Advent Reflection: Dec. 7, 2017

Seasonal Devotions

Scripture: 2 Peter 3, 14–18  (Today’s Readings)

After a joyous Christmas season, I collapsed at home during the night. My wife drove me to the nearest hospital the next morning to their emergency department. Then I underwent a series of tests and ultimately was admitted. After a week during which I received lots of medicine, I was transferred to a nearby rehabilitation center. I do not recall much of these stays as I moved from a totally unconscious state to some awakening. I do not remember visits from my wife nor from our ministers. Eventually, I was discharged home to continue my care by professionals and my wife. I improved.

Five weeks later, I collapsed again at home and was transported via ambulance to another hospital in order to be close to our primary care physician. My condition improved slowly over the next six months.

The experience during that time reinforced my faith and patience that our God is always with us. He is waiting for me, giving me the strength to help me to move forward again and providing me the tools and confidence for living and caring. He still never forgets me.

Prayer: Dear Lord, strengthen us through Your grace in order that we can face our trials with the confidence that You are with us every step of the way, and that, with You, all things are possible.  Amen.

Contributed by Dr. Peter J. Freymark

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Artwork: Detail of No Between © Jan L. Richardson. janrichardson.com. Inspired by Isaiah 64:1: “O that You would tear open the heavens and come down … .”