I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, and for this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all. ~ Ephesians 1:15 - 23 It's not unusual for me to pray with my patients that I am visiting. In fact, some folks whom I visit seem to think that is the only reason why I have stopped to visit them. Soon they find out that I am often interested in more than just praying. I want to know about "them."
While prayer is important, knowing a persons' journey is often a form of prayer for me. Sitting and listening, while noting milestones, challenges and joys, is about creating a timeline, but also is reflective of a person's life, their faith, and how they handled each moment. The daily events of our life is something that God is aware of, since God is always present, but taking the time to talk to God about the day is about creating a relationship. I have watched folks bow their heads, fold their hands, and even drop to their knees to pray to God. I have to admit, sometimes while I am driving from one patient visit to the next I spend time talking to God about what is going on in my life and what I am thinking. Thank God for bluetooth connections! Today's technology has made driving alone and talking something a little more ordinary, so when people see me talking to God while driving, they just think I am on the phone! Little do they know I am working on my relationship with God! Our simple conversations can have lasting results. A dear friend of mine shared, "Last words are lasting words." I have to admit, taking the time to be present with one another and sharing in prayer is one of the greatest blessings we can be to one another. While I am the one often offering the prayer for those in my care, occasionally I meet folks who then offer to me a blessing as well as we pray. In those moments, it is hard to put into the words how I feel, other than to say that I feel "blessed." Acknowledging our faith in one another, sharing and uplifting each other, and spending time in conversation with God not only brings us closer together, but enriches our life! Stay in God's grip! G. Todd Williams (c) 2018
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AuthorRev. G. Todd Williams lives in the Houston metro area and is a Hospice Chaplain at Essential Hospice, Webster, Texas, and is an ordained Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) pastor. Archives
May 2023
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