A DEVOTIONAL –

A patient on a mental health ward was having a hard time, not able to cope. The staff couldn’t meet her needs. As a result, she was placed in a seclusion room where she would have a chance to calm down and not hurt herself. The room was uncomfortable, only containing a mat and a stiff blanket. All her clothes were taken away.

At the end of the prescribed twenty-four hours, a doctor came in to assess her. He stood over her, looked down and asked how she was doing. The patient’s response was not good so the doctor did not deem her well enough to return to the ward.

Twenty-four hours later, another doctor came in to see how she was. He sat down, joining her on the mat, speaking compassionately with her, listening to her, learning how she was. He treated her with dignity. After some discussion she seemed to be doing better and the doctor allowed her to have her hospital clothes back. Soon she joined the other patients.

What struck me about this true story was how very much like Jesus the second doctor was, humbly caring for his patient. He didn’t tower over her like the first doctor. He joined her at her own level.

When we’re having emotional troubles, when we’re confused about life and about our world, Jesus will meet us in such a caring way as well. In our struggles, feeling isolated, he sits with us and listens patiently as we search for the words we need to tell him what’s wrong. He stays close until we’re ready to face the world once more.

When we stumble, Jesus supports us until we’re able to stand. He provides us with strength. He lifts us up until we’re ready to embrace life. He prepares us to join our community—a vital member once more.

marja