Daily Devotional for April 17

 

April 17                                                                Luke 6:1-11

           SocialWorkerNurseAidWoman

                I fired her. Yes, I fired her.
                          It may seem small -
         That she lied about that sick time -
                     But she never did belong
                                  In this job.
                   Too involved. She just got
          Too involved. Downright odd she was.
            I mean, really. Used her days off
                    To visit clients. Imagine.
                   I hear she gave them money
            Sometimes. On her salary? Imagine.
          Watched their kids. Gave them rides.
                    On her days off, mind you.
               I took my chance when I saw it.
                             Yes, I fired her.
                    A woman like that doesn't
                    Belong in the business of
                            Caring for people.

Dear Creator,
I struggle with this business of helping. Sometimes, it seems,
I give more than I can afford. Those times leave me tired and
angry. Then there are times when I see my contribution really
make a difference, and my enthusiasm carries me along fur-
ther than I knew possible. There is so much reward and so much
frustration. It's difficult for me to know where you would have
me pour my energy. I'll try to listen for your guiding voice.

from The Road to Emmaus - An inclusive devotional Edited by Joseph W. Houle

Emmaus House of Prayer - Washington D.C