Impossible you say?

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory now and forevermore. Eph 3:20-21

Can’t be done! Never done that before! No way, not possible!

Ever heard those words? Ever uttered those words to someone looking for hope or help? Doesn’t feel very good does it…either to hear them or say them.

You are a person of hope serving in a place of hope, who longs to help others and to find help yourself when in need.  So, what do you do when it looks grim? Remember this, as a person of faith you are never alone, you are an agent of hope and help doing what you can to guide folk on their journey.

Friday evening a remarkable story was shared by Dr. Loren Humphrey and Mr. Tom Olofson. Seeking help some 30 years ago for the aggressive cancer growing in his neck Tom had heard the words, “Impossible,” “Never done,” “No hope.” But through a dogged determination to find hope wherever it might be, and eventually through a neighbor’s suggestion, Tom met Dr. Humphrey. What makes the story even more remarkable is that Dr. Humphrey did not serve at the “big name centers” like Mayo or MD Anderson, rather he gladly served at SMMC, where the nursing staff is second to none, the quality of care is excellent, and a spirit of trust and faith pervaded his practice. He was not afraid of the “impossible. “Nothing is impossible for God,” Dr. Humphrey said, as he told the story of this surgery 30 years ago, Mr. Olofoson is living proof.

Dr. Humphrey mentioned four things which in his opinion are really important in finding healing: 1) The patient’s spirit, determination and faith, 2) The family support allowing for a healing focus 3) Determined and competent medical care and 4) Trusting God’s providence. Dr. Humphrey impresses you as a humble man who demonstrates, as do other dedicated agents of hope, the adage: “Today I am going to do what others won’t, so tomorrow I will be able to do what others can’t!” It all starts with the resolve to find away, to fulfill your calling and attempt what might seem improbable, even impossible so others can find hope and help.

In a few moments you will be seeing patients, making a phone call, answering questions. Remember, you are an agent of help and hope, doing what you can to guide people on their journey and you are not alone.

Much more than medicine indeed!  

Peter Peter Bath, D.Min.
V.P Spiritual Wellness & Human Development
Shawnee Mission Medical Center