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You get what they don't need. They don't need platitudes. They don't need theological proof texts pointing to sin in their life. They don't need another burden -- the burden of condemnation, or forced cheerfulness, or a sense of obligation to try your sure-fire remedy. We talked about those in last week's post. But what can you do that your loved one will appreciate? What actions lighten their load and brighten their day? 1. Your gentleness and sensitivity. There's a reason hospitals are kept quiet. Sick people get easily stressed by noise and activity, and this impairs Continue Reading

Q: What's worse than facing day after week after month after year of poor health, with no answer in sight? A: Having your church friends tell you,   "The reason you're not healed yet is because you don't have enough faith."   Has anyone ever said as much to you? Or, have you heard those words come spilling out of your own mouth? The place of faith in healing is a subject worthy of a separate post, but for now, let's acknowledge most of us have been guilty of insensitivity toward those with long-term health problems. We act like Job's comforters, offering theological Continue Reading

My brother Wil has trouble hearing. As health problems will do, his condition sometimes causes him to feel frustrated, depressed and isolated. One day, he made plans to meet a good friend of his -- we'll call him John -- in a public parking lot. As Wil waited near his car, John approached him from out of his line of sight. Wil didn't notice him until John was almost right next to him. "You are hilarious!" grinned John. "I was right there and you didn't notice me!" On the outside, Wil managed a smile. On the inside, he was crushed. John was just being funny -- but by making light Continue Reading