIS Is what I want you to do.” Such a wife thing to do:-)
lisa carlin(hlhs mom)
November 21, 2010 at 1:17 pm
awww krista,, I wish you didn’t have so much on your plate..that must be so stressful to be the provider,mom of a sick child and also entering the busy season of holidays…well I say, you’re doing a great job and the heck with shopping this holiday season..keep work as light as you can, even if it is your busy time..I will pray that annabelle gets well so you can go home soon. I hope this helps,, I was juggling too when dylan was admitted for so long..and like you, I was grateful that I lived close enough to go back and forth too..hang in there and this will be a distant memory someday for you to tell your daughter what you did for her when she was a sick baby. god bless! LISA
DUKE and ANGIE MURDEN
November 24, 2010 at 12:02 am
Krista you are in our thoughts and prayers. We hope to lift you up in strength with them. Our best to your family. Happy Thanksgiving. When we give thanks to the lord in all things, we are blessed. God fill us up with his grace. He is not in our curses. He is in our words of life so no matter the life curcumstance we are to praise him. If you ever find yourself in St. Louis come and visit. You seem like such a strong woman in the lord.Been where you are and know God is good.
God Bless You in his love,
THE MURDEN’S
Julia C
November 21, 2010 at 1:03 pm
Thank you so much for sharing your life with us. We pray for you guys every day. Your kids are so beautiful!
Jana Stewart
November 21, 2010 at 2:01 pm
Thank you for that song; it speaks to one of the greatest deficits in our country today – strong Christian husbands and fathers. I taught junior high for 34 years and just have to tell you that “the kids” in the schools have not changed nearly as much as the “parents” (or lack thereof) have!
God speaks to the need for a strong man to lead his family; sadly, so many families have no man at all, or is they do, so often he is not a role model worthy of imitation. This is a sad commentary on our families. What is the solution? It’s simple; God gives the answers when he teaches Christian men to love God first and then their wives “as Christ also loved the church and gave His life for it.” With that kind of love central to its foundation, a family survives the crises of life … together.
So glad you are an example to your family. My son, too, is the Christian man God has called him to be. You two share another blessing – God has gifted each of you with HLHS children; always you will remember the sanctity of life and the blessings of each unique day because of your little Bowen and his little Emma.
I have linked you to Emma’s website. Like Bowen’s, hers is a slow, tedious journey, and prayers are always coveted on her behalf. We pray for Bowen’s continued progress; he and Emma are often in my prayers, along with Emma’s other little HLHS heart buddies…Taylor, Ella, etc.
As my son often writes on Emma’s blog: God is good! All the time! And all the time, God is good! Praise Him for watching over these little heart babies and their families. It’s my prayer that each of them have a strong Christian father for strength, leadership, and comfort … a father as you are to Bowen and the girls and as Scott is to Emma!
Jana Stewart, Emma’s Nana Jana
Oklahoma
Nana Jana (HLHS "Nana")
November 24, 2010 at 8:04 pm
Emma’s HLHS blogsite is: http://emmajanae.blogspot.com
and we appreciate anyone who wants to add your prayers to ours! Thanks!
Crystal Willis
November 21, 2010 at 3:28 pm
Sarah, I feel as though I know you from reading these posts. Your family has grown on my heart so much since becoming aware of Bowen’s health issues. You are an amazing woman and I have the deepest admiration for you! Thank God that there are women in this world that put their children’s EVERY need above their own. I love my children also and would give everything that I have for them. Keep “keeping on” ! You are doing a fantastic job! I wish that all the children in the world had such love and commitment showered upon them!
Terri Marshall
November 21, 2010 at 3:37 pm
Every time I hear “Lead Me” it reminds me to pray for your beautiful family!!
Cheryl O.
November 21, 2010 at 3:51 pm
Welcome Home, Bowen! Those are awesome words…I am a fellow heart mom; my daughter Megan, who is now 6, was also born with HLHS, with tricuspid regurgitation. She’s had six surgeries at this point (she’s had all three stages, with some extras thrown in!), so we know the mixed blessing of going home. You’re so excited to get/be there, but it can be a bit overwhelming as well. Megan is also the youngest of 6 children, so managing the medical child along with other children is an added challenge. Prayers for both (all!) of you as you adjust to this new journey. I’ve appreciated your blogs; you put into words so well what so many of us have felt!
