"His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him." John 9:2,3
I was blessed to take part in several runs over the Memorial Day weekend and witness many more via social media. One that was particularly exciting was the TEAM 413 Gracerunner Journey held in Florida where a group of nine team members attempted to complete 413 miles in a 72-hour round-the-clock relay. And while there were runners of many abilities participating, one stood out above the rest-not because she was better or faster than any of the others but because she had to overcome more than any of the others. You see, Terryanne is a walker in need of a double knee replacement. But rather than allow her handicap to stop her, she allowed God to use it to prove the power of His strength. Every nine hours during the relay, Terryanne, cane in hand, did what should have been impossible. Through the pain, she walked 30 minute segments until the race was over and the goal had been completed.
And you know, even though most of us would never choose to have a handicap or disability, we can choose to embrace them knowing that many times our limitations are the very things that God can and will use to bring him glory. The Bible tells us so when it recounts the story of a young man who was blind from birth. When the disciples questioned Jesus as to whether it was caused by the man's sin or his parents' sin, Jesus told them that it was neither, but happened "so that the works of God might be displayed in him." After saying this, Jesus restored the man's sight displaying the power of God to heal.
So regardless of our reasons for suffering, two things are true. God will give us the strength to endure the adversity and hardships in our lives and He can and will use those situations and afflictions for his glory... if we let him. The question is then, will you let him?
Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word that reminds us that, while we may not ever understand why things happen to us, you can be glorified in and through every situation that we might face in life. Help us to trust you and then focus on the things we can do rather than the things we can't... just use us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
Use me too - Johnny Diaz
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