Some days I am happy to ask God for His tasks, other days not so happy – hoping for a simple, one-off task like a phone call. This was one of those thank-you-it-is-only-a-phone-call days.
The task? Call Karen, a friend I hadn’t been in touch with for months. Her medications give her insomnia and she usually sleeps in until noon.
So I decided to set my phone alarm to call about 1 P.M. But just to be sure, I gave a quick check with God and felt impressed that 1 P.M would be fine, more than fine. Perfect.
I called her right at 1 p.m.
When she answered the background noise sounded echoey – like she was in a big hall or airport. Her voice had that high, stressed pitch you get when you’re under pressure.
“Where are you?” I asked, “You don’t sound like you’re home.”
“I”m at the hospital. We just found out my brother has brain cancer. “
“Brain cancer? How long has he been in the hospital?”
“This morning. He’s never been sick or had any pain or anything. He was working on a roof and he went unconscious. One of the other roofers caught him before slid off the roof. They called emergency and the ambulance brought him here this morning.”
I’m a bit confused. “And they already found out he has cancer?”
“The doctors just now told us. They did MRI’s and CATscans and said there’s nothing they can do. It’s all through him. He has only a few weeks to live.”
“What? When did they tell you?” I couldn’t believe they figured this all out that fast. I thought I must not be hearing her right.
“Just now. The doctors just left. I just came out into the hall. I was praying you would call.”
Praying I would call? I have no idea why she was praying I would call instead of another, closer friend.
But there you go.
God knew what was coming and what was needed and made sure I was lined up to make that call.
That’s why I do this. Why I say that quick prayer each morning.
So I can be where I’m needed when I’m needed. Nothing earth-shattering. No huge life changing mission. Just being there when people need me.
That’s meaning and purpose enough for me.
The rest of the story – Kristy’s brother did die. He never had any pain but he eventually began to feel the effects of the pressure on his brain. He had time with his children and siblings. And then a coma and passing on.
Another church friend was with Kristy when she got the call. This friend has huge health and financial problems of her own but managed to be there at the right time to hold Kristy as she wept. God was there.
I’m looking for your commentary on the Lord’s Prayer. I also have come to the conclusion that certain phrases in it are scrambled or misconstrued, like “And forgive us our debts [sins] as we forgive our debtors (those who sin against us).”
Thanks so much,
Gloria
Stamford, CT
I would love to share your beautiful card sentiment on Facebook: “Give your life to God: give Him your to do list.”
Oh thank you Gloria. I hope you will share it. I think you can just click and share