Elder Wisdom by Cally
In January, in a Prayer of the Elder, I prayed, “We often do not understand certain events in our lives, but the day will come when God’s will is revealed and made clear to us. May we always trust in Your greater plan for each of us and may we remain open-minded and open-hearted to live to the fullest of that plan.” At that time, I did not realize how prophetic those words would be. On the morning of June 15, 2022, my life changed forever. I heard the words, “I’m sorry, but you have cancer.” I almost fell to my knees. I was devastated. Before that day, for several weeks, I had kept the information that I was undergoing testing for possible breast cancer to myself, my close family, and a few others. But after that day, I could no longer keep the news confined to that close circle. I felt that my mind would explode if I didn’t talk through my fears, my worries, my concerns, my thoughts with others. And I truly believe that that sharing and talking through my diagnosis and treatment options is what helped me make it through my surgery and recovery.
I have tried to write a thank you note to all of you at Rush Creek Christian Church for weeks. I would start to try to express my gratitude in writing, but the words failed me. This church, with all of its members and its staff, has been my salvation. The outpouring of love and support, the many hugs and pats on the back - all of it has been soothing and comforting to my weary soul. The phone calls, the texts, the Facebook messages, the food, the flowers, the cards - all of it a balm on my frightened heart. I have always watched this church rally around those who are sick, who are in need, who have lost, who are hurting outwardly and inwardly. And to experience that rallying cry personally in my darkest of days and weeks - I still feel like I don’t have adequate words. Thank you all for your loving mercies to me, Scott, Ryan, Hannah, and Molly. I promise to do all I can to be of service to you and to Rush Creek to repay that love and support.
I still haven’t quite figured out what God’s plan is with me and my cancer journey. I have not doubted His plans for me. I know that I am lucky to be able to continue my search for the answer. And I am blessed to have all of you with me on that continued journey.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 4:6-7
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. — Isaiah 41:10
The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him. — Psalm 28:7
