The memory is clear: Mom sitting on the porch swing, rocking back and forth, eyes closed, praying over small stuffed dogs. Those little dogs were so much more than what they appeared. They were a symbol of the message we wanted to give, that you are not alone. You are prayed for, and someone cares.
The Mabel Joy dogs we dressed yesterday will soon be in the arms of cancer patients, and just like Mom, we prayed over each one, over each recipient, their journey, treatment, and families. Even before we delivered the stuffed dogs, we were making a connection that was filled with hope. It’s the same kind of hope that Mom and I cherished during her cancer journey. Someone who brought five minutes of normal also brought hope, and that could change the entire course of our day. Lisa Bain Ministries was formed to bring this connection to people who are walking through a broken place.
That porch swing was also the setting for many conversations between Mom and me.
“Remember why we are here, Lisa. Never compromise, never forget it is about the handprints of God.” Mom would point her little crooked finger at me as she spoke. “No matter what noise comes, no matter what the enemy throws into your path, no matter who hurts you, or what betrayal you might face, stay on course. Don’t waiver. God will always have your back.”
She felt an urgency to pour so much into me as fast as she could. She knew her time on earth was short, and she wanted me to understand that when big doors shut and I felt 
blindsiding heartache, it was God’s divine intervention. She prepared me for every step I would take, even the ones I’m taking now.
blindsiding heartache, it was God’s divine intervention. She prepared me for every step I would take, even the ones I’m taking now.As we prayed over the dogs, one of our prayer team looked above the couch and saw the poster of Mom and me dancing. So many of you cheered and rejoiced when that photo made its way back home thanks to an angel looking out for us. It hung on another wall but it was finally home. That day was symbolic, and it’s no coincidence that the photo now hangs in the room we meet, pray, have board and volunteer meetings, and plan for the future. I looked around the room at care boxes, Mabel dogs, quilts, and bags that will go out this week. And I looked at that photo on the wall. My eyes filled with tears. What Mom poured into me those years, her prophetic words, and the lessons she taught me were her “resilience care box” to me. It has saved my life during this season and helped me move forward and stay on course. The handprints of God are in it, and that brings me hope every day.