A Physician's Detour on the Journey Toward Simplicity

by: Amaryllis Sánchez Wohlever, MD

I start every year by choosing a theme. Usually the theme emerges over weeks, as I sense God leading me in a new direction. Last year, I chose a theme of simplicity. I felt led to begin by decluttering our home, focusing on one small space at a time. So I re-read Contentment (a book by my friend, Dr. Richard Swenson) and followed a few websites that inspire a journey toward simplicity. Our decluttering began with my bedroom closet and moved to the kitchen cabinets, bookshelves, kids' rooms, and so on. Slowly, 2016 became the year of simplifying, removing clutter, and reclaiming physical spaces to gain spaciousness of mind and spirit.

Halfway through the year, this physical decluttering was interrupted abruptly by a need for surgery and, later, some physical therapy for my arm. What began as an external process shifted into an internal restructuring, cleansing, and rebirth. A physician-turned-patient, I had to rely on others for daily tasks and also for inner strength, at times, with an even greater reliance on God through prayer.

Now that I'm back to decluttering our home, the inner journey to greater simplicity seems effortless. The immense gratitude that expands as you regain your strength and realize you're filled and surrounded by love is, at times, overwhelming. Although I could write about difficult moments, long waits for needed care, mistakes by well-meaning and very human medical personnel, and more, these memories keep fading. They've been overtaken by experiences of loving care that are cemented in my soul as reminders that I am loved deeply, and that God's love is powerful, tender, and healing.

What I remember most vividly is the kindness, the compassion, and the love I've received.

For years, I've spoken to healthcare professionals about Mother Teresa, the role model that drew me to medicine. She speaks of the power of a smile, of kindness, and of loving the person in front of you. We may not all do great things in this world, she says, but we can all do small things with great love. She's so right!

Small acts of kindness and love may seem insignificant, but they matter greatly. Though they are small, their impact can be far-reaching, for they touch the core of who we are and, often, our deepest needs.

Mother Teresa's wisdom took on a new dimension as I've lived the truth of her words this past year. As healthcare professionals, we must never underestimate the power of a smile, of appropriate touch, of silence, of positive words, of hope. These are the moments I remember, and they continue to bear fruit months later. These moments have power to bless, and to heal.

As physicians, we rely heavily on medications and various treatments while sometimes neglecting the power of empathy, of simple gestures, of love. As a physician and leader in healthcare who understands the impact of excessive regulatory burdens and the countless stressors that continue to threaten our profession, I know how critical it is for us to fight back. We need more time to care for the human being in front of us, and we need to take back control of how we do this. At stake is the very heart of medicine, and the sacredness of our profession.

We have much work to do in healthcare, and the road ahead is tough. I, for one, will continue to teach about the blessings and necessity of kindness and love in the exam room, for they have the power to transform the toughest journeys, one person at a time.

Spreading hope through kindness, forgiveness, and such not-so-small things,

Dr Mari

A few relevant reads: 

Purpose: An Antidote to Burnout

Hope for Physicians: A New Paradigm

Wisdom from Mother Teresa

A Story, A Prayer, and a Song

A Story

Last month I helped someone. It was so cool. We had one of those moments of connection that surprise. Words that can't quite be planned. They just seem to form and emerge at just the right time in just the right way.

In those moments, words can heal. Words are powerful.

That day, my words landed. They reached another human being's heart as I shared mine. And then I knew the person in front of me would leave knowing she was heard. Understood. Loved.

I live for those moments. It's part of why I am now a coach. I love how coaching focuses on the positive. On possibilities. On a future yet unknown that we can begin to create now. A tomorrow that is brighter than our present reality and, perhaps, our past. Very cool.

A Prayer

This week I spoke to someone else. Someone with trouble letting go. Listening helped. Words helped. A certain lightness began to fill the room. And, yet, I hoped for more for her. So much more.

So ... as she spoke ... as she shared her heart ... I shared mine with my God. Though she didn't know it, I lifted her up so high.   S o  v e r y   h i g h.

There is no gift like prayer. The one who prays is as blessed as the one lifted up to the One who hears like no one else. Cares like no one else. Loves like no one else. And can answer like no one else.

