Looking Back, Leaning on Grace: 58 Years in a Wheelchair

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

Philippians 4:4

I’ve hit another milestone… It was 58 years ago this month, back in 1967, when I took that awful dive, broke my neck, and embarked on a lifetime of paralysis. And now, 58 years later? I look back and I am astounded at the grace of God that saw me through the worst of times.

I love thinking back to the first few years of my journey with quadriplegia—now being able to see what God was up to. God’s grace was there when I was too weak and sick to even sit up in a wheelchair. And God’s grace carried me through that painful season when all my friends either got married or went off to college.

Remembering is the way I like to celebrate the annual anniversary of breaking my neck. We benefit greatly by remembering the deeds of the Lord and all the grace he’s given us in years past when we suffered through the hard seasons of life.

Psalm 77:11-12 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”

Now… God’s mighty deeds and miracles include much more than the parting of the Red Sea, or crumbling the walls of Jericho, or making the sun stand still for Joshua. For you, God’s mighty deeds might not be carrying you through quadriplegia, but it could include that long season of depression he brought you up out of, or saving you from a dangerous and destructive relationship, or bringing home your wayward prodigal child.

It is so invigorating to the soul and so helpful to our faith when we look back on the reservoir of grace that was miraculously given in years past. So, as you help me celebrate 58 years in a wheelchair, take some time to remember the victories in your life, too. And celebrate the grace of God!

-Joni Eareckson Tada