I’ve felt like a popular guy the last couple of weeks. There was a good response to my last two blog posts and my birthday was last week. I probably received more cards this year than the previous ten years combined, thanks to a secretive Facebook card-writing campaign by a good family friend. I was even surprised with an awesome cake last weekend.
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| Cake made by the exceptional Virginia Hall Bryant. |
Two Saturdays ago a bunch of my college friends met in the morning cold at Berea Community Park to show their support to my family and me. Most showed up wearing “I Run Jeff Cole Strong” shirts, another campaign started by my friend Ben to encourage and support us.
I received cards and drawings from students at two schools wishing me a “Happy Veterans Day” and “Get Well Soon.” I’ve also been the recipient of considerable practical support as several friends have driven me to chemotherapy appointments and work since my eye problem has made driving impossible. Members of our church have also brought us dinner several nights.
My team members at work presented me with a beautiful prayer shawl this week and prayed with me. They also sent me a very inspiring card and picked up my slack while I’ve been out. This is very special to me since I am charged with leading them and they cared enough to bless me.
A Little Better
Thankfully, I am coming to the other side of this current mess. I had the stitches in my eye taken out this week. The doctor said that the eye wasn’t any better, but since then my vision has improved significantly and the eye hurts much less. I even went for a short drive in town yesterday and I think I’m in good shape to watch football tonight.
The test results of my last biopsy are mostly back and mixed. Some were good, others not-so-good. I am still in remission, praise the Lord, but will need more chemotherapy. I finished up my most recent round last week, so far with no ill effects.
I am extremely thankful for all of the encouragement and support that my family has received this month. We have been blessed tremendously. It’s wonderful to see the body of Christ in action. Not only has my church been involved, but numerous congregations in Jackson Co. have supported us from the beginning.
Faith in Action
As thankful as I am, however, I must admit I would not choose all this attention. I would prefer anonymity over popularity any day if it meant we weren’t going through this trial.
On the other hand, our needs have given so many others the opportunity to express God’s love for someone else. Many who have blessed us through giving have themselves been blessed in the process. This is the joy of giving.
This is also we make a mark on the world. Jesus said to his disciples in John 13:35,
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (NIV)
This verse comes immediately following Jesus’ command for his disciples to love one another:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (v.34)
As believers, we are commanded to love one another, specifically including the church. This goes beyond shaking hands and recapping the week’s events as you head out the door after church. It extends beyond the fellowship hall and into infusion therapy rooms. It shows up in places like the Veteran’s Administration Hospital and my garage where my wife’s car was parked with a flat tire.
My life so far this month has been a case study of what this looks like. God’s people have risen up to love us with dirty hands, just as Christ commanded. Not only have we been blessed, but the world sees this. It’s a powerful representation of Jesus’ message.
Government programs and Twitter campaigns won’t change the world for the better, but imagine if all Believers lived out this command like my family and friends have. I’m committed to living this way. Will you join me?