What Gift Has God Given You?နမူနာ

Christians have always shown mercy to the sick. Roman Christians founded the earliest known hospital, and Florence Nightingale pioneered the first school for professional nursing.

Have you ever wondered why hospitals are so synonymous with Christianity? Why is the symbol for a Pharmacy a Christian cross around the world?

The key lies in the testimony of John the Baptist, who described Christ’s model, “the blind receive sight, the lame walk… the deaf hear… and the good news is proclaimed to the poor” (Matthew 11:5).

Perhaps Christ’s most powerful teaching on medical care is a story about a Good Samaritan who provides a perfect stranger with a ‘hospital’ bed and then writes a blank cheque to ensure they receive intensive care around the clock. We’re told, “The one who showed... mercy” was a good neighbor, and then the command comes, “Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10:37).

We have seen how healthcare systems can be overwhelmed even in wealthier countries. Perhaps we have been more grateful than ever for what we have, as our eyes are open to those worldwide who don’t have the same access to healthcare.

Fanta’s story

Fanta is a nurse from Cameroon. She worked with a 10-lb tumor growing under her right arm for ten years. She’d dreamed of wearing a nursing uniform since a young girl. Hiding the melon-sized tumor made it difficult to wear her uniform, so she hid it under draped shawls. Despite her long career as a nurse, Fanta did not have access to safe surgery.

How can I expect people to respect me as a nurse and not be scared themselves when I am too afraid to do anything about my problem? My colleagues told me I would die if I tried to have it removed or if I left it too long.

The world’s largest charity hospital ships operated by Mercy Ships gave Fanta the hope she needed to overcome her fear.

The nurses at the ship were so compassionate and loving. They kept reassuring me that everything was going to be more than OK, and something in me trusted them.

Mercy Ships volunteers removed Fanta’s tumor at no charge, changing her life and giving her the confidence she’d longed for.

I can now lift my arms with ease! I will be able to dress like the other ladies at my hospital. My husband has already bought me some new fabric so I can make more dresses that show off my arms!”

Reflect: How have you experienced mercy in your own life and walk with God?

In challenging times, it is natural to turn our focus inwards towards needs close to home, but Jesus’ decree rings loud and clear: don’t stop loving your neighbor, don’t stop caring for the poor who are sick. Show mercy to the people who need your help when you have money, time, or skills from God to help them.

When you have read today’s passages, spend some time in prayer asking God to show you how to show love for Him by showing mercy to other people. Ask yourself, how can I use what I have to care for brothers and sisters in lower-income countries as well as in my local area? Find out more on the Mercy Ships website: www.mercyships.org.uk

Please take a moment to share this devotional with the rest of your church. You can also celebrate your church’s skills and talents by using the Skills Sundaypack— download the pack here.