All Will Be Well

The light filtered through my curtains as another day was dawning. I'd like to say that my first thoughts were of thanksgiving and praise. But that would not be the truth. Before I even opened my eyes, my thoughts were of the new challenges of my journey and concerns about the day ahead. THEN I was reminded that "those who trust in the Lord are JOYFUL" and I offered a sacrifice of praise to my Shepherd and King and Guide. And I thought of writing this blog. What words I can use to convey my reality and my faith.

I fear you may be growing weary of the switchbacks which seem to be a part of this season in my life. I know I am! Since my diagnosis, it feels like one issue gets taken care of only to be replaced by something else. This is true in much of life on earth, is it not?

For me, the joy of the Tarceva working was tempered by a change in my vision (possible side effect). So, once again I'm reminded of yet another part of this life that we take so for granted until it's threatened...our vision. My Dad has macular degeneration in both eyes. Recently we had a conversation about that and he expressed discouragement over his inability to see clearly. I think I empathized with him but in typical 'Nancy' fashion I reminded him of his many blessings and tried to point out that "it could be so much worse". Good grief. How many times do I have to be shown how easy it is to say the words and how difficult it can be to LIVE them!!! God help me to never compartmentalize another's pain or suffering or journey! Dad, forgive me. And if I've said similar words to you, please forgive me. Know that I fervently believe the truth of what I say....but long to be more empathetic and compassionate. I am thankful that God understands and accepts my tears and questions and worship. He is simply there. Late one night as I struggled with fear, after loudly pouring out my heart to Him, I simply heard these words whispered in my spirit....."All will be well". No reminder to trust Him, no grand comments about what I should be thanking Him for. Simply, ALL WILL BE WELL. And with those words, peace came. Sleep came.

This is a deep truth that has carried me through my sadness and grief. And it will carry me through today as I get another chest xray because of a feeling of increasing chest pressure again. This has me concerned and is a prayer request....that the Tarceva will continue to work and that we can find the proper dosage that works for me with side effects that I can endure. The goal, as my awesome nurse navigator said, is to get to the place where I take the Tarceva as routinely AND DRAMA FREE as someone takes their blood pressures meds each day. YES, may that be so!!!

And so, my dear friends, whether your day includes meetings and making major decisions or holding babies or mowing the lawn or working in a grocery store or carpentry or studying or medical tests or simply resting in God's presence.....know that, as we trust Him, ALL WILL BE WELL.

These words of Jesus spoke this truth to me last evening in Bible Study:

"These things I have spoken to you, so that IN ME you may have PEACE.

In the world you have tribulation, but take courage;

I have overcome the world."

John 16:33

Dear Jesus, help us to walk in Your peace today, with courage, knowing that we serve an overcoming God. Confident that ALL WILL BE WELL. Amen.