Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.
-Hebrews 11: 1-2
Now Thomas, one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!" But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe."
-John 20: 24-25
This coming Sunday we will be observing Cancer Survivor Sunday in our worship. Cancer survivors are one of God's gifts to/for us. The survival rate of 5 years and beyond has risen over the 70% mark and God willing will continue to rise. The journey of survivorship is full of faith, doubt, and hope. While the two Biblical passages above may seem contradictory, they are not; rather they are complimentary.
When you hear the words, "you have cancer," the thought, "will I die" is automatic. Much of life becomes shrouded in doubt and you don't know what the future will bring. It can seem like a game of 52 card pick-up. Doubts abound and may seem contrary to faith, but they really aren't. Doubts are an attempt to sort our grief out and regain our footing. That's why we need survivors to help navigate the way.
What our CanCare volunteers are able to provide cancer patients and their families is a hope in a future not yet seen; but rather hoped for as a possibility. CanCare volunteers are hope on feet and provide a survivor by the side of the cancer patient and/or caregiver.
CanCare is teaming up with local restaurant Mavericks Cantina for a Fiesta of Hope fundraiser on Saturday, August 17th. Mark that date on your calendars. If you want a preview of what the event will be like, Mavericks invites you to Miracle at Mavericks this coming Saturday, June 1st. For more information go to www.maverickscantina.com/charityguild.
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