This page has laid dormant too long; it’s time to wake a sleeping blog. And a new adventure is the perfect moment to do just that.
Tomorrow I’m scheduled for the first of 38 radiation treatments for prostate cancer left over after I surrendered the gland itself to a surgeon in July 2020.
Two years ago a blood test reported my PSA number at 24, six times greater than the upper limit of 4. As I recall, my wife and I stopped whatever we were doing and looked at each other. For maybe a half hour, a mist 
of fear washed over me. When I quickly reviewed my PSA history, it showed two years without testing. Now we knew it was aggressively growing during that time. (Brothers, get a PSA reading every year!)
My fear morphed to a few minutes of anger toward my doctor. But the anger dissolved when I remembered my theology: God holds us responsible to care for our bodies, never mind the doctor. A 66-year-old man of average intelligence has no excuse to allow two years to pass without such an important test.
As for the fear, it was soon gone as well. I asked myself, what’s the worst that could happen? An early promotion to glory! My family would miss me, especially my bride, but they would survive and move on. For the time being, death is part of life … but a day is coming!
Gary,
As usual, a very good/well-written/biblical/thought-provoking blog post.
All I can say is, “Amen.” I agree. So be it. In Jesus Name. And for His glory.
I’ll be praying during “these coming weeks,” Gary. For you. For your family.
And I’ll be waiting to shake your hand and hug you when you arrive, should I precede you to Glory.
What a Day that is going to be, eh!
Ah, my friend and brother, how good to hear from you at this meeting place. Your approbation, and your friendship, are gifts of great value to me.
Just as you have been out in front of me at other times in other arenas, so you are in this cancer journey as well. I held you before the Father every morning through those months, brother, and was so overjoyed to hear the recent good news.
As for the anticipated greeting you describe, yes, lets! On this planet, or around the feet of Jesus (maybe that will be the sooner occasion, certainly the better). And yes, that Day will be glorious indeed.
Thanks Gary! I assume it is okay for Gladys and me to pray for your comfort and health! You do have a talent as a writer.
Yes, it is okay! Much appreciated, brother. Shalom to you both.
The big C word! Christ! Reminds me of a relative in South Dakota. I saw him last when he was 79. I found out he had lived to be in his 90’s. All I knew was his name was Babe. His obituary finally gave me his name! Earl King. In a little town in South Dakota was this small town of Geddes. Forth grade was a remarkable year until we moved on to Platte, South Dakota. Part of Fifth grade and then back to Butte, Nebraska for the rest of 5-9. We think we know something of our friends? I do! Lipscomb, Texas! I’m sorry you are going through this other big C word! I ask for God to Heal you! Thank you for your life! And testimony! Rod
Ah, Rod, how good to hear from you. I remember you talking about Geddes, though I had not heard that name for probably 55 years.
And, Lipscomb, yes, good for you; nothing wrong with your memory! 🙂
Thanks for your prayers.
Thanking God for your testimony and faith–and praying for you all!
Thanks, Tim. Shalom to you and your family.