Sherrye’s breast cancer has brought about some opportunities for good in the Lord’s Kingdom. That sounds like an odd statement at first, until you look further. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Even as we are faced with life’s difficulties and trials, our God causes good to come from them. Sherrye and I have had an overwhelming response from our brothers and sisters, not only from Karns, but from those who are far away, even around the world. The cards, calls and prayers are greatly appreciated. Her situation has allowed us to open doors for the Lord that may not have otherwise happened.
Through our present ordeal we have been able to share our faith, Scriptures and biblical beliefs with clients, business acquaintances, doctors and neighbors. I have sent “Sherrye status” updates to all those with whom we associate daily. In those updates I have included Scripture, our bulletin, Kourier articles, and have told of how our church family is praying and helping us.
One good result occurred when one of my clients asked our church family to pray for her husband, Alan Branch, who just went through open heart surgery. She has been impressed with the outpouring of love and strength you have shown for us and wanted that for them. Another good outcome resulted from Sherrye sending encouraging cards to Jim Croley (friend of the Cawood’s and community member). When his wife learned of Sherrye’s cancer, she called to express her concern for us, and has been genuinely impressed with our church family’s care for one another. We have experienced other opportunities to use this event in our lives to share our faith with others. Maybe we can use these things to further encourage folks to come and see more of what we have to offer as God’s people.
We all need to be ever ready to turn daily events into opportunities to share our faith and love for Jesus and one another. In these things, we are promoting the Kingdom of our Lord. Sherrye and I have found that most people actually appreciate our sharing and are even more open than we might have first expected. So, I encourage everyone to go forth and do likewise.
For the elders (Gregg Woodall)