Carry Me Home, July 9
Daily Reflections from Inside the Cancer Journey
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Written by Thomas Sherrod
“As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind” (2 Kings 2:11 NIV).
For my family, one of the best parts of a vacation is the planning. My wife does most of the detail work. But we talk about where to go, who to see, where to stay, and, of course, where to eat. I love to eat! We research the area, making sure we see all points of interest. History fascinates me. So, we educate ourselves on the people and their customs. It is no surprise we like to be prepared for what we are getting into. We look forward to the trip for months before the actual excursion. What would it be like to look forward to our ultimate trip Home with the same sense of anticipation?
The song “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” celebrates the miraculous ascent of the prophet Elijah into heaven. Elijah had promised another prophet, Elisha, that if he saw the Lord take him into heaven, he would receive a double portion of the Lord’s spirit. Elijah is taken up into heaven as Elisha watches. The mantle of being God’s prophet is transferred to Elisha. Picture Elijah being carried home on a chariot of fire. How dramatic!
“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” was written by Wallace Willis, an Afro-American songwriter. The second verse, “Sometimes I’m up and sometimes down. And, sometimes I feel alone. But I know my soul is heavenly bound. One day Jesus gonna carry me home” is brimming with hope for a new day.
Cancer can feel like a weight on your shoulders. You may wonder if and when the treatments, pain, and struggle will end. It may bring great comfort knowing a better day is ahead. The promise of a home where there is no more pain and suffering may lighten your spirit. But you may be like the little boy who was asked why he did not raise his hand when the preacher asked who wanted to go to heaven. He replied, “Of course, I want to go to heaven, but I thought you were getting up a load to go tonight.”
As believers, we belong to God. We are citizens of heaven. My father-in-law used to say, “I’m a stranger here. Heaven is my home.” We know where we are headed. Jesus has opened the door. This promise does not mean we cease living and have a seat, just waiting for the bus to come. No! We know the bus is coming. But we are free to live each day—with the security and joy of knowing we have a reserved seat.
Pray: Lord, Your promise of a place prepared for me is a reservoir of hope and comfort as I travel this road of faith. May this joyful vision of a heavenly home overflow from my heart. May this song of faith lift my heart. Amen.
Your Turn: Find your favorite rendition of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” play it, sing it, and listen to the words.
Thomas Sherrod, Cancer Survivor
Tom is a retired hospital chaplain who works part time for Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Health System in North Carolina. He organized and facilitated a cancer support group for twenty years as part of his hospital ministry. He is married for forty-four years and enjoys his three daughters, two sons-in-law, and five grandchildren. He is a recent survivor of prostate cancer and is immensely thankful for all of God's grace and provisions through it all.
Cancer Companion’s vision for the future is for every person impacted by cancer to know the hope, love, and grace of Jesus and that every oncology team has included faith in their treatment toolbox. By 2033, Cancer Companions will provide 5 million engagements through cancer prayers, scriptures and interactions to those impacted by cancer. Engagements include; social media outreach, e-newsletters, prayer team requests, 30 days of Cancer Prayer event, and volunteer connections.
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