A few weeks ago I received some very difficult news that I want to share with all of you. I have been diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer. Certainly not something I wanted to be dealing with during this season of my life, and definitely not in the midst of the CV19 crisis. Nevertheless, that is the situation.
Here in Columbus, we are fortunate to have access to the world-class resources at The James Cancer Hospital, which is part of the Ohio State Medical Center. I have met with an oncology doc who specializes in my type of cancer, and this past weekend I began the treatment protocol. The battle has begun.
My wife and I understand that we are merely at the beginning of what will be the most challenging test of our life. In the months and years ahead there will be ups and downs, victories and setbacks, good news and bad news. It will be a long, difficult journey through the valley … but the Lord is faithful, and we will trust Him.
So, this week’s devotionals will focus on navigating adversity. I will revisit many of the principles that we have already studied on the topic of dealing with the challenges and difficulties of life. Given what I am facing, I think I would benefit from a refresher and a booster. I hope it will be helpful to you, as well.
Here are three things that are top of heart for me as I continue to process the diagnosis of stage 4 cancer.
#1: Prayer. We serve a mighty God who is able to heal, and we are asking for just that. Most importantly, we pray for His strength and peace. It’s also a great reminder to me to pray for other people who are battling adversity and life-threatening disease.
#2: Response. This is when E+R=O gets real. I didn’t choose this E, but I do get to choose how I respond. It will be a time of testing, and it will be a battle. Literally a battle for my physical life. It won’t be easy, but I’m ready for the fight. I have trained (musar) for it my whole life. I will trust God and do the work.
#3: Fellowship. While the cancer diagnosis has cast a dark shadow over my life, something else is also happening. Over the last month, reading the Bible has become deeper. Fellowship with people has become richer. Prayer has become more personal. Worship has become more powerful. The Lord’s presence has become more real.
All of these realities are driving away the darkness. For example, Psalm 23.4 has taken on a new level of meaning: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
I love to compete, and I am ready to step into the arena. As I said, I have trained for this. It is incredibly empowering to know that Jesus has already secured the ultimate victory, and that His grace is sufficient. It gives even greater purpose and energy to the path I am now traveling.
Brenda and I are also very encouraged that we are not alone as we face this challenge. Please remember us when you pray.
“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13)
