I have always loved this song, but it took on a special meaning for me last Christmas, as I was weak from finishing 4 rounds of chemotherapy, and knew a double mastectomy was coming my way right after Christmas. I found much comfort in this song, especially the chorus. I find myself continuing to cling to the words the last few days. My MRI was finally approved by insurance, and I will have it on Monday night, results a few days after.
I honestly don’t know what I would do without the hope of Heaven, and His comfort– His breath whispers to me– as I continue to face my own mortality. It is a place I don’t like being, but at the same time, it is a place where I have the opportunity to release myself completely to His plan, and to practice a deep trust. It is a place where I am able to practice what I proclaim, and a place where what I proclaim has become so very tangible and real. These are the gifts, ones I am beginning to think I would not trade, even for health.
For my heart is healing, which is so meaningful and life-giving. Far beyond physical healing. Of course I would love to stay physically healthy, but I now know deeply what matters. Would I have been able grasp this without the tangible fear of death? Would “I know, that I know, that I know,” without pain and suffering? I do not think so. Would I be able to “remember the works of the Lord” and who He became to me in these moments? The memories would not be so vivid, they would not “stick” so easily.
Would I know what it means to be “held together by the breath of Heaven?” Maybe, but I don’t think it would be as sweet, and I would not allow myself to be held as readily as I do now.
The breath of this God-child, this God who “became flesh and dwelt among us,” to bring hope & healing–this is why I celebrate, and this is why I love Christmas.
Susan Kemper
December 14, 2014 at 7:37 pmLord, I hope you brought this young lady through this terrible trial. Honey, he is always with you. Sometimes you are suffering so much that you don’t feel His presence, but He is ALWAYS there. Never lose hope. I pray to St. Peregrine for you. I’ve been cancer free for many years. I’m praying for you and your loved ones.
Patricia
December 19, 2011 at 6:19 amAmy – You are a beautiful young woman, outside, inside, to the depth of your being.
You inspire me so much. You humble me so much.
Sometime last year (2009) I saw a prayer request on FB. The person requesting the prayer must have been a friend, of a friend, of a friend,….. I don’t remember.
But I do remember the prayer request came from Susi Rice Osmanson, and it was a prayer request for her niece. And that was you.
I became FB friends with Susi, and I asked her if I could reach you, so that I could stay updated on your progress. Susi gave me your blog address, and here I am. Although, I think your blog was very different last year. Was it?
In any event you have stayed in my prayers for over a year now, and I am still praying for you. Praying you will remain the strong woman you clearly are. I know it is extremely difficult to “stay strong”, just remember you can only just do your best. Sometimes you need a hand.
I KNOW you will do well tomorrow with the MRI. So difficult to have to wait for ‘approval’ for the money stuff. But, the timing is God’s timing, and we trust He will do His best with us.
As you lie still for the MRI, know that you will be “held together by the breath of Heaven” – the breath of God.
What a beautifully powerful song and video. Mary’s eyes and expressions are amazing.
Thank you for posting the song with the video.
Be at peace this night, Amy, and know you will be surrounded by love from everyone.
Patricia
Mrsblocko
December 18, 2011 at 11:48 pmThis is one of my favorite Christmas songs too. It always moves me and makes me misty eyed.
It’s amazing what God places upon our shoulders, burdens seemingly too heavy to carry, but He always lifts us up when we need it most
God bless you and have a Merry Christmas.