October 21 – 26

John 9:1-3 – “As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.”

There is a little girl in my church who comes every Sunday to worship with her three sisters. She has a beautiful smile.  I have noticed as I watch this family from my seat that the girls all get along and take care of each other. They all seem to understand love a little bit better than most children their ages. I wonder if it is because this little girl has Down’s syndrome.

I don’t know her full story but I know enough of it to know God’s Hand is all over her. A few years ago, she was diagnosed with leukemia. Wasn’t it enough that she had to deal with so many learning disabilities, the struggle of keeping up with her sisters, and the heartbreak and teasing that children endure? Nothing had come easy for her from the time of her birth. Then the family had another crushing blow: the devastating diagnosis of leukemia. She went through chemotherapy and was an amazingly strong young lady. She finished her treatments and grew stronger. Later that summer, she had a chance to go to summer camp sponsored by our church. There, in her cabin, her camp counselor led her to Christ. Her family and the pastor made sure she fully understood what had happened. She had accepted Christ as her Savior in her heart. Imagine the reassurance this family had as they knew her heart was secured for eternity in Christ.

A few months later, I believe there wasn’t a dry eye in the church when she was baptized and publicly testified to His Grace as she stood before the congregation proclaiming her Savior. Christ is Lord. The work of God is displayed, as the Scripture states.

Certainly, her disability is no one’s fault. No one sinned. His Glory shows so powerfully as she lives out one of the most beautiful testimonies He has ever shown me.

No one understands why some seem to have it so hard, and others of us skate through this life relatively unscathed. We simply never know the Father’s plan for some of our lives, but one thing we can count on. It is His intention that our lives magnify Him in some unique way. And my little friend can know one day, though this world has not been easy, she will be brought forth to the front of the line with Jesus throughout all eternity, and God will set all things right. Glory!

Mark 10: – 31 “But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

“Cover to Cover” is hosted by Bev. Each week, she brings a mighty Word with the verses that touch her heart. I have so enjoyed getting to know Bev and the rest of you ladies this year with your love-infused insights about His Word. Your tender hearts are broken open to the whispers of God. Each of you blesses me more than you will know this side of heaven. It is a privilege to walk with you on this journey.