Hi everyone,
It has been quite some time since I posted an update on Marti’s condition. We have had some very difficult times in recent months. November and December were especially difficult. She got significantly depressed around the holidays, and as a result, her balance and walking became much more difficult.. I am happy to report that she seems back on track and doing somewhat better this month.
When a person is suffering from a chronic condition, it takes a heavy emotional toll not only on the individual who suffers, but also takes a toll on those who take care of her. It is really hard not to get discouraged and depressed.
But we are thankful for the progress. Sometimes I have wondered what purpose God has for us in this situation. I am even more convinced now than ever, that God is in complete control of these circumstances, and He is working for our good even in these trying times.
There was a recent example of at least some of the purpose that God has for these circumstances.
I have a medical colleague who comes from India, and was brought up Hindu, but then became an atheist. However, she is an avid reader of a variety of books. I had talked to her about CS Lewis in the past. She recently read his classic apologetic on the Christian faith called “Mere Christianity”. She thought the arguments made in the book were so logical and well reasoned.
Last week when I was ending a long 12 hour day, and feeling quite tired and a little discouraged, this colleague picked up the call beeper and patient signouts. I asked her how she was doing. She smiled and excitedly announced that she and her husband had both been baptized recently in a very solid Christian church that they had sent their kids to for quite some time, because it was close by where they lived. She said that not only had Lewis’ book had an impact on her, but she saw the example of several other physicians in our group who are Christians, and she commented on how inspiring it was to see the way that I cared for Marti, and how Marti’s faith also has held up despite the circumstances.
Needless to say, my spirit was lifted up to hear the wonderful news, that God had sovereignly worked in the lives of people who had had no prior exposure to Christianity, but drew them to faith using many different circumstances. Marti was also thrilled to hear this news
This is a prime example of the Reformed view of the gospel, where God does all the work of salvation, and draws all of His sheep, from many different tongues and nations. There is no other explanation for these people being brought to faith, except for the fact that God chose to save them in His own sovereign time and way.
Even if God used Marti’s suffering only in a tangential way as an example to this colleague, then it is worth everything to endure these circumstances. An event like this reminds us that God does indeed work out all things according to His purposes. (Romans 8:28).
Soli Deo Gloria (To God alone be the glory)
Stan
