A Missed Opportunity – Bryan Hutson
When I got to the ER, many of the family were already there.
The Doctor’s were concerned that there could be some damage due to Granny being without her oxygen. I went back with Mom and talked to Granny. She knew me and I kissed her on the forehead.
While we waited for her tests to come back (all good) and they would (eventually) send her home, a very distraught man was also in the waiting area.
One of the ER nurses said that his girlfriend had been “air-cared” to Indianapolis. There had been a grease fire at their home and she was badly burned. He was waiting on someone to come and get him.
When they finally dismissed Granny, I walked over to the man and said “I’m gonna be praying for you.” I said a prayer for him as I headed home, but there we were (probably 20 or more) a church going, praying family whose seen our share of loss, tragedy, and YET, we have witnessed God’s faithfulness and His touch on our family. I believe we missed an opportunity to minister and AT LEAST pray WITH this man.
I’m NOT blaming or condemning my family, NOT AT ALL, I’m pointing the finger at ME. He needed to hear about Jesus. He needed a friend.
There, that day, I had an opportunity to BE Jesus to this man. No, I can’t walk on the water, or even heal his hurts, but I could’ve shown him love and compassion and maybe introduce him to the ONE who can save him.
Matthew 25:40- “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Now, more than ever, the world needs Jesus. He is calling US to be His hands and feet.
1 Peter 3:15-“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..”
Are you looking for opportunities to be Jesus? May that be ALL of our prayer today.
Prayer starter: “Lord, forgive me for not being who You called me to be. Give me NOW MORE THAN EVER, a heart for those who need You. May I never miss an opportunity like that again. In Jesus name. Amen.”