Theme of the Week: Strength in the Storm
Bible Verse: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Scripture Reading: Proverbs 13:12, Matthew 12:21
‘By this time next year you will have a son and he will share in his father’s work’. It wasn’t an audible voice, but Joyce strongly sensed God inviting us to have our third child sooner than we had planned, and one year later Benjamin was born.
What we didn’t know until he started missing development milestones, was that Benjamin had Fragile X syndrome – the most common inherited cause of mental impairment and the most common known cause of autism. So eight years later, when we felt God inviting us to take a step of faith to have another son – one we hoped and prayed would not have Fragile X – there was a lot at stake. We had four wonderful daughters and our precious Benjamin… still we yearned and believed for a son without disability.
Isaiah arrived – full of life… and Fragile X. On the day we found out I stumbled around our property for hours in tears… confused and heartbroken… and thinking of my sons, I felt guilty for being heartbroken.
I tried to hand in my resignation to God. He didn’t accept my resignation – but he accepted my tears – even my anger. He invited me to continue to walk with Him on a journey of trust and to minister to others who have suffered disappointments.
Both of my special needs sons have indeed shared in my work. They have helped shape my life and my songs. They have brought joy and love into our home. God’s grace often arrives in disguise to a fallen world captivated by appearances.
All of us will experience many disappointments and setbacks. But in and through each one, we can know hope that is anchored in God’s unconditional love.
You are my rock in times of trouble
You lift me up when I fall down
All through the storm
Your love is the anchor
My hope is in you alone
(Faithful One – Brian Doerksen ©1990 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing)
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