Friday, Jan. 7th Update from Joni

Friday, January 7th Update from Joni:

A friend passed by my office yesterday, saw me at my computer, and leaned in to say, “Looks like you’re back in the groove, Joni!” I smiled, grateful I’ve regained my energy and strength since last year’s chemo. On the other hand, little red flags started waving in my head. I don’t want to be back in a groove. Remember a few months ago I shared how the Holy Spirit was teaching me to “keep in step” with Him? And those steps were very small, very simple? That’s how I need to live my days. Like today…
 
On the way to work, my co-worker Rainey and I sang praises to God in the van and petitioned Him about the day’s schedule. Arriving at work, I headed into a planning meeting for this year’s National Day of Prayer (they asked me to be Honorary Chairman :-). Yep, we started and ended with prayer. Then it was on to writing “Joni and Friends” radio programs – again, I had to bow my head and ask God for His big and best ideas (when I got stuck, I whispered “Help her Jesus!” dart-like and aimed at heaven). Then, every time I checked my blog, there you were, praying and cheering me on – another reason to voice my thanks to God. And of course, I was able to “pray without ceasing” every time I looked up at this photo above my desk…

 
I don’t know his name, but I know that he lives in abject poverty in Africa, and daily deals with excruciating pain (our Wheels for the World team met him on an outreach). I mentioned this gentleman in A Place of Healing and I keep his photo on my wall as a constant reminder to pray for the disabled of the world – my “pain pal,” as I call him, keeps me focused on why we do what we do at Joni and Friends. Oh, may God help me to “keep in step with the Spirit” this year as I look for ways to share Christ’s love with disabled people near and far. I want you to join me in this grand and great cause – and it begins with prayer.