Rena is an amazing woman! Even though she is in pain, she got out of bed and dressed herself today because she believes that telling her story is important. Every week, she comes to church in her wheelchair, greeting everyone with a big smile. She makes crafts from her bed to give to the sisters to encourage them.
In her own words: “Psalm 139 is really the scripture that keeps me going. God knows me. God knows me. He knows what happens to me and why at every second. He knows that I live in pain and He knows my future. There is some great purpose in all this. Sometimes I think I can see a glimpse of it, and at other times, I cannot. But, it makes me feel good to know that through it all God knows me.
I was a very healthy woman, 38 years old. I went well. Then the pain came. In the past 8 years I have suffered 3 bouts of breast cancer. I had a tumor removed and then I went through a full hysterectomy. The hope of healing was just around the corner when I was diagnosed with a severe bone disease. A major back surgery followed and many surgical procedures as well. The doctors are waiting for me to one day be paralyzed. to work every day and took care of my family as
Through my storms, God is with me; I know what it is like to not have a relationship with God. With God, life is so different. I became a Christian after watching my sister’s life change so much after she studied the Bible. I made the decision to make Jesus Lord four years ago. Prayer has really made the difference as I lie on my bed and cry. God listens to me.
Her love for her mother, who cares for her, is evident. Rena’s greatest desire was to see her mother become a disciple. And from her bed she was able to help her study the Bible and even get into the water the day her mother was baptized.
Next week meet Vennie, her mother…
If you have stories of courage and encouragement to share, please send them to us at nadine.templer@dtoday.net, meghna.thomas@dtoday.net, or elvi.levang@dtoday.net.
