Let me tell
you about graciousness in the form of a woman...or two.
It was a day
burdened with frustration, of time spent fruitlessly and endlessly. Traffic crept, then time, a typical "hurry up and wait." Anticipating surgical procedures, the lack of
nourishment, and unexpected emergencies pile and stack, bringing frowns to the
faces and tiredness to the eyes. Burdened
lives of physical ills are heavy to the point of despair, and we wonder
"why?" and "how long".
God uses
that.
Endless
waiting provides opportunities for life reflection and status of soul. Family and friends are prompted to open
discussion of spiritual things, changes of lifestyle and the need for a savior. A small room filled with persons make
intimate conversation difficult, so expressions of encouragement and
exhortation carry and words fall where they may.
God's name is
heard.
Finally, her
husband's surgery goes well and she feels blessed. Another's was put on life support and she is left
devastated and helpless, all the while knowing that God will see her
through. The room is immediately drawn
to her sadness and offers prayers in her behalf.
God is
honored.
The first
lady, my good friend, carries the burden of Multiple Sclerosis...this day and
every day of her life...a progressing, debilitating disease, making the endless
traversing of a hospital stay difficult and draining. There are no complaints...not a murmur passes
her lips...ever. I stand amazed at her
resiliency and humbleness in spite of her ever changing, increasing dependence on
other people or things.
God uses my
friend to teach me gratitude and patience.
Driving her to
where she will stay overnight, I meet her sister. Another beautiful, gracious lady who welcomes
me with warmth and appreciation...all from her wheelchair, for she carries the
burden of polio. I am then introduced to
her loving husband, who suffers from Alzheimer's. Some have more than their
share of burdens. But I leave with
beautiful, loving smiles following me through the door and the warmth envelops
me, and I simply praise God for the pleasure of knowing these beautiful souls
clothed in wearisome bodies.
God is
worshipped.
May we be
gracious and joyful in the face of despair, knowing that God is there even
then, using the bad for good, teaching and admonishing us to learn and show compassion,
growing our faith and giving us endless opportunities to do good, giving thanks
to our Lord for all things and trusting Him always.
It was a day
full of graciousness and I, as well as others, was indeed blessed.
