I made my way up to the 4th floor of a local hospital. I was there to wish the staff a Merry Christmas and remind them I had not forgotten them since my last visit there as a speaker.
Winding my way down the halls, I heard this soft voice coming from one of the rooms. Stopping to listen, I realized this was a nurse talking with one of her patients. She had administered her nightly medications and now was focused on how her patient felt and what she needed. She was at the patient’s bedside for quite some time listening, answering questions and encouraging the woman in her health and well-being.
I was touched by the kindness of this nurse’s voice, and the sincere effort at connecting with her patient at such a deep level.
When this nurse finally came out of the room, I told her how impressed I was with her compassion and wished her a Merry Christmas. Before I left, I asked her if she had any prayer concerns or requests that she might share with me. Thoughtfully, she stopped and then said, “Yes, please pray for my patients. Some are lonely, and it’s Christmas. They might not get to go home or may not have family to visit.”
What an unselfish request, I thought to myself. After assuring her that I certainly would keep her patients in prayer, I turned to leave. As I began to walk away, I heard “Wait! What are your prayer requests? How can I pray for you?”
Here on the halls of a busy hospital was a saint. Amid the tears and troubles so common in illness was a light of hope. I still have not forgotten this ray of sunshine disguised as a nurse. I hope if I am ever sick and hospitalized, that I hear that sweet, soft voice coming in my room to comfort me.
Merry Christmas to all those in healthcare who may think they are forgotten or that nothing they do or say matters. It matters in the kingdom, it matters to the patients, and it sure matters to me.
Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”