A Memoir

A remarkable woman -- with a miraculous story. A day or two ago, I turned the last page of a book that has become a favorite of mine through the years. "The God I Love," by Joni Eareckson Tada. Her lifetime of walking with Jesus has ignited something special for me -- a true trust in God, regardless of what life dishes out. She is real woman with real problems, who writes about a real God.

From stories of childhood bliss, to the awkwardness of adolescence, this memoir paints a glorious picture of God's faithfulness through the ups and downs of an unexpected turn. While this diving accident leaves Joni paralyzed from the waist down, God's healing still manages to sneak up on her -- changing the course of history for those who are crippled in body and heart.

If you find yourself stuck in the "Whys?" of life, I encourage you to stake out that favorite spot on the couch and curl up with this masterpiece. Through this woman's amazing story . . . every "Why" that has ever stared you dead in the face will melt through the fingers of the One who holds it all.

There is something so amazing that happens when we share our stories. A kinship is woven together, tying hearts together at the Source. Jesus Christ has proven to be absolutely faithful to Joni, not in spite of a wheelchair, but because of one. Amazing.

This poetic rendition of walking with God has made me want to know Joni's God more. He is seen in the starry hosts, found crashing on the waves of the sea . . . reflected in the soul of a horse . . . and He even transforms something as cumbersome as a wheelchair into a joy ride.

Joni's honest (and at times raw) portrait has succeeded in drawing me closer to Him. I recommend this book to anybody who dares to believe that there is life, abundant life, after something as devastating as paralysis.

God never wastes a hurt.