Through prayer, we live in God's presence. We are lifted higher. We connect with our Creator, and rest.

My hope for her ... is God. God's blessing. God's joy. God's rest. And I know He will answer.

A Song

My daughter played a song for us tonight. It rocks. It's by Matthew West, and it's titled Do Something. You will find it here. Enjoy, sing it out loud, and don't forget to...

Live!
Dr Mari

Be still and know that I am God. 

Psalm 46:10

For more on the power of prayer, read Prayer: A Way of Life.

Ever Walk on Sacred Space? Join Me!

I recently published an article titled Sacred Space: A Place of Encounter where I discuss special places where I've encountered God. One of these sacred spaces is right here in Central Florida, in the middle of everything: Canterbury Retreat Center. This December (5 & 6) I will be one of the leaders for a very special retreat at Canterbury focused on the power of prayer. Click on the link at the end of the article to find out more and to register. Here is the article.

“Silence is God’s first language,” wrote mystic St. John of the Cross in the 16th century. His quote was later expanded by 20th century monk Thomas Keating, who added, “Silence is God’s first language; everything else is a poor translation. In order to hear that language, we must learn to be still and to rest in God.”

So how do we do this in our fast-­paced, multitasking, technology-­driven 21st century world? Noise follows us everywhere we go. You can’t even sit in silence anymore in most restaurants or waiting rooms. We have TVs, radios, smartphones, music, interviews, reality shows, and seemingly endless chatter. Silence, however, must be pursued. And sacred spaces help us find it.

Sacred spaces. The very phrase evokes feelings and memories we long to relive. Most of us can think of special places we’ve visited that we consider sacred, though we may define the term in different ways. I’ve experienced a few such spaces in my life, and they’re all special for the same reason: I experienced God’s presence there.

My first sacred space was the church at the foot of the street where I grew up in Puerto Rico. It was the smallest church I’ve ever seen, simple and completely ordinary. The typical Sunday service was packed with twenty people. I don’t remember any of the sermons preached there. We had no choir or Sunday school. There were no bells rung that I can recall. But I do recall the peace I felt walking in, while I prayed, and as we sang together, and the profound sense of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist. All that, I remember well, and just thinking about it brings back showers of comfort and peace.

Canterbury Retreat Center is another special sacred space. I’ve been blessed to participate in retreats, icon workshops, and conferences there that helped me grow in my faith. And every time I’m there, I know I’m walking on sacred grounds.

I believe God’s Spirit dwells at Canterbury.

A sacred space is a place where we experience God’s presence. It is more about God’s Spirit than it is about the place itself. And the Holy Spirit is present at Canterbury. Places like my neighborhood church and Canterbury Retreat Center help modern-­day followers of Jesus find outer silence so we may experience inner stillness. They help us be still and rest in God, that we may return to the noise of the world changed—renewed and refreshed by God’s very presence and the Voice we can only hear in stillness.

Sacred spaces say, Come away and sit with God, close enough to hear His voice speak to your soul. Our part is to be intentional and pursue this stillness and silence. Our part is to leave the noise and go to that sacred space where we may “be still and know” that He is God (Psalm 46:10).

Join me to experience the sacred space at Canterbury Retreat Center on December 5-6, 2014. Set aside these two days (before the busyness of the Christmas season begins) to worship, pray, and grow closer to God.

Be still!
Dr Mari

“Prayer is putting oneself in the hands of God, at His disposition, and listening to His voice in the depth of our hearts.” (Mother Teresa)

UPDATE: My next retreat at Canterbury Retreat Center will be September 9-10, 2016. It will be based on my book, The 3 Y's of Faith: Keys to a fruitful walk with God. 

Living on Mission: Compassion Trumps Fear (Part III)

This week, a human story of compassion and faith winning over fear captured my heart. In the midst of a terrifying outbreak of Ebola virus, Dr. Kent Brantly felt called to Liberia to treat patients with this infection with a mortality rate as high as 60 - 90%. While caring for people with the disease, Dr. Brantly became infected and quarantined himself. After initially insisting that the only available experimental serum be given to an infected colleague (they ended up both receiving the medication), Dr. Brantly arrived on US soil for treatment at a special unit at Emory Hospital in Atlanta.

