Raphael
Last Thursday I received news that my friend Raphael's (left) leukemia came back. He was diagnosed in March and has undergone a lot of chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. However, after two months of good health the disease has come back - strong, it seems.
This knews made me very discouraged. When I found out he was sick, I felt God was calling me to pray for him and that he would be healed - not because of my prayers, but because of God's power. You see, no one I know has been healed from such a disease and I was wondering if God does heal today. This news has - in some ways - crushed my hopes.
However, during class on Friday, my professor seemed to go off on a tangent and gave a mini-sermon on hope. He quoted Romans 8:28 which says "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Later, he recommended to me the book Disappointment with God by Philip Yancey. I have found a lot of comfort in it. Just knowing that I'm not the only one who has felt a loss of hope has done so much for me.
I just read Raphael's latest journal on his site (see link to the right) and that was also very encouraging. Knowing that he believes it's not his time makes me more encouraged that God will heal him. I don't think he has wishful thinking - I know him better than that. However, if God choses to take him Home, I feel prepared.
I ask everyone to pray for my friend. His healing will be a miracle and God will be glorified.
posted by Leah @ 9:45 PM
3 Comments:
hey leah!
i was using the next blog>> function of the blogger toolbar, and i came upon your blog. i read about your friend raphael, and how discouraged you're feeling right now.
the book by philip yancey is a good read. but if you're looking for answers, the Bible is no doubt the best.
i'd say don't be discouraged, disheartened or anything. just think of your friend, raphael and how strong his faith is. you as his friend should be a source of strength for him at this time.
anyway, just sharing my 2 cents... God bless you and your friend!
-jaze
jaze.blogspot.com
Thanks very much!! I have been going to the Bible (my husband and I were talking about how the Bible is superior last night!), but it is always nice to read a contemporary perspective. Thanks for your encouragement!
my mom just heard from him today and she said that the cells that were bad and were causing him to be sick went away an that the doctors were amazed! so i think he's doing better and i'm sure it was all God's doing!
Post a Comment
Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]
<< Home