After almost two hours of questions and investigation, God was with us. The oxygen concentrator machine I was carrying should have been cleared 48 hours in advance prior to departure. I tried to explain that the airline ticket was not even purchased 48 hours in advance, and that we were not aware that Gabriel needed a medical escort or oxygen to fly safely 48 hours prior. God showed his divine authority. God was with us ten minutes before the airplane was set to leave when God made a way for the oxygen concentrator to miraculously be cleared without an advanced notice by the Israeli security at the airport. God was with us, as a kind security worker and I were running to the gate of the plane.
When he arrived at the Amman airport from Erbil, surprisingly he was without oxygen. He was moving around and even walking a few steps by himself. When we checked the oxygen level to make sure he was stable, it was surprisingly low. Quickly the father and I gave him oxygen. Gabi slept soundly on the plane. He and the other families safely arrived to Israel. From the airport, Gabriel was transferred to the hospital for his first assessment.
The song lyrics from “Emmanuel God With Us” are my prayer for Gabriel’s life.
From the mountain’s edge to the valley lowWhen the river’s wild and the sea billows rollFrom your perfect presence I cannot escapeYou’re ever with me I trust your nameEmmanuel, God with usIn day or darkness, Lord you are hereEmmanuel, God with usI need you Jesus so draw me nearYou’re the purest joy in the shadows deepSo my soul will sing when I find no melodyEmmanuel, God with usIn day or darkness, Lord you are hereEmmanuel, God with usI need you Jesus so draw me nearMy heart and flesh may fail you but God you never willYou are my strength and shield my portion forever
When I heard the last verse, I pondered upon how Gabriel means “God is my strength”. God is our strength, God is with us.
Gabriel’s diagnosis is very complex. Despite only being 22 months, Gabriel has endured many procedures and tests. I trust that in day or darkness, that God is with Gabriel. Please pray for him as he returns to Israel.