In The Blink Of An Eye

My daughter had been suffering for quite some time with discomfort and pain, and finally, she made an appointment with the doctor to have it checked out. The day arrived when I drove my daughter to the hospital for surgery. An exploratory camera would be inserted into a couple of cuts made in the abdominal area, to search for anything abnormal.

I wondered, What if there is something wrong and the news is not good? I thought about her husband and two children as I sat and waited. It is in a moment, in the blink of an eye, that something can happen on the operating table that could forever change the life of the individual and everyone who is connected.

As I waited, the following verse came to mind:

Philippians 4:6 – Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
(NASB)

It is at times such as these that we can ask God to be with the doctors, to direct their hands and minds, and to grant peace to all concerned. All we have to do is ask and trust. God, in His mercy, did hear my prayer and granted me peace.

The surgery went well, and my daughter received some good news. She also went for a second opinion and received better news.

If you are going through a rough time right now, wondering what the future will bring, or if you have just received some bad news about a loved one and you feel as if you've been hit by a truck and can't go on, remember our Lord's promise:

Isaiah 43:2 – When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you. (NASB)

Most of us, at one time or another, have gone through or are at this very moment facing sickness, a loss, or some other hardship. Remember, we have doctors or nurses, our immediate and church families, and friends whom we can lean upon. But above all, we have a Friend who promises to be with us in all things. His name is Jesus.

Isaiah 41:10 – Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. (NASB)

Prayer: Lord, provide caregivers and nurses who are compassionate, doctors who have a heart for healing the people they encounter, and volunteers who are cheerful and friendly. Each one of us is given a talent or special gift to share with the community. Help us to see the way that we should go, and direct us in that way. Amen.

Rosemary Hagedorn