My left shoulder was so damaged that the Ortho Drs could not repair or replace it conventionally, so they had to do a ‘reverse total shoulder arthroplasty’. I am now in a large, bulky and cumbersome immobilization device designed to keep my shoulder from falling apart until it’s had time to heal. This could take up to two months.
From the instant I awoke in recovery I was in the clutches of pain I’d never known or imagined. At one point I began confessing to every crime committed in the past 1,500 years. Even now, 6 days after surgery and at home, it continues to demand center stage of my consciousness. However, from the instant I awoke in recovery and up to now, the image and presence of Christ has been with me like a lighthouse of love and hope. It has not reduced my pain by one iota, but as long as I keep Him center stage, He helps me grow in understanding, compassion and gratitude. This experience is now an integral part of my testimony as it strengthens my faith and solidifies my belief in Jesus as my one and only Lord, and in whom I can trust will be with me no matter what. “Lo, I am with you always” indeed! (Matthew 28:20)
I was commissioned and led by the Holy Spirit to write a sonnet each day for certain scriptures given to me, with the very clear intent to help new disciples understand the word and the Word more fully. That was over two and a half years ago. This intense labor of love produced two self-published books: Sonnets in the Key of Christ and Devotions for the Child of God: A Year of Sonnetized Scriptures. These past couple of months it felt as if this mission might be coming to a close, and I began to pray for a sign of closure. I believe this shoulder incident qualifies as an adequate sign, don’t you? As I heal, my eyes and ears and mind and heart and soul are receptive and eager to serve Christ in whatever capacity He desires. I promise to keep you updated here regardless.
Thank you for your prayers. I love you as Jesus loves me.
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