Blessings,
Cheryl O., mom to Megan – HLHS, and six other blessings
Mel
November 21, 2010 at 3:53 pm
Your wife is a beautiful and godly woman and she is also a terrific mother. We pray so that God may give her strength and PATIENCE lol because with 3 little ones she will need it:) Congrats on your family being together and may you all have an unforgettable Thanksgiving day:D
-Mel
meredith
November 21, 2010 at 4:22 pm
praying.
Page Family
November 21, 2010 at 4:30 pm
Looking at the picture of the medicines made me laugh. I had never thought to put every dose for the day together like that, but our table would look similar. 🙂 Also, we totally loved the album Pieces of Real Heart because so many songs on it speak to us heart parents. When we met you Matthew at your concert in March hearing those songs was perfect timing for God to speak into our lives. We are grateful to your family and to your band and their families for taking that sacrifice for us and helping spread the love of Christ in such a powerful way. We are praying for wisdom for which way God will lead you and your family. Please know that whatever happens you have blessed so many people in so many ways.
Love to your family,
T’Nell and family
James M. Jr.
November 21, 2010 at 4:38 pm
Yeah, I found it interesting as well that your latest album had the word “Heart” in it, and then Bowen comes along with his heart condition. There are also other interesting things I have found, at least some of which I shared in an email.
Lisa mom of 5 boys
November 21, 2010 at 5:08 pm
LOVE the picture of Emmy praying!!!!!!! OH, that’s a priceless one…
AND, yes, Bowen seems to be in awe of the world around him!!!!!!!! OH how I love that little guy!
Sarah, just want you to know that I pray for you as you tend to your family in the middle of chaos 🙂 I am sure it’s a chaos that you love and are grateful for, but we moms ALWAYS need to Lord to help us 🙂 My own home has its version of chaos that has been tougher at certain times than at others… I do hope you’ll accept the help that is offered to you, and take care of your own body as well sneaking in naps when you can. Don’t feel guilty for that! God’s word and physical rest will strengthen you!
As always, I just love what you are sharing here, and think of you often throughout my day.. Our family now has 5 children ,as of this summer when we welcomed our 5th. I understand from a mom’s point of view what Matt was saying about making decisions about what to do and what not to do… Decisions that affect the entire family do get a bit more challenging with each child that is added… but I absolutely LOVE my big family and wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. Sometimes husbands have to go back to work in the middle of a family “storm”. I’ve been there… but I also believe God has given women an added dose of love and a little more grace to deal with the chaos and everything that comes with being a mom 🙂 It’s in our genetic make-up 🙂 Yes, sometimes it does feel like he’s breaking our back so we’ll depend on him more, but he always gives us himeself when we ask. 🙂
One last thing and I’ll be quiet: Matt, do I sense a book coming in the future? 🙂
((HUGS)) and prayers,
Lisa
Lisa mom of 5 boys
November 21, 2010 at 5:12 pm
One more thing: I am praying for good health for your ENTIRE family! 🙂
Lisa
Amy Luebrecht
November 21, 2010 at 5:57 pm
My husband and I live apart (not by choice), and I am so glad that you and Sarah realize that spiritual intimacy is top priority. Although I miss my husband a ton, and I wish that I could call him whenever I want, it helps me to know that he is reading the Word and that he prays for us before we even wake up in the morning. When my husband and I speak on the phone, I don’t want to waste a lot of time talking about my job or everyday stuff. I want to get to what is important–what God is speaking and doing in our lives and our love and devotion to each other. Fifteen minutes of total attention to each other is probably more intimate than what many couples experience who are together all the time! At church we talked about how the husband, the wife, and God are the 3 corners of a triangle. The closer the husband and wife get to God, the closer they draw to each other!
Thank you for urging men to be the spiritual leaders that God has called them to be. As for the challenges of taking care of your family–God will help.
Mallory Fields
November 21, 2010 at 6:25 pm
Matt and Sarah,
Such beautiful pictures taken. Glad everything is ok keep doing good Bowen and someday we will meet each other! Glad your home and well 🙂 Nice songs Matt and great video too!
