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We didn’t know about the issue until they were admitting our family member into the hospital. It had started with some stomach issues and pain in the abdomen, but those are common things, so no one was too worried. But then it got worse and after going to the doctor and having several tests done, we realized it was a bigger issue.
The doctor described it as a kink in the hose. The intestines were slightly twisted causing an issue. They would do all they could to prevent us from having surgery, but they couldn’t promise anything.
The doctor came by and told us it was not progressing and they would have to do surgery to physically move things around.
It’s not what we wanted. Surgery always seems to mean more risks. But it was the only way.
When the surgery was complete, the doctor came by to talk. The surgery went well and recovery wouldn’t take too long. But then, he shared something with us that surprised us.
He explained that when he finishes this particular surgery, he sort of massages the intestines to make sure everything is fine and empty. As he was doing so, he felt a pea-sized knot. At first, he thought, “oh, I’ve missed something.” He tried to push the knot but it didn’t budge. Upon further inspection, he realized what it was.
He explained to us that this little pea-sized nodule was cancerous. Most of the time, it goes undetected because of its location and people will die from it. But because of this kinked hose and the fact that surgery was the only option… it’s the only way they found it.
The realization sunk in.
We would have lost her.
We had prayed to not have to do surgery. But all along, it was part of the plan.
We just didn’t know it.
“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.”
Luke 2:1-5
Can you imagine having to load your wife who is 9 months pregnant onto a donkey and travel across rough terrain? Not to mention it was 70 miles! And let’s not forget why they were going. They had to be counted and pay a tax to support the Roman army. The very people that were oppressing them!
Can you feel the refusal and the argument already bubbling up in me? If I were them…
It had to be done. There was no way around it. No matter if you wanted to or not, this was the only way.
They traveled from Nazareth for 70 miles. 70 long, bumpy, rough, dusty miles. And they came to Bethlehem to be taxed.
Bethlehem.
“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.”
Micah 5:2
The Messiah would come out of Bethlehem.
The Messiah.
Bethlehem.
While it was the worst trip and worst timing imaginable to this young couple, it was all part of God’s perfect timing and plan.
The Savior of the world is coming. And just as prophesy foretold, He would be born in Bethlehem.
Do you ever stop and think about how you ended up right here? Was it sheer coincidence that you are in this situation, doing the job you are, the family you have, etc.? There are so many scenarios, but if we stop and examine it, really look back at how we got here, we might realize how big God’s plan is.
“I see what you did there God…”
I find myself saying that a lot. Even though I may not have liked it at the time, He used it for my good!
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28
I do not know what you are going through right now. Maybe it’s a horrible illness or disease that has you fighting for your life. Or maybe it’s unbearable pain of losing a child or loved one or a job that makes you want to pull your hair out. Wherever you are, whatever is going on, I want you to know that there is a God who created you and loves you and cares about you. Not only is He working in your life for your good, but also for those around you. Sometimes the situation we are dealing with is to help someone else. Ultimately, it can be and will be used for God’s glory.
There’s a story to be told, will you share it?
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