Sometimes it takes a life-threatening situation to open our eyes.  In case you didn’t get the memo, that’s what’s taking place right now.

For those who are connected with our church, you probably heard the news that Pastor Jeannette is battling cancer.  As I write this note she’s going thru her first round of chemotherapy (there are 15 more rounds to go).  And as she faces the battle of her life, I couldn’t help but be inspired by her thoughts and comments that she has shared on social media.  I want to copy them here in case you haven’t read them yet. (this I from her CaringBridge site)

Feeling Strong, Optimistic, and Ready to Go

by Jeannette Cochran

Tomorrow chemo begins, and the battle intensifies. Eddie asked if I was scared, and to my surprise, I’m really not.  I’m sure I will have some anxious jitters when I actually sit in the chair for the first time. But for now, I’m feeling strong, optimistic, and living in the moment instead of worrying about what’s ahead. The sooner we get started the sooner it will be over. I’ve calendared all the dates and, barring no unforeseen roadblocks, I will be done on May 23rd.

I’m healing well from surgery, and I feel like myself again. I’ve been eating healthy and loading my body with nutrients through juicing and green smoothies. This week, I had an echo-cardiogram to ensure my heart is healthy enough for chemo and saw my dentist for a routine cleaning before chemo starts.

Eddie packed the bag we’ll take to chemo. It’s filled with books, an iPad, earbuds, snacks, drinks, and a cozy pink blanket marked with positive, uplifting words. This blanket was a gift from a dear friend, and I’m planning to take it every time so that when I sit for chemo, I will always be wrapped in hope, faith, peace, strength, blessing, and courage.

God continues to be faithful and gracious to equip me for the battle ahead. Earlier this week I was reading Romans 8, a chapter dense with hope and courage building truth. Paul closes this chapter with a forceful declaration that no matter what trouble or hardship we face we can be sure that we can conquer it because nothing will ever separate us from God’s love.

“In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Not even cancer.

I have everything I need to endure this season because I have the matchless power of Jesus within me and His love surrounding me. It might be hard.  And I’m sure I will probably experience moments of sadness, doubt or fear. But in the end, I will win because in Jesus I am a conqueror.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

Much love to you all,

Jeannette

If you’re not inspired by Jeannette’s faith and her story, you might want to check your pulse.  And while you may not be fighting cancer, chance are you’re fighting your own battles.  I urge you to adopt the same mindset that Jeannette has.  God is still faithful.  He will equip you for the battles he’s called you to.  And NOTHING will separate you from his love.  Nothing.

Fight fiercely.  God is on your side.

-Pastor Mark