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EN(dur)ANCE by Robin Gudal

We had planned for months this trip to Branson; we had a lot to celebrate: BIRTHdays.

As soon as we arrived our daughter handed me a sash, “Fabulous At 60.” A crown “60.” She communicated this was my weekend and I was to enjoy — not work — and wear both all weekend.

All the meals were planned, down time to be together and time for adventures, concluding with Saturday when all teens and adults went to Sight and Sound Theater to enjoy Queen Esther.

The weekend was perfect. We aren’t a perfect family by any means, but each person focused on others, as we all left our own desires at the door.

Sunday as we departed and said our last good-byes I was leaning on our son’s car by the trunk talking with my daughter-in-love. Next thing I knew I was screaming. She then started to scream. People came running; Andrea was screaming because I was, Greggy thought we were so sad to see each other leave … until I then announced with a little dance, “My hand is in the trunk! My hand is in the trunk!” Somehow the truck lid had come slamming down and four of my digits were half way in there.

All jumped into action. The truck was opened and, well, my hand was free. “Pray over it” I screamed to mostly stares. My son said, “Mom you’re in shock.”

“No! It comforts me and I want prayer.” Our grandson Jonathan was nearby, and I said, “Jon, pray!” He did. I don’t remember the words; I just remember the comfort in my hand and spirit.

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to his purpose.” — Romans 8:28, NKJV

I don’t know why after a perfect weekend this would happen, but I do know that Jesus is my Savior! I know he comforts those in need. I also know it was a testimony to those in our family who don’t follow him.

“Bad things happen all the time, but what if you knew that every gloomy thing would lead to glorious results under the guiding providence of God? … Problems can last a long time, but they can’t last forever as God’s promises do. We live in a world of catastrophes and calamities, and none of us knows what will happen next. Without God’s oversight, our futures are like scraps of paper scattering in the wind. But under his oversight, they’re like pages of hope indelibly written by grace.” — “Whatever Happens,” by Robert J. Morgan

Robin (Beckman) Gudal is intentional in life, wife, momma, nana, friend, a flawed and imperfect follower of Jesus.