Counting it Joy

You would not think a day with a double biopsy of a very sore breast would be a blessed day. But it was! First, the doc warned me that if they could not find the suspicious mass by ultrasound guided biopsy, they would have to repeat the MRI for an MRI guided biopsy. I did not want another IV and dye which makes me feel funny, nor twenty more minutes in the coffin-like apparatus. So praise God that they found the suspicious lump on the ultrasound, biopsied it, and found another. Lather, rinse, repeat. At least I didn't need another MRI. Lucky me!

As I was leaving, feeling grateful it was over, I got a text. A friend was offering a car at a very low price to one of the mamas I work with who chose life over abortion. This mama wanted to leave an immoral life style to follow God...but lost access to a car in the process. I was ecstatic as I connected my wonderful friend with the happy mama. See!!!! When you trust God and do what He asks, He opens the floodgates of blessing!

And then, this was almost the best part of this wonderful day. A week ago I told you about "Sam" (fake name) who I met teaching art at the nursing home. Sam has a champion Morgan stallion he never sees because he is wheelchair bound, and it is too difficult and far for his wife to bring him. His wife called me when the Activity Director told her what I hoped to do for Sam. I had offered to drive Sam to see his horse. I have an Occupational Therapy degree. Dealing with disabilities and wheelchairs doesn't scare me. She was so happy, and wants to come with us to see the horse. I cannot wait! Next Friday, I will drive this elderly couple to visit their champion Morgan, and I get to see Sam's face as he touches his beloved horse again. Blessings abound!

THEN, a total stranger called me to ask about my art classes. I told her I was happy to have her daughter join our class, but I wasn't sure how the rest of the semester would go because of my breast cancer diagnosis. This woman offered all kinds of advice. I am new to having a serious illness...but already I can tell you, everyone has a cure. And they all want to let you know about it. Now that is fine, and loving, and great, but it is overwhelming. I could not possibly read or do all the things people are telling me I should read or do or eat. I did gladly let her pray for me.

I never understood that line in the biblical book of James about "count it all joy when you encounter trials." Joy? In trials? Is James out of his noodle?

But now, I understand. When a trial you CANNOT get through on your own slams into you, suddenly all you have is God. And that is when God shows you, He is enough. I have never experienced this before. I do not want cancer, don't get me wrong, but the aura of heaven is sooo strong and so with me right now, that cancer is almost insignificant.
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James 1:2-4 

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

1 Peter 4:12-13 

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.

James 1:12 

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.