Devotion for Thursday, March 19, The Third Week of Lent
Zephaniah 3:17 | For the LORD your God is living among you.
He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness.
With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.
On the worst night of this COVID-19 illness, I recall vividly knowing I was in trouble. I was very sure of Jesus’ presence with me. I also did not know what God intended for me. When I went to the ICU, a nurse with a very gentle healing touch cared for me. Perhaps you have felt such touch? Even as he moved oxygen tubes and so many wires, he did so carefully and gently. I found myself able to relax, to sleep—even though so much was happening around me.
At noon the next day, my fever was gone (and would never return). My symptoms had all changed. A resident seemed almost perturbed by that. I was taking a bed in the ICU. The infectious disease doctor said: “I can’t tell you how many cases we have in this hospital right now, but no one has turned around like you. You are quite remarkable. We don’t know why.”
I have been worried to say this to you. Worried to say this aloud. But I think I know why. I think God sent an angel to watch over me and I think God answered your prayers. The prayers of the hundreds of people who prayed for me. I think God answered your loving prayers; it wasn’t my time yet. I have seen many miracles, it’s amazing to have this one for me.
People say the church is unimportant, has no power, doesn’t deliver. And I understand that cry. But I can testify that my brothers and sisters in Christ brought me through. And they will bring you through too. Every single one of us.
PRAYER
Oh Lord, you send your Angels to watch over us.
Send one to me. When my time comes, oh Lord, send one to me.