I had a very busy week at work and it was Friday afternoon. I had made plans for my weekend, which I normally don’t do. Usually I like to rest and rejuvenate, but I planned to meet my grown kids for supper and go with them to a baseball game.

I went to the business office to say goodbye for the weekend, and I was told our executive director had taken one of our Independent Living residents to the hospital. She is very independent, feisty lady. I looked at my watch and saw I had time to make a short visit.

They already had her in a room and my boss was doing his best. She looked pale and tired, but she said the doctor was sending her home soon. The doctor came in and said he had to keep her overnight to run some tests, but if all went well she would be going home first thing in the morning.

This was the first time I had ever seen her scared, and I realized she was alone. We visited a bit and then left.

I had just enough time to get home and change in time for supper with the kids. As I was driving home, I thought of my little lady all alone. So I changed into something comfy, grabbed a few things and headed back to the hospital. I called my kids and told them I would see them on Saturday at the PONY league baseball game at 2:00 for sure!

I brought a radio for her to listen to, we had a snack, visited a bit about her life and then she drifted off to sleep. I was there to help her through the night. Even though the staff could have done it, it was meant for me to be there.

On Saturday, the doctor came in to say that she needed to be there another day. I missed the ball game and my Sunday morning church service, but I realized God had placed me there for her assurance.

The doctor let her go home around noon on Sunday and as I gave her a ride home, she wanted to pay me. I told her the Lord had already given me payment by showing me the right path. I was following His plans, not mine, because I’ve been told God laughs when we make plans. I strive to follow the path he lays before me.

Beverly Barnes is  the director environmental services for Buckner Calder Woods Retirement Home in Beaumont, Texas. She has been with Buckner since 2000.

Prayers of the Week:
-God, help us to be open to the ways you might change our plans this week, seeing them as opportunities rather than disruptions or inconveniences.
-God, be with people who suffer from illness and disease, especially those without access to healthcare or medicine. Heal them according to your will, whether physically, spiritually or emotionally.

If you are interested in submitting a devotional for Buckner Faith Focus, please e-mail lsturdy@buckner.org.

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