Welcome to Dear Father Thomas, a weekly column where readers share their questions about faith, family, relationships, and life’s challenges. Each week, Father Thomas offers practical wisdom and spiritual guidance rooted in Scripture and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
DEAR FATHER THOMAS: Lately it feels like my life revolves around doctor appointments, test results, prescriptions, and bills. A few years ago I was healthy. Now it seems like there’s always something new. Every time I start to feel hopeful, another problem comes along.
What makes it even harder is the cost. I work, I have insurance, but I’m still choosing between paying medical bills and paying for other necessities. I pray every day for healing, but sometimes I wonder if God hears me.
I feel guilty for complaining because I know others have it worse, but I’m exhausted. I’m scared about what the future holds, and sometimes I don’t recognize the person I’ve become. How do I trust God when I don’t know if I’ll ever be healthy again? — WORN DOWN
DEAR WORN DOWN: Illness doesn’t just affect the body—it weighs on the heart, the mind, and even our faith. It can make the future seem uncertain and leave us wondering where God is in all of it. But hear this clearly: your illness is not a punishment from God, nor is your value measured by how healthy or productive you are. You are His beloved child today, just as you were before the diagnosis, before the pain, and before the medical bills began to pile up.
It’s natural to pray for healing, and you should continue to do so. Jesus healed many who came to Him, and He still hears every prayer. But sometimes His first miracle is not removing the suffering—it is giving us the strength to carry it one day at a time.
Don’t carry this burden alone. Let your parish family know what you’re facing. Allow people to pray for you, encourage you, and help when they can. The Church was never meant to be a place we visit only when life is easy. It is a family that walks together through suffering.
And when fear begins to overwhelm you, return to the words of Jesus: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me.” Trust doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine. It means believing that even in uncertainty, Christ is walking beside you. Your illness does not define your story. God’s love does.
Have a question for Father Thomas? Email us at dearfather@ycvf.org. While we can’t respond to every message personally, your letter could be selected for a future episode.