Jodi DeRoo (mom of a heart child)
November 21, 2010 at 9:16 pm
Home is such a blessing! And Sarah wears Grace every where she goes. I saw it in her when we met and yes she is a perfect blessing to you kiddos and you.
Thank you for sharing so openly a little of your journey as a Man after God’s own heart, and that is truly what I see in your posts. It is encouraging for those of us who are in the trenches as well to not forget our spouses in the mists of everything. It is hard being apart though.
Be Blessed this Thanksgiving!!! You are a blessing to us as we read and come along on your journey, after the hospital.
Jodi
brandi
November 21, 2010 at 9:18 pm
Thank you for sharing your story with us..The pictures are beautiful! I will continue praying for your whole family. I will pray for you all to have strength from God.
Marissa Sharbaugh
November 21, 2010 at 9:53 pm
Hey there. When we were finally able to have our son Malachi home with us, I found that using pencil boxes that snap close from the dollar store worked great for storing meds that were drawn up to their appropriate doses. They can stack nicely in the fridge or cabinet (depending on the med) and can easily be labeled with a Sharpie. Malachi had over 20 meds that we needed to keep track of, so we needed a system like that to keep on top of things! Good luck having Little Man at home–such a blessing!
christina
November 21, 2010 at 9:58 pm
Hi Matt Hi Sarah, I want to thank you both for sharing your life with all of us. We pray for you all and know that God is in control and will never leave you. I have been so touched by the love and faith of you both. Sarah you are such a strong beautiful woman. It is so wonderful to see the strength and wisdom God has given you. I feel stronger everyday just by reading your words and praying for God to help me to develop my strength inside. I am a siingle mom and I have had to be strong for my kids. I feel so exhausted and lazy at times and when I first heard the story of that precious baby boy of yours I was so convicted to stop feeling sorry for myself and press on trusting God. Thank you so much for all your wisdom.
Matt you are such a huge inspiration to me also. The songs you have written touch me so deep in my soul and really make me want to be a better me! Thank you so much for your songs and the words you write.God has given you such a calling and gift and uses you in huge ways. Its awesome!!
Thank you Jesus ahead of time for your complete healing in Bowens little body. I believe Bowen has great things to do for your Kingdom and will be such a blessing on this earth for your glory. Huge things to come and we praise you Jesus. Thank you for your watchful eye and protection on this family. I pray that they will continue to draw their strength from you and rely on you. Thank you God for all of the wonderful people that you placed in their life to help in the care of Bowen Thank you God for being the strength of those precious girls and helping their mom and dad to care for all 3 kids. You are an awesome God and I praise you Lord!!!!!!!Amen
Thank you again Matt and family I love you guys and will continue to pray for you all!!!!!
love Christina
Jonathan Rock Johnsons family
November 21, 2010 at 10:06 pm
Matt,
I can’t say I know exactly what your family is going through, but we have a boy about a month older than Bowen (born July 22nd) with HLHS. We had a home birth with no clue that anything was wrong until he was born and the lower half of his body was bluish. Reading your posts brings back similiar feelings and situations that we experienced. We enjoy reading your posts when we have time to read them. We have 5 other kids and Bowen seems like family to us as our kids pray for him, his two sisters and his Mom and Dad at every meal and bedtime. Our son Jonathan has his Glen procedure estimated to be around January (as long as things go well).
To make a long story short we would share anything we have learned from our experience with your family if the need ever arises. My wife is also an incredible woman and to do what she does for Jonathan and the rest of our family is simply amazing. Here is a link to our story and if we can help you in any way, we will. http://www.carepages.com/carepages/JONATHANROCK
Your family is constantly in our prayers, Thank you for sharing your story with so many!
Sincerely,
Ron Johnson
Leslie Echols
November 22, 2010 at 3:49 am
Beautiful pictures of your precious blessings!
As I look at the picture of Bowen’s meds, I’m reminded of our own little Christopher’s “pharmacy,” as we affectionately called it. Following 3 months, he was released from the NICU and came home with lots of meds, boxes of syringes, gloves, and masks, an apnea monitor and was on oxygen 24/7 to boot…talk about “chaos”…we had it, and that’s not even considering our other six children.
Yes, it was chaotic and overwhelming at times, but God was, and always is, faithful. You have found the same to be true, I’m sure…and you will continue to see His hand in this as you continue your journey.
