You know those times when you blink and 5, 10 or 20+ years disappear. That's how I've felt today. I can't believe 5 years have passed since I was diagnosed with diabetes. I have learned so much about my body and this disease, but then there are days when my body decides to go rogue and I'm reminded I don't have a clue what I'm doing.
That's where I have to let Jesus step in. I can't manage this disease on my own. I have ZERO control. I truly believe God allowed me to have this disease to help teach me about His provision and that He is in control and I am not. Believe me. It is a daily lesson that I still struggle with. You would think that living with a disease that quite literally has huge ups and downs would teach you to trust God every day all the time, but it hasn't. I'm hard-headed and stubborn and needed a life-long disease to continuously teach me.
Despite the ups and downs I have experienced, God has graciously allowed me to continue serving Him in ways I never anticipated. After I was diagnosed, I never thought I would be able to serve overseas again, but I have and have fallen in love with a country where I hope to serve long-term (soon). I have no idea where the Lord is taking me now or in the next 5 years. Similar to 5 years ago I didn't know I was about to get into an ambulance in DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis), but I know he has a plan and wants me to continue serving Him no matter what life brings.
Right now that means I keep teaching my Northbrook kids whether I love them or am beyond frustrated with them that particular day. It means I faithfully serve at church and its ministry partners. It means I continue loving my family and friends and people I meet even when they are hard to love. And most importantly it means I participate in the Great Commission by making disciples of all nations to ultimately bring God glory. Anything else is just bonus.
In the last 5 years, I have done things that I never thought were possible for me, and I am sure that the next 5 will prove to be the same. No matter what happens or where God sends me, I know I am not in control, but He is.
I really cannot wait to see how the Lord continues to work in and through me.