Cancer and Choices 01
The C-word. We all hear it too often these days. It seems right now as though many of my friends are in different stations with cancer- from chemo, surgery, between rounds, getting feedback on biopsies. When I get to heaven, I want to ask God why he let cancer loose on our world. Why has God allowed this killer to rob so many of joy in life? Why have so many had to live with grief and loss because of cancer? Why does He allow so many lives to be short by its ravages?
I still get cold chills when I think of my saintly grandmother as she struggled to breathe under the weight of this monster . . .
I don’t have any real answers, but my encouragement for you today is to consider the great spiritual truth of FREEDOM. Each of us has the power to choose how we will react to the events and circumstances of this day. We do not have to be bitter or negative. We can be angry and frustrated by this killer, and yet loving and kind and determined.
Think of Jesus at the cross.
He did not allow the violent, uncontrollable pain in his body to determine his path. The insults did not cause him to waiver. He embraced everything about the cross and “scorned its shame” (New International Version Hebrews 12:2). What does this idea mean to you?
Jesus “set aside” shame. He would not allow his circumstances to shape his will. He was unafraid of the journey.
Does God allow the C-word so that he can give us the opportunity to walk with him?
Thank you for this. Comparing our struggles with what Jesus endured always puts things back into perspective. Let us rejoice in our struggles- what a challenge.
April 8: Thank you Jason
I have been pondering my recent diagnosis of cancer and now have to decide which of the presented treatment options I will choose.
I read Jason’s Blog “Cancer and Choices” from the A&M church update. The “why” questions we often ask are the these trials the results of the original sin in the garden?
He also writes about Christ’s suffering and I am humbled to think that it is possible that God would allow me to represent Him in this part of my journey home – just as He wished for me to in all the events of my life.
Christ endured the distress of judgement against him, the loss of dignity when mocked and the pain of the crucifiction – I only have to go through the distress of the diagnosis, the loss of dignity during the exams and treatments and the pain cancer can bring. Christ had to bear the weight of the world while I only have to bear the weight of my own small part of this world.
I have tried to be considerate and courteous to everyone I’ve been in contact with in this – nurses, drs, technitions, family, and friends. A nurse told me that I have a “good ‘tude.” I do not pray for a cure, but that I accept His Will whether I go or stay for a while longer.
I remember telling my Mom that her days of “doing” were done and now was her time to just “be.” My time of doing is coming to a close and now I will try to be the best representative of a Christ Follower I can be and leave a slight aroma of Him as I travel Home.
Jacqueline – Member of the A&M congregation 1992-205, now in AZ