OF FAITH AND FABLES

By Bob Haynes

Where Do I Go?

 

The word paraclete – as used in the Bible means: “The one called alongside.” That word stood for and continues to stand for Christ’s promise of the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. That term is important no matter what life exposes you to… even when you find yourself in times of difficulty and uncertainty.

The past couple of weeks have produced some very troubling events for me and for my family. It began simply enough. I had gone to the golf practice range to hit a bucket of balls to see if my golf lesson from my son-in-law Cliff had stayed with me.

The next day I had a pain in my right chest… Naturally, I thought I had pulled a muscle but soon found that the pain was caused by something totally different – a mass on my right lung. After several visits to several doctors, I now have been told it is malignant.

Those of you who know me or who have kept up with me over the past few years know that I lost two loved ones to that dreaded disease called cancer. Zoe Ann and Brother Dick both suffered with that illness, both battled valiantly before losing. I suspect I shall do the same.

As I pondered exactly what to do and where to go, I remembered the lyrics from a song by Amy Grant some years ago….the title of the song was “Where Do I Go?” As those lyrics came back into my conscious mind I found great peace in remembering those lyrics. “Where do I go when I need a shelter? Where do I go when I need a friend? Where do I go when I need some helping? Where do I go? Back on my knees again.”

What I do know is how powerful prayer is and how much intercessory prayer can be positive. That fact, coupled with the knowledge that I am fortunate to have numerous friends spread out all over the United States, Mexico and Canada, gives me much to be thankful for. They have responded to my request for prayer in ways that I never imagined.

I also remember the conversation between “Pooh” and “Piglet” and now I totally understand the meaning. Perhaps you also remember this from your readings: “Piglet sidled up to Pooh from behind.  “Pooh!” he whispered. “Yes, Piglet?”  “Nothing,” said Piglet, taking Pooh’s paw.  “I just wanted to be sure of you.”  ~A.A. Milne

Because of you dear friends I can say sincerely that “I am sure of you.” I also know that the promise of Jesus is valid and I take great solace in that as well.

I am also aware of still another quote about things that happen in this life. This quote is from Adam Lindsay Gordon who said: “Life is mostly froth and bubble; two things stand like stone…Kindness in another’s trouble, Courage in your own. Shalom

(Ed. Note: For quite some time, Bob’s column has been one of our most popular—and we fervently wish that it will continue. In any case, with the sobering news in this column, Bob has proven that he not only “talks the talk but walks the walk.” God bless you, friend.)

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