“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16)
Symptoms of my multiple sclerosis (MS) make it hard for me to fly. My aches feel more painful. I get exhausted.
My husband and I wanted to watch our son run his first full marathon. Thankfully, the flight to Ohio would last only an hour. I could manage.
Upon arrival at our hotel, we found a poster-size map of the marathon course. MS had impacted my stamina. I didn’t have a great deal of energy. I was hopeful I could witness the entire race. Since most of the course wound through the small city of Akron, it was a realistic expectation.
Thankfully, there were four street corners along the course where friends and family members could spot their favorite athlete. The corners weren’t far from each other. Very doable for me.
Then I spotted something that shattered my vision of sharing in Rob’s joy as he crossed the finish line. The runners would complete the course in a stadium about a mile away. I wouldn’t be able to walk that distance. All roads leading to the stadium were closed to cars. I wouldn’t witness Rob’s triumphant completion.
A little voice in my head taunted me. IT’S NOT FAIR. I fought feelings of self-pity.
Another inner voice argued back: BE GRATEFUL YOU CAN STILL SEE ROB. BE THANKFUL YOU CAN STILL WALK.
Early next morning, we accompanied Rob to the starting line. A gun signaled the start of the race. The mass of runners took off. My husband and I headed to the first corner where we’d have a chance to catch a glimpse of Rob.
Rob flew by looking energized. Onto the next corner. With eyes strained at the approaching runners, we eagerly awaited Rob’s next appearance. It was thrilling!
Finally it was time for my husband to walk me back to our hotel. He promised to capture Rob’s triumphant moment in pictures.
Alone in the hotel room, I turned to God. My MS prevented me from being in Rob’s presence. But there were no barriers preventing me from entering into God’s presence. Our room became the perfect sanctuary.
Prayer: Dear Father, Thank You for the amazing access I have to Your presence. What a blessing it is to find grace to help in my times of need! When I encounter physical barriers which prevent me from doing what I love, help me to focus on the access I have to You.
About the Author:
Vicki Chandler understands special needs as a patient, parent, and professor. She has had multiple sclerosis since 1993. Her 31-year-old son was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. She’s taught special education as a teacher, administrator, and adjunct professor. Through her online community she reaches out to other parents of children with special needs. http://theblogfrog.com/1505794
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Other than church, where have you entered into God’s presence?
Thanks Vicki. I’m guessing Rob was stoked you were there to cheer him on?
Yes, Rob was absolutely stoked!!!