Day 22: Wednesday, March 22, 2017             Romans 5: 1-5

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

You often hear the analogy that life is a journey. And often, there are little speed bumps along the way; there can even be little detours. But, sometimes there are forks in the road, and you have no choice but to take that unexpected fork that will change your journey.

Seven years ago, I was a busy wife and mom when I began having some mild issues walking. It was easily explained, and we weren’t too concerned. In 2012, I realized something was very wrong, and a year later I was diagnosed with a rare disease causing me to need to use a wheelchair. Unfortunately, there is no cure or treatment; doctors are only able to offer           medications to treat the symptoms of the disease as it progresses.

There is definitely some not-so-fun and dark days, when the pain and other symptoms I live with can feel overwhelming. There are days where I can’t imagine feeling any worse, where the pain and tightness in my muscles can’t be helped, and I don’t know what to do. It’s a frightening place to be. Those are the days I am extra grateful I have a relationship with God. 

I learned that in the darkest hours, God is there to hear my prayers. It is such a comfort to know that He hears them all, even the softest, most feeble prayers. Sometimes all I can do is to call out His name, but that’s enough. There are days that are so dark, but I take comfort in knowing that God is with me to give me the strength to face that next day. Knowing that He is with me helps me to also find the joy and laughter in every day. I know that I have changed in character since I have been affected by this illness. I have a son with disabilities, so I have always been aware of disabilities around me, but my awareness has changed now that I am a woman with a physical disability. It takes perseverance and faith to face each day, knowing you may struggle. Never lose hope that life may have bright sides, and through the suffering of Jesus, we will live again healed of our own suffering.

both our happiest and darkest times, call out to Him. He’s waiting.

Prayer: Dear God, as we face these struggles in our lives, please remind us of Your presence, calm our fears, and give us peace. Amen.

Contributed by Barbara Kane