Voices of the Faithful - January 27th (page 32)
The Great Physician

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who
proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to
Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’ ” Isaiah 52:7 (NIV)

The lines of tired, undernourished people grew as they waited to see one
of three nurses. Many of the women had babies at their breasts and several
small children clinging to their skirts. Some people walked miles to
get the first medical care they had ever received. Some waited all day
without having any food or water. In this faraway valley, food and water
were scarce commodities.

As these quiet and humble people sat in front of me, flies dotted
their faces. I recognized their obvious need for medical attention, but I
saw a much deeper need. The darkness in which they lived needed to be
penetrated by our Great Physician. After I prescribed pills, creams or
syrups to meet their physical needs, I prayed with them, knowing that
the Holy Spirit would meet their spiritual needs if they would let Him.
After my silent prayer, a very old lady approached the table. She had
lived 80-plus years in darkness and oppression. I handed her some pills,
and I prayed for her.

I asked if she had ever heard of Jesus. She said no. I shared with
her the wonderful plan of salvation He offered her if she only believed.
Excitedly, she said she wanted to know this Jesus!
As we prayed together, a new child of God was created. When I
opened my eyes, the beauty in her face looked almost youthful. She
had a new peace that circumstances could never take away. The Great
Physician had healed this lady for all eternity.

—Nancy, Sub-Saharan Africa

Father God, You truly are the One who mends broken lives. Thank You for being
the Balm of Gilead for all who need a touch from You. Use medical missionaries
today to bring Your physical and spiritual healing to the needy. Amen.

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Read more "Voices of the Faithful" devotions from Sub-Saharan Africa.