Like Sarah, I was in a situation where my husband was unable to be with us all the time (in fact, he was gone for a little over a year when Christopher was a baby because of his job in the military). However, God always provided the help and assistance that I needed, when I needed it. Sometimes it was through friends, church members, military ‘family’ members, and even from people that I didn’t know…friends of friends…who volunteered to bring meals, etc….as we were stationed thousands of miles away from our biological family members.
I found it all to be very humbling…to think that people (some of whom I’d never even met) were willing to do whatever they could to help me, and my family, in our time of need…what an incredible blessing the family of God is! And, honestly, isn’t that the way it’s supposed to be?
I continue to be in prayer for your family…knowing that God hears, and is faithful…ALWAYS.
Blessings from Alaska…
~Leslie
Kim Betts
November 22, 2010 at 8:57 am
Prayers from my family to yours! So happy that Bowen was able to go home and that life will return to a ‘sort of’ normalcy! What a miracle he is!! Thank you so much for sharing his story with everyone!!
Julie
November 22, 2010 at 9:48 am
Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us today…I am so happy that your family are all home together…I also want to thank you for writing the song Lead Me…What an inspirational song! I will continue to pray that my husband will want to lead us in the ways that you speak about in the song. I’m sure your wife is extremely proud of you for taking on that so important roll in your marriage and for your family. We need that type of leadership in our homes so desperatley! Thank you again for sharing all that you guys go through. We will lift you up in prayer everyday !!! God Bless !!!
Melody
November 22, 2010 at 10:14 am
I know I always say this, but I love reading your blog and how God is working in and through you and Sarah! It’s awesome! Thank you for sharing it with us. Love the song “Lead Me”, especially the line “Father lead me cause I can’t do this alone.” We can’t do this alone, we NEED God!
Praying for Bowen and your family, today and always.
Erin
November 22, 2010 at 10:15 am
The photos of the girls are precious beyond belief! You can just read their minds saying ” where are they? hurry up!” Thank you again for being so open and vulnerable in your postings and blogs. It is a great reminder of how broken we all are and how much we need to lean on the Lord in easy and hard times. Lead Me is a fabulous song and I want to thank you for it! I always turn the radio way up when it comes on and it stays with me the rest of the day. How awesome would it be if more of us could cry out to God and say, “Lord, I am yours, all my flaws and faults, all my weaknesses. Lead me where you want me to go! ” What a blessing you have for putting these wonderful words to song!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your beautiful family. Blessings to Bowen on his first Thanksgiving! God is so Good!
Erin
Mary McDaniel
November 22, 2010 at 10:37 am
The pictures of your girls are sooo cute! You are truely blessed with a beautiful family. May God continue to Bless you and your family and keep you bonds growing stronger as you walk this road with Bowen. Still praying God’s Blessings on Bowen and his wonderful testimony to everyone so far about what life really means and not over looking the little things in life like a simple smile.
Brian Elliott
November 22, 2010 at 10:48 am
Thank you for sharing in music and this site. It really has ministered to me. Thanks for being real and allowing your heart to be seen. May GOD continue to richly bless you and your family through the riches in our LORD and SAVIOUR, JESUS THE CHRIST THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD.
Brian Elliott in Bakersfield.
Suzanne
November 22, 2010 at 11:20 am
Matt,
We had the awesome pleasure of attending the concert in Amarillo last Saturday night. I know what a struggle it was for you to decide to be there — and everyone would have understood had you chosen to stay home — especially since you weren’t feeling well yourself. I have never seen such a group of young men so totally on “on fire” for Jesus. The concert was amazing — and we were so blessed by being there.
Our prayers will always be with you and Sarah and the kids and we are so glad for your family that the tour is over and you can spend time with them. What an exciting time in your lives. Give Bowen hugs and kisses from Texas!
susie michaud
November 22, 2010 at 12:13 pm
Matt and Sarah,
Your concerts are such a blessing for so many people. But It is so nice to hear that you get some time off together! Hoping and praying for you all to have a blessed and peaceful as possible Thanksgiving and Christmastime! Praying too for health for everybody and for life to develop into a healty “norm” again for the family. Looking forward to hearing all the Sanctus Real guys someday in Colorado or Wyoming, but we can patiently wait!! Happy Thanksgiving and Merry CHRISTmas to all of you 🙂
Hellfighters
November 22, 2010 at 1:53 pm
Great site! Praise the Lord your son has come home!! , you all were such an inspiration to us. GOD bless your family!
