She sat in the waiting area of surgery, face in hands, shoulders visibly shaking. The elevator I was on “coincidentally” did not stop on the floor where my one-year-old son was in his hospital room with my husband, but instead went to this floor.
The Holy Spirit said, “Go.” So I went, not really knowing what to say. She seemed to not speak English at first. I told her I had been in the same situation only several months before with my own child. Waiting. Wondering if the child behind those doors is going to be okay. Trusting God, and also trusting the humans whose hands he is under.
Eventually she began to tell a small portion of her story in broken words. Her child was in surgery, her husband was with her other children. She was alone, waiting for good news or bad news. And scared.
So, with hands on this lady from another land, I prayed. Prayed that God would comfort her and give her peace. That her child would be healthy and whole after the surgery. And I cried, not only for her, but also for myself and our babies. Why does God allow children- sons and daughters- to suffer?
And I remember. John 3:16. He sent his only son to die. He knows our pain and our suffering. And even though it is so hard for our finite minds to wrap around, the pain and suffering are part of a bigger plan. The biggest plan, the cross of redemption, of course, but other smaller, big plans. Like ministering to this sweet lady. Like this.
Thank you Father for allowing us to be a small, humble part of your plan.
About Kelli Hays
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This is such a beautiful post. One day last week, as I held my still new and perfect(but five months old) baby, I just started crying for all our friends with sick little ones. Before having our daughter, I could never imagine the heartache that must go with having a sick child. Now I just praise God every day that she is well, and I pray for healing for the little ones that aren’t. May His will be done.
Such a Holy Spirit moment! It’s amazing how the body of Christ is sent to minister in even the most unexpected moments. She must have thought you were an angel.
Beautiful! And it makes me wonder how many of these moments I have missed by not listening to His calling. We try and hear every day, but if we are not truly listening, we will miss out! Thank you so much for the reminder!
Merry Christmas
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Thank you Paula. I know that I have missed out on so many opportunities as well- we just get “busy.”
Merry Christmas to you too!
Monique that is so sweet. It was definitely the Holy Spirit leading me there- because I felt totally awkward and intrusive at first.
Thanks for stopping by.