~Reconciliation~

I do have an update on Joyce. She saw the local oncologist yesterday, as well as a pulmonolgist. After these appointments they were more optimistic. Tomorrow, Wednesday Joyce will be having a biopsy to find out the type of cancer, as well as a PET CT scan. Once they get these results they will know the type of cancer and if there has been progression. The 3 cm mass they had previously told her about may not be on the aorta. They also found out yesterday that when she had her physical examination last December the spot on her lungs showed up on her x-ray at that time. They, of course, are very upset with this finding as her family physician has sent her for 2 chest x-rays and reported both were fine. Joyce also has referral to M.D. Anderson, so they should be able to get an appointment very quickly.

Jan is in the midst of getting approved for a new clinical trial, checking her blood counts and I've been gathering information on the results and side effects of this new treatment.

And, my cousin is also in the midst of possibly starting a new chemo regimen for her CLL. I've been helping her with this as well. Pretty soon I may be an expert in cancer treatments. Ha! That is very unlikely to happen as it's unbelievable the treatment options and such for each specific cancer. It is very interesting.

I would ask that you remember Jan, my cousin and Joyce as they prepare for what lies ahead. Pray that they will rest in the comfort of God's arms as he directs them in fighting their cancers. Pray for WONDERFUL RESULTS and MINIMAL SIDE EFFECTS. AND, AS I MENTIONED THE OTHER DAY, PLEASE PRAY FOR JOYCE AS SHE IS NOT A CHRISTIAN. PRAY THAT GOD WILL SOFTEN HER HEART SO THAT SHE MAY COME TO KNOW HIM.

Becoming reconciled to God is a good starting point in our quest for reconciliation in all of our relationships. As Paul exhorted, “We implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians 5:20). We are “reconciled to God through the death of His Son” (Romans 5:10).

Reconciliation in our human relationships can be a difficult process. It must begin with each person accepting accountability for his own behavior. Next, there must be an acknowledgement of wrong doing. This must be accompanied by the replacement of deceitfulness with openness and honesty in the relationship. Finally, a firm verbal commitment must be made to take the specific steps necessary to discontinue all inappropriate behavior.

Obviously, not everyone is willing to do his or her part toward reconciliation of the relationship. Indeed, attempting to reconcile with one who continues to be an abuser is not wise, nor is it God’s will. On the other hand, even when the relationship cannot be reconciled, we can still know that it certainly is God’s will for us to experience His emotional healing. Jesus Christ gives us great encouragement.

“I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10).

You can't force someone to reconcile. But, for yourself you have to do what you believe God would want and just as it says above, he would want us to experience emotional healing. This can and has been a very sticky situation lately with a lot of disappointment and hurt. The full details are not needed, but I would covet your prayers. God knows the situation, as well as the feelings.