Nicole
November 22, 2010 at 3:30 pm
Thanks Matt for your blog, I’ve been learning lately about surrendering…there have been things that I just hang onto. Being a single mom I can relate with wanting to be all things to all people…trying to find the time to do everything that needs to be done and do it graciously can be hard. The other day I was listening to “Our God is Greater” and I just sat there with God really for the first time without saying anything or asking for anything. I know in a post that you mentioned your heart being bent towards God and I think that is the first time I truly had my heart bent towards God. It was me surrendering everything I’m trying to be and appreciating Gods beauty and Glory.
You have truly been such a witness to me and I’m learning so much through what you write. Also Sarah has been such an inspiration as a mother, I want to be just as courageous and gracious!
Keep writing….and singing! 🙂
Dionne
November 22, 2010 at 3:42 pm
Following your blogs these past few months has really shown me how much God is a part of our lives. Even when we don’t see it, we can see it through others and Bowen is a prime example. God had His hands in everything regarding Bowen and I am filled with awe to see it as you and Sarah have seen it too.
Your song “Lead Me” is something that I will pray about when it comes to my husband – I too wish he would take the lead in our marriage. But God has His hand in this as well.
Thank you for sharing your your life with all of us – You and Sarah are truly a blessing.
God Bless you and your family this Thanksgiving Holiday!
Susan
November 22, 2010 at 7:27 pm
Congratulations on being home!
Chad B
November 22, 2010 at 7:48 pm
Matt,
U may not realize it, but u spoke a lot to my wife the other night. In a long story to tell later, we too were running into issues of where God wanted us. Of course my way is best(LOL). But honestly we had a long talk. An after that, u guys mean even more to me. Amanda an I have been married 7 yrs. An I guess sometimes we get into that itch of being annoyed at each other. an it was just awesome for her to really absurb what u had to say. I thank you my friend, again it means a lot. God bless u all! An blessings be on Bowen, I am telling you, God made Jotham whole an I know He will make not only Bowen whole but your family as well! If y’all ever need anything don’t hesitate to ask…love ya buddy.
Stacie Davis
November 22, 2010 at 7:58 pm
Hello Hammitt Family!!
We have been following Bowen’s heart journey and are so thrilled to know that his healing continues at home now.
Our son, Jonah, has HLHS and just had his Glenn procedure on 11/11. We too know what an amazing gift it is to walk in the door of your own home after the challenges of being in the hospital.
Each of our little one’s hearts are so different but they share a fighting spirit that never ceases to amaze! God is full of wonder and glory and HE alone has blessed these babies with such strong resilience. Our prayer is that as Bowen’s parents, you would have the same strength and courage to fight this fight with him! His heart is in the Lord’s hands and there is no better place to be:)
If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are always there to share a story or lend a listening ear!
Love-Rob, Stacie, and Jonah
Joel Jackson
November 22, 2010 at 9:47 pm
I want to thank you for your words of faith. It is amazing to see how God shapes us amidst the difficult moments we face. It is a blessing to hear your determination to care for your family and lead them to the cross. I wrote on here a while ago and mentioned my son Peter who also has HLHS. I looked at the picture of your beautiful boy and memories flooded back regarding my own struggles and pain and doubt. I had a hard time remaining faithful to God as we waited for Peter to wake up from an induced coma that he was in for three weeks because of the amount of swelling he dealt with after the first surgery. God is faithful though even in our unfaithfulness! Now Peter is going to be six on Thursday and he is very much a miracle. God shows me his abundant love every day in the fact that He cares for Peter and me. Peter has had all three surgeries and had a pacemaker put it when he was four because of rythm issues. God saw Peter through them all. God sees all of us through each day. May God continue to bless you, your ministry, and your family (which remains your most important ministry).
DUKE and ANGIE MURDEN
November 22, 2010 at 10:51 pm
Dear Sarah,
What a blessing I’m sure to be at home with your family. Definitely overwhelming to look at that table full of medicine. What a gift though that all of that insures life for sweet little Bowen. However get the rest you need. Know that in your weakness, God is putting people in your life to keep you strong. Don’t ever be afraid to ask for help. The lord is and will fill in the gaps when Matt is away.
