I’m not sure what the Lord is teaching me, exactly, but after nearly two years since my initial shoulder surgery, I found out today that I have to go under the knife again…as soon as possible.
It turns out that one of the anchors that was put into my shoulder to secure the repair has somehow partially worked it’s way out, which means not only is the repair not holding, the anchor is causing damage to the surrounding tissue. My doctor is concerned that, if not fixed soon, long-term damage could result.
So, here we go again. I would appreciate prayers as I deal with increasing pain prior to surgery and, of course, the surgery, itself. I’m not looking forward to the 12-week recovery (read: no golf or cycling), and the possibility of yet a third down the road, but God is good. Through this entire leg of my journey, Paul’s response to his own suffering has been an encouragement to me:
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)
His strength is certainly sufficient! Besides, where’s the adventure without some mountains to climb, right? The tough times are when we learn the most, both about ourselves and the provision and faithfulness of God.