PASTOR DAVE’S MUSINGS FROM THE HEARTLAND

February 23, 2025

ABLATION II

At Saint Joseph Hospital in Mishawaka, Indiana, Wednesday, February 12, 2025, following an ablation, I joined more than ten million Americans who have a pacemaker The care that I received at the hospital was outstanding.  The staff reminded me of a large extended caring, loving, and compassionate family who were dedicated to the patients placed in their care.  Their concern even extended to helping me retrieve my mouth guard that I left.

Our neighbors shoveled our driveway several times and a friend brought us a delicious meal.  People e-mailed to tell me they were praying for me and Diane and I have had people contacting us to see if there was anything they could do.  This was especially helpful since Diane is unable to drive.  My middle son took me to the hospital and my oldest son brought me home.  My pastor came to visit the day of surgery and waited with my family. A friend will be taking me for a doctor’s follow-up visit.

As I write this article I feel richly blessed.  Blessed that there was something my doctor could do for heart issues.  Blessed that the procedure went so well.  Blessed for the hospital staff.  Blessed with family and friends who were so supportive and kept me in their prayers.  Blessed that I am so fortunate to live in a community who is there in times of need.  Blessed that God remains with me in so many ways to bring about health and wholeness.

A song that was popular when I was growing up was “Count your Blessings” by Johnson Oatman, Jr.  First published by the Methodist Book Concern in 1897 in “Songs For Young People,” Oatman reflects on his own struggles and how he was able to cope with them.  The fourth verse goes “So, amid the conflict whether great or small, Do not be discouraged, God is over all; Count your many blessings, angels will attend, Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.”  Then follows the refrain in which Oatman suggests that during times of conflict, we need to count our blessings.  “Count your blessings, name them one by one, Count your blessings, see what God has done!  Count your blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done.”

Every Monday as a part of our Rotary meeting we have happy dollars.  On the 24^th I will be giving a “happy dollar” for the number 69.  This is the heart rate I am recording about 75% of the time when I take my pulse.  It is a symbol of the many blessings I have experienced this last week.

Trials, tribulations, and conflicts are a part of all our lives.  Paul tells us in I Thessalonians 5:18 that we should give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for us.  When we focus on positive rather than the negative it becomes easier to see how Christ is at work in our lives.  My ablation and having a pacemaker implanted have been a reminder of the wonderful community in which I have the good fortune to live.      

(Comments may be sent to davidh15503@embarqmail.com.)