Thursday, February 23
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits— who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the Pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy… Psalm 103: 1-4
Many years ago when my friend, Janet, became pregnant after years of waiting to start a family, I rejoiced and thanked God. When, just a few years later, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, I wondered why and found it hard to believe that the God who had answered her prayers would have her endure such a devastating illness. Her husband and new son needed her; why now, God?
The summer after her chemo had ended, we were sitting on the beach of Long Lake in Maine, watching our children play in the water, and creating counted cross-stitch artwork for gifts. I asked Janet how she got through all the trials of her treatment. She told me that she brought two things with her to each of her chemotherapy appointments: her sister and her faith. She told me that she sang the hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness” over and over again until she fell asleep; then would start again when she awoke until the treatment ended. She said the hymn reminded her that God was with her then and always. –Terry Gerrish
Prayer:
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
“Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!”
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—
“Great is Thy faithfulness,” Lord, unto me!