Transported under meticulous infection control procedures all the way from West Africa, he surprised the world by walking out of the ambulance in a body suit before entering the hospital. Though still critically ill, he seems to be improving while thousands continue to pray for him all over the globe.

This 33 year-old physician, husband, and father of two children (ages 3 and 5) works for Samaritan's Purse, an organization that provides food, water, shelter, medicine, and other assistance throughout the world in the name of Christ. Dr. Brantly was drawn to mission work since youth and wanted to be a missionary even before becoming a doctor. He is a member of the Christian Medical & Dental Associations.

Please join me in praying for this selfless young doctor.

Lord, I thank You for drawing people to know and follow You. I thank You for giving Dr. Kent Brantly a heart of service and compassion. I pray that his health will be completely restored and that, through his illness, a cure may be found for the hundreds of people infected with this virus. I pray, Lord Jesus, that Your Name will be exalted through this doctor's suffering and that many people will come to know You through him. I also pray for his wife and children, for all people infected with this virus, and for every healthcare professional caring for him and others with this infection.

Kent Bradley is a beautiful example of courageously walking with Jesus in healthcare. What a witness! Please keep him in your prayers.

In Hope,
Dr Mari

For Parts I and II of this series on mission, see Living on Mission: What's That All About? and Living on Mission: A Look Back.

UPDATE, August 15, 2014: Follow this link to an update of Dr. Brantly's progress. As he recovers, he continues to thank God for His mercy and is grateful for the excellent care he's received.

Living on Mission: A Look Back (Part II)

Years ago, my life was transformed after meeting one woman. I don't know her name. I can't even remember what she looked like. But I'll never forget what meeting her accomplished in me.

During my second medical mission trip to Guatemala, after treating hundreds of people one after another, our clinic day was almost over. While I felt exhausted physically but invigorated in my soul with a deep sense of accomplishment and joy, a young woman sat in front of me and smiled nervously. With impressive skill and heartwarming trust, she summarized her life story and current challenges in a brief yet thorough and impactful way.

I got it quickly. I saw into her soul and felt her pain.

Her story included mental illness, physical exhaustion, endless demands on her time as a single mom, and domestic abuse. I quickly summoned in my mind the various resources I knew were available within her community, and ensured good follow-up for her once our brief time together was over.

While she shared her story, I felt overwhelmed. In a continuous inward gaze to God, I prayed while she spoke.

"He hit me and I ran away," she shared of years ago. (Lord, please keep her strong as she raises her children alone.)

"I work the fields now and the kids eat every day. (Oh, I thank You, Lord! Please continue providing for them.)

"But now that I'm sick, I don't know what to do." (Lord, what can I possibly do for this mother when our mission ends tomorrow? Why have me hear this when there's so little I can do?)

Pray with her. Offer to pray with her.

God's voice came, as so often happens, in a whisper — like a soft, soothing rain. My reply was more like a raging storm! 

(Pray with her? I've never done that! Lord, that's not what we do. I'm a doctor, you know. We're supposed to leave our faith on the other side of our exam room door.)

Well, in Guatemala there were no doors. On mission, there was no wall separating my personal faith from my professional practice. Somehow, a certain courage came over me to stop being two different people, leaving the best part of me outside of my relationship with those I seek to help.

Still caught up in a heavenly gaze, I spoke to the soul before me.

"I am so sorry for all you've been through, and I'm so proud of you and your courage in sharing your story. The truth is, I'm not sure how I can help you, but I know the One who can."

And then, the words that changed my life slipped through my lips unto her heart — and mine!

"Would it be okay if I pray with you?"

She looked surprised and excited. Her eyes lit up, and she sprung up and took my hands. Clearly, even the mention of faith and God empowered her like none of my words had. She was in her element. In an instant, hope arrived.

So I, too, rose from my chair (and from my previous life!) and began to pray with simple words, asking our God to guide her steps, guard her heart, and heal her soul. I asked God to bring the right people to help her once our team left. And I thanked God for giving her courage and strength.

I offered a short, heartfelt prayer. And before I was able to speak my Amen!, she shocked me.

She began to pray for me in our native Spanish, and the gates of Heaven opened.

