Tag Archives: solitary confinement

Whenever the frailty of life comes knocking on your door, its never a good feeling.  In the wee hours of the morning, as a routine surgery takes a turn for the worse, fear often grips unsuspecting souls.  A doctor doesn’t need to say much before one discerns a dire situation.  Nonetheless, as long as the heart is beating, hope remains alive.

Prior to my mother being rushed to the hospital, I read a passage from Leviticus 13:45-46.  As bad as my current trial appeared, this passage gave me an unique perspective, it could be worse.  You could become a social outcast, banned from entering the city gates, due to an untreatable disease.  Once pronounced unclean by the priest, hugging, touching or kissing was prohibited.  Like solitary confinement, individuals spent the rest of their days in isolation, stripped of the relationships they once held dear.

Today, I have a new appreciation for the words of James 1:2-4 and James 4:13-14.  Seeing, feeling and experiencing pain is humbling, opening your eyes to the simple things people take for granted daily.  However, despite the ups and down in the hospital the last 24 hours, I know it could be worse.  While I pray for my mother’s condition to improve, the truth in Luke 1:37 serves as a source of strength.  Although it could be worse, with God all things are possible.

by Jay Mankus