I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Capernaum and I hope to continue helping at their summer camp. Although I’ve served in other ministries for years, God didn’t give me a heart to serve kids with special needs and disabilities until I was faced with my own. And it has truly been an amazing blessing! Since being diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, I have kept the faith that God is working it for good in my life. I am so grateful for Capernaum, and I feel like it’s kind of a piece of evidence that God keeps his promises when he said that He “works all things for good.” Not that we need evidence nor should we expect it, but I’m counting it a great privilege and blessing to get a glimpse of what really neat things God can do with our struggles when we trust Him.

I hope you find this encouraging as I know, at one time or another, we have all struggled with the issue of “God allowing people to suffer.” I want to be very clear about the way I feel about God and my disease. Because of the disease, I’ve endured chronic pain, overwhelming fatigue, extreme muscle weakness, losing the ability to do certain things, stress on personal relationships, and about a million lousy doctor’s appointments. Did I mention pain? Oh right. And I’m here to tell you, JESUS IS RIGHT BY MY SIDE. I LOVE HIM AND HE IS GOOD. Whatever your current suffering is, be encouraged that God is still good!!

Since I have been ill, my love and faith in Jesus has actually grown and increased as I have been drawn closer to Him and become more dependent on His provision. I have experienced his devoted presence, faithful solace and unfailing grace.

How does one “grace step” exactly?

Recognizing that God is good and faithful, I choose to figuratively (spiritually) step fully in His grace. Acknowledging my legs growing weaker, I am content with each literal step God graces.

 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)