On Tuesday, May 29th, I was in an accident that could have paralyzed me or worse, but by God’s grace I came out with only a few broken ribs. In the light of this recent accident, the reality of the impracticality of international travel has become apparent. But praise the Lord this is not a cancellation, just a postponement. God worked so many miracles throughout the day of the accident that I know that if He had wanted to, He could have protected my ribs too. I may not understand why He used this method to slow me down, but I trust Him. I would be lying to say I’m not disappointed, but I have full confidence in my Lord. Whether He is protecting me from something that would have happened on the journey, or if He has some better plans for me this summer, and whether I see what He has protected me from or not, I know He is good and will work all things out for His glory. Sunday Morning I was listening to Selah’s Greatest Hymns album, and I was blessed by the hymn “It is Well with my Soul.” As Horatio Spafford penned, “Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul.” When Spafford penned those words, He had just lost all four of His daughters in ship accident. I truly have nothing about which to complain. Both of our lives were spared, and my pain is minor to what it could have been. I know His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.
Waiting to take this trip until next year will give me a whole year to further prepare. I can continue to study the Scripture, Israel, her geography, and sights in order to get the most out of this trip and classes. Perhaps I can learn some additional Hebrew and maybe even get an additional day in Rome on my way back. :) On the financial side, since this was an injury most of the penalties for cancelling or rescheduling have been waived. As I have cancelled my hotel reservations in advance, there will be no penalty fee there. I'm still waiting to hear on my airline ticket, but it looks like I'll be able to re-book it with little or no penalty fee as I do have a doctor's recommendation not to travel. The only additional expense of which I know at the moment will be an increase of $270 to the overall academic program next year.
Once again, thank you for your prayers and financial support. Praise the Lord that this trip is not cancelled, just postponed. I ask you to continue to join me in prayer - not just for me, but the people of Israel that they will see their Messiah; for the protection of the people still going on this journey through Israel; and as we are commanded to do, pray for the peace of Jerusalem. (Psalm 122:6)
Shalom,
Zane Darland
