Shingles! They’re not just for roofing anymore! Shingles are sneaky. They just pop up without any real warning, not like getting a runny nose after you’ve visited someone with a cold. And yes, mine are in my ear – which explains why the whole world looked tilted last Sunday. Compared to the many stories I’ve heard, so far mine have been fairly mild. I’m managing ok and the medicine seems to be helping but I don’t quite have all my energy back yet. Every little bit I’ll have some pain in my ear and if I move too fast, the world will take another spin around me! One of the most aggravating parts is the unknown. How long will I have to deal with this thing? When will it be over? Most of the information I’ve read says two to four weeks but could be longer or shorter, could be this or that, sometimes this works and sometimes it doesn’t. In the immortal words of Charlie Brown, “Arrrrgh!”
In a similar way, there are many different ways to view our spiritual lives. There are so many unknowns about God. I take that big, blue pill three times a day because I trust it will make me better just like I trust God to watch over, care for, and protect me. I don’t know how long the shingles may last but I know there is health and healing on the other side, just like the beautiful eternity we’re promised in heaven. I place my faith in the doctors to figure out what’s best for me and I place my faith in Him because I know He knows what’s best for me. Shingles may be painful but life without Jesus is lethal!
Thanks to Tom, Benjamin, Brian, and others who stepped in so I could stay home and rest. Next week is our Patriotic celebration service. Let’s all wear our red, white, and blue for a great birthday celebration!
love ya, Bret.
