“Call 9-1-1,” my son shouted.
My brother’s feeding tube had come out. His health had been failing the past few months, and the doctors suggested Hospice Care and the reduction of his feedings. My heart tightened at the thought of withholding someone’s nourishment. As I saw the feeding tube lying disconnected, I thought God was making the decision for me. So I didn’t need to call 9-1-1. Instead, I would call Hospice and start the process. My brother’s body began jumping. He needed his seizure medicine. The feeding tube was the only source to deliver the needed medication. I calmly called 9-1-1.
While the surgeon replaced the feeding tube, a nurse stood bedside stroking my brother’s head and reassuring him. Her soft strokes spoke compassion. I shared with her the decision that hung heavy on my heart. With tear-filled eyes she responded, “I made that decision two weeks ago for my father.” Her goodbye hug revealed she knew my pain.
My brother wasn’t the only one who needed nourishment Sunday morning. I wanted to claim the promise God made to Joshua. The words God spoke to him replayed quickly in my mind, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
That promise is still God’s commitment to believers and can be claimed by each of us. I know God was there in the midst of my brother’s illness. Share your tough decisions with God and He promises His abiding presence will be with you. He
never withholds His nourishment. My brother is now dancing in heaven with his new body.
(Photo courtesy of office.microsoft.com.)
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Oh, dear friend. How beautifully you've expressed your love for Billy and God's love for you both. Jeff and I really did need to read Joshua 1:9, to encourage us for the coming week. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. We love you.