…and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. (From Like 9:1-6)

At last night’s cross country meet, I ran into an old friend who also works in healthcare.  We discussed the difficulties and division that have crept into medicine and how the doctor/patient relationship has become strained as politics have unnecessarily and unfortunately infiltrated nearly every discussion regarding the treatment and prevention of certain diseases.  So many in healthcare—whether they’re nurses, aides, physicians, emergency responders, administrators, lab/X-ray personnel—are hanging on by a thread (just as folks in all professions are), but then today this Gospel reading shows up and reminds me that this is what God had called me (and so many of us) to do—heal the sick and proclaim the love of the Kingdom of God!  So, my sisters and brothers in Christ, you may not be called into medicine, but you are called to proclaim love and live with love and to serve others with your profession!  Keep your head up, keep fighting the good fight, and know Jesus accompanies you on the journey!  Amen!