Advent Faith Stories: Ready for the Miracle
Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us.
None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds,
they would be too many to declare.
Psalm 40:5
I started a journey that began in a Disciple II Bible class in September 1996. There was another couple in the class that was on the same journey as I was on. Rick was six years old, and I wanted another child. The other couple did not have a child, and their longing was also very real. During the class, God and I had lots of talks about the child that would be Rebecca. I did not know what he was asking of me until she arrived. The doctors told us that she would not walk. But, God’s plan was different and Rebecca started to walk at 18 months. In fact, she wanted to run. She did not want to take the time to learn to walk. She had a little bitty walker that she avoided because she was in a hurry. So, the doctors had her wear these awful Forest Gump braces that would slow her down. She eventually learned to take one step at a time. And like Rebecca, God’s plan for me usually involves me slowing down to a pace that allows me to walk with him. Time spent in prayer and study and preparation.
I am thankful to be on this journey with Rebecca to see God’s plan for her. God has plans for all his children. We may need to stop hurrying and start walking with him.
It was March when the other couple in the Disciple II class found out they would be adopting a child, and I found out I was pregnant. Both children arrived at St. John’s around December in time for Christmas. Both of our prayers were answered in God’s time.
You may be asking what this story has to do with this year’s advent theme “staying awake.” This Advent message was actually written last year when the theme was “Walking to Bethlehem.” I am not sure why it was left out last year, but I do believe in God’s timing.
Being patient, being ready and staying awake are hard. Seeing God’s plan unfold for us at the perfect unexpected hour is the miracle. Be ready for the miracle in your life.
Dear God, thank you for walking with us on this journey every day, especially on the days we want to run ahead of you. Help us to stay awake and be ready for the unexpected. During this Advent season, we thank you for the ultimate miracle of your son, Jesus Christ.
Barbara Lively