We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
In the midst of suffering, worry and trouble, it is often difficult to see how God is making things work together for God according to his purpose. It is precisely at these times, when those around us are quietly and courageously revealing God’s compassion and hope.
In October, Liberty Lutheran’s Hospice received a letter from the family of a gentleman who passed away under hospice care. In the letter, the family acknowledged that their father’s decline and death were very difficult but that the compassion and care of the hospice staff brought comfort in simple, yet profound ways.
It was the time spent with the family in visits patiently talking about options for care, late evening visits to keep their father comfortable, education, smiles, and cheerful conversation that made the biggest difference. “Helping an individual with such basic needs is caring beyond what most people can do.”
God’s purpose is not complicated. It is simply that we love and care for one another when suffering overwhelms our ability to reach out. In God’s work together as the community, we take turns reaching out to those who are in need and being helped in our time of need. Thanks be to God for those who care for us, who show us the good even in the worst of circumstances.
Healing God, you offer help to us in our worst times by the care and compassion of the community. Thank you for your love. Help us to share it with those who are in need this day. Amen.
Family letter to Liberty’s Hospice summarized by Rev. Jennifer Ollikainen.
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