Yesterday, my phone rang, and Pastor Chris Truett and his church staff encouraged and prayed for my family and me.
A few moments later, my “youth pastor” Fred Caraway called to schedule a visit for next week, even though it is a 6-hour drive.
My bride faced the panic-stricken hordes at the supermarket to liberate the ingredients for a breakfast burger (like the ones from Red Robin) because she thought I would be able to eat and enjoy it.
At different times yesterday and today, I overheard our two kids on the phone chatting to each other like they are the best of friends.
For the first time since last December —
I put my socks on without assistance.
I was able to brush my teeth using only one hand.
I worked more than 2 hours without having to lie down.
Yesterday, we cut my pain medicine back, and so far, I haven’t noticed the difference.
I was privileged to pray for others who are going through their own chaos and valley. Our family can do this now because of the many thousands who have prayed for us in the past.
Yesterday, I thought again that we will celebrate Easter in a few weeks (and I may be here to join in that celebration.) Maybe for the first time in a while, we will not overemphasize eggs, outfits, and candy more than the hope of the Gospel. Maybe we will understand that the most powerful events in the last two thousand years are not a virus, a bomb, or a battle. What should promote awe in our lives is the birth, death, and Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Yes, I have cancer. Mounds of it. I can barely walk up the stairs and can’t stand for more than a few minutes at the time. My vocal cords are weak and I sound like an old geezer channeling a 12-year-old girl. My hair is no more.
But, I also have the reality of the Gospel, the hope of a new body, the ministry of the Holy Spirit, the forgiveness of sins, and the daily blessings from the people of God.
Yesterday, sorry, Today, I am thankful.
PS
3/20 – Friday will be my next pet scan. This is the test that they use to see the status of my cancer. They will also insert markers to help my radiologist know where to point his ray gun. I will not have to wait very long for the results as that afternoon, I have my second appointment with said ray gun doctor. Please pray for God’s will to be done.
PPS
Many of you have shared our story with your circle and tribe, we are unendingly thankful for you.
