Hospital Visits

And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4

As a pastor, I have made a lot of hospital visits over the years. My hospital Clergy badge has grown old and turned a different color. The picture of me was taken in my early 30s. I'm creeping up on 50! That badge has allowed me access to some of the hardest times in the lives of families.

Yesterday, I wore my badge, visited, and prayed for another church member and his family. I left a bit discouraged. Please don't misunderstand; it was not the patient or his family. I love them and feel honored to minister to them. No, I was down about sickness in general. I've grown so tired of watching precious people deal with illness, pain, and uncertainty. So many tears have fallen.

I'm encouraging myself with this verse that promises that for a child of God, there is coming a day when there will be no more sickness, pain, or tears. We won't even need tissues. It says that God Himself will wipe every tear from our eyes.

What a glorious picture! What a glorious promise! What a glorious day! What a glorious God!!

Dear Heavenly Father, We get discouraged when we consider all the families dealing with sickness and pain. Thank You for being with them in these trying times. And thank You that one day, You will banish all tears from our experience. With great love, we pray this in Jesus' Name. Amen.