Deeply Grateful
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
There are moments that divide life into before and after. Last September became one of those moments for me when I had a medical emergency which nearly cost me my life. My neighbours kindly rushed me to The Mediterranean Hospital of Cyprus, Limassol, on that quiet Sunday afternoon, where I later discovered my pancreas had ruptured!
I am deeply grateful to the medical staff of the hospital, particularly to internists Dr Dimitrios Bestitzanos and Dr Rizakis Nektarios, head gastroenterologist Dr Ioannis Anastasiou, head surgeon Dr Michalis Vasiloglou and internist (diabetology) Dr Tereza Georga, who treated me with phenomenal expertise, patience and kindness. I am also sincerely thankful to the nursing staff for their commitment and level of care during my weeks of hospitalisation.
As one member of staff remarked, "We do the work, God does the healing."
In God's hands
The Psalmist David wrote in Psalm 31, “My times are in Your hand.” He was keenly aware that his survival depended on God.
Before last September, I knew that life was fragile, but when God allows us to experience how tenuous it is, those words carry weight.
Life is an amazing gift we are to cherish, aware that its purpose is to know our Creator and to prepare for life after death. The Bible says:
His (God's) divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue. 2 Peter 1:3
I am humbled that God spared my life, particularly since we already had a bereavement in the family, when God took my father home in November. I was acutely conscious of the power of prayer during those difficult moments and would like to thank all who prayed for my recovery. Thanks also to the family members who came to Cyprus to look after me and to the local friends who gave their support.
As I reflect on all I passed through, I confess with the Psalmist: my life is in God’s hands.
Gratitude
Gratitude is not always loud. Sometimes it is just a whispered, “Thank You, Lord,” when no one else is around. Sometimes it is choosing not to complain about what once would have irritated me, because I remember that I am still alive.
I now find myself thanking God for things I once took for granted. The ability to eat a healthy meal. The chance to see the sea and breathe fresh air. The simple blessing of being present, and the joy of God's nearness.
I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD. Psalm 118:17
Trust in God
We often go through valleys where we learn to trust God. His presence is there during the deepest trials of life. He will never leave us nor forsake us, and will give us the rest we desire.
Jesus said:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Thank You for sparing my life, Lord. Thank you for all Your mercies and for the gift of salvation. Thank You for the medical staff of The Mediterranean Hospital of Cyprus. Bless them abundantly I pray. Amen.
Beautifully written Olive - The Lord has a plan for all of our lives . 🙏❤️