Upon entering the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, one is confronted by a stained-glass window whose central panel bears the inscription “To cure sometimes, to relieve often, to comfort always.” In light of the circumstances we now face it is foremost on my mind how to serve those that are in need. Some, especially the infirmed and elderly are reticent to receive visitors. It is almost impossible to gain entrance to a hospital to pray for the sick. Nursing homes and Re-habilitation centers are still on lock down even to family members. I confess it is a bit depressing.

   There are several instances when those afflicted with leprosy cried out to Jesus and begged for mercy. One in particular recorded in the Gospel of Mark stands out in my mind. Mark 1:40-42. “A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees, ‘if you are willing, you can make me clean.’ Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cured.” (this helps my depression 😊) Jesus was filled with compassion.

   I know it is difficult to find ways to reach out and help. Fear of the unknown, conflicting news reports and the coldness of suffering and death deeply affect all of us. One thing we know for sure, we can all be uplifted by compassion. Reach out where you can. Pray every day for those around you. Read the Scriptures and trust God to bring peace and comfort through his Word. Whatever you do don’t give up. God will not fail us. Everything is going to be alright.

To cure sometimes, to relieve often, to comfort always!