“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:6-9 ESV
With Famous enduring a bout of illness this week, he has needed me to spend more time with him. For the most part his energy has remained good, but he has napped a little more. I have tended to the needs he could not manage himself with patience and love. Last night I allowed him to sleep in the coveted position next to me in bed rather than at the foot of the bed. It made me appreciate even this moment as a joyful one, understanding he will not be beside me forever.
They can be tough, but I try to appreciate the days which come along and change your perspective. No one likes disease or suffering. And yet I see people almost every day who face major brain surgery. Whether they have a full recovery or not, their lives have hit a road block, or at best a detour, and suddenly there is a new normal.
I believe joy and peace go hand-in-hand. True joy is not being giddy. True peace is not emotionless. In facing a crisis we can find a path of strength that is forged from the awareness that God is in control, despite the world falling apart around us.
Show me the steadiness of Your presence even if today brings suffering and pain.
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