When Illness Strikes: 'Why Him? Why Now?'

Over the last two weeks, we have had five family members who were hospitalized for various health issues. One was our son, due to an emergency situation. At times, we felt simply overwhelmed with worry, wondering what was really going on.  

A little time to breathe allowed us to reflect on what was "really going on" ... life!  This is life with all of its ups and downs, twists and turns, joys and sorrows.

Many times I have asked, "Why, Lord? Why him? Why now?" 

What I came to understand is that life is not fair, but it is meant to be lived.  Jesus certainly knew this, even in His darkest moments when He faced the cup of suffering and the cross. Was Christ challenged? Yes, many times and in many ways. Yet we see the beauty of Christ's life in the moments that He lived, as He healed the sick, spent time with the children, taught His followers what it means to be "children of God." 

Yes, even when He struggled and suffered on the cross.

We are God's children—young and old, rich and poor, healthy and sick. At the times, when all we can say is, "Why, Lord?" we can turn to the Lord, knowing that we are blessed in many countless ways as we live life. 

It's not fair, and sometimes, it's not easy, but God is there with us through it all. 

We thank Him for His presence, comfort and compassion, especially as He works through the minds, hands and hearts of our doctors, nurses, CNAs, technicians, case managers, chaplains and maintenance staff. 

In this way, we know that we are never alone. Thank God!