pa·thol·o·gy (n)

pa·thol·o·gy n
1. the processes of a particular disease, observable either with the naked eye or by microscopy, or, at a molecular level, as inferred from biochemical tests
2. any condition that is a deviation from the normal

Our lives seem to illustrate the importance of this significant word with both of its definitions.

On the positive side, we have received the pathology report from Deb’s surgery. The breast tissue as well as the sentinel lymph node were diced and sliced and scrutinized. Thankfully everything showed that the affected areas were all fully removed. So the disease is over, for which we thank and praise God. We are now eight days after the surgery, and today the next surgery for reconstruction was set--early January 2009!

So there is still a deviation from normal. We are still counting the amount of fluid drained from the operation site. Deb is still working on exercises that would make her grandchildren giggle, but they are painful for her. We are enjoying the presence of many friends—some of whom we have not seen in many years. We are basking in the confidence and knowledge that so many are praying for us particularly at this time. All of that is a deviation from the normal—and it is sometimes good to be outside the normal range.

One deviation from normal that is complicating things right now is the impact of the anti-seizure medications that Karl is experiencing. At this point a day in the hospital or a loss of memory of a few hours would be preferable to the frustration of feeling unable to focus, continually exhausted, just not really interested in people, and snapping at the most simple complication. Yes, the medication is having side effects that are devious, not just a deviation.

So, while Debbie is mending normally, Karl is bending away from normal. It raises the question of who is helping to heal and who is a healing helper. What we do know about our pathology is that the Healer made us whole and is still intervening in our lives to bring us wholeness. The “normal” of our lives misses the mark of His wholeness--which makes our lives pathological.

Pathology in most cases and certainly in our case, leads us to theology. Seeing our sickness helps us see and understand our Savior/Healer. One day all things will be made new. Today we are happy to have a step toward newness.

When we feel lopsided or loopy we remember that Jesus came not for those who were already whole, but those who needed to be made whole. We have some big holes that need filling.