Life’s Side Effects: Navigating Chemo and Choices with Jesus by My Side

Several weeks have passed since my inaugural chemotherapy infusion, and the side effects, as forewarned during our pre-therapy briefing, have made their presence known. I couldn’t help but draw parallels between these anticipated drug-related side effects and the disclaimers rattled off in those pharmaceutical commercials—the ones where the rapid-fire narration lists potential consequences at breakneck speed.

Throughout the treatment, I experienced the brunt of some of the chemo side effects, a journey confirmed by both our nurses and the oncologist’s office. Navigating through discomfort and pain, the key is learning to roll with the punches and keep the bigger picture in focus.

Contemplating the concept of side effects led me to reflect on other, non-drug-related consequences that pepper our everyday lives. Decisions, akin to medications, yield both positive and negative side effects. Take Claritin, for instance—great for clearing congestion but potentially inducing drowsiness.

Our existence is a tapestry of choices, each woven with accompanying consequences. Speeding on the highway may lead to a hefty traffic ticket or even incarceration if a state trooper is involved. Likewise, King David faced dire consequences for staying home from battle and succumbing to the temptation presented by Bathsheba. Contrastingly, Joseph, despite doing the right thing by resisting Potiphar’s wife, found himself in prison, eventually rising to prominence in the Egyptian palace.

Choices, much like medications, furnish us with side effects or consequences. My life, too, has been marked by decisions that ushered in both positive and detrimental outcomes. Yet, one decision in 1979 stands out, bringing only positive side effects—I embraced Jesus Messiah as my personal Lord and Savior. In the face of life’s challenges, even cancer, His presence, peace, guidance, wisdom, and grace have been my unwavering companions. I cherish His Word, His Spirit, and the assurance that He listens to every prayer: “He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved” (Psalm 62:2).

We all make decisions with ensuing side effects, but trust me, the decision to welcome Jesus into your life, every minute of every day, is the best decision you can make—with no harmful effects.