This week I (Malcolm) had the chance to speak at a special dinner held at a local Thai restaurant on the topic of “What would Jesus say about cancer?” It was a great evening as I talked with those currently battling cancer, with others who have survived cancer, and with still others who have lost loved ones due to cancer. As I had several

So what does one say in 20 minutes about this difficult issue? Rather than offering a full theological & philosophical assessment of the intricacies of the question of theodicy, I decided to simply share what I have learnt in my battle with cancer, as well as what I’ve learnt about Jesus during this season of life.

Interestingly, Jesus was one who was very familiar with issues of disease, death, and suffering. In his desire to restore humanity Jesus spends much of his ministry giving a glimpse of God’s intention for us to have life as he heals the sick, gives sight to the blind, and raises people from the dead. Jesus himself is one who weeps over death. In his own death and then resurrection, Jesus defeats the foe that each of us will face. His resurrection offers hope of a life to come where pain and suffering will be done away with. In his teachings, Jesus also warns that there is something even worse than cancer. Yes, there is something even worse than death and that is dying without a good relationship with God. Going into eternity unprepared is a terrible thing. Jesus comes that we might have life and have it abundantly. I’ve experienced and continue to experience this new life and look forward to the day, with all of God’s children, when Jesus will come again to restore humanity to the fullness of life with God. If you don’t have this confidence, I would encourage you to email us or listen to the podcast. There is nothing more important or more significant than your relationship with God. The topic of “what would Jesus say about cancer?” has helped me in refocusing on what is really valuable and what is not.

On the health front, I am thankful to God for restoring my health. I’ve now had 6 weeks with no antibiotics or sickness. The newness of spring and sunshine has me feeling great. In fact, tomorrow I’m taking Adam for swimming lessons (the last time I swam was almost a year and a half ago in the Dead Sea!). I’m certainly looking forward to a good summer.

On the summer front, Tamara is currently taking a few days to catch up with a girlfriend up on the gold coast (Queensland). She and Zara are taking a well earned break. Zara herself is teething (we think) and continues to give us lots and lots of smiles. She is so beautiful and still has crazy blue eyes.

Annabel continues to grow and amaze us. She is developing a fabulous vocabulary and is loads of fun. She is doing swimming lessons as well as ballet, and loves to perform. This week we picked her up from pre-school and we found her teaching another girl a Christian song, it was so sweet. Adam is also keeping our hands full. He certainly is living up to the terrible twos. He has his moments, that’s for sure! Even in spite of this he’s a little champion. He loves to laugh, he loves to throw a ball, and he loves to pull hilarious faces to make us laugh.

We will shortly put some new pics of the kids up. Keep in touch with us, we love to get your emails.

Malcolm (for the team)