Faith Through Illness
In 2022, doctors diagnosed me with cancer. My wife and I listened as the doctor explained the treatment options, then we left his office in silence. While we waited for the elevator, she turned to me and asked, “What are you going to do?” I answered with one word: “Pray.” When we got home, I walked into the quiet of the backyard and talked with God knowing a storm was coming.
Prayer During Illness
The next day, I went to an AA meeting to work the Eleventh Step with my new sponsee. When I approached him, he looked surprised to see me. “I didn’t expect you to come after the news you just received,” he said. I calmly replied, “Where else would I be?” As it turned out, we both needed the Eleventh Step: God, prayer, and meditation.
Trusting God Through Illness
The following day, I met with my priest. I spoke, and he listened. Then he offered this wisdom: “Dave, picture yourself as a mighty oak tree. Your trunk stands broad and strong because you have served AA. Your canopy holds the gifts you have received. Now a storm is coming. How deep are your roots?” He spoke about my relationship with God, and in that moment, I wanted to deepen it.
“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” Mathew 13: 31-32
Faith in the Storm of Illness
This parable spoke profoundly to me at the time and revealed several key truths:
The mustard seed holds the potential for great growth. Our own faith may seem small and insignificant at times, but God can grow it strong and expansive within us. We begin by building intimacy with God.
As the tree grows, its roots reach deep into the soil. Along with a sturdy trunk, those roots help it endure the wildest storms. God gives us the resilience to withstand the strongest winds.
The canopy offers humble hope and quietly bears fruit as faith matures through patience and endurance.
Mustard Seed Faith
When we think about weathering a storm, the mustard seed reminds us that even a small act of faith, a quiet prayer, or persistent effort can grow into a powerful source of strength—not only for us, but also for those who find refuge and shelter in its branches.
Reflection: How deep are my roots? I found my answer when God responded to my prayers—not by removing the cancer right away, but by giving me deeper hope and trust in Him. Within a year, doctors removed the cancer.