I have long identified with the woman described in Luke 8: 42-48.
As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.
“Who touched me?” Jesus asked.
When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, all the people are crowding and pressing against you.”
But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.”
Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. Then he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.”
For many years, I suffered from anemia as the result of circumstances somewhat similar to this woman’s. I cried out for healing but nothing changed. Eventually surgery alleviated the problem and my strength returned.
Now I face a much bigger challenge. You’re so strong, people tell me. You’re exceedingly brave, say others, but I don’t feel particularly brave and my strength alone is not enough for this! So how am I coping? Why do I appear to be so strong?
I’m hanging on to the hem of Jesus’ garment! Not just touching it but hanging on! I actually find myself reaching out and clasping my hand several times a day and I can almost feel the well worn fabric between my fingers! Unlike the New Testament woman, however, I’m not hiding in the crowd. No, I’m boldly telling Jesus that I’m hanging on to his garment and asking him for the miracle of healing. It may sound weird to some people but it helps enormously.
This is not the first time that I’ve faced what seemed to be insurmountable challenges but each time, God has brought me through. The outcomes haven’t always been what I asked for but he has always given me the strength I needed to go on. These experiences are what my dear retired pastor’s wife refers to as the “stepping stones” of our faith and they give us confidence that God won’t ever let us down.
So, with the prayerful support of many loving people behind me, I will keep on hanging on and taking one step at a time!
Following Augustine 
This is beautiful. Praying for you.
Thank you so much, Kari Ann!
Probably about the time you wrote this my mom’s group was saying a prayer for you. Fitting.
That’s wonderful, Robin! Thank you!
I love your openness, Elaine. I love your willingness to stand up and be heard. I love that you love Jesus. Even more I love that He loves you. Cling to that old rough shredded hem, Elaine. Never let go! Much love, Maureen xox
I wasn’t sure how people would react to me writing so openly but the response has been amazing and so supportive. Writing really helps me process things so as well as being an effective way to communicate with friends, family and anyone else who’s interested, the blog is also good therapy for me. In addition, I’m determined to give God the glory throughout this journey. I don’t know how I’d do it without him!
And he is holding you as you boldly hold on my friend! This week you’re in Edmonton and taking your tests – wow. As I drive across the city in the mornings, I will be praying for you.
I appreciate that so much! I know that it’s the prayers of so many people that enable me to hold on.
Tomorrow is going to be a very important day for you and all of us who are behind you giving you support with our thoughts and prayers!!
Hang on tight to the robe, hang on tight dear…so shall we!!!
Carla
Thank you, Carla!
I hope that you are able to shake off the cancer completely. I will be praying for you always. I have missed reading your posts and am very sorry that I have so much to catch up on.
Thank you for stopping by, Geetanjali! I’ve missed you too!
Pingback: Reason to celebrate! | Following Augustine
Pingback: How am I doing? | Following Augustine
Pingback: Cancer times two! | Following Augustine
Pingback: Enough already! | Following Augustine
Pingback: Fighting the third enemy | Following Augustine
Pingback: Still stable! | Following Augustine
Prayers!
Ronali
Thank you!