I'm Joni Eareckson Tada and, like you, I need role models of inspiration.
And isn't that the truth. No matter how far along we are in our Christian walk, aren't you glad God surrounds us with people whose testimonies inspire and refresh us along the way? I'm no exception. In fact, I'd like to tell you about someone who bolsters my spirits -- her name is Jean Swenson and she lives in the Minneapolis area. I first met Jean many years ago (I think it was back in the late 70s) when Jean brought her youth group to a church where I was speaking. She sat in the pew with her girls as I shared my story from my wheelchair. After I finished and when the service was over, she walked up to introduce me to the kids in her youth group (I don't remember that, but Jean does). I think it was the first time these young people had ever met a quadriplegic.
Anyway, afterward, when they all left, apparently she took her youth group out and they began discussing about some of the things I shared that night. Things like Romans 8:28 and how God works out everything for the good of those who love him; and James chapter 1 where we were told to welcome trials as friends; First Thessalonians chapter 5... you know, giving thanks in all things… and finally that wonderful portion of Scripture, "for it is given to you, not only to believe on him, but to suffer for his sake." Yes, to suffer for his sake means persecution, but it also means suffering for the sake of his glory... suffering in reverent submission, in trust, and confidence in his will.
It was a lot for those girls to talk about that night. But one question in particular troubled them. Could these girls, would they be able to trust God if his plan for them included a broken neck? Now as their leader, Jean knew what she should tell her girls, but she just couldn't bring herself to say that, yes, if something like my accident happened to her, she'd be able to bear it with grace. So she told them she couldn't imagine that God's plan for her would ever include something so tragic, so awful as quadriplegia.
Jean remembers that night as though it happened yesterday. Because just a short time later, Jean was in a terrible accident that left her spinal cord injured. Paralyzed, in fact, just like me: unable to use her hands or legs. When they took her to the hospital, all she could think about was that night at the church when she heard my testimony. But unlike that night, Jean realized God's plan for her did include quadriplegia. And somehow, God gave that woman the grace to bear up under it, even with a smile.
Hers is a most remarkable story and recently my friend put it on a CD (and on it, in fact, included one of my songs). Her testimony is full of Scripture and when I listen to it, man, did it inspire me! And let me say, if you have a friend who has suffered a recent accident or illness, I believe Jean's story will really point them in the right direction, especially given all the great Bible verses she shares. If you'd like a CD of Jean’s testimony, then I encourage you to write me today at joniandfriends.org and ask for your free copy. Just go online to joniandfriends.org and we’ll send you your CD right away. It may take you a little longer, but you can also write us. For your convenience the address is P.O. Box 3333, Agoura Hills, CA 91376. The book of Hebrews tells us to “encourage one another daily” and I'm convinced this gift will certainly inspire you and your friend who might be going through a tough time. And you don’t have to break your neck to believe it. Just ask my friend, Jean. And don’t forget please remember to visit me today at joniandfriends.org. Until next time, I’m Joni Eareckson Tada and you are listening to Joni and Friends.
Used by permission of
JONI AND FRIENDS
P.O. Box 3333
Agoura Hills, CA 91376
© Joni and Friends