Soul Snack 8/115 ... 'The Long Haul.'
Disregarding entirely any personal interest she reaches out with the intrepid faith of an ancient mariner.
Time and fatigue were no recognised toll for this merciful helper. Their need greater than hers. All her reserves that night she had already given to him. Faithfulness her delight, kindness her desire.
Every nurturing instinct lay focussed, indeed magnified into her now crimson lap. Still he lay. Motionless and completely dependent.
Her timely attention, her self-giving, her significant disregard for personal comfort would save a life that night. This faithful act would reap reward.
She held no explanation for his dilemma, he held much desperate need.
Seated now on a cool and most isolated pavement, their remoteness signaled no passing help.
She knew no medicine, he needed unknown love.
They held no relationship, Jesus held her. (And then of course him!)
In an excruciatingly difficult posture she sat whispering prayers of hope across this 'war torn' body. Skilled help was still expectantly absent.
A slowly soaking drizzle enveloped the bright and beaming street lights. Still she sat. Still she nursed and still she prayed.
She had no idea as to how this would end, or when it would. Yet she was there for 'the long haul', for she knew He who does know.
Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matt 25:37-40