Embracing Life’s Uncertainty
A Glimpse of Hope in the Face of Adversity
Last evening, I had the privilege of speaking with a man who had just received a life-altering diagnosis. The doctors’ prognosis was vague, predicting an average lifespan of five years from the point of diagnosis. But what does that really mean? For every ten people who might live five years, there are forty others whose fate remains uncertain. This man, Henry, and his wife have already navigated some of life’s most turbulent waters, having lost their only son in a tragic accident when he was just eight years old. Now, faced with this new challenge, Henry’s response was nothing short of remarkable.
Choosing to Live
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Henry’s words were filled with gratitude and hope. “I am so blessed,” “God is so good,” and “I’m so excited about what God is doing” were phrases he repeated throughout our conversation. It was as if he had chosen to transform a death sentence into a life sentence. As Erwin McManus so eloquently puts it, “Is your goal how long you will live or that you will live?” We were created to live, and death, though an inevitable part of life, has been redeemed by Jesus Christ.
Triumphant in the Face of Death
Christians are familiar with the powerful words, “O death, where is your sting?” Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase vividly captures the truth: “Death swallowed by triumphant Life! Who got the last word, oh, Death? Oh, Death, who’s afraid of you now?” (1 Corinthians 15:5). Henry’s attitude is a testament to the power of faith, demonstrating that even in the face of uncertainty, we can choose to live triumphantly.
Seeking to Live
As Henry and his wife walk with their ultimate Victor, they are seeking to live, not just exist. They are embracing life’s uncertainty, knowing that their true hope lies in the One who has overcome death. May we, too, learn to seek life, rather than merely trying to prolong our existence. May we, like Henry, choose to transform our circumstances into opportunities to live with triumph.
A Prayer of Gratitude
Father, thank you not only for life but for the power you provide to live with triumph. May we, like Henry, choose to seek you and live, even in the face of uncertainty.
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