For Precious Chloe …

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” – Romans 8:18

She’s only eleven. My daughter’s friend: sweet, endearing, engaging Chloe Scott recently was diagnosed with bone cancer. Oh … words fail. A child dealing with such traumatic suffering–my heart wrenches for her and her parents. What are they feeling? Thinking? Enduring? This devastating news already has changed their lives, and suddenly they’ve embarked on an unanticipated, grueling journey.

Suffering:

•  Is there ever a good time? Certainly not in human terms. Yet we repeatedly witness this theme throughout Scripture. Adam and Eve, Noah, Joseph, Job–just a few who underwent severe suffering. With experiences ranging from a beloved son’s murder, cruel ridicule, slavery and imprisonment, the absolute loss of children, material items, health … dignity–these saints understood pain. Searing and scarring, agonies in countless forms have affected mankind since the beginning of time.

• Is there a purpose? Yes, always according to God’s terms. He never wastes a moment. Though we cannot understand the complexities of His plans, we can trust in His infallible ways. Wisely and compassionately, the Lord wets the canvas of our lives with our tears. He blends colors with our weeping–and His–creating striking beauty from that which makes us recoil in pain. As we yield to Him, God masterfully utilizes every life event for His ultimate glory. Undeniably, “… we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

• Is there hope? Forever in Christ Jesus. Intimately He knows the oppressive anguish that accompanies torturous trials. Physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually–He. Has. Been. There. Hanging on a brutal cross, He yielded to God and willingly withstood the penalty for our sins. Because of His faithful love and inexplicable mercy, we possess hope. Despite “the sufferings of this present time”, glory WILL BE REVEALED to us at God’s appointed time. Christ is our hope. His presence and power sustain us through the darkest times. His promises and perfect peace assure us the best is yet to come.

Please pray for precious Chloe and her family. Truly their journey is unenviable, but they don’t face it alone. God promises, “… ‘I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,’ so that we confidently say, ‘THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID …'” (Hebrews 13:5-6). As Christ’s body, we can support and encourage them also. Practically and prayerfully we can “Bear one another’s burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). May we actively love God and gently love each other by standing with these dear ones in their moment of need. To God be the glory.

Note:  Please click here for updates on Chloe Scott via the Caring Bridge site. She and her family will be blessed by your faithful prayers and encouraging words.

photo credit: markchadwickart via photopin cc