I had a big surprise and a big laugh early Tuesday morning. When I last saw my primary, she referred me to an orthopedist for evaluation of my suspected PMR. The ortho instead made two referrals, one for an injection in my neck (which I’m still waiting to hear about) and the other for physical therapy (PT) on my neck. I got a call from the regional health system about the PT; then it referred me to the rehab office closest to me.
When I arrived Tuesday morning I was given a tablet, which was supposed to contain the information about my neck. After logging on, I found that they wanted information on my hips and left shoulder. I questioned that immediately since I’m not having any problems with my hips or left shoulder. The receptionist looked it up only to find that the “referral” came from an OB-GYN that I had not seen in seven years. I asked her how often OB-GYNs made referrals for hip and shoulder problems. She said this was a first. We both laughed and eventually it was straightened out and I had my first neck rehab.
I’m still chuckling about my mixed-up referrals. The primary wanted an evaluation on my PMR. The ortho wanted to just deal with the neck for the time being. A referral for the neck was made, but somehow along the route to the rehab office something got horribly twisted and ended up for my hips and left shoulder from a doctor I no longer see. It reminded me of a game of “Gossip.”
It also made me treasure the words of the LORD to Jeremiah for God’s beloved Israel. ”For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” [Jer 29:11 NIV]
God’s plans don’t get mixed up, they don’t lose anything in the translation or become confused along the way. They are secure, they are true, they will be accomplished because the Creator God of All Things bases them on His Absolute authority and foreknowledge.
Man may get things horribly confused; God never does. God’s promise to His beloved Israel holds true for the LORD’s beloved bride also – to prosper us, not harm us, to give us hope and a future. Praise His Glorious Name, Amen!
