Thankful

It’s hard to believe it is Thanksgiving Day. The past five months have been a blur. To say it has been quite a roller coaster ride would be an understatement. Through the positive and disappointing test results, the sleepless nights, the tearful moments, and the monotony of day-to-day routines we have discovered a lot about ourselves and about the God we serve.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (CEV) Paul tells us, “Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do.” Paul did not lead an easy life. He was arrested, beaten, and imprisoned multiple times. In Philippians 4:12- 13 (NIV), Paul tells us, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” This is the amazing grace of our God. He wants us to be thankful in all situations; but, He understands that we are weak. So, He gives us the strength to face all that we encounter in life and He enables us to develop an attitude of thanks.

As I reflect on this journey with cancer, there is much to be thankful for. The love and prayers of so many people have sustained us. Texts, cards, meals, gifts, and words of encouragement have come when we have needed them most. Mike has had relatively few side effects from the chemo and has been responding extremely well to the treatment. Our oncology team at Hershey has been upbeat and positive throughout this process. I have been able to continue to work and to finish my grad class. Caleb, Ian, and Annie have been able to maintain their activities as well. Mike has been able to faithfully serve in the middle school program at church. (He hasn’t missed a single Sunday — which is a tremendous blessing to him!) As a family, we have been learning how to extend a little more grace to each other on days when the emotions are high. And, God has been with us each and every step of the way.

Today, we want to take a moment to thank you for being a part of this with us. Thank you for your prayers and your support. We are truly thankful for you!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Bonnie