It's Not Looking Great

“I am now in palliative care and it’s unknown for how long. It’s not looking that great right now. But I’m so excited to soon go home!”

My heart sank as I read her message. Tears blurred my vision. Excited? I was in awe of her faith.

I picked up the phone and gave her a call. We’d never met before, but the moment she answered, her voice felt like a familiar warm hug.

With quiet peace and a grace that held weight, Margareta shared her story with me. The cancer had returned and spread beyond repair. She felt God telling her that she’d be going to her heavenly home soon. Her granddaughter went online and ordered her a white dress. She asked her “bridesmaids” — close friends — to wear purple at her funeral. She's preparing to meet her groom, Jesus.

Margareta lives in anticipation for that wonderful day. She recognizes each breath is a gift, every day a miracle. Her strength, hope and resilience are not her own. Her joy and peace beyond understanding, despite her circumstances, are gifts from the Lord.

For over ten years, Margareta has been reading these daily devotionals from The Life. Through every season — traumatic relationships, an initial cancer diagnosis, remission, cancer’s return, now palliative care — these devotionals have become part of her steady rhythm of meeting with God.

She waits for her Savior now with contentment and assurance. She knows she’ll soon be with her Father — made whole and glorious, just like Jesus. And I admire her so deeply for it.

What about you? God is speaking now — through his Word, through stories like Margareta’s. There is strength and courage waiting for you, too.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3)

You can long for a better country — a heavenly one. God has prepared a city for those who trust in Jesus. (Hebrews 11:16)

“Then I saw ‘a new heaven and a new earth,’ for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’” (Revelations 21:1-4)

Jesus, thank you for the hope that carries us home. Thank you for the way you speak to me through your Word. Please grant me the same courage and peace that you’ve given Margareta. I want to walk closely with you, even in the hardest seasons. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

P.S. Because these devotionals have meant so much to Margareta, she chose to give to this ministry — and we’re so grateful to be part of her story. You can encourage a friend by sharing today’s devotional with them. If The Life has blessed you, would you consider giving a gift? Every share and every gift helps more people know Jesus and the abundant life he offers. Here’s the link to give