From malaria to ear and skin infections, Christian has had more health challenges than anyone else in our family. Yet we have been amazed at how God knows and takes care of us every time.

Last week, Christian developed itchy bumps around his mouth. Early Sunday morning, I saw they were not going away but spreading, so I sent a picture to a few of my mom-friends in the United States to get their opinions.

Immediately, my friends responded with ideas, questions and sympathy. One friend, a former missionary child herself, suggested it was likely impetigo, which she remembered getting as a child in Africa. We all looked up pictures and decided I should contact a pediatrician we all know.

Even though it was Saturday night for her, our pediatrician friend consulted her dermatologist colleagues and agreed it was indeed impetigo. “Do you have Keflex?” the doctor asked.

Keflex? Google said it is an antibiotic, also called Cefalexin. Hmm… The closest hospital with antibiotics is at least an hour’s plane ride away.

“I don’t have it here, but I could get it in a week or so,” I replied.

By this point, I knew it was too late in the States to continue imposing on the kind doctor and suggested we continue the conversation at another time.

That night, waiting in bed in the dark, the thought occurred to me that the last time Christian needed medicine, Jason had asked for an extra course of antibiotics, just in case. Maybe that would work. Where had I seen that tiny box? It might be in the pantry. My phone flashlight lit the way. It was on the top of the medicine box. I read the pharmacist’s scrawl: “Cefalexin.” Exactly what we needed! By the time my world clock said it was 7 a.m. in the doctor’s time zone, I had the medicine and was ready to ask her about the dosage. I followed her instructions, and two days later, Christian was improving!

Isaiah 65:24 was written about heaven, but we can attest that it is true today. “And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.”

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