A Hope Infusion
This past week, I received another immunotherapy infusion. Once again, a tube was connected to the port in my chest, and multiple bags of medication flowed into my body. Though it takes some time, I’m always grateful for this infusion and the possibility of life that it offers.
However, on this occasion, I couldn’t help but think about another sort of infusion—the one provided by Easter.
Pastor Chuck Swindoll writes, “Easter and hope are synonymous. This special day never arrives without its refreshing reminder that there is life beyond this one. True life. Eternal life. Glorious life.
“Those who live on what we might call ‘the outskirts of hope’ need a transfusion. Easter gives it.”
One of the things I’ve noticed ever since my diagnosis last June was the number of people who are living with this dreaded disease. It’s not that there are more of these people. It’s that I’m acutely aware of these people.
Young and old. Men and women. All of whom received that devastating diagnosis and are undergoing that difficult treatment. Individuals who are living on the outskirts of hope and for whom a hope infusion is essential.
Easter provides this hope. To those hopeless followers of Jesus who thought it was the end came these stunning words, “He is not here, for He has risen. (Matthew 28:6)
The implications of this are seen throughout the New Testament.
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” I Peter 1:3
“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.” I Thessalonians 4:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. “ Romans 15:13
The simple fact is this: there is something altogether magnificent, therapeutic, and reassuring about Easter morning. It proves beyond the shadow of doubt that Jesus was able to triumph over death itself. And that for those who are His followers, that triumph can be theirs as well.
I don’t know if this is going to be my last Easter on earth or not. But even if it isn’t, that will eventually come. And it will come for you as well.
However, the fact of the matter is, though our earthly celebration of this day may end, the heavenly celebration will never end. And in heaven, every day will be Easter.
PRAYER REQUESTS
Here’s how you can pray for us in the coming days:
Dave has had some physical challenges of fatigue and light-headedness this week from his blood pressure being low. They are adjusting his medications. PRAY that we find the right dosage and that he gains strength.
Dave’s next treatment day will be April 21. Following this appointment, he will have another PET scan. He is starting to have some signs that the cancer may be advancing. PRAY for peace and hope as we wait for answers and potential next steps in treatment.
PRAY for complete healing in Jesus’ name.