Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.  -2 Corinthians 1: 3-5

Many cancer survivors have the goal to get well, move on with their lives and never look back. That makes sense following the aftermath of diagnosis and treatment. Remembering the trials can feel traumatic.

CanCare volunteers often turn to scripture for the inspiration to "give back" and share in the journey of others so that they can provide comfort and hope. This is reflected in the scripture passage from 2 Corinthians. The extravagant generosity of God's grace calls the cancer survivor to go back "into that world" even when they had thought and hoped they were done with cancer. This form of extravagant generosity takes faith supported courage.

Six years ago this month, Kay Royal called and ask to speak with me regarding a "call that God placed on her heart." It turns out that Kay is the embodiment of the extravagant generosity that St. Paul talks about when suffering is abundant and comfort abounds. Here is how Kay lives out this powerful scriptural truth.

When I was diagnosed with cancer, I turned to God and prayed for healing.  I found a stronger faith and compassion from family, friends, and my church.  In gratitude, I became a CanCare volunteer.  Volunteering is its own reward-knowing I helped a client find hope reassures me that I am using my cancer experience the way that God intended.  -Kay Royal

Caught in the Act
 

Prayer for Today

Loving God, help us to offer comfort to those who are suffering. Keep us mindful of the power of our words, hugs and listening ears. Amen.