Can I just say that the body of Christ has done its job well? When we had a miscarriage a little over a month ago, I was astounded by all the help we received from our church and OM. It was a blessing to get a couple of meals provided. We had many offers to babysit Asher while I was in hospital (can’t imagine why…). So many people offered their help, and we didn’t know what to do with it all.
Leon wanted to make certain to take up every offer of help. I thought we didn’t necessarily need the help, though. I felt bad—like we were using them. And besides, how were we going to have all these people help us when we didn’t necessarily need all the help?
As a friend of ours was giving us a lift to hospital the week I miscarried, either Leon or I made the comment that we didn’t know what to do with all the offers of help, and that we felt guilty for taking it. Our friend kindly reminded us that this is an opportunity to let the body of Christ do it’s job. Let them serve—we may not need it, but they need it.
This has been one of God’s blessings in the midst of losing our precious baby: We could allow the body of Christ do what they’re called to do. We let them come alongside us and meet our needs. We let them take us to and from hospital, bring us meals, sit with me in hospital, babysit, and keep me company at home. Never in my life have I imagined experiencing the body of Christ from this perspective! It’s humbling.
Because of this, I’ve been given a new perspective on the body of Christ. As far as I can remember I’ve always been on the giving end of it… not the receiving end (Acts 20:35). It’s very humbling. I find myself challenged to give more, especially out of the grief that we’re experiencing.
My brother is a pastor and he and his wife had a very similar experience to yours. I thought you might appreciate reading a similar perspective: http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevindeyoung/2013/03/19/pastors-ask-for-prayer/
Prayers for you and Leon as you continue through this journey. Thank you for sharing.
Ah, I didn’t know he’s your brother! :)
Thanks for sharing that link. It was encouraging to hear of similar experiences.