Gratification may come in different forms immediate, delayed and not at all. One of the reasons we trust in the Lord is because of the truth of this statement. If we depend on him although immediate gratification is satisfying, when the other forms are in play, we need to trust in Him and his blessings for gratification, and not the events, and encounters of our life. We came in contact with all three forms today.

The immediate gratification came when we delivered the surgical instruments to the operating room staff and general surgeon, who were very excited and happy to receive what you have helped to procure. They are seen as we brought the materials.

The delayed gratification came as we saw 10 more patients today. The little boy who is pictured has had clubfoot surgery in the past but needs to have his Achilles’ tendon lengthened but his won’t happen until September. We have scheduled 6 patients for surgery at that time. It is difficult to tell them that they must wait.

The lack of gratification came as we examined the other patients. Each one had a congenital problem that will keep them from normal mobility and even a lack of any mobility. The problems ranged from severe cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, to a congenital syndrome for which I can’t find a name. The picture shows her feet. She can’t sit and has seizures. The dedication of the parents who care for these children is amazing. The not so little boy with muscular dystrophy was carried on the back of his tiny little mother.
The most important gratification is that which comes from serving the Lord through the easy and difficult.
Blessings,
Doug