September 9 - Day 87

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him. -2 Samuel 22:31

A little over four months ago, I remember Dean holding my arm as we walked up the steep, rocky path to our favorite summit where he picked me up in his arms at the highest point to overlook the valley. I will always cherish that beautiful moment together, hoping it would last forever. However, our home was in the valley where God would refine our character. So upon our return, he scooped me up once more in his arms and carried me across the threshold of our home. I treasured every moment being in his arms and now he lays his head in my arms. I have come to believe there must be hidden treasures in suffering. Perhaps we are not set free from suffering but through suffering. Suffering is universal but joy through suffering is only found by the few. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. –Matthew 7:13,14 As we journey through life we all face trials, and so I pray that you will join me in saying, “The joy of the Lord is our strength.” The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. –Psalm 28:7

Throughout the day, I practiced transferring Dean from the mat to his wheelchair. His morning session began on the tilt table and we were pleased to see his blood pressure remain fairly stable.  He reached 60 degrees (a new record) on the tilt table!  He began to tower over us; it was nice to remember how it feels to stand next to him. After speech therapy, I washed his hair and shaved his face. In the afternoon, he sat on the table and did some weight bearing through his arms. The therapist sat behind him on a ball and we placed a wedge beside his left hip in order to elevate the surface. Then I placed his hand on the wedge as we leaned him towards his left hip forcing his left forearm to bear the weight of his upper body. He also had to maintain control of his neck through the lean without letting it drop forwards. Often I wonder what he thinks and how he feels, so I reassure him that he is safe and try to describe his surroundings. We did this twice on each side. In the afternoon, we enjoyed the warmth of the sun and fresh air!

 

Thy Way is Perfect

Long is the way, and very steep the slope;
Strengthen me once again, O God of Hope.
Far, very far, the summit doth appear;
But Thou art near, my God, but Thou art near.
And Thou wilt give me with my daily food,
Powers of endurance, courage, fortitude.
Thy way is perfect; only let that way
Be clear before my feet from day to day.
Thou art my Portion, saith my soul to Thee,
Oh, what a Portion is my God to me!
                                                            -Amy Carmichael



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