Just Starting Out

Hmmm...this is a bit frustrating. My first attempt at blogging and I can't figure out how to change Ben's info on the right to mine. I am not my 25-year-old son. Actually, as his mother, I would much rather be lying in the hospital bed Ben is, instead of him right now. But that's not the way God has ordained it. So, I've decided to write my thoughts as we walk this pathway of Ben's cancer (for more info, go to http://802heaven.analogcafe.net/ ).

I've been thinking a lot about the ways of the Lord. As people, we assume we know the ways our lives and the lives of our children will go. Grow up, meet someone wonderful, get married, get a great job, have children, grow old together. We almost feel that we're owed this by God. But sometimes His plans are different than our assumptions. That's when we feel pain.

Ben and Lisa were married two years ago this July. Lisa got her degree in Architecture from UW right before they were married; Ben graduated last year from SPU with a degree in...well, I honestly can't remember the title of his degree, but it had to do w/ IT Networking. They are an amazing couple who've done many, many things right. However, last Friday their lives changed as Ben was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive form of cancer. He was admitted into Virginia Mason Hospital on Tuesday to start aggressive chemotherapy.

So...what's a mother to do? This is my baby--my first born. The intial feeling associated with the word "cancer" and someone you love is that of being hit in the stomach, barely able to breathe. The first time I read the word "cancer" somewhere near the proximity of Ben's name, I grabbed my phone, went outside, and called one of my closest friends, Daniel, who is also a pastor. He did what he's always done through the years I've known him--prayed with me. I would say this began what has been an ocean of God's grace (another friend refers to it as the "bubble" of God's grace). I realize I'm only a week from when Ben was initially diagnosed, but I've been carried by the Holy Spirit of God in ways I never, ever thought possible. That may sound rather trite....but you're not me right now.

What I am, at this time, is extremely grateful for the kindness and goodness He's shown me through the people of God. We've received word from, literally, all over the globe of people praying for Ben and our family. It's amazing. We've been provided meals, as well as offers that range from cleaning our house to mowing our lawn to grocery shopping. The one that REALLY amazes me is the friend who has done catering in the past agreeing to take on preparing and serving food for our other son's (Adam) wedding reception in July. What I really see is the body of Christ doing exactly what He made it us to do--loving one another. What a joy!

So, thank you if you are one who has prayed, or cooked, or offered something I haven't taken you up on yet. (or if you are Colleen!!!) We shouldn't ever, ever walk our lives alone. We were not created this way. We were created for fellowship with Almighty God and with His family.

Adam's fiance's (Sheli) bridal shower calls. It will be this Sunday, and I have much to do to prepare. (Gratefully, others are helping a lot with that too!)

With love,

Jenifer


PS--Please pray for:

~ Strength for Lisa each day as she works full-time and takes care of Ben;
~ Hiccup and heartburn management for Ben through the chemo;
~ The Lord to continue to draw us closer to one another as a family;
~ Us to really learn well the lessons we're being taught on how to love others who are suffering.

Thank you!