Just before Christmas one year, a friend was diagnosed with leukemia and
was told she must begin chemotherapy immediately. Just a few weeks earlier, Kim
had told friends how blessed and content she felt with a loving family, a
comfortable home, and a new grandson. As she entered the hospital, Kim asked Jesus
to make His presence known to her and to stay close.
The next 7 months of treatments followed by recovery in partial
isolation became a season she calls “forced leisure.” She says she learned how
to slow down, reflect quietly, and rest in God’s goodness, love, and perfect
plan—regardless of whether or not she would be healed.
One of God’s promises to His people Israel became personal to Kim: “The
Lord your God . . . will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will
quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing” (Zeph. 3:17).
Kim is in remission after a journey she says changed her life for the
better. Now back in her busy routine, she often pauses to recapture the lessons
of “forced leisure.”
How important that we—in good times or times of challenge—draw near to
God’s loving heart to hear His voice and place our lives in His hands.
People are at the heart of God’s heart. (RBC)
