Psalm 30:2 — “O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you restored my health.”

Last Friday morning, I awoke at 2:15 a.m. in intense pain and overwhelming nausea. I quietly slipped downstairs so I wouldn’t wake my family. For the next several hours, the pain would not ease, nor would the nausea subside.

When my family woke, Becky called my doctor. After hearing my symptoms, he urged us to go immediately to the emergency room at the University of Michigan Hospital.

During triage, I became sick again. Two young doctors were attending to me, and their kindness stood out immediately. After they shared their initial diagnosis, I asked if they would pray for me. It was clear from our conversation that they loved the Lord.

One of them gently placed her hand on me and began to pray—hesitantly, yet with sincere faith.

Later, she returned and said something I will never forget:

“Thank you for asking me to pray for you. I have never prayed aloud for someone before. You stretched my faith, and I’m so glad you did.”

Thankfully, the original diagnosis proved incorrect. I was suffering from an acute gallbladder infection. Because of its proximity to the area still healing from my recent cancer surgery, removal wasn’t an option at this time. Instead, the doctors recommended a temporary solution to allow my body more time to heal.

It was a long week—but one made deeply meaningful by the presence of family and friends who came to visit and pray. And, of course, by the remarkable hospital staff.

Several staff members from my previous cancer treatment came to see me. I cannot adequately express how much that meant. In a matter of days, you can form the beginnings of genuine friendship with people you might never expect to see again.

I’ve come to believe this: it is a mistake to try to get people to like you—but you will never go wrong being kind, open, and welcoming.

“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 (NKJV)

Throughout the week—day and night—I had one meaningful conversation after another with young adults who came into my room. Doctors, nurses, and staff would sit and talk about faith.

We discussed questions like:

Why is Christianity unique? Why did Jesus come? How do we know God exists? Why have some walked away from the church? Do miracles still happen?

Two individuals shared how they had been hurt deeply in the church and had stepped away. Others were simply searching—thoughtful, sincere, and full of questions.

On Thursday evening, many of the staff stopped by to say goodbye. We prayed together. It was a sacred moment.

I’m writing this for two reasons.

First, to say thank you. Thank you for praying for me. I am feeling much better. The stents are a temporary measure, and I will return soon to have one removed. I would deeply appreciate your continued prayers.

Second, to encourage you: if we remain open and learn to listen well, God will give us opportunities to have meaningful faith conversations and share our stories.

Young adults, especially, are asking good and important questions. Many are searching for answers they are not finding elsewhere.

One young mother I met is exploring different religions. She wasn’t ready to make a decision—but she kept coming back, even in the early morning hours, asking thoughtful questions. Please remember her in your prayers. She is sincerely seeking truth.

I believe she is closer than she realizes.

Today, I am grateful. I am healing. And I am richer because of the friendships God brought into my life through an unexpected week.

Here’s a thought, “Who might the Lord want you to listen to this week?

Peace!