Rev. Don Berns was 33 when he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1981. Within a few years his voice was too weak to preach, his body trembled uncontrollably, and he faced having to retire from the ministry.

Then after an experimental operation, he was given a dramatic though temporary return to active life. The trembling stopped and he reveled in the restored ability to preach, along with being able to surf and play tennis.

Today, with his physical limitations returning, he says this about his experience: "In all things God does work for the good of those who love him. His power has been made perfect in my weakness. The Lord has now given me a ministry of being, rather than a ministry of doing. God's primary concern for us, as whole persons, begins with our spiritual well-being so we can have a personal, trusting relationship with the One who created us and brings meaning to our lives."

Don Berns' words echo those of the apostle Paul, who suffered with his own "thorn in the flesh" (2 Corinthians 12:7). Paul realized that God was using his physical weakness to show Himself strong.

In a world that values doing, who we are to God is far more important than anything we do for Him.  —David McCasland  — David C. McCasland