A few years ago, I was pretty sick - over a month's time I was hospitalized twice and had surgery. I lost many days due to the pain and medication and it took me a good six to eight months before I was really back to normal. The first time in the hospital, I can remember my husband putting my Rosary in my hand - but I could only get a few Hail Marys out. I remember feeling so sad that I could not focus and pray, but then I heard an internal voice say "It's ok, others are praying for you." This gave me such great peace.
I know there is a fear of visiting the sick - we might catch what they have and get sick ourselves - let us remember Jesus touched the Leper. And to be honest - today there are many things we can do to prevent us from getting sick - washing of hands, hand sanitizers, face masks, and such. Our fears should not be a determinant to visit others - to bring them peace. There may also be a problem with schedules and distance - in this case make a phone call. The sick needs the personal contact - it can be very comforting to hear someone else's voice. You can also send a personal note through the mail.
And, most important there is prayer - our prayers are powerful and very needed. Knowing others were praying form me when I could not pray showed me first hand the importance of praying and visiting the sick. I found the prayer by St. Augustine which is at the end of the blog post.
Now, the question became - what should I do this week as part of my Lenten observance. As I meditated and listened, I was drawn to sign-up with our local Catholic Hospital to be a Eucharistic Minister. I have done this in the past, but when my work schedule changed, I had to stop. Well, it's time once again.
Now, you might notice - this will go on long after Lent. My Spiritual Director pointed out before Lent started - that what we do for Lent - we should be ready to continue it after Lent. For example, if you decided to give more time to prayer - then that should continue. Lent is a time to change our bad habits that are getting in the way of our relationship with the Father. By giving up some of my time each month to serve the sick will help me to continue to work to take my focus off of me and my needs, and turn it to where it belongs - the Father and my brothers and sisters.
Up next week - visit the prisoner - this should be
interesting....
Watch, O Lord, with those
who wake, or watch or
weep tonight, and give your
angels charge over those
who sleep
Tend your sick ones, O Lord Christ.
Rest your weary ones.
Bless your dying ones.
Soothe your suffering ones.
Pity your afflicted ones.
Shield your joyous ones.
And for all your love's sake.
Amen.
by St. Augustine
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