The good doctor

It was unfortunate timing for a needed urgent trip to the doctor. It was our first year in Japan. I was swinging our 2-year-old daughter, Sara, by her arms when we heard something snap. We laid her on the couch. She couldn't move her arm without severe pain. We knew she needed to get to the doctor.

Unfortunately, our car was in the shop. It was less than a mile to the doctor, so we loaded Sara into the seat on the back of Janet's bicycle. Janet rode the bike while I ran alongside. 

 

I knew the doctor was going to have to move Sara's arm and I was anticipating some extreme pain for Sara. So, as I ran alongside Sara, we were trying to prepare her for what was going to happen. We kept saying over and over things like "We're going to see a doctor. He's a very nice man and he's going to make your arm all better."

 

But we weren't sure if the doctor would be able to speak any English or if we'd be able to communicate what the problem was. Somehow, we managed to make things clear. As the doctor took hold of Sara's arm I prayed (and I'm sure Janet did, too). Within a few seconds the doctor popped Sara's shoulder back in place. No crying, no pain! Sara was smiling as she freely moved her arm again. Huge relief!

 

Sara became a big fan of doctors! From then on, every time there was any problem, Sara would say that we need to go see the good doctor.

 

That is the kind of confidence we need to have in God. He is our good God who knows our every weakness. He knows all about our suffering and pain. Of course, he doesn't instantly "fix" every problem. At times, he does miracles, at other times he gives us the grace and strength we need to endure suffering. He also gives us transcending peace in the midst of difficulties. 

 

It's confusing to us why he does certain things and not others. But it is certain that he is good and that we can have total confidence that he will work all things together for good for those who love God and are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

 

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. Isaiah 55:8

 

"We can be sure our prayers are answered precisely in the way we would want them to be answered if we knew everything God knows."  Tim Keller

And God has promised that there WILL come a day when he WILL "fix" everything! 

 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:4–5

 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.  Philippians 3:20–21