“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
He handed me the holy card from her funeral; I knew it was a sacred gift and accepted it as such.
One of the rewards for delivering Meals on Wheels is getting to know clients in short bursts. I have found that by just showing up, I become the face, the ears and then the heart of Christ. I had delivered meals for this couple and knew the wife was suffering from cancer. I’d switched routes for a few months and when I returned, there was only one meal listed for that address. So I knew.
I don’t remember if I asked how he was when he responded to my knock. As soon as he opened the door, he told me about his wife’s death. Then he shared much more: that she was his friend’s sister, who first spurned his attention; how he persisted and within several weeks they were engaged; and that they were married for almost 70 years.
His love for her, written on his face, permeated his words. I didn’t say much of anything. I shared his sorrow, just listening, and tried to be present to him as the heart of Jesus.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, you know our joys and our sorrows intimately, for you lived them just as we do. May we always be ready to show love to others, becoming your very heart. We humbly pray. Amen.
Deaconess Nancy Walter, Schererville, IN
