Today I have felt like a new man, Or, better yet, like the old me, before this whole cancer thing. I had been feeling not-so-good, with low energy and no appetite. Food had a bad taste for about three days, kinda like when you eat something right after brushing your teeth. I had to make myself eat. Worst of all, I couldn’t even really taste coffee. So, you can imagine my sheer delight this morning when I took that first sip of Starbucks Cafe Verona and I could taste the dark roasted arabica beans. Joy. Things don’t quite taste normal yet, but it’s getting close.
What made the weekend even better was getting to see my girls. I was so blessed to spend a lot of time with my wife and daughters, especially helping Emmy “feed” the ants. What else does a man need, really?
Another blessing is the weather. It’s perfect for sitting outside or walking. I took a 3-mile walk around the block this morning. I love seeing everything so green and breathing the fresh air. About twice per lap I would briefly lift my mask to take a drink of water and that’s when I could really smell the fresh, late-spring air.
I love spring. It’s a time of renewal. What was dormant now vibrantly lives. And this year the same can be said for me. My bone marrow is being made new right now, which is probably why I’m feeling better (this is to say nothing of the fact that we’ll zap it again with chemotherapy before the transplant). My blood counts are starting to creep up a little. All this is part of getting better and getting home.
As I was walking I started thinking of this verse:
Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” (Revelation 21:5 NKJV)
God promises us that one day there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain (Rev. 21:4). He will make all things new, no matter current circumstances or past sins. My cancer is nothing compared to His promises. Your sickness, relationship trouble, financial hardship, or other problem won’t stand a chance against His power. All it takes is following Jesus as Savior. This decision won’t instantly erase problems we have, but it does ensure that we are recipients of His promises. I have a long road ahead to get through this storm, but I am bolstered by knowing that that God’s promises will never fail.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (II Corinthians 5:17 NKJV)