Thankful for the Everyday, Ordinary

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful," (Colossians 3:15).

Today I read about Kate McRae.

It wasn’t the first time I read the blog about six-year-old Kate’s fight against brain cancer. The last time I read it, she was in remission, and her family was looking forward, hoping.

What have I been doing since I last read their blog?

Dealing with ordinary life. Homeschooling our kids, keeping house, writing, researching our kitchen remodel, dealing with some health issues with my husband and myself (which have all, so far, turned out fine), celebrating the holidays, going out with friends, etc., etc.

Life.

What has Kate’s family been doing since I read last?

Cherishing every moment and hoping for positive test results.

Today, I read that Kate had an MRI last week, and her brain cancer is back.

I feel profoundly convicted of not living in each moment, appreciating each moment—even with the flu and grumpy kids and all that being a stay-at-home mom entails—because life is precious, and I have it easy compared to Kate’s family.

Dear Father God, I praise Your name! You are perfect in Your wisdom and Your knowledge and Your power! I pray for mercy and grace for the McRae family.

I pray, in Jesus’ name, for complete healing of Kate.

I know that none of this surprises You. May that knowledge offer some comfort to them in the midst of this sea of pain. I cannot imagine their pain. I don’t even want to try.

Thank You for my my wonderful life--for my husband, my children, and for a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. I know that the balance of all things is in Your hand, and I don’t know what tomorrow holds. But I am thankful that You do.

Please hold and comfort the McRaes as only You can, Lord.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.