5 Years Ago

It’s supposed to be a celebration. When a “cancer survivor” reaches that magical 5 year mark without a recurrence, most doctors pronounce cancer free. But in reality, for many cancer types, a small chance remains, though the chance continues to diminish with each passing year.

And my cancer recurrence last November (see my November 27, 2008 blog entry) muddied things a bit. Though it was a small recurrence at the original tumor site (maybe a tiny lymph node that was missed during my original surgery), it was not a metastasis. Still, a careful doctor would probably put me back on another 5 year “lets wait and see what happens” survival period.

But I do have reason to celebrate. 5 years ago, Jan and I became the cancer couple. While Jan was in Houston, Texas, undergoing tests for her cancer, I was diagnosed with mine. Ten days later, me and the kids were saying tearful goodbyes to all our friends here in the Philippines, not knowing if we would ever return.

Now, five years later, I’m back. Although I would have much preferred to have Jan with me, I have to trust the Lord’s decision to take her home to glory. Our Lord is a God of compensation. If we lack in one area, He makes up for it in another. Despite Jan’s absence, the Lord has poured out abundant blessings on me and the kids.

The IMB paid for nearly all of our huge medical bills. The Lord supplied our other needs through faithful, loving friends who gave gift after gift. God gave grace to the children to accept Mom’s passing. He made it possible for An Uncommon Faith to be published so that we have a permanent record of Jan’s testimony. And, God worked it out so I could come back to the Philippines and see more people born into His kingdom.

So, where will I be in another 5 years? I told someone this week that if my cancer returns, it’s OK. I’ve got a home in gloryland that I know is going to be fabulous. Doug and Selah are still ready to take Martha and Jonathan if needed. But if my health permits, I hope I can still be here sharing the love of Jesus to those who will hear. So celebrate with me. Whatever the circumstances, God is good!