“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4: 6-7

I am having major surgery in one week and I’m petrified. That’s the adjective that I’ve been using. I’ve put it off by trying other short-term fixes. It was postponed once due to illness and now it’s finally here. My total knee replacement surgery will definitely slow me down for a while. I’m not a person who easily sits still or depends on others for assistance. The prerequisite disclaimers about the surgical risks, which include death, have me rattled. I’m worried about pain management and getting around my two-story home. Will I have the stamina to be successful with physical therapy? How long will it take to feel like myself again? I’m anxious and scared about it all.  

The Philippians verse has long been a favorite and has calmed and restored me in many life situations. With my surgery date approaching, it again comes to mind. I trust that God is my protector, but fear creeps in at times. My mind works overtime on things I worry about. But this verse helps.  

One of my lifelong prayers is for God to put the right people in my path to support me when I need it. We all need this. I call them Angels. For me it’s my husband Marty, my sons, my parents and extended family and a precious network of friends. I’ve never been let down by the Angels in my life, they are always there when I need them. Beyond myself, this is my prayer, my “ASK” for all people when hard times or crisis hits: “God please send Angels to their path and give them your love, comfort, peace and protection.”   

My faith is strong, and I know God hears my requests to quiet my fears and dispatch Angels to support my recovery. By the time this Lenten Devotional is published, I’ll be a few weeks post-surgery and I’ll be just fine. My titanium knee will allow me pain-free living with new adventures ahead and I look forward to that.

Prayer: God, Thank You for guarding our hearts and minds. You are always available to listen to our fears and anxieties and give us Your peace. Your army of Angels is ready. We just need to ask. Amen.