Also, know that our realistic expectations of our husbands, God continually helps us understand. Duke and I have almost been married 30 years. I remember when we first got married and I had been disappointed by what I had expected Duke to be. He is a computer expert and I thought he can communicate with those wonderful machines why can’t he communicate with me. Anyway, almost 30 years later he still has this great love for computers and they have provided well for us and I have accepted that. I used to be able to unplug it for some needed attention. Then they went wireless, what to do. Even through this wireless dilemma God has given us this great love for one another. Thank you, God!!! Matt, Sarah and family all the best as God leads you on. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!
In His Love,
Angie and all the Murden’s
Laura K
November 23, 2010 at 8:55 am
Dear Matt,
I’ve been following your life since I heard on the radio that we needed to be praying for baby Bowen even before he was born. You and Sarah are such an inspiration in your faith in God. We are so thankful that Bowen is home with you for Thanksgiving. I hope your time with your family is precious. I also want to thank you for the song “Lead Me” it inspired me to visit your Sanctus Real Website and learn about the Marriage conference you mentioned. My husband and I just attended one this past weekend. It was Fantastic! There aren’t enough words to express what an impact it had on our lives. We have definitely grown in our marriage and in the Lord and will continue to do so. I just wanted you to know that it was because of your story that I found a conference to attend and it was worth the investment. Thank you so much for shining God’s light and love.
Blessings and prayers always for your famlily,
Laura
Jennifer O'Keefe
November 23, 2010 at 8:05 pm
I feel so blessed to be a part of your journey thru this blog…..it is true….we are weak in our humanness and we can not be all things to all people…we will fail each other…..we will be let down by those close to us…but God NEVER fails us…isn’t that just so awesome! Matt, take care and continue to look up….you are a treasure in the arms of Christ….
Jenn
November 24, 2010 at 4:33 am
Hi guys,
We know all too well the tug of leaving vs. providing. We did get lost in this though. My husband was a pastor….church EVERY sUNDAY. The our daughter got sick….it was clear that to be “responsible” we had to step down from leadership and church and step up to leadership at home.
Last night our local Charlotte Radio did Stories and songs. I don’t call at night….I am a morning girl. Bur I had to tell them what your song did for us and shed a little light on something. We stopped going ro church…too many God questions….I was NOT wanting to be the leader of our home…and told God…I won’t…you have to make P straighten up. 4 years later….this song comes out! Changes HIS HEART and our family. It was a miracle to us. Then as we talked….I said, P…think of all the hearts this some has touched….how many families it has changed….and Baby Bowen’s heart took the attack. Restoration is his and yours…. too much has changed….healing comes….as all over the world hearts are mended….so is Bowen’s THANK YOU!
RBustamante
November 24, 2010 at 10:24 am
Dear Sarah & Matt,
I do understand in most part what you all went thru. Our 1st child Alexander (the great) was born on 12/28/06 weighting only 3lb8.7oz. And was NICU for 1month. On Dec 31, I got discharge from hospital. My husband drove me home to change then I am ask him to stop at Walgreens to develop some of his pictures and then headed back to hospital because I wanted to my New Year with our child. In lobby were other parents that also had their children in NICU, that night the nurses lets us go in 15min. earlier, we were all excited. After that my daily routine was going to NICU at time approved to teach him how to bottle and bath him. After so many weeks being there he was discharge on Jan.28 and he went home with Apnea Monitor. When we would hear it go off, we would jump off and run like there was no tomorrow come to find out Alexander was doing good lead feel off or would be on his clothes. Monitor was taken off after 6-7 months later. Now he will be 4yrs old this year and I am very thankful and will always cherish those moments with him. This is has made our family stronger and closer to each other. I am so proud to be mother of my second child Abraham. Bowen is strong little boy and with all our prayers he will continue to do great. Now you all as parents keep up the great work.
God Is Good All the Time!!!!!!
