Just before Christmas a few years ago, a friend was diagnosed with leukaemia and was told she must begin chemotherapy immediately. Just a few weeks earlier, Kim had told friends how blessed and content she felt with a loving family, a comfortable home and a new grandson. As she entered the hospital, Kim asked Jesus to make His presence known to her and to stay close.

The next 7 months of treatments, followed by recovery in partial isolation, became a season she calls “forced leisure”. She says she learned how to slow down, reflect quietly and rest in God’s goodness, love and perfect plan—regardless of whether or not she would be healed.

One of God’s promises to His people Israel became personal to Kim: “The Lord your God . . . will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing” (Zeph. 3:17).

Kim is in remission after a journey she says changed her life for the better. Now back in her busy routine, she often pauses to remember the lessons of “forced leisure”.

How important that we—in good times or times of challenge—draw near to God’s loving heart to hear His voice and place our lives in His hands.

Author

David C. McCasland

Topics

Our Daily Bread