Thank You for Your Representatives

I was reminded recently that we are God’s representatives of love on earth and how thankful I was to be a recent recipient.

Take 1: I had a scheduled screening in early October which I thought I would have no problem completing. As the screening began, despite concentrating on my breath and giving myself a pep talk, I knew I was not fine. The technicians were so caring and patient with me as I tried to wrap my head around what I was experiencing: panic. As I returned to the machine, one tech held my hand, but I still could not proceed with the screening. They were so gracious as I dejectedly left the office puzzled at my reaction to this screening. Not getting it done meant I had to reschedule, get a prescription to take an hour before the next screening, and make sure my husband could go with me since I’d be unable to drive.

Take 2: I took my prescription after I arrived for the screening. I was feeling okay, but not as loosey-goosey as described. The same techs were there to help me, but once I was situated, I knew the medication was not fully doing its job. After conversation we had a plan: One tech would run the screening, giving me all the information before transitioning to a different process, in which there were about maybe ten scans of varying lengths. The other tech would hold my hand the entire 20+ minutes.

Both got me through, but especially the woman who held my hand.

I thank God for their compassion and care. I thank God that there is technology and screenings that keep me healthy. I thank God for her hand, the physical reminder that we are God’s love to others. I also experienced love from a card and teabag that someone gave me prior, letting me know they were thinking of me, as well as from the technicians’ compassion and touch.

And I am thankful for the people of this church who are representatives of God through the love you show to each other and our community.

Reflect & Respond

• Have you ever needed help/company for a medical appointment or procedure? Who was there for you?
• Have you ever been there for someone else in that way? What happened?
• Who has been God's representative for you? Let them know!