The Power of Prayer
eman, struggling to breathe through an oxygen mask, surrounded by his three grown daughters. Obviously upset, they were genuinely grateful for my presence and curious regarding my connection to the church. Unsure of what to say, I suggested we pray. Still uncertain, I invited the Holy Spirit to intervene through the words of my mouth and mediations of my heart to bring comfort and reassurance in this moment. Upon completion of my spontaneous series of requests, acknowledgments and gratitude, the room felt much lighter. We all felt better, and each of the family members was visibly more vibrant, encouraged and content.
I say this not to impress you but to impress upon you the simple power of prayer, and the opportunity every moment offers for making magic. Not everything is happy but there is happiness in everything, especially when we can release the need to control and allow ourselves to experience the essence of our immediate existence.
Like my work with Make a Wish, I felt like I had gained more strength from the family than they from me. It was their love, gratitude and peace that fueled the fire of our connection in that moment, and wrapped us in the love and warmth of the universe and the power of the Holy Spirit.
I stayed for a short time, asking how else I could help, then left briefly to retrieve my badge from the Chaplain’s office. This was not only my first night on call, but also my first actual call.
Usually being on call is just that; a precautionary plan to be available in the off chance that existing resources are not sufficient to support a specific situation. Leave it to me to be the first ever to actually be called on my first night on call as a volunteer Hospital Chaplain.
Who am I to bring comfort to a family in crisis only a few days before Christmas? I am still unsure of the answer, but savor that opportunity to serve. Never underestimate the power of prayer and the magic you can make in a moment.
