Infinite, Yet Personal, February 29
Daily Reflections from Inside the Cancer Journey
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Written by Thomas Sherrod
“He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name” (Psalm 147:4 NKJV).
I remember a cold rainy day in New York City. My family was looking for something to do inside. We decided on the planetarium. We relaxed and reclined in our comfortable seats. The presentation began. Our spaceship took off into outer space! We left Earth and eventually our solar system. The immensity of our galaxy was mind-blowing. The number of galaxies continued to multiply the further we traveled from home.
Today’s scripture alludes to the infinite nature of God by saying that “He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name.” Imagine looking through a telescope and attempting to count the stars on a calculator. How ridiculous! I cannot even begin to fathom the enormity of God. And somehow that reality brings me comfort. I take great delight in knowing God is not overwhelmed by the expanse of the universe. I can let go of straining to understand the mysteries of life. A God who can count the stars and know them by name can handle anything that comes my way.
You may have tried to explain cancer or wonder how you contracted it. You might have debated the right approach to treat it. There are therapies available only outside the country. Physicians may differ on the optimal plan of attack for you. Cancer often exposes the vulnerability and fragility of life. You may search for comfort and stability amidst your rapidly changing landscape.
The testimony of the psalmist seeks to touch upon the unfathomable, yet personal nature of God. He can count the stars—and knows their names. Sometimes we wonder if God can be bothered with the minute details of everyone’s existence. This scripture testifies to the infinite nature of God while simultaneously revealing His personal interest in you. If He knows the name of each and every star, He surely knows the name of you, His beloved child. He knows your name! Furthermore, I believe He is interested in every minor detail of your life.
Sometimes you may feel insignificant against the backdrop of the universe. Yet, today’s verse affirms your ultimate significance in God’s eyes. You matter to God. You are not a number in God’s book of life. His words, “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands” (Isaiah 49:16 NIV) paint a beautiful portrait of your connection with God. You are part of His life. He only seeks the best for you! Claim your place as a beloved member of God’s family.
Pray: Lord, Your love is constantly transforming me. Thank You for molding and shaping me. Thank You for caring for my every need. Open my heart to receive Your healing forgiveness and mercy. May Your Holy Spirit help me claim the miracle of being a part of Your eternal family. Amen.
Your Turn: Ask God to help you visualize your name etched on the palm of His hand.
Thomas W. 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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