Thursday, February 23, 2012

Tough News

This past month we received tough news from back "home" in the US. Jeff's mom has been diagnosed with cancer. The first few days we were just reeling from shock. No one ever expects news like that and when it does come, how do you receive it? Especially when you are 10, 000 miles away? We wished we were closer, able to attend to physical needs, like bringing meals, visiting in the hospital, etc. but instead we phoned and emailed. Thankfully technology does minimize the distance.

During times like this, I am thankful for the solid teaching we have received and the theology of suffering we have. We know that God is at work and He is sovereign and we can rest in His goodness at this time. And I don't say those words lightly. Living in a Christian community, it is easy to spit out the "Christianese" words but when you walk into a valley of suffering, all of a sudden those words ring true. For instance, Romans 8:28 is so precious right now, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him..."

Jeff's mom's spirits are good and her chemo treatments are already underway (with minimal side effects so far, Praise the Lord!) She has started a blog to update people on her journey. You may follow it too at http://lhazard1.blogspot.com/

Thanks for praying!
Posted by Jeff and Joyellen Hazard at 6:56 AM

4 comments:

  1. AnonymousFebruary 23, 2012 at 9:39 AM

    My hugest hugs for you all!!! Those first days of tests and uncertainty and shocking news are tough, very tough, especially from afar! (From my experience with my Mom - those early days were the worst days of my life thus far.) My heart goes out to you both and your family. Thanks for sharing your Mom's blog too. Praying for all of you! Hugs n tears, Sandra

    ReplyDelete
  2. KalliFebruary 24, 2012 at 9:19 AM

    Wow I am shocked! I will definetly be praying for her and her health and for the family. I have seen God's work in a couple of family members when it comes to cancer and were both cleared of cancer! Prayer is powerful!

    ReplyDelete
  3. AnonymousFebruary 26, 2012 at 5:04 AM

    Have been praying for your mom. Calvin's 1st grade teacher went on this journey last year when her husband was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. He is doing really well. They have made such advancements in the treatment of this type of cancer.

    Looking forward to having you "home" soon!
    Christine Bonnell

    ReplyDelete
  4. SUSAN REDMANMarch 18, 2012 at 8:15 PM

    JUST HEARED ABOUT YOUR MOM. YOU ALL WILL HAVE OUR LOVE AND PRAYERS.WILL CONT TO WATCH YOU AND YOUR MOMS UPDATES .THE REDMANS

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)