A Diving Accident
On July 30, 1967, a diving accident in the Chesapeake Bay forever changed Joni Eareckson Tada's life. At the age of 17, she became a quadriplegic, paralyzed from the shoulders down. This unexpected turn brought with it a season of profound despair and doubt. Joni faced intense anger and depression, feeling trapped by her own sin. In a moment of desperation, she cried out, 'Oh, God, I can't break free. I have made myself a slave to sin. And I don't know how to get out of it. So do something in my life to get right side up.'
Leaning on Grace
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Joni's faith journey took a transformative turn. Through prayer and surrender, she began to sense God's strength and presence. She discovered that while God chose not to heal her physically, He held her closely. 'The weaker I am, the harder I must lean on God's grace; the harder I lean on him, the stronger I discover him to be, and the bolder my testimony to his grace,' she reflected.
An Advocate for the Disabled
Joni's transformation was not just a personal one. Her faith and resilience led her to become an advocate for others with disabilities. In 1979, she founded Joni and Friends, a ministry dedicated to serving people with disabilities. Her life and work have been a testament to God's power in the midst of suffering. 'Sometimes God allows what he hates to accomplish what he loves,' she said, encapsulating her understanding of her journey.
Knowing Jesus
Joni's story is a powerful reminder that Jesus can bring profound purpose and peace even in the most difficult circumstances. She expressed gratitude for her relationship with Him, saying, 'I would rather be in this wheelchair knowing Jesus as I do, than to be on my feet without him and the shalom he gives.' Through her life, Joni has shown that true strength and joy come from trusting God, no matter the challenges we face.
