The Power of Prayer
Dear Friends,
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I looked at the menu board and was intrigued by the selections being offered. They all had unique names that reflected the various agencies of the hospital. I chose the “Maternity Special,” not due to any personal significance in my situation, but rather because of the makeup of the sandwich. In laymen’s terms it was made up of turkey and cheese with lettuce and tomato on marble rye bread.
In an attempt to be humorous, I asked the sandwich maker if you had to be pregnant in order to ask for that sandwich. She laughed and then shot back saying, “It is more about us than you. Our slogan is ‘We deliver!’” It took me second to get it but then I put two and two together. It was hospital humor. The maternity ward is all about delivering. I smiled as she presented me with my sandwich.
The occasion for my being in the cafeteria was that in the last three weeks I have been to the hospital almost every day. I have not had a streak like this in a long time. That’s a lot of visits for the pastor of a small-town church. I am not complaining. We are called to minister to the sick as part of our role as pastors. I relish opportunities to visit and pray with people who are in need of spiritual comfort.
My primary calling is to remind people that God is with them. Too often, I miss out on seeing people in the hospital. People are in and out very quickly. Insurance regulations don’t allow for long hospital stays. This month I have had several folks in the hospital for extended periods with critical needs. Whether it is a severe case of the flu, a raging infection, or something else, I have received a call.
Sometimes I wonder if my visits make a difference. I often wish I could simply lay hands on people and heal them like Jesus did. But here is what I have found over the years. When we visit those in need of prayer, we also come reminding that person that they are not alone. Our presence reminds them that God cares and that He is with them. Our prayers bring hope and hope is essential in healing.
I believe in miraculous healings. I have witnessed a few. Most often healing takes time. It is a natural process. A number of years ago I praised a physician for the healing work he did. He stopped me before I could finish my sentence. He was a Christian and told me that he saw himself a link in the process. He said that our body has an amazing ability to heal itself because God created us that way.
I believe that God moves through the halls of the hospital. He works hand in hand with our health care professionals. God gives them knowledge. He gives wisdom and insight and often reveals the most effective tools that will work to restore a person to wholeness and health. He works through the nurses and therapists to bring comfort and ministers through them offering encouragement and support.
Yet, there is a role for all of us in the process. We are called to pray for one another. In James 5:13-14 we read, “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray… Is anyone sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.” Prayer is inviting the power of God into the situation.
We are told in several places in the Bible that God works through the prayers of His people. When it comes to prayer, it is more about God than it is about us. So don’t hesitate to pray for those who are sick and going through difficult times. If you can’t visit, send them a card to encourage them. Give them a call and let them know you are praying for them. One thing is sure: When we pray, our labor will not be in vain. For God will deliver on his promises.
Happy New Year! See you in church.
Pastor Cal