Our youngest daughter Ava recently had three weeks of intensive therapy to help her recover strength, mobility and fine motor skills in her arm and hand following her stroke. This program was offered two and a half hours from where we live, so we stayed at the Ronald McDonald House by the hospital. If you are not familiar with the Ronald McDonald House charity, it offers nearby lodging for parents of children who are patients in the hospital or are undergoing therapy there. Ronald McDonald House has been a huge blessing to us, both last year after Ava’s stroke and this year as we needed a place to stay during her treatment.

Our first day in the program and the Ronald McDonald House, I was overwhelmed with emotion. All around us were kids with all kinds of medical needs that reminded me to thank God that Ava is recovering well. My heart ached for the children and families who had been in the hospital for months and months, and I realized how much our own lives had changed since Ava’s stroke.

As all of these feelings washed over me at once, I felt God gently reminding me that He feels our pain, and He has a plan that is beyond our understanding. He will return to this earth soon to wipe away every tear from our eyes and return creation to its original perfection. He is our hope and security. He is our healer and strength. He is our loving Father.

As we continue to prepare for Ireland, I think of the many Irish people who go through difficulties in life with no knowledge of Him, and I can’t imagine how they cope. How can they survive when their babies are sick or when they experience tragedy? This is one of the reasons why we are going to Ireland. We want to share the One who covers us with His wings so we can take refuge. Through your prayers and financial support, please join us in bringing this message of hope to Ireland.

“He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler” (Ps. 91:4).

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