Suddenly, we were two sisters seeking the same God together, and we were not alone. God's presence filled the room and, for a time, I was unaware of our surroundings and felt lifted up to Heaven. It was a holy moment that continues to bear fruit, empowering and filling my soul even now.

As I boarded the plane the next day, I knew life would never be the same again. From then on, I would be myself with patients back home. I would not withhold my greatest treasure — my faith in an all-powerful, good, and loving God — from the hurting people who need Him most.

I decided to live on mission here and now with no need to board planes to the other side of the world. My mission field is here.

That inward gaze changed me. I would go as far as saying that it saved my life. That prayer with a stranger saved me from the apathy and self-centeredness at the heart of our culture's decline. And it saved me from the fear of being genuinely myself as I care for people. Thanks be to God!

Two days ago, our teenager boarded a plane on his second mission trip to Costa Rica. As I reflect on the events of my second mission trip, I rejoice for him and the entire team, for I know these life-changing moments often come during mission trips overseas — outside our comfort zone — where we can become something we were not when we arrived.

Our children have learned at a young age that life is about loving God by loving and serving Him in our neighbors. They have learned that our gifts and talents come from above with a purpose: we are to share them with others. What a blessing!

Please join me once more in praying for their safety, their health, and for God's work to be accomplished in and through them. Pray for hearts to be transformed and lives changed, including ours as we intercede for them. And pray for God's Spirit to empower them (and all of us!) to love as Christ loves.

On mission!
Dr Mari 

For parts I and III of this series on Mission, read Living on Mission: What's That All About? and Living on Mission: Compassion Trumps Fear.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. 
The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)

"God loves to pour out His Spirit with power on those who will dare to align radically their purposes with His." (S. Childers)

"The spirit of Christ is the spirit of missions. The nearer we get to Him, the more intensely missionary we become." (Henry Martyn)

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!

1 John 3:1

For this is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another.

1 John 3:11

Healing Hearts: The Power of Prayer

This month, my 25-day study of the book of Hebrews is included in The Journey, a quarterly publication of Bible Reading Fellowship. Here is an excerpt from one of the reflections I wrote this summer for the latest edition of The Journey.

As I headed for work earlier this week, I was sad, missing our sweet dog that just died. But more than my pain, I was suffering over the sense of loss in my children's young hearts. My soul needed to find its green pastures even as I helped them heal.

In the family medicine clinic where I worked that morning, I start each day by praying with our staff. We spend a few minutes sharing our hearts and our needs. We then pray together, acknowledging God as our provider and healer. We ask to be Christ's hands and feet, to have His compassion, and to stay close to Him while caring for people.

That day I showed up with such a heavy heart that I didn't even feel like praying. But as I saw my coworkers' faces, my heart softened, for I know their struggles and hurts, too. Some of my pain began to melt as I considered their needs.

Somewhat reluctantly, still, I asked if they wanted to pray. They did, so we prayed, and lightness returned to my soul. As I share in my book, Walking with Jesus in Healthcare, God does draw near to us when we draw near to Him (James 4:8).

The first couple I treated that morning spontaneously shared what God was doing in their lives. They were excited to tell me about a mission trip that was coming up and all the ways God had provided for them. After addressing their medical needs, I asked — with renewed joy — whether they wanted to thank God together. As we offered a prayer to our faithful God, I felt like I'd been healed. My heart was no longer heavy at all. It was light and full of joy! I had experienced once more the fruit of faith: living in God's presence, where healing, restoration, and joy are never far.

Are you living in a valley where even praying is hard? Tell someone you trust, and ask him or her to pray for you. Offer your pain and your losses to God. He can do anything.

Joyfully,
Dr Mari

For more inspiration, read My New Promotion: A Life of Grace.

Learn more about Bible Reading Fellowship here and visit my author website for information about my devotional for healthcare professionals and caregivers.

Healing is Possible ... And It Starts With Me

This weekend I experienced a moving time of worship at a concert by All Sons & Daughters and Tim Timmons. It would be inaccurate to simply call it a concert; it was an experience of God's presence and an opportunity to thank Him with our voices and our hearts. I especially enjoyed watching so many young people kneeling and praying alongside their friends, together, in worship. I have many new favorite songs, including Great Are You Lord, God With Us, and Called Me Higher (by All Sons & Daughters).

