“The test shows it’s a rare form of sarcoma.”

“Of course, it does.”

My first, second, and third responses this time have been: “EBENEZER!” To explain this I get to use one of my favorite old words, “Hitherto.” Samuel gave a standing stone the name Ebenezer as he placed it on the land to honor God and remember the relationship he had, and I have, with God (1 Samuel 7:12): Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.

This is not my first rodeo, and God has been my foundation, my armor, and my Savior through them all. I have been privileged to fight them surgically without chemo or radiation. It’s not easy, and I have moments of anger, frustration, and WHY? I get really tired of tests and doctor visits, then the work to recover one more time…

But, “Ebenezer.” God’s in charge. And when He decides my earth time is at an end, I’ll get to go to heaven. That is not a flippant statement, but a sincere belief that I will be here on earth as long as God’s purpose for me is ongoing. Each morning is a gift. Each day I get to say, “What do you have for me today, Lord?”

I admit to fear about the “process” of dying. But not death itself. Because God will be with me in the process when it comes, and then I will be with Him for eternity. What will it be like? I don’t know details, but it will be the best because—I’m with God. He has a place for me there.

I’m making future plans and have all kinds of projects going. I’m blessed with family and friends. I get to sit here at my computer today and write. I get to hug as many people as will let me hug them. And laughter. And music.

And just now, a man I haven’t met, also with a computer, walked up to my table in the coffee shop and said, “Good place to hang out, right?” His name was Dan, and we shook hands and blessed each other with “Have a good day.” I’m privileged to meet so many people here.

May the Lord bless you
    and keep you;
may the Lord make his face shine on you
    and be gracious to you;
may the Lord turn his face toward you
    and give you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)

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