The Longsuffering of Job

I use that title loosely because I don't really want to know what Job encountered in his experience. These past few weeks, I have been dealing with a case of the shingles. (does that make me a roofer?) I was diagnosed a couple of weeks before Mission Trip but after treatment by the Doctors, was able to attend Sr. High Mission Trip. I was thinking about my personal irritation with being sick this morning. I don't do sick very well. But then I don't know very many people who do. Being sick is not only an inconvenience it can be painful and downright uncomfortable. I haven't spent any time wondering why me or why now because sickness comes to everyone. We just have to endure it, make plans to get better and move on. But patience is not one of my virtues when it comes to being unable to do my work. However, I am reminded every time that the pain returns that I am human and that I am loved. My wife looks after me as best that she can. My co-workers on the Mission Trip looked after me as much as I let them. Members of the church have been praying for me and have sent cards and made calls. All-in-all I am aware of what love and support comes from a community of faith. I still don't like being sick but I know I am not going through this discomfort alone. They are even so kind as to say that the beard I have grown to cover up the spots on my face looks good. ( Some of these people need glasses!) Well, I suppose beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Well, given my nature, I'd rather be well. But perhaps being sick has its up side too. I have had some more time for a nap on occasion and I have had some time to think about my life and my work. If you have been sick and need to talk about it, why not come by the church. We meet every week and would love to share what God has done in our lives and who knows, you might get to share too. Have a beautiful week. Allen