Blessed Thanksgiving

My last blog was about early Autumn Winds, and I was asked by a friend why I had not done a new one since September. At that time I looked forward to my first cruise, fully expecting to write on my return.  Instead I spent 11 1/2 hours riding from Boston to Bay Health with a hip fracture following the cruise. Surgery was that Saturday, with several weeks at a Rehab facility, then home to a new way of life trying to get around with a walker. I did not feel ready for that, as I cared for my elderly mother until she needed more care than I was able to provide. Now I was trying to get my meals and just get around on a sore hip, using silly looking tools to help me dress and pick up things.

When this began I felt the Lord speak to me from Psalm 23, "He makes me to lie down in green pastures." Lying down in His green pastures is not bad at all, but there were visiting nurses and therapists making sure I did the excruciating exercises, and the last week more prodding and pulling of sore muscles at Therapy sessions. Meanwhile all chores are hard work. I praise God I had help the first few weeks, but I'm now being prodded to reach out and do more. My prayer is this "new normal" is temporary.  I love the words throughout the Bible: "It came to pass."

In these times when we feel nothing will ever be the same again, we realize that though we do not "feel" things will get better, our God is the same yesterday, today and forever. His presence and sense of humor have been with me during the long ride from Boston to the Hospital, at the hospital, in rehab and during all times of stretching, prodding and exercising. I'm reminded of an old song, "Through it all, I've learned to trust in Jesus, I've learned to trust in God."  I can't remember the rest of the song, but learning to trust in Jesus is the most important thing we can ever do. Through all stages I've had the sweet assurance that He is always with us, will never ever leave nor forsake us, as we keep our eyes and hearts stayed on Him, ever trusting in Him. (Hebrews 13:5, Isaiah 26:3).

I look forward to being more mobile soon, but in the meanwhile, I'll try to keep you apprised of my adventures as a  healing pilgrim - just passing through to the next phase the Lord has for me.  My friend in China shared a vision the Lord gave her of herself as a 90-year old shriveled up Warrior for Christ. Regardless of our ages, God is with us and ever ready to use us as His Warriors to bring His good news to encourage and bless others.

I'd like to express my love and thanks for all friends and family who have been so helpful and encouraging during this time, the lovely cards, flowers and gifts as I continue to place my love and trust In Christ Alone.

Much love in Him, and a Blessed Thanksgiving to all,
Dee