Part III of a new Christmas Series of Messages
A Devotional by Eric S. Reamer
Passage: Jer. 29:11 (NIV)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you hope, and a future."
One Year Ago, This Christmas
Friends, almost exactly a year ago, I wrote a devotional called, "VAPORS". I wrote that devotional with a heavy heart, but one full of confidence in the will of the Lord. Some may remember it - it was about my friend, Chuck Hart. If you don't remember - I encourage you to read it right now - and then return here, because I have an update!
One year ago, Chuck was involved in a horrific accident that placed him at the very edge of eternity. Today, my friend Chuck Hart is a living, breathing, and very soon to be walking miracle! Against all odds, and to the complete amazement of every doctor that has been involved in his case, Chuck is living in a home where people with special needs can get the attention they require, and he's doing almost everything he ever did, albeit with quite a bit more effort, and no small amount of challenge.
Christmas 1999
I receive regular updates from Chuck. Yup! At first, it was Chuck's son, C.T. sending the e-mail updates. But Chuck had a shunt put in to remove pressure from his brain, and in what was described as an instantaneous (miraculous) moment, regained his memory (pre-accident), and virtually every aspect of his mental abilities. From that time on, he's been re-learning how to type, and handling his own updates.
One such update came today, and with it came a report of great joy. Chuck spent yesterday with his ex-wife, his sister, his daughter, two nieces and their husbands, and in his words, "a bunch of kids". These people whom Chuck loves so much were on hand to witness his progress in moving BOTH of his legs - something that the Doctors said would never happen! In addition, they shared a Christmas party and dinner together, sharing the love and joy they have in being together for one more Christmas.
Y2K
Whatever "Y2K" means to you - I believe I can tell you what it means to my friend Chuck. It represents the year in which he will accomplish the "impossible". Chuck will walk again! I am a believer!! Far too many "impossible" things have happened already in Chuck's life to leave room for any doubt. No, he WILL walk again!
God's Promise
I am reminded of the verse above, located in Jeremiah, 29:11. This is God's promise to us - each of us. This is surely God's promise to Chuck, and with all my heart, I believe that Chuck has received that promise, and put his faith therein.
Chuck's being alive... alive and well on the road to complete recovery... is God's Christmas gift to all who love him. And while no one knows what the future holds, I can quite honestly see the day when Chuck tours the world, telling his story of how God gave him the Christmas gift of LIFE!
Paul said, "for me to live is Christ, and to die, gain." This is a verbal picture that accurately describes my friend, and the state of his heart as I know it. Surely God has a wonderful plan for him... and for YOU! Won't you seek out the will of the Lord for your life?? Who knows how many you might reach with a story of your own?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for Chuck! Lord, a year ago, we turned him over to your will, and you have chosen to spare his life, and heal his body so many times. We lift him up to you now - and praise you, Lord, for the gift of life that you have given him, and all of us. May we live each day in your service, and in the pursuit of your will for our lives. This I pray, in Jesus' name. Amen!
Follow Up
How about dropping Chuck a letter of encouragement?? I know he'd love to hear from you!
Click here to e-mail Chuck Hart
Click here to read Part I of this
Christmas series of devotionals.
Click here to read Part II of this
Christmas series of devotionals.
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Eric Reamer is an evangelist, and full time Christian Illusionist. If you enjoy this devotional, please e-mail Eric at: Eric@IllustratedIllusions.com.
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