Kiss of Death

I was visiting a patient who was actively dying. She was

somewhat unresponsive but still aware of what we were saying an doing around her. I spoke kindly to her, prayed for her, and when I was leaving, I kissed her on the forehead.

As soon as I did it, I felt at risk. She obviously had a fever. Within a few hours I was sick, weak and about to spend several days in bed. She likely had a virus which was incidental to her terminal illness.

Looking back on this, I don't regret kissing her goodbye. It was the right thing to do. The few days of illness I suffered were worth the loving send-off I was able to give her.

I think that there are times in life where we not only take a calculated risk, but sometimes, a calculated and intended loss for the greater good.

I would do the same thing over again if put in the same situation. Sometimes, the lesson isn't to AVOID the action that cost us, but to continue to be willing to sacrifice when others need it.

My hope is that sacrifice would become a more common choice for God's people if and when needed.

Blessings,

Pastor Joel

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