When my father was first diagnosed with cancer and given 18-24 months to live, I gathered with my family in our kitchen stunned, saddened, fearful. I remember looking at my sister Katy and my dad and saying to them, “Well, I guess we’ve had our last trip to Asia together,” before collapsing into the sadness of that realization.
The passion I have to travel, to learn, to assist, and to empower is not mine alone. It’s one I share with two of my family members in particular. Over the years we have traveled to the far reaches of the world, anxious to do our small part to alleviate the suffering we found when we got there. The thought that we would never again journey together was deeply painful.
Yet I sit here now, nearly three years later, writing on the eve of my departure to Asia with a group of dynamic people. My dad is in the next room working through what he will pack for yet another journey and I just emailed my sister in Rome to share how much I look forward to meeting her in Thailand. And I find I’m a bit teary, wanting to soak up every bit of this moment. For it’s not often that you are acutely aware that you are part of a miracle. And in this moment I am overwhelmed knowing that I am.
I think that’s the problem with miracles. I expect them to be on the scale of large bodies of water parting to reveal dry land, lame people suddenly jumping in joy, and the dead rising up. And they are at times. But the reality I’ve found is that miracles are often more gradual, quiet, and easy to miss. My father’s unexplainable health far beyond the scope of what modern medicine predicted is the equivalent of the dead being brought back to life. But it happened so gradually and always with a caveat that anything could change, so I forget to give thanks that a miracle has occurred.
Until a moment like this arrives. A moment where I finally have time to stop, breathe and recall that sad vivid memory. A moment where I am acutely aware of how I wasn’t supposed to be sitting here, preparing to travel as my dad packed in the next room so he could come along. And I am humbled.
I don’t know why God honored me with this moment. But as I sit here writing I feel my expectation building. For whatever reason, God chose for the three of us to travel together again. The fact that we travel as the result of a miracle adds another layer of expectation. For this time above all others, I’m certain God has ordained this particular journey with this specific team of people at this particular time. I cannot predict in any way what will happen when we arrive, what lives will change, what we will take with us when we return, or what we will leave behind, but I know deep in my soul that something big is about to happen. Something miraculous. And I am beyond grateful.
-Sara
Sara, thank you for reminding me of God’s intervention in our lives. Your dad has taught me much about faithfulness and trust as your family has walked through the dark valley. Revel in the dazzling sunshine of this miracle trip.
Looking forward to reading about this adventure as we carry you in prayer over the seas and far away. You are meeting up with a dynamic team and God will use you in awesome ways.
I always love reading your blog. It is a reminder and an inspiration to me. Safe travels to you. Have a wonderful time! Stay in good health! May you receive back 10 fold what you give!
Sara, thanks so much for sharing and I am rejoicing in this miracle with you and your family. Dale is precious and the Lord knows that we need him in this world because he is not finished with his work here on earth for the Kingdom! Praise God for whom all blessings flow! Give him a hug for me please! Cheryl Storey
I know we have a loving Heavenly Father and an Elder Brother who knows our personal struggles and triumphs. They allow us “tender mercies” so we don’t forget they are really always there. I love your story and am always touched when people recognize his hand in their lives. Thanks for sharing Sarah! Prayers to you on your journey!!
Beautifully written reminder. Thank you for taking the time to share! Praying for your trip 🙂
As always – AMEN!!! God’s speed…..see you upon your return! LOVE YOU!