"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

This is a wonderful verse full of promise and often quoted. I wonder how many people realize that it follows a whole section of verses on the subject of suffering? Peruse chapter eight of Romans and you'll find samplings like this: "...if so be that we suffer with him..." (vs 17) "...the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." (vs 18) "For we know that the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now." (vs. 23) ...the Spirit helpeth our infirmities..." (vs. 26)

It seems that pain and suffering are really just a given. Is it fair that we should suffer? The human side of us wants to say, "No! it's not fair! I deserve better." But what I see here causes me to realize that it would be unfair not to suffer. The whole of God's creation inherited the consequences of sin. God in His fairness offers a glimmer of hope--to cause ALL things to result in good. Asking "Why me?" accuses God of being unfair because I perceive myself to be special. "Why not me?" recognizes that I am the same as others and I must trust God to work out His perfect purpose through it. God lets the sun rise on the good and evil, sends rain on the just and the unjust. (Matthew 5:45) None of us is guaranteed to be exempt from trials, but we are assured of His help in time of need.

Please continue to pray for Malcom as he tries to rebound from the chemo treatment this week. The typical side affects are there, but bearable and hopefully will diminish in the next couple of days.

Our friend, Michael, made it through the port insertion procedure just fine. Thank you so much for your prayers. As you continue to pray, we will continue to demonstrate Christ's love to him.