This week we will be running a special series of Be Still and Know daily devotionals, written by Charlotte Egler, a member of LifeJourney Church for a number of years. These entries are based on her journal entries. To find out more information about Charlotte, continue reading.
Today’s scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Charlotte Egler):
On October 31, 2014, I was told that I have breast cancer, and after lots of scans and pokes I was told it was Stage IV. The doctor said the goal is not cure but to improve quality of life and length of life. I believe that I can achieve perfect health with God’s help. I have done very well since that time with the distant cancer spots being dead and my lymph nodes back to normal. On July 21, I was told that I have a newly discovered cancer spot on the bottom of my spine. This felt like a sucker punch, and I asked God why and what I should do next.
A few days later, my mom and dad came to visit on their way back home after visiting our Lady of Victory Basilica a little south of Buffalo, New York. Mom prayed there for my healing, and Mom and Dad laid their hands on the worn marble where many people have been healed. A kind man they met there took the included picture. His wife had been cured of cancer. Mom, who doesn’t know a stranger, asked everyone she met to pray for me, including the bishop of New York. She also met another lady cured of cancer who gave her a devotional: Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. While they were here. I read that day’s devotion aloud for everyone to hear. But after they left I read the introduction, and her story reflects the thirst I have to quiet myself and hear God’s voice and feel God’s gentle tug.
This scripture hit me like a ton of bricks. I know God loves me, but I wonder “why” all the time. Why do I have a new cancer spot on my L5, and why haven’t I been cured yet, and why did I get cancer in the first place? Why do You have me on this path, and what lessons are You teaching me, and what do You want me to do? I still believe I will be cured … as doctors call spontaneous remission.
Thought for the day: “What plans do You have for me today, Lord? And help me to quiet myself so I can feel Your presence.”
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.