The Cat's lesson

I was sick and you looked after me.  Matthew 34:36

Saturday, my plan was to work, relax and then spend Sunday with God and my family.  

God interrupted.  I could not get out of bed.   Tummy trouble.  

It is winter and many viruses and flu strains have been going around, 

so it was not surprising that I would catch something.

So while the rest of the family went to church, I laid on the sofa and slept; or tried to.

As I napped on the couch, our little kitten, 

who generally prefers his own company, came an laid down beside me and kept me company.

As I reflected on it later; when I was feeling better, 

it occurred to me that I often shy away from visiting people who are sick.

I justify it by saying:

I don't know what to say

I don't know what to do

I feel awkward.

Yet Jesus said  "I was sick and you looked after me"

As I was thinking about this, I realized that this kitten had given the perfect example.

He didn't come wanting to play,

or eat food.

He didn't even want attention.

He just came and laid down beside me.

Sometimes, we fall into the trap lie that we have to do something,

say something.

But when someone  is sick, perhaps, the best thing; 

the only thing that they care about is that you are there.

They may not care if you talk at all.  

Sitting next to them

holding their hand.

We often assume that, because they are sick, hurt, broken they want to be left alone.

Yet, they often want company.   

Not the company of friends who want to talk incessantly, 

who want to judge and accuse as Jobs friends did. 

But instead, to sit, 

to listen

to pray,

to encourage.

My sickness has given me a new perspective on how to help those who are ill.

I can sit and listen.  

Somehow it frees me.  I don't have to do anything.

I just have to be there.