“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Walking from First Thrift to the church office, I gasped for air. That same day, I went to the doctor, who told me something was happening with my heart. The ball started to roll—in just a few weeks I had numerous tests done and a heart catheterization. I needed open heart surgery, and without it, I would die. As you can imagine, this was a lot to take in and process. I was always told to give all my concerns to God. For the first time in my life, I did. This was my prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, I am so thankful that I am your
daughter. Please, Lord, I can’t deal with this. I have
to give it all to you. Please take all the fear away from
me. I love you, Lord Jesus!

Instantly, I was at peace. Never again was I fearful about the upcoming surgery. I was so blessed to know that my Lord and Savior was taking care of me! I had open heart surgery on February 3, 2020. Pastor Su met me at the hospital and prayed with me before surgery. First Church was amazingly generous to me before and after my surgery. I cannot begin to tell you how grateful I am for the incredible kindness this beautiful church family displayed when I needed it the most. They reminded me how valued, loved, and cared for I am.

The church members displayed their generosity to me in endless ways. They sent cards—many from people I had never met—and their prayers kept me going after the surgery. The eight days in the hospital were awful—I was weak, had two infections, poor focus, trouble swallowing, and pain. I told my heart surgeon I wished he had let me die. Five days later, I apologized to Dr. Soloman, the doctor who saved my life. I tell you this because you kept me going through your prayers. I will always be grateful to our Prayer Warriors!

This community provided cooked meals, groceries, many egg McMuffins, home visits, a TV with a built-in DVD player, Downton Abbey DVDs, a mobility bar, a basket of treats, and even a step stool so I could safely use the bathroom. A deacon comforted my daughter as she sobbed. One of our doctors visited twice a week. I received two envelopes overflowing with financial help, and one kind soul read the Bible to me when I told her I was having trouble focusing. One couple even had their son, a doctor at NCH, check on me daily. All of this helped me so much. Geri and JoAnn, our Parish Nurses, also brought me the Lord’s Supper; they took the time to call and visit regularly. I saw how valuable the Parish Nurse Ministry is to our community.

At first, it was not easy to accept help. But I realized that when we let others care for us, we allow them to work for the Lord. First Church members and staff taught me just how far generosity and Christian love can take you. Ordinary acts become extraordinary when a person is ill. I am forever grateful to all of you.

by Jill House