Surgeon by Adam Ciesielski at freeimages.com
A few weeks ago, I was visiting some close friends and church members in the emergency room. The brother had symptoms connected with heart problems, following a recent surgery. An ambulance was called and they were receiving care. The ER doctor wanted them to see a cardiologist. The nurse was telling us about the cardiologist she thought was on call. She was complimenting his medical professionalism as a doctor. The family actually knew the doctor and his family who are from the same town. This is when the nurse paused and told us a story that really impressed her.
The nurse said all hospital doctors, but especially cardiologists, are known for being very busy and not having time. She remarked that it is hard to get them to call you back, or stop long enough to listen to your question. They are typically focused on what they need to do. This fact is what makes this story special. This cardiologist was making his rounds on a floor that saw the nurses being hammered with work. They were all running behind and short-staffed. The cardiologist was making his call on an elderly patient who could not feed himself. The nurses had not been able to feed him yet. The doctor observed this need. Seeing the problem, he sat down and started feeding this gentlemen. Anyone who has ever done such a task knows it is a slow process that requires patience and love. One of the nurses shockingly observed this site and the story became legend throughout the hospital.
I loved this story. It shows a doctor who hasn’t forgotten where he came from and who is important. It shows a humble and servant-driven doctor. When I heard this story, I thought of Jesus. This is Christ-like service. This is service for the least among us. When we model Christ-like service it will be noticed. Others will see Jesus in us!
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.””
(Mark 10:45)
1 comment
We all need to slow down and serve.