Medical staff have always been an integral part of my life.  A nurse fed me ice cream every night while I was hospitalized as a toddler.  A physical therapist chatted with my mother on a personal level while the three of us walked down a hallway.  An anesthesiologist whispered comforting words in my ear as she prepared me for surgery.  A student nurse placed a quilt on my hospital bed to make me feel more at home.  Just a few years ago, a surgeon sat next to me on the examination table, taking the time to answer all of my questions and discuss with me the implications of having a hip replacement done.

Each of these medical professionals displayed great skills and incredible medical expertise.  However, what made a deeper impact on my family and me was their personal touch that went beyond their professional care.  Despite the outcomes of our professional care as medical team members, may we strive to always offer a personal touch as to acknowledge them as individuals—their concerns, emotions, beliefs, and dreams.

Lord, we take this moment to acknowledge You as the Greatest Model in offering an ideal caring, healing presence.  I ask that You provide every medical staff member with the continuous wisdom and ability to always display a personal, empathetic presence to those in need.  I pray this in Your name, Amen.