2 Corinthians 4:16-18 is found in the occasional services book and is suggested for use in times of illness or when one is near death. I tried to
read these words to a friend and colleague at Harris Hospital in
July of 2007 a few days before he died. I don’t know what I was thinking. His “slight
and momentary affliction” was neither slight nor momentary and witnessing his
body wracked in pain mocked these words meant for comfort. As I began to sob
uncontrollably Pastor Tom stopped me with a hand on my shoulder and
despite the obvious pain he was enduring said, “It’s alright Phil. The gospel I’ve
preached my whole life was good enough for me then and it’s good enough for me
now. I’m not afraid. And when I get there I’ll mention your name.” I can never
read these verses without thinking of that day and I’m grateful for the grace
extended to me by one who was infinitely more courageous and faithful than I
am which is why I’m glad Saint Tom intercedes for me even now though he might
need to do more than mention my name. Just sayin. Then again Jesus is the One who did the heavy lifting
for both St. Tom and me so that even our “my God, my God, why have you forsaken
me” moments are ultimately slight and momentary. So I guess I'll see you when I get there, Tom.
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