I love the statement John E. makes. If your a Christian you don't get a nice "normal" little life. When don't get to do what we want to do when we want to do it. In all things God wants to be included in our life. So many times I don't want to pray for things. I don't want God messing with my perfect little life. I don't really want to hear from God because if I ask I am going to have to deal with and go with the answer. What if I don't like the answer? What if it means more work or sacrifice? Actually I sometimes just don't want to take the time to pray because it is inconvenient. I would just rather buy the car than ask Him. I would rather just go to Gatlinburg than ask Him. How about you? Do you find it challenging to let God in on EVERYTHING? I do.
Today while we were swimming in the pool we met a really neat couple who had a little girl named Addison. It turns out that Addison has a very similar syndrome to what Isabel has. However she is much worse physically and mentally. We chatted for awhile with the family. It turns out that Isabel has a Chromosome 10 deficiency and Addison has a Chromosome 9 deficiency. Some of the characteristics, stories, and surgeries were eerily similar. What a reminder for me that just because we know Jesus doesn't mean life is going to be normal or easy. Challenges will always exist. The question is can I still find God's joy in these challenges. Today I can honesty say I take great joy in Isabel. I don't even think about her struggles with Apert's. In fact i find myself knowing that I wouldn't want her any other way. She is just perfect.
I asked Addison's mom if they have a church home where they are from. She quickly said they attended a Catholic Church. I then followed up with the question, "does that proved strength for you"? Her response was interesting. She told me that she and her husband kind of do their own thing. In other words I heard from her that her faith is not really a part of her life nor does it give her a lot of support. It was funny when I first met them before I even knew them I sensed that they were very lonely in their challenges. Without God's love, presence, and joy we are truly alone. I said a prayer for them tonight and for Addison. i hope to see them again on Thurs. when we return to the pool. In the mean time I will be reminded of how blessed we are with Isabel, how blessed we are in the fact that we have God in our life leading us and wanting in on everything in our life, especially the challenges. Thank you God for your joy!
Walking Together,
Your Dreaming Pastor
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