“Whatever lies ahead, may I be singing when the evening
comes." ~ Matt Redman
The day was almost perfect - fresh
flowers, a peaceful view, and his favorite music, Matt Redman’s “10,000
Reasons.” Almost perfect . . . because
the old priest was dying. No more walks
in the park, no more baptisms. He’d not
see another snowfall.
The pain that once burned like fire had faded into an icy
numbness. He’d meet his maker soon as
well as all those who’d passed before him.
A certain joy filled the fragile heart that would soon beat for the last
time.
He was everything you'd want a priest to be - humble and
respectful, devoutly faithful, a rock in troubled times. Denying himself the personal comforts of
family and home life, Father O’Brien loved without boundaries and gave more
than he kept for himself. A true hero who
inspired all those who sought the Kingdom of God.
O’Brien took notice as the seasoned Oncologist entered the
room. She had a soldier’s posture; every
action was precise and purposeful. “Father,
I’m afraid we’ve done all we can,” she said in the cold and distant way
professionals do.
“You say that as if
it’s a bad thing?” he countered.
She nervously adjusted the IV drip, not sure what to say
next. “Can I ask you a question
Padre?”
“Of course,” he said managing a smile etched with the deep lines
of laughter and wisdom.
“The Catholic Church has been around for centuries, yet the
world seems more hostile and selfish than ever before. Hasn’t your Christianity failed?”
The gentle man paused before responding.
“Diabetes,” he began, breaths coming in ragged, shallow
gasps, “has been around long before Christ.
Over the past three decades, the number of people with diabetes has more
than doubled globally, making it one of the most important public health
challenges on earth. Despite the odds,
your profession continues seeking new ways to combat the epidemic, right?”
“I suppose,” she answered wondering where the old codger man
was going with this.
“Unlike me, Christianity is NOT on life support.” Pleased with his attempt at humor, the old
priest continued. “Christianity, like insulin,
must be applied daily if it’s to make a difference.”
“Christianity isn't normal anymore,” he continued. “It never should’ve been. We’re finding new ways of reaching people. Churches that thrive today are vibrant, cross-cultural
congregations that aren't afraid to be seen as atypical.”
Someone once asked Billy Graham, “If Christianity is valid,
why is there so much evil in the world?”
To this the famous preacher replied, “With so much soap, why are there
so many dirty people in the world?”
Father O’Brien had provided one final dash of hope before
his journey heavenward.
Lord God, make us to be a church that is
thankful to You and for You. May Your Word
and work captivate our hearts, minds and actions. Cause us to grow in Your Word and walk in a
manner worthy of it. Amen
