This past week I helped out at the nursing school where my wife works. Some of the students were going through a simulation regarding end of life – how to handle themselves when someone dies at the hospital, including how to interact with the grieving family of the one who just passed. In this time, I play the role of the family’s pastor, being alongside them during their time of need. I’ll be honest, it was really uncomfortable this year. It was uncomfortable because while this week I sat next to a mannequin and an actor, it has been a year since I’ve been able to be by your sides, helping you through these difficult times. It has been a year since I’ve been able to visit you in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and your homes. It has been a year since I’ve had any meaningful interaction.
I’ll be honest. Up until this week, I’ve been good. As an introvert, I was perfectly fine with the concept of isolation. I was content studying, preparing sermons, recording messages, reading, and doing all those things behind the scenes. Yet, this week really showed me how much I miss you all. I miss our conversations. I miss our hugs. I miss my hands holding yours in times of difficulty, and yours holding mine as you help guide me along in our church life. I miss it. I grieve it! And I’m sure you have as well.
After each simulation at the nursing school, there is a time for what is called debriefing, a conversation between the instructor and students as to what has gone right and what corrections could be made for the future. I think, after a year of all this, it’s time for a debrief – a conversation between you and I about where we are, where we’re headed, what has worked, and what hasn’t. We’re only going to be able to move forward together if we are all on the same page. So, who will join me in this conversation? Who will participate in our debrief when it is all over? I look forward to hearing from you.
Pastor Steve