The Upper Room Devotion for Friday Feburary 23rd, 2024 was written by Patricia Vine of New Jersey, USA
Scripture
3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all consolation, 4who consoles us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to console those who are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled by God. 5For just as the sufferings of Christ are abundant for us, so also our consolation is abundant through Christ. 6If we are being afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation; if we are being consoled, it is for your consolation, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we are also suffering. 7Our hope for you is unshaken; for we know that as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our consolation.
2 Corinthians 1:3-7 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
In April 2000, I had just gotten home when the phone rang and I heard these words from a doctor in California: "Your doughter has sustained a snowboarding injury. We're sorry to tell you that she will never walk again."
After absorbing the shock of this news, my husband, son, and I boarded the next flight to see her. I had no way of knowing what lay ahead for her. But what I know in hindsight is this: God comforted us every step of the way during the following months and years. God provided encouragement from a woman in a wheelchair, lodging at the home of parents going through similar circumstances, and compassionate employers who continued to pay me as I stayed and learned, along with my doughter, about the different life she would now lead. I felt God's comfort in all of these details, even during my darkest moments.
Our daughter has gone through many surgeries over the years, and she has persevered and excelled. She has stayed in California and made a life on her own, leading a support group to help comfort others with spinal cord injuries. Praise God for the many forms of encouragement and comfort besowed on us!
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
Replace with Pastor Anthony's thoughts
Author's Prayer
Gracious God, give hope to those who sustain life-changing injuries. Thank you that no matter what we experience, you are with us, providing comfort and hope. Amen.
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