Inspire, Fall 2003

oughts Let me tell you how much I appreciate your articles on the special needs child in this quarter’s issue of Inspire. Our first child, Jonathon, was born with a genetic brain disorder which left him severely mentally retarded. We didn’t know he had problems until he was 18 months old and wasn’t speaking any words yet. Jonathon has been with us now for 12 years and is the joy of my life. He has taught me what the love of Jesus Christ is all about. He truly only knows how to love unconditionally. He doesn’t hold grudges, isn’t jealous or envious, isn’t bitter or revengeful, etc. He is truly a picture of what love is as found in I Corinthians 13. Although Jonathon is severely delayed mentally, he is perfectly healthy and is a normal little boy. He has a constant smile on his face and has the sweetest, happiest personality. Although there have been many times when I didn’t think I could cope another day, I’ve found strength in my deep faith in Jesus. I know I wouldn’t have the relationship with Jesus that I have today if it weren’t for my son, Jonathon. Keep up the “inspiring” articles. ~ Carol Delaney Wells ’89 West Bank Update In the Winter 2003 issue of “Inspire,” Gary Gordon ’75 wrote of his work with Palestinian believers. By way of update, he shares: I was in Jerusalem again during the last two weeks of February. The purpose of this visit was to assess the continuing needs of Hope School along with other Christian ministries in the Bethlehem area. Relief here remains somewhat unique. Until the political situation is resolved, it seems that the people will remain in the grip of their difficulties. Unlike situations involving natural disasters, reconstruction cannot really begin until resolution is accomplished. Much remains to be accomplished in this land, but it is encouraging to see many people, both Israelis and Palestinians, coming to the Lord through various ministries which He is blessing. In many cases, it is through the difficult political situation that the Lord is working to bring people to Himself. It is abundantly evident that until the Lord Himself comes, peace will come to Jerusalem and the Holy Land one heart at a time as individuals come to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Inspire 5 Director’s Chair N ine years ago, when I was very ill for several months, my dear, dear friend (and former CU roommate) Jill Southward Hackett ’83 sent me a homemade video. The video included a tour of her home, clips of her kids, and sweet messages of courage and hope over “tea” at her kitchen table. She closed our “video visit” by singing My Life is in Your Hands , reminding me that God is in control of everything. I now use that song in many of my own speaking engagements. The fresh realization of Psalm 31:15 (“My times are in Your Hands”) brought comfort and a quiet confidence. The knowledge that nothing can touch me that doesn’t pass through the hands of a loving God brought me peace and hope. God’s timing and orchestration for our lives is not always the same as ours. We may experience joy when we least expect it or sorrow when we feel least prepared. Regardless, the timing of God’s plan is perfect. As several alumni reflect on their life experiences in this issue, I hope that you are blessed and encouraged by the message that “My Times are in Your Hands.” Faith Linn ’83 Director of Alumni Relations