Sometimes we take for granted the good things in our life and get shocked when we realize we are not in charge.

Rick and I had a wonderful month long trip to India and Sri Lanka and then Switzerland on the way back to Chicago. Just two days after returning to Chicago, I slipped on some snowy grass and broke my tibia and ankle in two places.

It happened so fast and I still feel shocked as I walked to this little harbor on Lake Michigan quite frequently. I love walking in my neighborhood and praying for the people I see around me.

On one hand, I feel like it was the enemy’s scheme to slow me down because I was so looking forward to getting. involved with some ministry to local East Indians near our home in Chicago. I had plans to go on outreaches with them and pray with them for the many Indians that reside in North Chicago.

But on the other hand, God was with me immediately when I fell down and broke my leg. Two young men were there hearing my cries and helping me to get up and sit on a bench by the harbor. They were so kind and said they would stay with me until my husband came to pick me up. They helped Rick pull the car around to where I was on a gravel road behind us.

I went to the emergency room. of the hospital we usually go to and was referred to an excellent orthopedic surgeon who knew exactly what to do to help me. In fact, he did eight similar surgeries the same day as mine. He is very kind and explains everything so thoroughly as I go through this long recovery process that could take up to three months.

We had already planned to not return to South Asia until the fall. We have been continuing to do online training of the many disciple makers in South Asia we are connected to. What a privilege to know these wonderful people obeying the Lord and doing what He tells them to do no matter how difficult it is.

So, my question here is who is really in charge? We go along thinking we are making plans and yet God can change our direction or slow us down whenever He wants. There are always things he wants us to learn in times like this.

Rick is on his own learning curve as he is learning how to do so many things around the house and multi-task when necessary. Our love has only grown deeper as we weather this storm together side by side.

Let’s look at Deuteronomy 31:8 says:

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

1. What do we learn about God from this verse?

2. What do we learn about people?

3. What should we do in light of this verse?

4. Who should we share this with?