“To have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part…” Back in 1981 on a rainy day in Wichita, Kansas my husband and I made these vows to one another. I’m grateful that my husband is a man of his word. One week ago, in a private hospital in Guatemala for shoulder surgery, we entered a season of ‘for worse’ blended with ‘in sickness.’
How did we get from Wichita, Kansas to Guatemala City, Guatemala? Forty-one years, 14 countries, and countless memories later, God brought us here. I’m grateful He guides our steps as we go. No matter where we travel, He is there. In all that we experience, God is there. No matter how much fear or discouragement we’ve felt, God has sustained us.
“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NLT
God Keeps His Vows
God keeps His vows and stays with us for better for worse, likewise, my husband, Tom, in keeping our marriage vows, lovingly stepped into the role of my surgical aftercare nurse. He’s been steadfast, patient, and faithful in this role.
God is Faithful
“God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble.” Psalms 46:1 CSB
As our refuge, strength, and help, He is faithful. In the big and in the small things, He is faithful. I see the fingerprints of faithfulness everywhere we’ve gone and on every blessing we’ve received. Some of you reading this prayed for us, others donated funds, and some messaged or called to express support. For all of it, I am grateful. My surgery went well, we’re back in Belize, and I am in the healing phase. As I type, with one hand in a sling, I am thankful. I’ve seen God with skin on in my husband’s care, in the doctor’s thoroughness, and in you, dear reader. In this ‘for better, for worse season,’ for everyone, for everything, I am grateful.