Holiday Reflections
Right now, I’m looking out at a blanket of snow. Here in northeast Indiana, we received more than the typical dusting that often happens this time of year. In fact, the nearly 6 inches that fell yesterday make it the third snowiest day in November since totals began to be recorded back in 1897.
I don’t know about you, but when you couple that frosty white stuff with festive Christmas decorations, toss in some familiar carols, and nibble on sugary goodies, the scene is set for some holiday reflections. And for me, they are unique this year.
Thanks-living
For one thing, I look back at last week’s family Thanksgiving with a much higher degree of gratitude. I had been concerned that my cancer treatment would compromise my participation.
Yet, by God’s grace, I not only felt good enough to enjoy the feast (dry mouth notwithstanding), but I had strength enough to be present for the entire day. I was able to play some games and have great conversations with my children.
In reflecting on all that, I was reminded of the need to make the most of such moments and not take them for granted. I determined that I would use this unprecedented Thanksgiving as motivation for ongoing “Thanks-living.”
Advent Hope
Today is also the first Sunday of Advent. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming.” As such, it looks forward to two major events:
The historic first coming of Jesus at Christmas.
The promised second coming of Jesus at a future date.
Advent is an opportunity for intentional anticipation, preparation, and celebration during a busy season.
The four themes of Advent are hope, peace, joy, and love. Again, in reflecting on my current situation, I find it especially meaningful that it begins with hope.
Hope is a huge focus for me this year. Hope that the treatment will continue to be effective. Hope that the side effects will be marginal. Hope that I will know healing and have many more Christmases.
Yet, for all the hope that I have in the here and now, I am increasingly looking forward to the hope found in the then and there. The hope of the Kingdom of God being fully realized.
When there will be no disease or death.
When there will be no suffering and sorrow.
When separation will be replaced by reunion.
When Jesus rule and reign will be complete.
You may not be living with a cancer diagnosis, yet I am wondering if you may have some hopes in this season.
The hope that a painful situation will be healed.
The hope that a difficult circumstance will be changed.
The hope that a challenging point of need will be met.
The hope that an ongoing problem will be resolved.
Christmas hope is more than hype. Because in the advent of Jesus, all things are possible. My prayer – both for me and for you – is that we would experience the truth expressed in the familiar carol, “O Little Town of Bethlehem.”
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight.
PRAYER REQUESTS
Here’s how you can pray for us in the coming days:
PRAISE God that Dave’s last treatment went without problems. Though he lost a bit more weight, his labs and blood pressure were good. His dry mouth and neuropathy seem to be improving marginally, but overall, he has had no ill side effects. We are grateful!
Next treatment is Tuesday, December 23. PRAY that the immunotherapy is effective at reducing the cancer and holding it at bay.
The DDM board meeting went well. The plan for 2026 is for Dave to continue coaching pastors as long as he is able. He will have another PET scan in Jan-Feb. If those results are positive, he hopes to re-engage with his coaching ministry.
We have two friends who are also facing esophageal cancer. One is several months farther along on the journey, the other just started a few weeks ago. Both of these men are facing major challenges in their treatment. Join us in praying for the healing presence of Immanuel for Steve, Verlin, and their wives.