Another new favorite is Tim Timmons' Starts With Me. He shared his story of finding hope in Christ when dealing with what doctors deemed an impossible medical challenge. But in Matthew 19:26, Jesus said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Twelve years after he was told he wouldn't live beyond five years, Tim Timmons travels the country telling others about the God who redeems, restores, and makes us whole.

As a doctor, I point toward God whenever people experience healing and thank me for it. Although we can all be instruments of healing in various ways, it is the Healer who works through us every time. We are the broken; He is the Healer.

Malachi 4:2 proclaims, “But for you who revere My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays.” Such a promise makes me want to thank my Healer and give Him all the glory!

Lord, help us come to You as we are, 

broken and in need of Your healing touch. 

May we experience the joy

that comes from trusting You with our lives. 

For when we fall on our knees and surrender to Your will, 

our life begins. 

I agree with Tim Timmons that revival starts with me. It starts with each one of us ... on our knees ... trusting a loving, all-powerful God who loves us and gave everything for us.

May we, too, give Him everything.

Trust Him!
Dr Mari

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights.” (James 1:17)

For more inspiration, read Healing, Faith, and Love: A Father's Day Tribute.

Photograph by Manuel Diaz Photography. Used with permission. All Rights Reserved.

From My Heart to Yours: A Prayer and A Song

Here's the cry of my heart as I continue to intercede for so many people I love who are suffering or in the midst of great spiritual battles. My prayer is that your minds will be renewed with God's Word, that every lie will be drowned out by the Truth, grace, and life found on every page of God's holy Word.

During times of great need, my prayers get so simple. Invariably, in that simplicity, I meet God. I am found. And in His presence, I am healed. May this be your experience as you call on Him and seek His face.

I pray for all of you in the words of Paul, a man transformed by the love of Christ,

For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

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 in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. 

(Ephesians 3:14-21)

I invite you to meditate on every verse in this passage from Ephesians, to read it several times today and every day for a season and reflect deeply on its truth and hope. Let it renew your mind and give you a fresh start that fans into flame the gift of your faith in Christ.

And may this song help you as you pray and trust.

Be still and know that I am God. 

(Psalm 46:10)

Be still.
Dr Mari

Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. 

No one comes to the Father except through Me.'

(John 14:6) 

'No weapon forged against you will prevail,
    and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,
    and this is their vindication from Me,'
declares the Lord.

(Isaiah 54:17) 

For more inspiration, read Trust: A Pathway to Peace. 

Healing, Faith, and Love: A Father's Day Tribute

In Luke 4:38-44, Peter Simon's mother-in-law was "suffering from a high fever, and they asked Jesus to help her. So he bent over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up at once and began to wait on them" (v.38-39).

I love that this healing involves Simon’s own mother-in-law. When Jesus calls us into ministry, we, too, witness the miraculous in our midst, even with our loved ones. I experienced this with my father.

Years ago, I traveled home to Puerto Rico when Dad’s heart began to fail. I found him at the coronary step-down unit after a “small heart attack.” Although he looked strong, I knew how weak his heart had become, its pumping capacity having dropped to a mere fifteen percent. His heart was seriously failing.

Though I’d prayed for Dad for years, I’d never prayed with him—and it was time. When I timidly asked if I could pray with him, his eyes lit up! So I laid my hand on Dad’s chest and prayed like a child who knew this could be her last week with Daddy—even her last hour.

There were no fireworks, no visible angels, and no physical changes that I could detect. But as I prayed, I knew that my father would be okay. And not just his physical heart, but his spiritual heart as well. I gained a complete peace about his physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being that became an anchor for my soul and a comfort to my family and to him. 
 
Papi lived for three more years with an implanted defibrillator and fulfilled many of his lifelong dreams in that short time, including becoming a published author—twice! 

More importantly, I believe that my father gave his life over to Christ. Our last years together were the best in our relationship. We grew closer as he became more alive, at peace, and full of joy. As with Simon’s mother-in-law, Jesus stepped into my house, where He continues to draw my family to Himself one person at a time.

Is there someone in your life that needs you to step out in faith and pray with him or her? Be courageous, have faith, and pray. Our God delights to answer.

