I Believe

Mark 9:24 "...I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"

Tonight while riding back to Columbia with Drew and his parents after visiting Dad, this verse popped into my head that was mentioned in our Church service last Sunday.  I couldn't get the wording quite right, when Wayne remembered the exact language. It seems especially appropriate for this season of my life.

I DO believe, but still have trouble trusting that God is in control, and that He will carry us through this. Talking about my faith doesn't come easily for me...and writing about it isn't any easier, but God is moving and working in our family right now and I wanted to share.

God doesn't promise us that life will be easy, and he doesn't promise that bad things won't happen in our lives. But He does promise that nothing can separate us from His love.

In sharing about my parents, I have been continuously encouraged by friends from high school, college, law school, and work sharing their own experiences and providing affirmation. We have also been continuously blessed by folks calling, coming by the hospital, sending cards, and reaching out. Reminders that God is with us throughout this journey. We have also felt the prayers for our family. Throughout the past few weeks, we have seen very specific prayers answered again and again. One example: For the first time ever, tonight my dad told me that he believed Jesus was the son of God, and his Savior---a prayer that I, in my unbelief, did not expect to be answered. The enormity of this answered prayer is still slowly sinking in.  I am overcoming my unbelief.

I am under no illusions that the road before us will be easy.  But, take comfort knowing we aren't traveling it alone.

This week Dad will move to a rehabilitation unit and we will continue to discuss various treatment options. Mom also has 2 doctors appointments and her 4th (halfway!) chemotherapy session. Throw in some wintry weather, and things could be quite interesting. I'll update soon, but in the meantime, please pray for mom and dad's continued recovery and for safe travels to and from appointments.