I was recently in the hospital for some major surgery, and Praise be to God, things turned out okay . During this serious time, I put extra effort into putting my lamp on the lampstand (like in Mark’s writing of today), to let my light shine. I used Jesus’ name in the proper context, asked people about their faith, and even shared prayers with workers in the hospital. Normally, the hospital workers are very quiet about their beliefs, so that patients are not “offended”. One of the late-night phlebologists (blood drawers) was quite open about his faith, and Mark was his name (like today’s reading).
All Cards On Deck
I asked myself why I would do such a thing and open my faith life to strangers in a hospital. I was not looking for sympathy, I was not looking for a favor, but I certainly wanted to have all cards on the table for getting a great physical and emotional healing experience. In my worldview, the only way to get that full service was to have Jesus, guardian angels, and other saints in the game for me. The people pushing wheelchairs and bringing drugs or food could also be guardian angels, so all were welcomed.
At the conclusion of the surgery, about 5 hours after it began, I woke up to the view of the anesthesiologist. A welcome sight, indeed! During the surgery, I remember seeing white walls, like freshly painted white walls in a home, and then the doctor at the end.
Major Milestone
From that moment forward, I told my wife and daughters that I was experiencing the best day of my life …. not counting their wedding days! I was not on pain medication and was feeling wobbly, but great. And, I am still recovering today, but I am blessed and excited to have made it through a major milestone.
I would like to thank Joanne and Father JohnBosco for their help with the reflections as I prepared for surgery. As far as I can tell, we did not miss a day of reflections; so that is great.
Remain blessed, and remember that it is ok to put your lamp on a lampstand for all to see it…; it does not make sense to hide it in the closet!
So glad all went well. God bless you.
I appreciate your testimony. That’s also putting one’s lamp on a lampstand. Thank you for sharing.
Great to hear that your surgery went well. Looks like your work sharing God’s love with the rest of us is still much needed.
Gracias por compartir su experiencia ¡pronta recuperación!
Beautiful reflection, Paul! We are so glad to have you back.
Thanks so much. Still laying low for a little while but getting better. The timing was such that I did not even miss a session of confirmation class! About 10 more to go this session!