Even in the Dark Places, Joy, Light, and Hope

Several years ago, my congregation was praying for a young woman named Lisa who was diagnosed with Stage IV colorectal cancer. In her last few months of life, she was a tremendous inspiration. 

Today, I’d like to share some of what Lisa communicated through a community-wide newsletter. Lisa wrote, “Part of my personal treatment (for this cancer) was to be able to find the good side of everything, the silver lining in the storm cloud… Three months after my diagnosis, I decided to document my ‘Cancer Perks’ on Facebook. The ‘perks’ of living with cancer include things as simple as not having to shave as often, or at all. My hair (wig) looks as great today as it will tomorrow, next week, and next month. This is the only time I have ever been able to wear ‘skinny jeans.’ And I’ve realized that life is truly short. Life does not always go as planned, and every day is a chance to give up to God as we do not have all the control that we think we do. To date, I’ve written 137 perks and continue to find joy even in dark places. I like to encourage others to see the blessings all around them because they are present daily. When you strip away the fear, the hate, the anger, the grudge, these blessings become more visible.”

Lisa went on to write, “My perks are just merely a perspective on life, knowing that every one of us has limited days on earth. It is a perspective that grew from my poor prognosis after my diagnosis. It is a chance for me to encourage others to see their blessings in everyday life. When you are given x amount of years to live, you begin to see things in a different light. And in some cases truly begin living.”

Through her Facebook page, Lisa also encouraged people to live in between: “Live in between the chemo, the doctor’s appointments, the kid’s school projects, the work meetings, the baseball games, the arguments with your family… Live in between it all. See your blessings and know that out of your greatest suffering can come your greatest offering.”

Thank you for inspiring us, Lisa! Rest in Christ. 

Let us pray: God of hope, we pray today for those we know who are battling cancer. We lift them and their families up to your loving care. Fill each of us with your grace. And open our eyes too, to the blessings present, even in our suffering. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.