Give Thanks For The Competitors In Our Lives

Romans 12:8a – If it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously. (NIV)

I've been giving thought to one I met on the oncology floor of the hospital, one who suffered from a type of cancer that required a stem cell retrieval. This person was able to have a stem cell taken from her own bone marrow to be implanted at a later date, and it was a success. She is now out of hospital and recovering at home. You can't imagine my thoughts and prayers of thanksgiving.

This person brought to mind another friend I knew for many years who came down with a similar type of cancer. I thought that she fought the disease with valour above and beyond the call of duty. To the end, she gave her all. She was asked by a medical team if she would offer herself in an experimental programme to implant a stem cell, much in the same way as my current acquaintance. Not having any hope for herself, she went through the whole procedure, chemo and all. She said, "If I can help another, I will do it." Somehow, I feel she did help another.

We buried her on a bright, sunny day this past winter. Her life was devoted to many sports in which she was a real competitor. Even in death, as in life, she never changed, she never gave up. She gave her all; and I pray, though I can't really say for sure, that my new acquaintance will be here to take her place, for she is also a real competitor.

For those who suffer physical trauma and never give up, it is of course God in His timing Who gives life or takes it away. But He also gives us strength to endure and courage to help one another, though sometimes the cost may be our lives.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we give thanks for those who do not think about themselves even as they face death. In Your strength, they have learned to contribute to the needs of others and have given generously. Thank You, Jesus. Amen.

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