Through a Stained-Glass Window (Copy)

I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 18:1-3 

For many years, I had endured debilitating pain in my back. I had tried numerous techniques (prayer, meditation, exercise, Vax D, massage, acupuncture) to gain relief from my constant pain. Finally, in 2004, I made an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon who said that he could relieve my chronic pain by a spinal fusion. Honestly, once I heard him say that- I did not remember anything further from the appointment; however, my husband was taking careful notes so he had a record of the conversation with all the specifics.

One of the pre-op requirements was for me to submit to a test where you are taken to your highest level of pain. The surgeon told me that it was a very painful process but would provide them with vital data. On the day of my appointment, my husband picked me up from work, and I was fearful.  Now, my family and friends were praying for me which was a tremendous blessing, but I was still anxious. As my husband and I waited at a traffic light, I looked over and there was a beautiful stained glass window with Jesus. His hands were outstretched to bring me comfort, and his face was one filled with great compassion. I took a breath and said, Thank You, Jesus, for always being my protector- no matter what the circumstances. To further comfort me, when I arrived at the hospital, this doctor’s name was my mother’s maiden name so I smiled again because I was assured that Jesus was going to remain by my side during this very painful procedure, and He did!

Heavenly Father, you continue to give us strength in times of need. You are our place of safety no matter what we encounter. Father, may we always come to you to seek refuge and comfort for all things. Amen