“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” – 1 John 4:16
It is homecoming season. Over the next several weeks, students and alumni will be celebrating at football games, in almost every community. Kings and Queens will be crowned. Special decorations will cover school hallways. Students will enjoy dances and parties. This week is homecoming at my daughter’s high school. She has already spent extra hours decorating and preparing for this week. It will be an exciting time for everyone involved. We have our tickets and will be at the game Friday night for homecoming.
Megan Krafty is a student who lives in Huron, Ohio. Sadly, Megan will not be able to attend her senior homecoming dance. Megan suffered a severe seizure in May and soon after was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Fighting cancer is challenging enough for a 17-year-old, but missing those special moments like homecoming, make her fight even more difficult. Megan is in a rehab clinic, working to recover from the damage the cancer has done to her. She currently requires the use of a wheelchair but is working hard to regain the full use of her legs.
Thankfully, the staff at the hospital where Megan is staying had compassion for her struggle, not just her health, but her desire to experience homecoming with her boyfriend, Tommy. They first began to plan a nice dinner for her and Tommy. They could not stop there! They also learned that Megan loves Christmas. So, they planned a Christmas themed party and dance, all just for Megan. Tommy traveled to the hospital to surprise Megan. With a single red rose in hand, Tommy invited Megan to dance. It was a magical experience that took Megan far from the daily struggle of cancer.
The hospital staff did not have to put on such a large party, but they knew that the work of healing and hope is more than just strengthening someone’s legs. When they threw a party for Megan, they brought a smile to her face and joy to her heart. When I read this story, I could not help but think that is what our faith looks like. God has done so much to bring healing, joy, and peace to our lives. When we see others who are hurting, and we can do something about it, we should help. We might need to host a party, provide a meal, or spend time in prayer. Helping others might require us to go out of our way. When we understand that we are called to make a difference in the lives of others, because God has made a difference in our lives, we bless others, just like the hospital staff blessed Megan.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
