Last week was the second of my last four treatments. When I started this round, I thought that sounded so easy; four was so much easier to count down than twelve. But that first treatment was hard. It wasn't an easy few days; but once I realized it would only be for a few days, I thought surely it wouldn't be so bad.
Last week wasn't as bad over all, but still - feeling like poo and having absolutely no appetite, on top of feeling nauseous and being tired - well, it's not easy making it through those few days. Although I was making it, I was still feeling down about having to do this two more times. Yes, it's only two more. But. You know?
Sunday morning I was sitting in the back of the Kid's Worship theater; I'm still working, but trying to cushion myself from the crowds & germs. I wasn't really paying attention at first, but then our Children's Minister used this video in his lesson for the kids. I've seen it before; but this time it meant so much more.
As I watched, the words on the screen and the lyrics of the song - well, God got my attention. Right there in the back of the Children's Worship Theater, just like I was the only one there. As I watched the story, He spoke very clearly:
In the 1992 Summer Olympics, Derek Redmond was favored to win the 400 Meter Race. But not even half way through, his hamstring tore. He had a decision to make.
"You have a race to finish. You can't quit. I am still writing your story."
Derek's father ran from the stands to help his son. He told him they would finish the race together.
"I know it's tough. But I'm right here beside you. I am holding your right hand."
With his father's help, Derek completed the race with a standing ovation from the crowd of 65,000.
"You have an army cheering you on. You are not alone."
In spite of the pain, he purposed to finish the race that was set before him. It wasn't how he wanted to finish the race. But he had a father who loved him so much that he wouldn't let him suffer alone. "God is like that. When we are hurting and fighting to finish, He comes to help us."
"I want you to finish strong. Because I love you."
And there I was in the back of the Children's Worship Theater, a sobbing mess, with my Father's arms wrapped tight around me, reminding me that HE'S GOT THIS. So I will keep running, and I will finish this race.
5 comments:
Tressa, what a beautiful blog. I, too, had seen the video; but when you put it to your own situation, it really hit home. God does have your hand and He will never let you go. He loves you and we love you. Hang in there, girl, you're gonna make it and have the testimony to prove it! All us Heifers love you and are praying and believing with you for total healing.
I think you are just awesome!
Finish Strong!!!
Praying you feel God's loving arms holding you each day, dear one!
So beautiful, friend. Praying for strength to keep running.
That video clip never ceases to render me in a full-on ugly cry.
And you, my friend, inspire me. Like daily. I absolutely adore your heart and am so glad God put you in my lift {virtually}.
Post a Comment