A Bi-Polar Day

Today has been the most manic depressive day I've had in quite a while.

This morning I received some great and unexpected news at work.

Our hearts sang, and praised God for His blessings, and my wife and I celebrated together.

Then, during work, we received this news about our pastor of 5 years, Matt Chandler: 

In the first chapter of Philippians, the Apostle Paul writes that whatever imprisonments, beatings and trials he may have suffered, they all "serve to advance the gospel" of Jesus Christ. We implore you to keep the gospel of Christ as the main focus as we walk with Matt and Lauren through this trial.

On Tuesday, Dr. Barnett informed Matt and Lauren that the findings of the pathology report revealed a malignant brain tumor that was not encapsulated. The surgery to remove the tumor, the doctor said, was an extremely positive first step; however, because of the nature of the tumor, he was not able to remove all of it. (full transcript available here.)


Our hearts are heavy now, and our prayers are with Matt and Lauren Chandler, and their three kids Audrey, Reid, and Nora.  May they live faithfully, and be given wisdom, and excellent care as they endure this trial.  Through all of this, their hope has been to struggle well, and to point continually to the cross as their fulfillment.  Matt and Lauren both, by seeking Jesus, have found joy in even this circumstance.  They do not despair, or delude themselves.  They understand God planned this for them, and they are prepared for any resolution which may come from it.  Their hope is, no matter how this unfolds, people may see it and hear them testify about the grace, redemption, and worthiness of Jesus Christ. 

Please join us in praying for them, and our church.

 

As my friend Josh Sims reminded me; God is just as good, and just as deserving of praise this afternoon, as He was this morning.  No matter how hard that may be to remember.