Words of Encouragement

The theme for Spring 2020 is “we’re all in this together.” I have been pondering what “this” is. “This” is not a virus that kills people. That’s not what we’re all in together.

“This” is the agonizingly constant change we face daily.

“This” is separation from our own families and friends.

“This” is having your freezer, fridge, and pantry stocked up and not feeling like eating.

“This” is having lovingly served your patients for weeks or months or years and then learning in an email that they died and you didn’t get to say goodbye.

“This” is your mind imagining what is the worst that could happen and still summoning the courage to do your job and go about your lives.

“This” tells us we can’t actually do this “together,” but six feet apart wearing masks and gloves.

“This” is a terribly difficult time.

I draw strength from my faith. Many times, when I’m surrounded by family and praying over a patient who passed, I quote a very important promise: 

The LORD’S loving kindnesses indeed never cease for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. (Lamentation 3:32-33)

Scripture promises that God’s mercies – like glorious fresh baked bread – are new every morning. We don’t have to depend on stale, day-old mercy and grace. We don’t have to wait until tomorrow for the yeast to raise the loaf. Strength to face each day is available – ready and waiting – for each day.

One of the greatest loving kindnesses God gives us is the confidence that we are partners with Him. Think of the story of the Good Samaritan. Good Sam stepped in and addressed an immediate need. He had no assurance of a good outcome and he actually put himself at risk in helping the fallen man. But he did the right thing at the moment of need. That is all any of us can do. And when we do that, we join God in helping with his greater plan.

“This” is a tough time. “This” is not normal. “This” will not last forever.

THIS is a great day to trust that what you do today matters and to do your best.

God has already blessed your day with mercy and grace.

Go, give it all away.

There will be more tomorrow!

God bless you.​

Clark Smith
Chaplain
Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care

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