Dear Friends,
I wanted to let you know that I was diagnosed with breast cancer just a few days before Christmas. Happily, I am told that the cancerous mass is very small and should be fairly easy to remove. I may or may not also need some localized radiation, but I am not entering into a battle for my life or even expecting to lose a breast. That being said, I would appreciate prayers for healing. It would be wonderful if they went to take the mass out and it wasn’t there anymore!
One thing that has surprised me is that I’m not particularly anxious about this. On the one hand, my prognosis is very good. So it makes sense that I am not especially worried. On the other, cancer has been for me, as I’m sure it is for many people, a lifelong fear. So I wouldn’t have been surprised if the diagnosis had provoked a great deal of stress. But it seems that God has given me a peace from his Spirit that is not shaken by this news. I feel in awe and full of gratitude for this. And I’m reminded of these words of Paul from Philippians 4:4-7 (NIV),
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
I have not found that trying not to be anxious is particularly helpful on its own for most people. But Paul also says here to practice rejoicing and gentleness and to be aware of the nearness of God, bringing everything to him in prayer. I believe that these practices can teach our hearts and our bodies to be receptive to the gift of the peace of God that is beyond our understanding. I’m grateful for that gift now. And I wish for you that you will also receive and enter into the peace of God so that you will not be plagued by stress or fear in your mind or in your body no matter what your circumstances may be.
Here is a prayer for us this week. Pray with me if you like. And please also pray for my healing.
Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for every good thing you have given me. And thank you especially for your son Jesus, through whom I am able to have life and enter into a relationship of love with you. Remind me of every reason I have to rejoice, and let my heart be glad. Let your peace and your gentleness fill me and govern my life always. I turn all of my troubles and worries over to you, and I trust you that you are with me always and are able to bring about good in all situations. Amen.
Love in Christ,
Michelle
