Come Away…
December 4th, 2009 | Michael Q. Pink
“As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.” John 21:9
A few days ago my pastor, who is also a dear friend, invited me to spend some time on a ten acre patch of forested land they have here in Florida adjacent to their home. The idea was to get away from the 24/7 demands and stress of fighting a brain cancer that is trying to take over in my wife (but we will not have it and do not claim it as hers!) and find some solace and peace in the midst of this wearying storm.
When I met him at the fence line on his property, he walked me down the trail through the woods to a small private campground. The air was crisp and he had a fire built and burning strong in the open to warm us. There were chairs around the campfire with fresh water to quench my thirst. His daughter Jessa had lovingly prepared some food for me which was sitting in a nearby cooler. In case I preferred a warm drink, there was a thermos of hot coffee with cream and sugar if needed.
I can’t tell you how that made me feel! It brought to mind the image of Jesus lovingly preparing breakfast for the disciples after a long night of fruitless fishing on the Sea of Galilee. He was quite prepared to leave me in my solitude, but a flood of pent up emotional energy came tumbling out of my mouth and he listened, occasionally offering up some insight from real life experience he had.
At the end of our time together, I felt like I had met with Jesus with the other disciples by the early morning campfire. A lot of cares melted off my back that day and I went home refreshed and encouraged. Sometimes we don’t need a sermon or even a Bible verse… We just need Jesus living through a friend. I am fortunate to have a number of friends like that and one is also my pastor.
Thank you also for extending to me your hand of friendship, your heart of compassion and your words of encouragement. For the most recent updates, visit www.BrendaPink.com
December 4th, 2009 at 11:52 am
Thank you for sharing, Michael. Another reminder that we are called, “The Body of Christ”. We are God’s gift to each other. We need to be ever mindful of what He has called us to; not only to share His light in a world of darkness, but to be His reflection to the heart of other Believers. I will be praying for you and your wife. ” OUR GOD IS IN THE HEAVENS; He does whatever He pleases. He is the Help and shield of those who trust Him; He blesses those who fear Him, both small and great” Psalms 115
December 4th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
Continuing to lift Brenda up to the Lord. Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,declares the Lord,plans to prosper you and not to harm you,plans to give you hope and a future. Luke 18:27 The thing which are impossible with men are possible with GOD. I pray that Brenda will not leave the face of this earth until she fulfills the purpose for which she was born. For HE knew her before HE kneaded her in her mothers womb. May our King continue to give you both strength,courage and hope. Blessings,Anne Achee
December 4th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Michael,
Thank you so much for sharing your heart. It brought tears to my eyes as I realized the level of stress I have allowed myself to get under. After many nights of “fruitless” fishing, I’ve grown weary. Your post has refreshed and encouraged me.
I’m praying for Brenda (right now) and asking God to give you both strength and courage. Complete and total healing. Overwhelming Peace. Joy unspeakable and full of glory.
Hoping with you,
Ginny Edwards
December 4th, 2009 at 1:19 pm
Hello,Michael my deepest prayers go up to our Father for you and Brenda.
I have a nephew who had a brain turmor they used all the traditional medical routs chemo radation surgury then we got a book from a friend the nane is the cure for all cancers it has been 12 yrs since then and he is is healthy an well today there are several information sites that i will give you that may help. www.drclark.com/www.1minutecure.com/www.cancerfungus.com.you can call me if you like 810-691-5063 by his stripes we are healed dave
December 4th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Michael,
God has promised that he will not give us anything beyond what we are able. I’m sure that this is the hottest furnace of your life, but I also know that God has prepared you for this season by His word and His spirit in your life. Thank you for continuing to share with us in the midst of your furnace experience. I know that God will bring both you and Brenda through this and your ‘gold’ will be even more refined. God bless you as we continue to pray.
December 4th, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Mac and I only knew today of the road you both have traveled this last month. We immediately got on our knees in prayer. While our hearts are heavy, we can have a great sense of expectancy about what God has in store. I must admit that, during our four year journey since my healthy husband had his major stroke, I have waivered more than he. (He has been the spiritual giant.) So, don’t be too hard on yourself. The thought of one minute on this earth’s journey without him was beyond my ability to grasp. Added to that is the necessity to “keep things going” on a day to day basis …and the list goes on and on. I think weariness is one of the devils strongest tools. We love you both and join with you in the victory ahead.
December 4th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
I join with you to lift Brenda in prayer to almighty God, the great physician to ask His favor, peace and presence to surround you both as you endure this trial together.
Issiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you, do not look around in terror or be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My (victorious) right hand of rightness and justice.
And Psalm 27:14 Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes wait for and hope for and expect the Lord.
Praise His Holy Word, for it reminds us God is able!
Standing with you in Prayer Michael
December 4th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
Amen! We never know how valuable that time with a friend can be. My husband and I live next door to a wonderful young Christian man who has been through trials over the past year. We would listen and speak to each other at the fence post. I never gave it a second thought but enjoyed the opportunity to get to know this young man’s thoughts and desires. A couple of weeks ago he showed up on our door step with an ice chest in tow. He told my husband and I how much the time had meant to him over the past year and how thankful he was to have us stand with him through his trials. He gave us an entire Thanksgiving dinner. He knew my husband was out of work and he wanted to be sure we were okay. What a blessing his friendship is and how wonderful it is to watch God work in his life.
December 5th, 2009 at 12:39 am
Blessed are the pure at heart, the meek and the humble….you and your wife are blessed!
December 5th, 2009 at 10:33 am
may all sickness death disease and curse leave all your family completely,suddenly and finally in jesus name.may all the negative be replace with love long life health and peace. friendship comes from relationship,that comes through time and spending together.it was never intended to be a sermon or a programe-You have a precious gift of love in friendship that becomes a family.
December 5th, 2009 at 11:00 am
I’m glad you are writing through it all and trust that the process strengthens your faith and renews your hope as it does for your readers. There are many with you in the journey.
With love and prayers,
Beverly
December 7th, 2009 at 4:07 am
Hi Again,
Sometimes in challengess like these, we want to say words of strenght and encouragement, to keep the fire of your faith burning. You are so right in what a little time away can do. It’s like getting oxygen when you need extra air! We went to Disney thru the make a Wish program. Something different period. I don’t know know you personally, but i feel the love poured out thru the letters sent your way. Folk just want you to know we care and are standing in faith with you.
Sincerely,
Still praying, in Jesus Name!
Debbie