Rebecca's Journey - 75

May 23, 2006

Greetings, Friends!

I've been home for about 10 days after a trip of nearly 3 weeks to North America. In the midst of Board and team meetings and a conference, I was able to see Matt & Stephanie, Phillip & Josie, and Stephen, as well as visiting my mother in Toronto. On 7 May, Josie graduated from university, Summa Cum Laude. We are all very proud of her.

And, my, it is good to be home with Rebecca.

From Rebecca: "This past week I was talking with one of my nurses. I was glad Susannah was assisting, because she was able to help me with my French when the concepts became too complex. Fabienne began to tell about a new patient who had suffered a terrible accident and was now a paraplegic. As she spoke, her eyes brimmed with tears, and she said: 'It makes me afraid of what might happen tomorrow. I know that some people go to fortune tellers - and I understand why. But I wouldn't want to do that.'

"I began to talk then about the importance of walking closely with the Lord day by day. 'When we belong to Him,' I said, 'whatever happens today prepares us for tomorrow.'

"I have had so many people ask me how I was able to adjust as I have to my own situation. One is not able, suddenly, to accept difficult things. But day by day the Lord prepares us for whatever good or difficult situations arise. (Paul just reminded me that they are all good, just different kinds of good.) My best preparation for tomorrow is in walking in Jesus' purpose for me today.

"David said, in Ps. 31:14: 'But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, "You are my God." My times are in Your hand.' What a comfort it is, and joy, that we can rest confident because the One who holds our times in His hands loves us dearly.

"It's been a special season for us to have Susannah with us. As I looked at her this morning, mulling over some of these ideas, the sunlight came across her golden hair, highlighting her square cheek bone. I was amazed at her beauty, and realized, if I had the capacity to perfectly order her day today, knowing what tomorrow would hold, so that she would be prepared for whatever opportunities lie ahead, O how carefully I would do it. How I would orchestrate and plan, and protect her, keeping her for the very highest and best.

"If that is how I feel, as Jesus said: 'If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more would the Father give...' O, we are safe in His hands, even in the face of unpredictable weather patterns, terrorists, and unstable political systems We are safe. By walking with Him today, we'll be ready for tomorrow."

Thanks for your prayers, and for your communications. Rebecca is always delighted to hear from you.

With love from us both,

Paul & Rebecca