In the last three days we’ve heard from Mary as she’s thought about cancer’s effects and God’s counter-effects. Today she addresses you, blog reader, with a desire to encourage:

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It will never cease to amaze me that so many people have offered to pray for me and are continuing to pray. Some of them I don’t even know. Maybe this incredible gift has come because both you and I are members of the same family: God’s family. Though we may not know each other in this world, we’re going to be close siblings in the next, and that’s a lovely thought.

 Meanwhile, for you I’m praying, “Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.” (1 Timothy 1:2) Though I don’t know your specific needs, I do know that these amazing gifts (grace, mercy, and peace) are always welcome and beneficial.

As for me, please pray that any and every decision I’ll need to make in the days ahead will be made in God’s wisdom and by his leadership. It’s possible I’ll be asked to join a medical study with other pancreatic patients or to undergo a new series of chemo treatments stronger than the ones I’ve already had. The doctor may request further testing or specific scan dates. My loved ones might present alternative treatment plans to help me. If together you and I seek God first, he’ll let me know which choice is best in every case.

For now, I’m content to lead a “normal” life for as long as I can. I’ll let you know through this blog when symptoms of my cancer appear or when any other significant development occurs. Thank you for standing with me during this past year; my heart is bursting with gratitude!

The future may bring new lows and new fears to fight. But God’s Word tells me that no matter how cancer mounts its attack, the Lord will be right next to me, ready with a spiritual (and sometimes physical) counter-attack. And no matter what happens, I know without doubt he’ll continue to bring good from even the darkest of days.

“We exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Romans 5:3-5)

P.S. The baby I’m holding in the picture is our little Anders, the one born prematurely who had to spend 3 weeks in the NICU. I’m delighted to report that at 2 months old, he is thriving!