I've found myself navigating through what feels like the perfect storm, and I imagine some of you can relate. This storm was brewed from a mix of lingering side effects from chemotherapy, the challenges introduced by new treatments, and a procedure from my urologist. It's been a tough few days, where I needed to rest completely throughout the weekend and even into the week.

While in this storm, the story of the little boy who willingly gave up his lunch of loaves and fish came to mind. The story of the little boy who gave his loaves and fishes to Jesus, which then were miraculously multiplied to feed thousands, is a powerful narrative from the Gospel of John (John 6:9-11). This account was a rich source of inspiration for me, and I believe it can give hope to other cancer patients.

The little boy offered five loaves and two small fish, doing all he could without attempting to take on Jesus’ role. Similarly, when we find ourselves caught in the "perfect storm" of treatments and illness, we must embrace what we can do instead of what we can’t do. If that means taking a nap, we rest. If it means sitting back to enjoy a movie, we indulge. We shouldn't dwell on our limitations or what's beyond our reach. Instead, let us focus on the strength and peace that come from trusting in the Lord, knowing that He guides us through every moment, big or small.

The number seven holds a unique significance in Scripture, represented here by the five loaves and two fish. In Hebrew tradition, seven symbolizes provision, rest, and trust. God's provision of manna to the Children of Israel in the wilderness vividly illustrates this concept. Each day, they received just enough manna for that day, except on the sixth day, when God gave them a double portion to sustain them through the Sabbath. This pattern required the Israelites to trust that the manna would not spoil overnight and to rest on the Sabbath, entirely relying on God’s provision. Herein lies a practical lesson for us: to embrace daily provision, trust in the Lord’s timing, and find rest in the assurance of His sustained support.

Jesus encouraged His disciples to find rest and place their trust in Him. Similarly, we are called to trust God’s promises, especially when storms rage around us. The profound truth I am learning is that trust paves the way to rest. Proper spiritual and emotional rest is unattainable without trust in God. We find peace as we learn to rely more deeply on His strength and wisdom. My beloved wife often reminds me, “We cast our burdens on Him.” This simple yet powerful act of faith allows us to lay down our worries at His feet and embrace the rest that only He can provide.

Besides rest and trust, we need to offer what we have, like the little boy. Just as the boy offered his small meal, those of us who are cancer patients are reminded that it's okay to present our own needs, fears, and hopes to the Lord, no matter how small or insignificant they might feel. This act of offering to God can be empowering and therapeutic even in the face of all we face as cancer patients.

There’s one last thought. The miracle underscores God's intervention and care. We can find solace in believing that God is with us in our trials, working through our medical teams and treatments and potentially using our story to inspire faith and resilience in others.

We're praying and trusting God that my perfect storm will soon clear. While I know that more challenging times may lie ahead, I am more prepared to face them. Reflecting on the little boy's story and his complete trust in Jesus inspires me. Such wholehearted trust fosters a sense of calm, enriches my prayer life, and enhances my ability to witness God's work within and through me. With each storm I weather, I grow stronger in my faith and more confident in the peace that trusting deeply in God brings.