July 4, 2018

We enjoyed a wonderful time with friends and family yesterday on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.  It’s a yearly get together to play in the water, hang out together, and watch some fireworks.

As I watched the grandlittles play in the water, I thought about the progress each had made from last year.  Each of them, in their own way, had learned new skills and overcome real fears.

Whether it was allowing water to get on their face without crying or not being overcome by the fear of what was living in the water, we were proud of their progress.

What progress have I made this past year?  What have I learned?  What fears have I overcome?  I’ve been praying for the Lord’s help as I learn to handle uncomfortable medical stuff through this cancer diagnosis.  I’ve been asking Him to help me overcome the fear of what lurks in the waters around me.

By next year, will I be able to say I’ve made progress?  Without this diagnosis, I’m wondering if I would be even thinking about it.  I know God uses each situation in our lives to grow us and sometimes those situations are big.  The bigger the problem, the more I need God to help me through it – and there lies the foundation for my growth.

Lord, I need you.  I need your help.  I need your healing.  I want to grow through this time.  I want to overcome fears, both real and imagined.  You are my source of strength.  Help me to grow through this.  I wait in expectation.