A Greater Good

“Yes, everything is for your sake, so that grace, as it extends to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:15)

In December of 2024, only 6 months into my mission service, I left Jamaica to accompany my sister Linda who was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. I was very frightened when I received that call. She was dealing with many hardships even prior to the diagnosis. Our relationship was not the close-knit one we had as kids. In my soul, there was a strong compulsion to be with her and her family, yet the two of us had been apart for so long. I thought it was important we consider what it would mean for me to plop into the middle of their lives. We both prayed for a week over this decision and there was only one clear choice that came to Linda and myself. We needed to be together.

What I discovered was a whole new ministry. It was a ministry of transformation that began with my own heart. As I stumbled my way through being with my sister and her family, God was opening my eyes to a greater freedom and a greater love. 

I was inspired by the strength of spirit my sister had to fight this battle with cancer and still put her family above herself. Even before I came, she spent two years caring for her partner’s mother, Ruby,  who had dementia and was fast declining in health. Ruby became my charge, and it was with God’s grace my heart was opened to her and we became friends. 

Another source of inspiration came from both old and new friends. People from around the world made sure I knew that they were praying for Linda. I felt you all were right there with me. Then I met some new friends at St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas City. What a GIFT! Praise God for the spiritual wisdom that came from that group. 

My sister’s cancer diminished while her spirits grew. She released me to return, and I am now back in Kingston Jamaica, living and working with the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany. I come with a fresh perspective of accompaniment. It is one of knowing that we belong to each other and it is through being with others that we can grow closer to God. 

God does not cause evil or suffering. His love is too great for that, but he may use that suffering to bring about a greater good. Countless miracles happened in the time Linda and I had together. These miracles were small, but their impact was great. Two long separated sisters rekindled a loving bond. New friendships were created in that community and beyond. Our families and friends around the world united in prayer. 

I have so much to be thankful for and so many to thank, above all, God. I wish all of you who have been a part of this journey with me to know how much your prayers mattered. God brought us together. Is that not a wonderful good? One day, I pray, we will all be together in paradise. Let us begin in this moment with a never ending song of praise to Almighty God!

Question for Reflection: How has God used a season of suffering in your life for a greater good?