Seeing Christ through Cancer – Jason Lyon

One of the greatest objections to the existence of an all-powerful, supremely loving God is: why is there so much suffering in the world?  This is a serious question on a philosophical level, but it takes on a whole new significance when tragedy strikes close to home. How can we find meaning in suffering? Can something so negative be a blessing in any way?

This week Kevin talks to several of his own students (as well as the principal) from Christian High School, where he teaches apologetics. In particular he speaks with his former student Jason Lyon, who will soon be entering his senior year—and who was recently diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer. The question of suffering is no longer abstract to Jason and his friends, who must constantly face the fact that they do not know how much longer he has on this earth.

One might expect a young man in Jason’s circumstances to be racked with fear, anxiety, and maybe even hatred towards God for allowing such a thing to happen to him. As Job’s wife said when he hit rock bottom, “Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die!” (Job 2:9) Yet Jason does not curse God; he has even called his experience a privilege. Why? Because his condition has brought him closer to God than he has ever been, and allowed him to have more of a positive spiritual impact on those around him than he ever has. Facing the mortal threat of cancer has shown Jason just how fully he needs God at every moment, and taught him to value what is really important.

Jason shares the perspective and insight that he has gained since his diagnosis, as well as the challenges he faces. His positive attitude is truly inspirational (which his friends and principal attest to), and he states that it is only possible because of his close relationship with Jesus Christ. Speaking as one with authority on the subject, Jason testifies that physical suffering, even to a great degree, is worth it if it brings a single person closer to God. Let those of us who aren’t in as difficult a situation learn from his experience, choose God above all else, and make the best use we can of the amazing gift of life God has given us!

If you would like to help Jason’s family cover his medical costs and give him the best shot possible at overcoming his illness, you can visit their GoFundMe page. Even more importantly, please support them in your prayers!

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep and death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.”  — 1 Thessalonians 4:13

This episode first aired on August 9th, 2015.