Body Building
“From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”
Ephesians 4:16
His name was Tom. He lived with quadriplegia and depended on a ventilator to help him breathe. He sat beside me in a bulky wheelchair during occupational therapy. I can’t say I was much help to him. I was disgruntled and despondent, angry that I had to clench a pencil between my teeth in order to learn how to write.
Tom was different. Although he had more physical limitations, his attitude was anything but disabled. His bright outlook on life and cheery disposition about mouth-writing humbled me. There was no way I could keep feeling sorry for myself, especially when I saw how skilled Tom was with that pencil.
Observing Tom was just the push I needed during those early days of adjusting to my wheelchair. If he could handle it, I decided I could too. Looking back, I thank God for the victories Tom gained. His perseverance was the best thing he could do to help me, a fellow patient. And I have scores of mouth-painted renderings to prove it.
Although Tom died shortly after we left the hospital, he gave new meaning to words such as inspiration, encouragement, edification, and building up the body.
One of the best things we can do for our brothers and sisters in Christ is to gain victory in our trials. We affect one another spiritually by what we are and do individually. And because there is an intimate link between us as believers, your failures affect others, while your victories inspire and encourage them. You may not feel one with the Christians around you, but you are one.
Help me to remember that my perseverance and joy will profoundly influence the lives of others who observe me today. Help me to be a “Tom.”
Beyond Limits: Life and Faith of a Quadriplegic Pastor
After surviving a car accident that left him paralyzed at age three, Joel has faced many challenges. As a part-time pastor, dedicated mentor, and tech-business owner, Joel encourages others struggling with disability and other hardships.
