I hate hospitals. They are cold. They are bare. And if death had a smell, it would resemble the over-sanitized air that hits you when you walk through the front doors. But when a friends in need, you just put on your big girl panties and go. Today I found myself in an ICU waiting room at a local hospital. No, I dont know the patient whos in ICU, but my friend does, and thats why I was there. I didnt feel comfortable going into the room, so instead I found a quiet spot in a corner to wait for my friend. There was a guy about my age sitting there by himself near a wall mounted TV. As I sat down, he stood to turn up the volume on the TV. He was very into this preacher who was talking about forgiveness. I found myself saying Mm-hmm and Amen out loud to some of the statements she was making, and much to my surprise, the guy started chiming in too. When the program finished, I commented that she was just getting fired up and I hated to see it end. We exchanged small talk for a few minutes about scripture and forgiveness, then we had church right there in that waiting room! He was showing me apps on his phone with scriptures and such and sharing how he moved away from home at a young age to avoid temptation, etc etc. I KNOW God was in that room! By the end of our discussion (which lasted the better part of 15 minutes, I bet), I learned that he was there visiting his mom in ICU. He traveled all the way from South Carolina to be with her because thats what he felt he needed to do. When I stood to leave, he stuck out his hand and said, My names Nathaniel. Thanks for the visit. I grabbed his outstretched hand, pulled him into a hug, and said, Im Megan, and the pleasure was all mine. We both left that cold, dreary place with warm hearts. I am not typically a very bold person. I like to visit, yes, but not like that. ;) I, like many of us, feel much more secure sharing Gods Word in my comfort zone. I know without a doubt that Nathaniel and I kept our Divine Appointments today. And I thank God for the boldness to witness to this man and share His Word with him. Let love of the brethren continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it. -Hebrews 13:1-2
Posted on: Tue, 23 Sep 2014 23:42:37 +0000