For My Friend Cathy

What is it about the word "cancer" that strikes fear into the hearts of many? Is it the fact there is no known cure? Is it the chemotherapy and losing your hair? Is it...?...well you know. I personally do not know and honestly hope I never have to find out. But my outlook isn't so positive. According to the American Cancer Society a man has a 1 in 2 chance of developing cancer over the course of a lifetime and a woman has a 1 in 3 chance. I definitely do not like those odds. I'd rather take those odds to a horse racetrack and win some money. At least that activity is enjoyable...win or lose!

Recently, Tammy and I have had the displeasure of seeing cancer a bit closer than we'd prefer. My father had skin cancer removed from his nose in January. A friend, Barb, from Florida that Tammy worked with has a daughter who battled cancer in 2008 and is now in remission. Barb also has a husband who is now valiantly fighting cancer. And just today, one of mine and Tammy's best friends, Cathy, was diagnosed with colon cancer. The cancer news just doesn't seem to go away!!

It is such a shock to the mind when a cancer diagnosis is announced. You are not really sure of what to say. Inside my heart is breaking, yet I want to remain strong in the presence of my friend. I want to say sorry, but first of all I didn't cause it, and second, my friend doesn't want my pity! And then for the rest of the family, Larry and the boys, my heart breaks as well. What do I say?

It is times like these that I am humbled by God! I am reminded that my words do not matter, but my actions and my faith do. God's wonderous glory is about to be seen through my friend Cathy. You see, this isn't Cathy's "first rodeo" when it comes to cancer. Joe, one of her 16-year old twins (Josh being the other), was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. Through the grace of God he is cancer-free, but I truly believe this only prepared Cathy for this day. Her determination in the face of fear is exemplary. God works in such awesome ways and I am excited to see The Great Physician at work through this. Cancer is no match for the strength, grace, and mercy of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

So take that cancer!! No longer will you strike fear in the hearts of many. You can continue to afflict over half of the population, but you will not conquer us. When you've afflicted just one person you've afflicted all those in direct contact with that person. And cancer, those are a lot of people willing to fight back and to kick your butt!! So Cathy we share your illness. Maybe not physically, but spiritually! We are all part of the Body of Christ and we will be there to support and encourage you during this time of challenge and growth! On behalf of everyone we call mutual friends, we Love you and we will be there to celebrate God's glory as He defeats this cancer!!

Psalm 121:1-2
I raise my eyes toward the mountains --
from where will my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
the maker of heaven and earth.