For some reason, when I went in for radiation today the building was freezing. I changed into the gown and totally wrapped myself up in my quilt. The only thing showing as I walked out to the waiting area was my head and my feet. The rest was colorful quilt. As I sat waiting for my name to be called, I started reading the many scripture verses and words of encouragement, written with love, in each of the squares. Though I have read these words many, many times, I never tire of reading them again. I stroked the softness of the quilt's fleece against my cheeks. I marveled once again at the thought and planning that went into the preparation of the how the squares would fit together. I thought about the sacrifice of the one who put it all together with love.
Soon my name was called and I went into the room and got onto the radiation table. As she does each day, Sadira gently lays the quilt over me before the treatment starts. I was still thinking about the quilt as the huge machine rotated around to provide a clear view of the cross overhead.
And in that moment, in my mind's eye, the cross and the quilt blended perfectly together, painting a vivid picture of God's wonderful love.
Like the quilt, God's love surrounds me with comfort and warmth when life's circumstances seem rough and cold . "May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant." (Psalms 119:76).
God's word, like the many squares in my quilt, provides me with love and encouragement when I am weak and weary. "My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word." (Psalms 119:28). "You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word." (Psalms 119:114).
Like the squares thoughtfully pieced together in my quilt, God has carefully and purposefully planned and arranged every step and detail of my life. "But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations." (Psalms 33:11) "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." (Proverbs 19:21). "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
And, like the sacrifice of the one who handmade my quilt, how much more God has sacrificed to show His love for me. For He gave His all for me, His own son, so that I could have a personal relationship with Him that would last forever. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) "And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." (Hebrews 10:10)
Before I knew it, the radiation treatment was done. I had enjoyed 20 minutes of quiet time reflecting on God's love. As I prepared to leave, I once again wrapped myself up in my quilt. As I walked out, it seemed as though the colors of my quilt were brighter than when I went in. They appeared more vivid. It almost felt like it was aglow. Could it be that a few moments of quiet time spent in the presence of the Lord, makes our lives seem that much brighter? I do believe so!
