I visited a Fil-Chinese friend of ours yesterday to bring a Christmas gift and check on his wife, who was battling with breast cancer for the past nine months now.
He and his wife, both active members of one of the oldest Christian Fil-Chinese church in Binondo, were finishing up their lunch when I arrived.
The “big C”, as cancer is often referred to, as every man’s biggest enemy.
And as I started conversation with them I noticed the prevailing peace within them.
I thought I’d expect a rather, quiet or probably emotionally down moment from these friends of ours, who were caught by surprise last March when he first found out that his wife had breast cancer.
Only in their early 40s, he recounted how at first, they were startled by the breast cancer news.
But what was inspiring was how this friend of mine faced this “big C” together with his wife with courage.
While his wife had to go through chemo therapy sessions for several months, he said he has the faith that the Lord will pull them through in the end.
I’m not used to seeing my friend’s wife who already lost her hair and had lost weight as well after the chemo therapy sessions.
Yet, both of them maintained a joyful disposition and was full of faith.
They are in faith that come 2010, his wife will completely win in her bout against cancer and be able to live normal again and resume her active role in serving people in the church.
As I prayed for them before I leave, I’m reminded of the book of Isaiah, where the prophet of God painted picture of Jesus, the Messiah as the Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:7 says, “Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end…”
I believe that’s the secret of this embattled couple. Though they have an ongoing storm to face, yet, they are secure that the Prince of Peace is coming through for them and in control of their situation.
Christmas’ festive atmosphere can sometimes drown out the sadness, fears or insecurities and worries we have in life. But such is temporary.
Only Jesus, the true reason for the season and the Prince of Peace can bring lasting peace within us.