Part 2: Beating the Mischief Maker
God’s All In: The Thankful Phase
(Read Part 1)
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” —1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Things got real when I got my port put in while my daughters were away at Youth Summit. Suddenly, the future felt much more tangible. But my faith held me steady. The day before my first chemo session, I met with Pastor Lauren, and we talked about everything, including a cross my friends had given me. I asked her if cross blessing was a service she provided and she said “yes” so she blessed the cross, and we prayed together—for peace during the first chemo and strength for my family. I was very anxious about the first infusion – but my 15-year-old daughter went with me and she was incredible. We faced an unknown together and it was actually a very calm experience – thanks to her and Pastor Lauren’s prayers – no doubt. I can only attribute this to God’s presence being there, every step of the way. (I highly recommend Pastor Lauren’s prayers!)
Throughout this journey, my faith has deepened. God’s been walking with me, guiding me, and giving me the strength to keep going. I’ve been able to work, care for my family, and manage the ups and downs of treatment. Sure, there are days I’m more tired than usual (I once slept more than my teenager—that’s a record!), but I know the routine now: chemo, steroids, crash, rebuild, repeat.
When people ask how I’m doing, I tell them I am doing great and I couldn’t ask for a better experience. This journey has made me more grateful than ever. It’s brought clarity and deepened my awareness of life’s blessings. I came across a verse that really has become the theme of my journey -I have it written on my notebook, mirror, and work computer – it’s that powerful to me:
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” —1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
My translation: “Party hard, talk to God throughout the day, lead with gratitude, and know that God’s got your back.”
So far – this journey has been filled with things to be grateful for – I have had so many laughs along the way – I rotate the people that go with me to chemo each week (close friends and family) and we often spend the time during chemo – laughing about memories or giggling about my current situation (it’s hard not to laugh at someone wearing ice glove, booties and an ice helmet!) – and God has definitely given me a sense of levity and the ability to laugh along the way! This journey has deepened existing relationships, created new bonds, and given me a more profound sense of gratitude – and trust me – if you heard some of my stories in this journey you would know God has a good sense of humor too!
to be continued…..