“We don’t know how strong we are until being strong is the only choice we have.”  This quotation appeared on a plaque on our grandchild’s Facebook page some time after their 2 year old daughter was diagnosed with leukemia.  It was a very poignant reminder of what they were going through in caring for their child.  Their strength was the result of the grace of our loving God and the countless prayers on their behalf from hundreds of family members, friends, and many people they have never met and probably never will, but who are willing to lift up this beautiful child of God and our family in their prayers.  She is now in her 17th month of chemo treatment with 10 more months to go, and we rejoice that God has surrounded her with love and care and healing.

This gives all of us pause to think about our own strength.  From where does it come?  Do we have enough to carry us through a difficult or heartbreaking event?  Will God be by our side and guide us when we need God most?  And the answer is a big YES!  God has promised us that God’s grace is made perfect in our weakness.  This is a blessed assurance for all of us.  Read Philippians 4:13 and Psalm 46:1, and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally!

Helen