Today Jim and I stood in line to file past the casket of a friend’s father. Most of the people in the crowded room were strangers to me although there were KFAers in the mix. When we reached the family I was blessed by the warm reception of the sisters of the deceased man. Each of them wept in my arms and mentioned the great comfort and connection that they felt with me after the hours that we had recently spent together in the hospital. I, too, acknowledged my connection with them. We had been together in one of the most intimate moments a person could share.
I can’t help but think of what a blessing it is to be with people as their worlds are changing and their hearts are breaking. It is certainly not for everyone. Sometimes it goes against every comfortable fiber of my being to walk into these situations, yet it is such a privilege to listen and pray and drop a pearl of wisdom into the depth of their brokenness and pain. It is a ‘called’ place. It is a task that only the Comforter can walk me through. I can only submit and bravely move in with steps guided by a gracious God.
At times like this I reflect on PEACE. Jesus said “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid,” John 14:27. This peace is available to us all, regardless of the situations or circumstances of our lives and in it we find REST.
Take care-
1 comment:
Lisa,
In my years as a critical care nurse, nothing was more rewarding than working with the dying and their families. It was heart rending work, exhausting emotionally, but so deeply rewarding and totally satisfying. As you said, it is a privilege. Thank you for reminding me of these special experiences. God Bless you!
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