S
I've been in hospital for a time recently (hence my absence from the forum) with some medical problems relating to my stomach which, though not intentional, were largely self inflicted. Its amazing what the combination of stress and anxiety and over the counter pain killers can do if you are not thinking.
The UK has a national health service, which is both maligned and praised, often at the same time. Having had recent experience, I can tell you that the people are worthy of all the praise they may receive.
The process was, in part, difficult, because I prefer to be in control, and I wasn't. This was humbling, because although I know that the Lord is in control, and even want him to be, I find that this doesn't necessarily mean I will always like the process.
During my stay, and in the short break I have had since, I have been thinking prayerfully about the things I encountered.
All of the staff I met, without exception, were good to me. In fact, they acted, whatever their faith (and I only got to talk about that with one or two) in a Christ like fashion.
In fact they put me in mind of the actions of Our Lord, in John 13:1-17, where Jesus washes the disciples feet. My feet were certainly washed by people who were obeying an imperative to serve.
It also struck me about that same story that Jesus did his service whilst at the fullness of his power. Who he was and is is evident, and it seems to me that it was His understanding of this that gave the act so much significance.
So I have these prayers:
Thank you, Good Lord, for the healing and help I received.
Thank you Lord, for the people who helped me, and a prayer that they may become your servants in faith as in action.
I ask your blessing on myself, Lord, that I might become worthy to wash the feet of those around me. Amen.
The UK has a national health service, which is both maligned and praised, often at the same time. Having had recent experience, I can tell you that the people are worthy of all the praise they may receive.
The process was, in part, difficult, because I prefer to be in control, and I wasn't. This was humbling, because although I know that the Lord is in control, and even want him to be, I find that this doesn't necessarily mean I will always like the process.
During my stay, and in the short break I have had since, I have been thinking prayerfully about the things I encountered.
All of the staff I met, without exception, were good to me. In fact, they acted, whatever their faith (and I only got to talk about that with one or two) in a Christ like fashion.
In fact they put me in mind of the actions of Our Lord, in John 13:1-17, where Jesus washes the disciples feet. My feet were certainly washed by people who were obeying an imperative to serve.
It also struck me about that same story that Jesus did his service whilst at the fullness of his power. Who he was and is is evident, and it seems to me that it was His understanding of this that gave the act so much significance.
So I have these prayers:
Thank you, Good Lord, for the healing and help I received.
Thank you Lord, for the people who helped me, and a prayer that they may become your servants in faith as in action.
I ask your blessing on myself, Lord, that I might become worthy to wash the feet of those around me. Amen.