Walking by faith,

Dr Mari 

* This is an excerpt from my book, Walking with Jesus in Healthcare. I post it in memory of my father, a humble and sincere man of integrity whose intelligence, creativity, and sense of humor blessed us. ¡Te amo, papi! Recordarte me hace sonreir. (I love you, Daddy! I smile when I think of you.) *

An Excerpt from Walking with Jesus in Healthcare

This morning, I shared my testimony, the story of my journey meeting and embracing Jesus, with some high school students. While sharing how praying with patients has transformed the way I care for people as a doctor, I read this devotion from my book, Walking with Jesus in Healthcare. The book is a 120-day devotional written to encourage and empower all who care for the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of others. It is based on the Gospel according to Luke, the physician. Here's an excerpt from day 90.

The Glories of God’s Kingdom

Read Luke 17:20-37  

The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you. (v. 20-21)

Every time we open the door to greet another human being in need, we bear a tremendously powerful gift. Jesus said plainly that God’s kingdom is within us. Within us! We must have the courage, willingness, and love to share Him with others, for Jesus Himself sent us out to spread His message of hope, healing, and life (Matthew 28:18-20).

During my second mission trip to Guatemala, I experienced God’s kingdom at work in medicine. As a young mother shared the challenges she’d endured that week, I felt helpless. What were we doing there anyway? Treating chronic conditions for one week would be like adding a drop of water into a sea of needs.

While such thoughts conspired to discourage and paralyze me, the Holy Spirit within urged me to pray with her. So I did.

As I began to pray for her, she began to pray for me in our native Spanish, and the gates of heaven opened. Suddenly, we were before God’s throne interceding for one another, two sisters seeking God’s face together.

God’s kingdom broke through my apprehension and her pain, touching each of us deeply. Our heartfelt prayer transcended her overwhelming needs and my inadequacy to meet them. As our prayer ended, we knew we were in God’s presence, having tasted His living waters.

The kingdom of God does not come with our “careful observation” but with our prayerful surrender. I have learned how to overcome that helpless feeling that sometimes still visits me; when I bring it to God, He is more than sufficient.

God's kingdom is an endless river of mercy, healing, and grace. As I call on Him, He is faithful to reveal the glories of His kingdom.

May we surrender our lives more fully each day and continue to call on Him!
Dr Mari

To find out more about Walking with Jesus in Healthcare, please visit my website. And consider sharing this excerpt with your friends in healthcare! They probably need some encouragement today.

 LOOK INSIDE Walking with Jesus in Healthcare Vol I

Advent Reflections: What's at the Center?

This December, while we continue to prepare our hearts to celebrate Christmas, my family is also packing and unpacking boxes. Although we're not moving far, we will be in a new home very soon. This means new neighbors. A new commute. New surroundings. Once again, our Advent season of preparation is filled with change.

I'm thankful that, in the midst of change, old traditions can ground us, bringing comfort and peace. Last week we put up our Christmas tree and readied our house for this joyful season. As our kids placed the last few ornaments on the tree, I moved a few more boxes into the garage to make room for Christmas spirit. Our living room is now filled with lights, angels, Advent calendars, a well-adorned tree, and Christmas cheer. And in front of the tree sits a simple manger scene where Mary and Joseph behold the newborn King.

While packing a few more boxes last night, a beautiful thought captured my heart. As we continue to empty our house of stuff, visual reminders of the importance and relevance of Jesus have invaded our living room and our home. As we prepare our hearts to celebrate Christ's birth, the cards, decorations, and our Advent wreath are constant reminders of His presence among us. Our house has been emptied of stuff and filled with Christ!

This same process takes place in our hearts when we invite Christ to live there. We begin an intentional process to empty ourselves from everything that clutters our souls, hearts, and minds, and ask to be filled with the presence of Jesus through the gift of the Holy Spirit. This is also what the season of Advent is all about. It's a wonderful time to recommit ourselves to a life of faith, trust, and obedient surrender to the One who came to save us.

As our manger scene now fills the space left by the clutter of boxes and stuff, so the presence of Jesus will fill us when we empty ourselves of what clutters us inside ... if we ask. Jesus fills all things in every way, as explained in this excerpt from Paul's letter to the Ephesians. This is my prayer for you and for me this Advent,

"I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, 
may give you 

the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, 
so that you may know Him better.  

