Wreck Party!

"Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God." (Romans 8:26-27)

Our oldest daughter and 3 of her friends were in a terrible car accident on October 19, 2007.  And let me be the first to say, the physical injuries sustained were devastating, but the survivor's guilt can eat you alive it you let it.  There were so many times that I didn't even know what to pray for and Romans 8:26-27 gave me comfort beyond imagine.  Our daughter was spared any major physical injuries, however the emotional trauma because of the injuries of her friends, will be with her for the rest of her life.  

As the year anniversary rolled around, I was overjoyed to find that the girls had planned a get-together (I called it a "wreck party")!  God had provided the physical healing.... we witnessed miracles beyond our wildest dreams.  He is ever present to this day and faithful in providing our ongoing emotional healing as well.  They met on their anniversary at Logan's Steakhouse and from all reports, had a wonderful time!

The precious girl on the left sustained major trauma and was in a coma in STICU for about 13 days.  She left for Shepherd's Center in Atlanta, GA, unable to walk or talk, and returned home on November 28th, 2007,  walking and talking!  After many months of healing, she is back on the volleyball team and even played softball this spring!  Our friend to her right was ejected from the car, which came to a rest only a few inches from her.  She sustained numerous injuries including a broken pelvis and lacerated kidney.  And finally, our friend on the far right, sustained a broken pelvis and a lacerated liver.  God has been faithful to our prayers.... He has healed their physical wounds, of which we will eternally be grateful.
As I looked at their pictures, I was reminded how fragile life is.  In a matter of 15 minutes, all of our lives changed forever.  But I was also reminded of how many friends, loved ones, strangers, and family were faithful in lifting all of us up in prayer (don't stop now)!  I can never begin to express how it felt when I knew someone was praying for these girls... I can only liken it to a comforting hand on our shoulders reminding us we were not alone and, in our struggles, He would keep us strong....

I thank my God every time I remember you. (Philipians 1:3)