Debbie
November 24, 2010 at 7:15 pm
I just want to thank you for the songs you write and sing. “Lead Me” has touched my life like no other song has. It says exactly what I want God to do for me. I have been praying for your family since little Bowen was born. God has a purpose for this little boy and he will grow to be a great man some day. Just continue to lead him and his sisters like your song so lovingly describes. Thanks again!
kara harris
November 24, 2010 at 9:06 pm
So touched by your story. I am the parent of a medically-fragile toddler and I understand the roller-coaster of emotions that families experience when caring for these special children. Bowen and your family are in my prayers and I appreciate your willingness to share your story.
Patrick & Diane kennedy
November 24, 2010 at 10:29 pm
Just saw your story on world news and then read your blog — it was heart warming to see how strong your faith is and how much love you have for your family. Your story hit very close to our own heart since our youngest daughter is due to deliver her first child (Shawn) on dec 19th and like your son, Shawn has a very rare congenital heart defect that will require immediate intervention after birth. Although we are worried and hope for the best we have come to have complete trust in God. Many years ago my wife and I lost two Children on separate occasions soon after birth and although they have not been physically present we both feel and believe they are very much alive. There isn’t a night that doesn’t go by that I don’t talk with them thru my prayers. As I am now getting older I anxiously look forward to seeing them when the good lord calls me from here. I love God and know that in Jesus all things are made new.
May God bless you and your family – enjoy every moment of ever day and remain strong in your faith — God will not disappoint.
Jonathan Howard
November 25, 2010 at 8:09 am
I am so encouraged by Sanctus real’s songs at times of difficulty and ease and I am so glad your baby is finally home. Also, even one day with Bowen before you had to go on tour again was one more day he got to see you. I am so glad that God is leading you through your marriage as well. Tell your family that I am glad they are doing well and tell Bowen that I’ll keep praying for him and I hope he keeps doing well. I hope some day that Bowen comes to God through all of this.
Also tell your family that your stories about Bowen made me encouraged as well.
Ok ttyl
Jonathan howard
Jodi Hess
November 25, 2010 at 9:54 pm
Matt,
Thank you again for being such an inspiration to be open with the Lord and others. The video is beautiful, and perfect to include on this blog as Bowen was coming home and you struggled to determine whether to stay with him or go back to work. Traveling with band must be difficult at this time, but I continue to pray for your family and beautiful wife, that Lord will fulfill all their needs. As you stated so honestly, our spouse and children do need us to stand up to lead them and meet certain needs, but the bigger truth is that our Lord and God is truly the only one who can meet that need completely and perfectly.
THANK YOU FATHER GOD FOR YOUR BLESSINGS ON THEIR FAMILY, and for the Blessing they share with us. PLEASE BLESS & KEEP THEM, INCLUDING BOWEN, IN YOUR HANDS. Amen and Amen.
Love in Christ, Jodi Hess — Rochester, NY
Blainer
November 26, 2010 at 2:44 am
Matt,
I can’t put into words the encourgement you give me everyday. You know my stuggles more than most and everyday I seek to be a better father and christian man. Seeing just how you carry your self in every situation is such a blessing in my life. I will continue to pray for your family and Bowen that you will continue to Lead them, cause your also leading a world of people who see your life from the outside. God is over flowing from your work here on earth and I know he is looking down here with all smiles.
Your brother in Christ,
Blainer
Sally
November 30, 2010 at 4:50 pm
I have Bowen’s name on a sticky note on my desk so I can remember to pray for him. I am the mother of a special needs son, Ben, who is now 21. He is the apple of my eye and a blessing in my life. I have met so many incredible people through Ben and he has touched many lives already. He is a true believer in our mighty Lord and freely shares his faith through the way he lives. He loves life and wakes joyfully to a new day every morning! As you raise and care for Bowen he too will touch your lives and others even deeper than he already has. And God has already prepared you for the care that he will need. I pray for your whole family as you care for this incredible gift from our Lord–your precious son, Bowen!
E. George
November 30, 2010 at 7:40 pm
I am so glad to hear Bowen has finally made it home! God has blessed you all; may you continue to be blessed. Praying also for Bowen’s continued recovery. Thank you for sharing your very inspiring story.
Angela
November 30, 2010 at 8:09 pm
Beautiful!! Thank you for this post and God bless you all!
Home Theater Set
December 20, 2010 at 5:19 am
Dude! This blog is sick. How did you make it look this good?
Cleta Sadbury
January 4, 2011 at 5:07 pm
Love the quick rundown here. Will share with my students at the University of New Hampshire.