My Prayers Were Answered in Rehab | Previous Challenge Entry

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TITLE: My Prayers Were Answered in Rehab | Previous Challenge Entry
By Joanne Cordaro
02/11/10
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I sat in the pale green common room and looked out the big picture window. There, for my viewing pleasure, was a winter wonderland. Over a foot of snow had fallen, courtesy of a second major snow storm in less than a week. It was the kind of peaceful landscape that inspired introspection.

As I stared off, the phrase "be all you can be" popped into my mind. I remembered that it was the slogan used by the United States Army years ago.

I had no idea why that particular motto entered my thoughts. The resulting stream of consciousness was quite interesting though. Their slogan led to the creation of my own, "be all God made you to be". In time, that changed to "be all that God intended you to be". As I contemplated my new expression, I slid, almost imperceivably, into prayer.

I prayed in a hoarse whisper. "God, what did you intend me to be? I can't believe I've lived up to your expectations. I'm so sorry. I ruined everything. I know I don't deserve it, but, do you still love me after everything I've done? God, I have calluses on my hands and on my heart. I haven't always taken the high road in life's choices. I've been hired and fired, sometimes in the same day. I've gambled with my money and with my life. I've stolen from my friends, and I've cheated my enemies. And, I have obviously battled with more than one addiction."

I felt the tears running down my face. I didn't care. I didn't care if the whole wing saw me crying. I continued to pray. "I have existed in the very basement, the deepest bowels, of life. But, Lord, I see the light. Finally! I'm in rehab now, and not a moment too soon. One day, one hour, and sometimes one minute at a time, right? I have to ask you, am I too late? Have I seen the light too late? Have I done too much wrong to ever make it right?" I swallowed hard, my eyes turned upward to the sky. "Do You still love me?"

It was then that I heard His voice. I swear I heard it! Deep within me, I heard His gentle voice whisper back to me, "Of course I love you, David. I always have. I have loved you from the day I formed you in My hand. And, I love you just as much today. David, I will love you for all of your tomorrows, too. I've been waiting patiently for you to come to Me. I so loved you that I sent My only Son to you. I sent Him for you. I sent Jesus for you, David! It's not too late; it never is."

I was transformed at that very moment. No, my problems didn't disappear that day. But, I found hope, acceptance, and love in the Savior that was sent for me, that was sent for all of us.

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