Home Visit

A couple nights ago, Herbert asked George and I to accompany him and his wife to the house of someone who needed prayer. We, of course, said yes and around 6:30pm, headed across town to Lucy's house. Lucy is a policewoman who has been struggling with illness for a long time. She is a believer, but has been very discouraged. The doctors told her she has kidney and liver failure. When we arrived, we were welcomed warmly by her and her family. After chit chatting for a bit, we entered into a time of worship, prayer and Bible Study. As the group sang songs, George and another man prayed for her fervently. Although I didn't know the Kiswahili songs they were singing, I could feel the love of God in that room. After praying over Lucy, George shared from John followed by me sharing briefly from Psalm 139 which is a Psalm I find much comfort in.

I believe when we left, Lucy was feeling encouraged. It was a really special time and I left thinking this should happen more often. How often do we suffer alone? When times are tough, we (myself definitely included) try to put on a brave face when inside we are dying. We should be more willing to say to others, I need help...I am sick, hurting, without enough money to pay this bill, filled with anger or whatever is causing us sorrow. We need others to come around us to pray for and encourage us. After all, that is what the Bible tells us to do. We don't need to go through life's trials alone. We need to set aside our pride, shame, feelings of not wanting to bother anyone or whatever other reason we tell ourselves and reach out to our friends, family and church. We are blessed to belong to the family of Christ that connects us in a special way so let's use it for what God intended it to be. Some times that is the lifeline we need to get through tough times.

The next day, George and I went back to Lucy's house for more prayer, Bible Study and fellowship. Again, it was a neat time. She and her sister are so friendly and practically begged us to stay all day and night. They would be happy if we stayed with them for a week. We know that Lucy needs more than a one time visit, so we plan to spend time with her on a regular basis. We want to study James whenever we are together. If you get a chance, remember to lift Lucy up in your prayers - for physical healing and spiritual encouragement.