“You know it’s okay to say this really stinks, right?”
Bob and I have heard variations on this question many, many times in the last two weeks. Yes, we really, really do know that this stinks. We weep and are often overwhelmed, but we marvel ourselves at the peace we feel.
I was recently made aware of a wonderful thought from Elisabeth Elliot that perfectly describes our feeling. She (our Chase Stratton Elliot’s great-great aunt) wrote this after losing her second husband to cancer. I read it in this moment not as pertaining to the loss of Chase, but as the loss of what could have been for Chase:
“It often happens that those whose loss is greatest receive the greatest share of grace, mercy, and peace. This does not mean that they never cry, of course. But they do not collapse. Those who only watch and pray and try to put themselves in the place of the bereaved find it almost unendurable. Sometimes they weep uncontrollably, for their imaginations never include the grace.” (The Path of Loneliness)
Oh dear ones, when you think of us, imagine the grace! It is beyond your (and even our) wildest imaginations.
As of today, we know that Chase is scheduled to begin treatment by the end of the week. Please pray for us to continue in a moment-by-moment walk with Jesus.
“But safety, as the Cross shows, does not exclude suffering…trust in those strong arms means that even our suffering is under control. We are not doomed to meaninglessness. A loving Purpose is behind it all, a great tenderness even in the fierceness.” (The Path of Loneliness)
“I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning…” Psalm 130:5-6 (ESV)
Dear Bob and Ellie, what a wonderful thought to keep in mind. I have felt that grace and It is a constant reminder of our wonderful savior.
Beautifully expressed, dear one.
so true! thank you for sharing, and may I just tell you what a blessing you and your family have been to us, and oh so encouraging. I know it makes more sense for it to be the other way around, but as we learned in our ABF this last Sunday, the Lord uses our suffering to comfort and encourage others. That is what the Lord is doing through you guys in our lives.
Ellie and Bob…we love you guys and your precious family! Praying for you continuously every single day!
Hi Ellie and Rob – You don’t know me. I am a close friend of Emily’s. In fact, when I read your quote at the start of this entry, I thought that it sounded She may or may not have share with you my story. My husband (33 and seemingly healthy) was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer. I want you to know that my whole family, including our boys, Zion (7) and Canaan (5) have been praying for you and Chase. By now, they have mastered the art of praying for healing! 🙂 God’s grace and mercy are new every morning. It is by grace that I am able to make it through every day. God has been faithful to me and I know He will continue to be faithful to you. Please know that you have a prayer warrior in me. Let’s get through this together!! 🙂
Doh! I got interrupted (stupid work)! I meant to say that when I read your quote at the top, I thought it sounded just like Emily. In fact, I’m pretty sure she’s said that to me a time or two.
Ellie and Bob, You are such an inspiration in your walk with the Lord. I know He is caring for Chase and your family, My thoughts and prayers will be with you every day. God Bless you all.