Last week we learned that one of our favorite authors, N. D. Wilson—who visited Veritas Academy earlier this year—has an operable brain tumor. He will have surgery to remove the tumor on May 2nd. Check out his video message below to learn more.
The news came as a shock, but it has caused me to reflect on the hows and whys of praying for people who have needs. Great needs and small ones come into our lives from time to time. Loved ones and family members face injuries, diseases, tragedies, and loss. How, then, can we support, encourage, and uphold those in need?
My wife and I watched this video a few days ago and it is positively inspiring. It makes us remember why we love N. D. ‘s books so much. They, like this video, are infused with faith, honesty, and a great sense of humor (His children have named his tumor Steve!). I hope and pray that I can suffer trials with the same spirit of joy and contentment.
We as a family are praying for N. D. often, so I wanted to share a few things that you could keep in mind asw you likewise are praying for and interacting with those going through the Valley of the Shadow:
Key 1: Be a Child (Because You Are a Child)
Sometimes we confuse Christianity with something like being in the British Navy. We think that having faith during trials is all about keeping a stiff upper lip. If you think this is true, just start reading the Psalms and stop when they have convinced you. David and the other Psalmists pour out their heart to God. They cry. They ask hard questions. They do not suppress their hearts’ cry. Like them, when a friend is in need, we should pour out our hearts to God in prayer. Remember the shortest verse of the Bible: “Jesus wept.” When you are weak, be weak. You are a child, and that is ok.
Key 2: Trust your Heavenly Father (Because You Are His Child)
Wise children take their problems to the right person. As such, Christians should take their problems to God. He loves us, so much that He sent Christ to die for us. If God loves us this much, we need to go to him when it seems as if the world is falling apart around us. We know that we can lift our friends and loved ones up to Him.
Again, the book of Psalms proves to be a crucial tool. They are unvarnished. They are complaints. They are asking questions like “Why me?” and “Where are you?” These are questions that a distressed child would ask to a loving parent. The fact of the question and the distress is really a sign of faith. The person asking this question to their Father has a normal expectation that the Father will be there and that the Father cares for them and their concerns.
Key 3: Be a Mirror (Not a Street Sign)
During trials, it is easy to say the wrong thing. Paul’s advice is helpful during this time:
Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep (Romans 12:15).
If a friend is overwhelmed by some trial, empathize and weep with them. If a friend is like N. D. Wilson, celebrate their brain tumor with them and laugh about Steve getting kicked out. More than your words, your friends need you when they face tragedy. They need to know that you are with them.
So, in that spirit, I want to let N. D. Wilson know: We are with you! Students and teachers in classical schools all over the country are praying for you—some are probably even praying in Latin! We are blown away by your willingness to face this tough situation with joy and good humor. We are all blessed and inspired by you. Death to Steve!
