Hanging On
In all things God works for the good of those who love Him. Romans 8:28
When Nancy and John’s third son, Alex, was born they expected him to be a perfect, healthy little boy like his brothers. However, the expression on the doctor’s face in the delivery room warned them something was wrong. Even so, they were not prepared for what he said.
“Your baby has a problem,” he began slowly. “He has all the characteristics of Down’s syndrome.” Just like that, their world turned upside down.
During the following weeks they struggled to accept the obvious: Alex was mentally and physically challenged. The joy they’d experienced looking forward to his arrival disappeared. Sorrow and apprehension took its place.
When family and friends saw Alex, the pity they tried to hide was apparent. As a result, Nancy and John began to isolate themselves. They felt ashamed because their son was different, and they hated feeling that way.
Previously they hadn’t questioned God, but that was before Alex, when life ran smoothly. Now the crushing reality of his handicap and its effect on their family shook their faith.
Then, in the midst of their confusion, a familiar scripture verse spoke to them: In all things God works for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Alex was part of the all things. When they were particularly discouraged or afraid, they repeated the verse to each other and hung on.
As time passed, they realized Alex’s brothers, Luke and Paul, completely accepted him just as he was. From the beginning the boys had loved him in spite of his uniqueness. Their attitude put others at ease and helped them accept Alex too.
Gradually, Nancy and John became more confident in their ability to parent a Down’s syndrome child. As they embraced their new roles, their faith grew. Admittedly, they still didn’t know what the future held for their family. However, they decided that was okay because they knew the One who held the future.
Father, when circumstances shake us, we can hang on because we know You.
Carol Conser