I was so happy when our young Downs Syndrome grandson, Laughlan, learned to ride his bike and could join his family on their bike rides. However, I became apprehensive when, as a young man, he started to ride the three blocks to our home in Carlisle on his own. He also ignored my advice to stop listening to his music, take out his ear phones and give his full attention to the roads! So apprehensive, in fact, that I laid hands on him and prayed that Jesus would keep him safe on the road every time he journeyed between his home and ours!
Recently, I had a call from a lady who informed me that Laughie had been knocked off his bike by a car! It was a real shock, but I was relieved when she reported that he was OK!
She said that the driver and herself would wait with Laughie at his home until someone from the family could arrive.
When I arrived the atmosphere was very calm, almost serene. No blaming or raised voices; their only concern was Laughie. I was concerned for the young woman driver! She offered to buy Laughie a new bike, but his Dad declined her gracious offer.
We gave thanks to God that:
- The accident was close to his home.
- There was a mature witness to take control of a potentially upsetting situation.
- Despite the bike being a write off, Laughie didn’t have a mark on his body; no grazes, cuts or bruises.
I definitely believe Jesus answered my prayers! It was a miracle in Carlisle!
(Written by Lorna Mayne, 31st May 2016))