I’ve recently come to realize that my body produces tumor-like objects – so far all benign but this last one will require frequent MRIs. Family history led me to help others on the cancer journey – partly to come to terms with the word and prepare for it to hit me. What I’ve come to realize is that in the world of cancer, one of the toughest moments is the waiting…for the biopsy results, the next scan, the next doctor’s appointment, the next specialist, the next treatment, the next “all clear.” My new determination is in the midst of waiting…I’ll call on a reserve of The Word.

When you’re lying in an MRI tube, with the noise blasting through your ear plugs, there’s just you, your brain, and whatever you’ve stored there. While having four MRIs in two weeks, I struggled to recall scripture and realized I’d never truly memorized more than Psalm 23. Yes, a great one, but one that is often associated with death for me…not a good recall. So then I went to old hymns, because, really, who can memorize contemporary Christian lyrics in their entirety unless you are a musician.

Preparing for life’s trials and tribulations means filling your heart, soul, and MIND with God’s word. Then, in the tubes of life you are free to call upon their comfort, their wisdom, and their strength. This past year my husband and I have truly been living my life verse, I Peter 2:6-9. The verse states that in order to appreciate the blessings of life, we have to walk through the trials. In the midst of the mess of waiting this year, I know I’ve not been alone. My Lord has been by my side. I know this because he tells me in His Word: Yeah though I walk through the valley…I will fear no evil for Thou art with me, Psalm 23:4; I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, Genesis 28:15; I command you – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go, Joshua 1:9; and a family favorite, In all things God works for the good of those who love Him, Romans 8:28.

I tend to live life with sticky notes. My newest addition is located at the kitchen window so while I’m cleaning up the dinner dishes, I can fill up my mind. I’ll consider it a deposit for future MRI/CT Scan tubes, or whatever unpleasant experience comes my way. Here’s where I’m starting: There is a place near me where you may stand…I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand, Exodus 33:21. My take-away here is that it’s not about lying in the tube, it’s about standing in faith next to my God. Let us know what you bring to your tubes of waiting and how you manage those moments.

Brenda Bonn
Executive Director, HOPE Cancer Connection