I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened 

in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, 

the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, 

 and His incomparably great power for us who believe. 

That power is like the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ 

when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms,  

far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, 

not only in the present age but also in the one to come.  

And God placed all things under His feet 

and appointed Him to be head over everything 

for the church, which is His body, 

the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way."  

(Ephesians 1:17-23)

May Christ remain at the center of our hearts and lives. And may His holy name be praised.
Dr Mari

* My devotional, Walking with Jesus in Healthcare, was published in November 2012! Spread the word to your friends and loved ones who care for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of others. The book will inspire, encourage, and empower them! Visit my author website for details.

Prayer: A Way of Life

I recently came upon this quote by one of my favorite Christian writers, Henri Nouwen. He said, 

"To pray, I think, does not mean to think about God in contrast to thinking about other things, or to spend time with God instead of spending time with other people. Rather, it means to think and live in the presence of God. As soon as we begin to divide our thoughts about God and thoughts about people and events, we remove God from our daily life and put Him into a pious little niche where we can think pious thoughts and experience pious feelings.... 

Although it is important and even indispensable for the spiritual life to set apart time for God and God alone, prayer can only become unceasing prayer when all our thoughts -- beautiful or ugly, high or low, proud or shameful, sorrowful or joyful -- can be thought in the presence of God."

I agree with Henri's thoughts on prayer. There is so much written about this subject, and some of it is helpful. But as my own prayer life has changed and deepened, I've learned that prayer is much more than words and requests. 

Prayer reflects a relationship between one who surrenders and One who reigns. This relationship, one that is marked by transparency and a desire to seek God's best in all things, is central to a powerful and transforming prayer life. As this relationship matures and becomes central in someone's life, prayer itself becomes a way of life. This makes perfect sense. 

The one who gets to know God and His character never wants to leave His presence. Why would we?

Prayer is words, thoughts, and even gazes toward God. It is seeking God's face, His presence, and His wisdom in every circumstance. Such prayerful living keeps us safe, softens our hearts, and helps us live for others. It exposes our true selves and looks to God as the source of love, goodness, and peace. 

In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, the apostle Paul urges us to pray without ceasing, 

Be joyful always;  

pray continually;  

give thanks in all circumstances, 

for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

I believe such praying without ceasing begins to happen naturally as we get to know God and His character -- His goodness, faithfulness, and love. As we learn that God is trustworthy and faithful, we want to live in His presence more and more, and so we pray continually, calling Him into every circumstance, good and bad.

James 5:13 points to the joy and wisdom of praying at all times,

Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise.

In good times and bad times, prayer brings us into the presence of God. Prayer is the overflow of a life that is learning to trust the One who knows everything and cares about everything. Today, regardless of what you're facing, look to God as the answer. Pray that He will reveal Himself in the midst of your need, and continue to abide in Him through prayer as you wait for the answer. When you wait prayerfully, you wait in good company!

So, today and every day, choose to stay close to God, and pray!

Dr Mari

Prayer is also about learning to live in Love's Grip; read more about that here. 
The importance of prayer is emphasized in my new book, Walking with Jesus in Healthcare.

Wisdom from Mother Teresa

"Active and contemplative are not two different lives;

it is only that one is faith in action through service,

the other faith in action through prayer." (Mother Teresa)

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. 

But the greatest of these is love." 

(1 Corinthians 13:13)

I am so thankful for the example of faithful ordinary people

through whom God does extraordinary things.

May we joyfully exercise our faith, 

giving it hands and feet

to reach a hurting world.

With love,

Dr Mari

For a reminder of small things we can all do to make a difference in someone's life, check out Josh Wilson's song, I Refuse.

Seek and You Will Find: The Joy of Relationship

"The moment one gives close attention to anything, 

even a blade of grass, 

it becomes a mysterious, awesome, 

indescribably magnificent world in itself." 

(Henry Miller, Author)

Yesterday was a full day. It wasn't so much filled with activity as with angst. You know - that inner restlessness that often comes during times of change and big choices. You're waiting to get from point A to point B, but a world of possibilities lies in between. Thus, angst!

