Last week I was in hospital for a scheduled operation and for a short period my routine and predictable world was turned upside down. I had to let go of my independence and rely on the help of others. I was vulnerable: not easy for me.
Laptops were stored away, phones were out of reach, and the TV sound didn’t work. I gradually started to notice the details of the actions and voices of those around me. This is what I noticed.
It gave me a first-hand insight into the grace and beauty of those who work in health care, in particular, Catholic health care. I was acutely aware of their faithful discipleship in action. Lawrence, who had previously worked at the old fish markets for 15 years, collected me from ED and wheeled me to another part of the hospital for an ultrasound. He could tell I was apprehensive so to keep me engaged he told me all about the best fish to buy, different ways to cook it and what sauces to add. Lawrence was gentle and generous. He knew we would never cross paths again but on that brief morning he was a holy presence.
On another occasion, I watched and listened to Kristy, the doctor in ED as she went about meeting the varied and demanding needs of the sick patients and their stressed families. She maintained an open and gracious presence to all despite the late hour, the agitated relatives and the constant stream of patients. As I watched on, I noticed that she was also teaching and guiding a younger intern about his clinical decisions and possible next best steps. There in the dark night and in the midst of the uncertainty and anxiety was Kristy’s competent, reassuring voice of care.
I keep reflecting on these experiences and in the light of the Gospel reading this Sunday, Matthew 22: 1-14, I wonder whether I’ve often overlooked the importance of the living Gospel? In the Gospel the King calls a Wedding feast and invites the important local people. Unfortunately, they make excuses because they are too busy, too preoccupied or disinterested to attend. It is the street people, prostitutes, beggars and tax collectors who hear the invitation to follow Christ and respond. The mostly unlikely are called and respond.
The gentleness and generous care I witnessed last week reminds me of keeping the focus on the centrality of the Living Gospel message- the grace of good works and everyday discipleship.
There are many ways to say yes to the invitation to participate in God’s wedding banquet. I was privileged to see the tender goodness of those who care for the anxious, sick and vulnerable.
by Virginia Ryan