Surgery was pending and I was not a fan of pain nor do I tolerate most medications. I had previously only been hospitalized two times, for the birth of my two sons. Immediately upon being told the dreaded “C” word was my diagnosis and surgery was being scheduled I called in The Great Physician, Jesus.

As one reads through the Gospels and learns of Jesus encounter with the blind man, with the woman who had an issue of blood for twelve years, the leper, and so many other healings that He performed, Jesus sometimes is referred to as The Great Physician.

My surgeon called me to say that prior to surgery I would be wheeled from the pre-op to the nuclear medicine department for a necessary test (pre-surgery). She emphasized there would be no anesthesia for this test and it is quite painful. I began my preparations: prayers were reaffirmed as I had already sent my request to The Great Physician. I visualized a pain-free procedure. A powerful hymn resonated throughout my being. Its strong words repeated in my mind, “…be still and know that I am God.”

Such amazing peace enveloped me as the gurney wheeled me to nuclear medicine. Omitting details of the graphic procedure, it involved four parts. After the first part was over, the attending nurse asked if I was ok. Rather bewildered, I replied, “I was indeed fine and when were they going to start?” Perplexed I was told that one of the four procedures had been completed. No pain. No awareness of any discomfort. Had I traveled to my “happy place?” I know with absolute conviction, that the Great Physician was attending me. He created a pain-free atmosphere and was surrounding me with His presence and unconditional love. After the testing procedure was concluded and the gurney headed to the operating room, an OR attendant asked me if I was a “believer.” Nodding, I replied, “Yes.” She then asked me if I knew that my surgeon prayed over every patient of hers once they arrived in the operating room. My smile was ear to ear. Jesus, our Great Physician, was sending more confirmation that He was in charge. Find comfort knowing Jesus is within you, as our Redeemer, Emmanuel, and The Great Physician.

Jill