I'm at the crossroads between who I've been and who I'm called to become. There is much I want to hold on to, and even more I'm eager to embrace. I am, once again, in a chrysalis of change, waiting for what's next.

Thankfully, I'm certain that what awaits me is marvelous. God told me Himself. "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (Jeremiah 29:11) This well-known verse is a sweet reminder of God's faithfulness to those who follow Him. Yet, the verse that follows it is even more hopeful.

"'Then you will call upon Me and come 

and pray to Me, 

and I will listen to you.  

You will seek Me and find Me 

when you seek Me with all your heart.  

I will be found by you,' 

declares the Lord..." 

 (Jeremiah 29:12-14a)

  
During times of critical decisions, I crave silence. I long for inner stillness, for I know that's when I hear God's whispers. I don't want to make a move outside of God's perfect will, so I must seek to know God's heart in every situation.

As I crave this inner stillness, God answers. I must simply wait - while in pursuit - and it surely comes! I experienced it yesterday.

We got home around dusk after letting the kids run around at the neighborhood playground. After a light and decision-free afternoon, the countless questions that sprinted to my mind as we reached our house were (thankfully!) halted by the deepest shade of red I've ever seen. A vividly crimson cardinal greeted us home, hopping happily all over our front yard. I couldn't help but stop everything and follow him to our backyard, where he soon found his mate and flew away.

As I pursued him stealthily, I noticed new flowers blooming all around me that I'd missed all week. I spotted critters and followed the flight of two monarch butterflies, and I drank in the lush green all around. 

As I took in my surroundings, I became still. And in that stillness, I felt completely at peace. My heart was glad and my mind was clear. Ahhh!

Although I didn't sense clear guidance as to each of my questions, the experience reminded me that I must participate in finding the stillness I need. Sometimes, finding such stillness must be the most intentional thing that we do. It's a terrific paradox!

Part of the beauty and mystery of Nature is in how ubiquitous it is. It's everywhere! Yet, it's also exquisitely hidden.

And so it is with God. Omnipresent, and beautifully hidden, waiting to be found.

Seek and you will find but, to find, you must seek with your whole heart. Your whole self, fully engaged. You must want it. I must want it.

There's the challenge, and why we must be still.  

"Be still and know that I am God..." (Psalm 46:10a)

Be still!
Dr Mari

*Photo by Manuel Díaz Photography. All Rights Reserved. Used with permission.

For more stories to help you be still, read A Thirsty Deer Leads Worship! and Living in the Moment. 

Strength for the Journey: Inspiration from Psalm 121

My ten year-old son just recited Psalm 121 to me in preparation for his Bible memory quiz tomorrow. Hear the uplifting words of the psalmist,

"I lift up my eyes to the hills—
   where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
   the Maker of heaven and earth. 

He will not let your foot slip—
   He who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, He who watches over Israel
   will neither slumber nor sleep. 

The Lord watches over you—
   the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
   nor the moon by night. 

The Lord will keep you from all harm—
   He will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
   both now and forevermore." 

As a doctor and pastor's wife, I continually hear stories of real human suffering. This week, I met a young mother whose son was killed two years ago. A beautiful woman died unexpectedly. An old friend continues to grieve the accidental death of her spouse, and a new friend started chemo. These are just a few of the people weighing heavily on my heart as I lift up my eyes to the Lord. 

So what can I say to each of them? I have only one answer - for them and for everyone else. Our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

The One who watches over us never sleeps or slumbers. His love is tireless, His grace unending. His wisdom is beyond comprehension, His mercy a river of life.

More and more, my prayer for myself and for those I love is simply this: Jesus.

When I call on His name, it is as if I've had a drink of life that revives me and makes me long to share Him with others. His power in a surrendered, trusting life is nothing short of miraculous. The tougher life gets, the more I trust Him.

So if you're reading this seeking answers, I have one: Jesus. The Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is more real than our greatest suffering and stronger than our biggest burden. Trust Him with your life. He will never fail you.

In Him,
Dr Mari 

* Photograph by Manuel Díaz (www.manueldiazphotography.com). All Rights Reserved.

For more inspiration, read Adversity's Gift: Perseverance.