She Asked A Sinner To Pray For Her...
Recently I had a rather pointed exchange with a person. I was quite irritated with what I considered to be her mistreatment of a mutual acquaintance. We both said some hard things and I went away from the conversation with an abiding dislike for the current version of this person that I have known for several years. And I made the decision to avoid her in the future.
A few days ago I went to the hospital to visit a paritioner. Walking to the elevator, I unexpectedly encountered a fellow church member. She asked if I intended to visit Angie there in the hospital? I knew she was there. I told her no, that given our recent differences of opinion, that she and her family probably would not appreciate my visit. Smugly, I promised to pray for her, and moved on. As I rounded the corner of the hallway, I met Angie's husband. He was at best an acquaintance. But he rushed to meet me with his face as white as a sheet. He told me some really alarming news about her condition, and urged me to go into the ICU to speak with her and have prayer. He seemed most hurried in his insistence. So I walked confidently into the room, although inside I was still a bit cautious. She and I made eye contact, and I could see that she was definitely hurting and afraid. We talked for just a moment- this lady was in no condition for conversation. And then I held her hand and we prayed. As I left, with a weary plea she asked that I please continue to pray for her healing. I have.
How petty and insignificant become our trifling little spats at times like these.
How small I become when I dare to tie the value of a person onto the latest affront to my ego.
A few weeks ago, her perceived insult was a matter of great irritation. Now it absolutely does not matter.
She sent word today that she really wants me to come by her house for prayer. I am broken, and honored, by her request.
11.12.08 (10:48 pm) [
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posted by:
auntconi (
reply)
post date:
11.12.08 (9:34 pm)
I agree with Kurt's comment that you are "too hard on yourself" ... period!
Now in retrospect this woman was quite ill when you saw her in the hospital. I wonder if her 'health situation' made her react so differently than you have known her before; in the way you said you didn't like to see how she had mistreated a mutual acquaintance.
Then when you saw the other person in the hospital and responded to their query if your visitation was to see Angie, you answered honestly and said you didn’t think you’d be welcome due to recent circumstances. However when you saw the husband and he asked you to visit her, you did; then you saw in her eyes that she was in pain and ‘sorry’ ~ or at least that is how I read your words.
You are an honest man and did not hide behind your words when confronted with her mistreatment of the other person. You are human! None of us is perfect. You handled this very well and I admire you for being so open about it. I will pray for Angie!
I will pray for you also!
Life is tough ~ prayer helps!
posted by:
bawdy (
reply)
post date:
11.13.08 (12:52 pm)
I echo what was mentioned above.
Enjoy your retreat.
posted by:
Ladyg (
reply)
post date:
11.15.08 (3:39 pm)
PD everything happens I believe according to Gods Plan, and you came through with flying colors.
posted by:
surrogate (
reply)
post date:
11.18.08 (7:09 am)
I missed this post. I'm sure you did the right thing and visited her at home.
