The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

An unexpected infection that needed surgery caused a seven-night stay in my local hospital. I’ve never been so sick. At times I felt like a science project. Each intravenous antibiotic had an adverse reaction, so oxycontin was prescribed, then morphine to relieve the pain, which morphed into a wave nausea, then anti-nausea meds, which then caused other issues.

After what felt like an eternity, it looked like I was going home with an antibiotic that worked for me. I signed the release papers, dressed, and proceeded to walk out of the room. My nurse stopped me from leaving due to my sodium level, which required twelve hours of intravenous feed. I just wanted to cry. And I don’t know why but the feed was uncomfortable and painful. I sent my husband home as I couldn’t hear him because the pain surrounded me.

I thought about Jesus on the cross and realized I have nothing to compare. I thought about those with cancer or diseases that need to be hooked to IV machines for not twelve hours but for months, years at a time. It humbled me and brought new insight into compassion.

At my lowest point, I scrolled thru emails to distract me. And an email from Revell Publishing informed me that they accepted my devotional for their book Food for the Soul. As some of you know, I am trying to get my biblical novel published and having other writings accepted helps. I cried and thought of the verse: The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

I marveled at the timing of how this happened, not the day before or the day after, but when I was at my lowest. God’s grace shone through.

Right after this wonderful news, the nurse came in to check on me. I told her of my discomfort, and she brought me little heating pads that eased the pain.

I thought about the angels I met over the week. Nurses who work such long hours and are surrounded by suffering. It is a true calling. I wanted to shower the day before surgery and thought of a cold, sterile room where the facilities were. Julie, one of the nurse’s aides, turned the shower on ahead of time so I wasn’t waiting for hot water, which made the room warmer. It was a little thing, but it made such a difference.  The housekeeper who emptied the trash daily was so cheerful and left me with Bible verses and blessings. The many nurses daily showed empathy and care.

I just read that many nurses are leaving the profession due to unruly patients. In our pain, we must still be kind and understand the many demands they respond to. We can also be a light in someone’s life. Julie shared with me that she had to leave her home at 18 and live independently. She wanted to go to college but needed to work. The nurse working that night told me Julie was her favorite and that she wants to be a nurse. The next day Julie and I talked again, and I assured her she would get there because she has what it takes. Let’s see each other as individuals whom God beloves, not just our roles or jobs.

Let us pray for all hospital staff to give them strength, patience, continued compassion, and a sense of humor. For all those suffering from illness, let us pray for God’s healing hand and peace that passes all understanding for mind, body, and soul, and for all caretakers to find rest and assurance that they are not alone. Let us pray we are kind to one another. AMEN

There is no place like home. And I’m so grateful for the prayers and thoughts of friends and family. Peace be unto you.