I’ve had a deep connection to the story of the paralyzed man at the Pool of Bethesda in John 5 for many years and the reason is 2-fold: when Jesus asks him, “would you like to get well?,” His question goes deeper than just physical healing. Jesus is asking the man if he wants Him to touch his life, offering emotional and spiritual healing as well. That’s a promise I cling to everyday. The man himself is also an example I need to follow at all times. When Jesus tells him to pick up his mat and walk, he takes Jesus at His word and just does it. No hesitation. No questions. No doubt. Just unwavering faith. Is this story a guarantee that God will grant me physical healing? No. There are plenty of instances in the Bible where Jesus illustrates that having a “perfect” body is not what’s most important. I’m exceedingly grateful because this story is also an example of Jesus’ abounding empathy and compassion for my lot in life. Scripture specifically states the man had been sick for thirty-eight years and Jesus, who was not, and never will be bound by the human limitations of time, knew those years were long. That one small detail is significant to me because in 29 days, I will celebrate my thirty-eighth year of living with Cerebral Palsy. Jesus completely understands where I sit.

The last few months have been full of turmoil, hardships, and self doubt for me; from chronic infections and unexpected pneumonia to a hurtful and extremely disappointing disagreement with a very dear friend. These difficulties have caused me to lean even more heavily on Jesus for strength and comfort. In spending more quality time with Him, I’ve discovered something interesting: the reason I feel like I’ve been under attack from the Enemy may be because the Lord is getting me ready to transition to a more public ministry, just like what happened to Jesus in Matthew 3-4. The Devil certainly doesn’t want me to have anymore influence for Christ, but it’s a battle he won’t win. How do I know this? Even with all my procrastination, disruptions, and detours; Brooke’s Butterfly Touch has been officially approved for nonprofit status and I’m no longer feeling discouraged about the challenges of finishing my memoir: Rolling in Grace. The process may take longer than I want it to, but I trust God’s timing and purpose in all of it.

With the waters beginning to stir all around me, I can’t help but feel this birthday will be especially significant… I’m waiting and watching with joyful anticipation for Jesus to meet me beside the Pool of Bethesda and perform a miracle beyond my wildest dreams. I want to invite you to join me in celebrating His faithfulness during my birthday month by doing one of a few things:

1. Pray- Pray for the ministry and the book: That everything will be done in God’s perfect timing and He will open all the right doors for workshops, speaking engagements, book signings, etc. to bring hope to the most people
2. Become a monthly supporter- By supporting Brooke’s Butterfly Touch on Patreon with a monthly gift, I will be able to offer more free workshops, resources, and events to those who may not be able to afford them (homeless ministries, women’s shelters, disability groups, etc.). You will also receive copies of my books, access to monthly livestream workshops, Q&A sessions, and more! Your donations will also be an investment in the future building of The Butterfly Touch Christian Center for the Arts
3. Give a one-time gift- Donate any amount right here on the website to help the ministry grow. Everyone who donates in any form by June 30, 2021 will receive a preview chapter of Rolling in Grace, a free copy of the finished book with a “Thank you” on the acknowledgments pages, and access to a special Q&A session
4. Tell your friends- Please spread the word about Brooke’s Butterfly Touch! Subscribe to the YouTube channel, too!

Thank you so much for helping me celebrate my Bethesda Birthday! I can’t wait to see what miracles God has planned!