The Good Doctor

By David Whiting

There was a drive in the church to take the focus off themselves and put it on others. That is, to put the needs of others ahead of their own as so many scriptures made clear that they should do. There is, no doubt, strong and forceful guidance, instruction and commands in scripture about putting the needs of others ahead of your own, so their actions were based on solid foundations. They prayed for others outside the church, as well as others in the church. They made an effort to pray for the Kingdom of Heaven before praying for themselves, and praying for serious spiritual matters before praying for mundane earthly matters. They fasted together once a week for many different things and earnestly sought God in order that he would make the church grow.

After going along in this determined manner for a number of weeks with real intent, just as their righteous crusade was losing its fervour, Jesus spoke to them. They met together as usual on Sunday morning and asked God for strength in order to carry on focusing on others. They felt like they were slipping into bad selfish habits and focusing on themselves again. Their prayers were becoming tired, repetitive and uninspired and so, after the time of worship they asked God to increase their strength and fervour and give them guidance as to how they should continue. As usual, they bowed their heads, closed their eyes and waited for God to speak.

Jesus’ heart went out to them and he said: "I have heard all that you have asked for and it will be done for you.

But you should learn this", he continued. "When a man goes to the Doctor does he go to make himself better or to explain all of his friends’ needs when he himself is in pain? Or does he tell every one else to see the doctor without first making an appointment himself to confirm that everything said about him is true? Surely he needs to find out for himself that the reputation of the doctor is true before recommending him to others.

"So it is with you. I am your good doctor and for all the pain you experience, and all the illnesses you have, you should make an appointment to see me. There is no waiting time or impossible expense – this service is free – and you will not be let down or kept on a waiting list. Your hopes will not be deferred. Trust me, because for all of the things that the world cannot cure, I have medication and antibiotics in my cabinet that will heal you. If your needs are greater, then I can take a sample to my lab and look deep into your soul through my microscope. And there I am able to find what it is that troubles you and I will heal your broken heart. And then, when you are made well, you will bring many more people to me in confidence and faith."