Approximately fifteen weeks have passed since Ryder first loss the use of his right arm.

Most days, it feels like it’s been for-eh-ver and I’m so over it I can’t even tell you.  While I’ve never believed, even for a moment, that God can’t heal Ryder, there are days when I begin to doubt whether or not He actually will heal him.  Sometimes I can be a bit stubborn (go ahead, pretend to be surprised).  It’s easy to overlook miniscule new movements, or write them off as a fluke.  It’s easy to keep my eyes turned inward, focusing only on what’s not happening.

And it seems like right about the time the doubt starts to creep in and threaten to shake me, God catches my attention again in ways only He can.

First, there was this video I posted to Facebook last week.  Not only is he making noticeable improvements, but he still has the drive and natural curiosity to try “new” things.  (They’re not really new, but they’re things he hasn’t done since he got sick.)  Case in point:  “Mama, I’m gonna try to ride my spinny-bike with both hands.”  And he did.I’ve also seen videos and photos from some of the other children dealing with this kind of paralysis, and they’re making great progress too!

And although I’m sad to hear that one of Ryder’s little friends broke her elbow, I was tickled to hear that she found the courage to wear her sling because she knows Ryder wears his with pride.  It’s the perfect illustration of God’s promise that He’ll make everything work for the good of those who know Him (Romans 8:28).

Then, a stranger’s friendly curiosity about Ryder’s “injury” (people usually assume that his arm is broken), led to an offer to put Ryder on his church’s prayer list in Atascadero.  Despite all the therapy, essential oils, chiropractic care, and medical intervention we know that our biggest weapon is prayer.  What a blessing to know there are still so many people getting on their knees for this extraordinary kid!Finally, while visiting our chiropractor, Ryder demonstrated a pretty significant show of strength from his biceps.  His BICEPS!!!  They work!  I’ve been back in survival mode again… kinda hunkering down and trying to get used to the fact that life could be this way forever.  But for the first time in a long time, I felt truly hopeful.  God still works miracles, and we’re watching one unfold before our very eyes.

Whether I see it or not, God is working all the time.  He demonstrates His love constantly; I just have to pay attention.  I can choose to wallow in the sadness and frustration, or I can cast my cares on Him (1st Peter 5:7) and march on, knowing that He knows us by name.

Thanks for sticking by us on this journey… can’t wait to share the spoils of victory with all of you!