Control is an illusion for the most part. The only way most people make it through a day without major anxiety is by believing they are in control of what is happening in their lives.

A good friend has gone into an understandable tailspin when her mother recently informed her that she (the mother) has lung cancer which has probably spread to the liver. Both of my parents died of cancer (my mom from lung cancer at age 58, and my dad of pancreatic cancer at age 81). I remember having my mind click into a calm, rational mode aimed at addressing the situation with clarity and effectiveness (the facade of control). But underneath it all my emotions had climbed onto the roller coaster, and were stuck on the ride until the end (no control). 

Even when a crisis is not looming, the truth is that one could strike at any moment. My husband and I were nearly t-boned at an intersection a few weeks ago when a large pick-up truck ran a red light. Most of us remember the feeling of the world as we know it shifting as we watched the unfolding of 9-11.

I honestly don't know how people who don't know God handle it. I have the comfort of knowing that He is in control. I didn't know the Lord when my mom died, and I suppose I accepted it as unchangeable - just one of those things, and then hid back behind my false sense of control and security.

My friend doesn't know the Lord. How can I point her toward Him at this sensitive time? Perhaps the best I can do is be there for her.