I do not do this often enough… Today I was reminded that I am deeply blessed. I am surrounded by God’s grace and by people who are living embodiments of that grace.

1. For the nurses at Southern Oncology and Hematology Associates, I am grateful.

Treatment day after treatment day, I watch them serve and care for others, often without giving much thought to the fact that I, too, am one of the recipients of their kindness and compassion.

The last couple of weeks have not been without challenges for them, yet they continue to show up and carry on with mercy, grace, and steady professionalism. They do far more than administer meds... They encourage, reassure, listen, and care for people during some of life’s most difficult moments.

They are truly rockstars, and I am grateful for the way they embody God’s grace.

2. For my family, I am grateful.

For Cynthia, who carries the stress of new findings, the fluctuations in my moods — probably the steroids, we think ;-) — and the challenges that come with a husband who is not always able to carry his share of the responsibilities at home: I see you, babe.

Thank you for taking care of me, along with everyone else, even when I know it may be the last thing you feel like doing in that moment. Your love, strength, patience, and faithfulness do not go unnoticed.

And for my kids, who each soldier on in their own way: I see you too.

You are growing, maturing, and preparing for the next steps in your lives while also carrying the weight of dad’s unknowns. You are loved. You are appreciated. Each of you is a big part of the reason I press on — with the desire to grow old, to be well, and to make you proud. I am already so proud of you.

3. For my church, I am grateful.

This Sunday, we talked about witness—about the family resemblance of those who carry the light of Christ. Once again, I see you.

I see the way you have surrounded your pastor’s family with love and support from the very beginning. I see the way you rally around one another in similar seasons of need. I see the meals, prayers, messages, encouragement, patience, generosity, and quiet acts of faithfulness.

You truly are the hands and feet of Jesus. You are showing me, and showing one another, what the family resemblance looks like.

For all of this—and for each of you—I am deeply grateful.