"Nursing, A Work of Heart"
- Rita Larson
- May 6, 2023
- 3 min read
Today is National Nurse’s Day and the profession of Nursing is truly a “Work of Heart.” I have been a Nurse for going on 30 years, most of my career being in Hospice. I have been blessed with working side by side with some truly amazing Nurses and know that many Nurses do not understand how important they are and the difference they make in the lives of others. It is a special ministry that takes a very special person to be able to do. We were all created for a purpose, and Nurses were created to love and care for everyone around them. So, as we celebrate National Nurses Day, it is essential to recognize the sacrifices made by Nurses. Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, and their dedication, professionalism, and heartfelt commitment to their patients, families, coworkers and their own families are at the heart of their ministry!
When we think of Jesus, we often think of His compassion and selflessness. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and comforted the downtrodden. In essence, He cared for others in a profound way that we cannot even fathom. This same spirit of care and compassion was also instilled in the heart of nurses. They provide comfort, support, and care to those who are suffering. They listen to their patients and their families, understand their needs, and work tirelessly to ensure they receive the best possible care. In essence, they serve as vessels, walking in love, providing care, and showing compassion just as Jesus did.
The connection between nursing and the work of the Lord can be seen in many passages of scripture. Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus judges those who call on His name based on the care they show to people in need - the poor, the stranger, the sick, and the imprisoned. More than that, the scriptures say that to care for people in need was to care for Jesus Himself.
In James 2:14-17, “What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,’ but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” James talks about the importance of faith and works. Nurses demonstrate their faith through their actions, caring for their patients with compassion and selflessness.
Some other key scriptures are as follows:
Romans 15:1 — "We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves."
2 Chronicles 15:7 — "But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded."
Galatians 6:2 — "Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ."
James 1:27 — "Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world."
At the heart of nursing is a servant's heart and compassion for others. Nurses are self-sacrificing and put the needs of their patients and coworkers above their own. They work long hours, often sacrificing time with their own families to care for their patients, sometimes missing important family events or holidays, but they do so knowing that others need them. They give of themselves freely, without expectation of reward or recognition. They deal with stressful situations daily yet manage to remain calm and compassionate. They show empathy and understanding to their patients and their families, as well as their coworkers, providing leadership, hands-on care, emotional support, and education.
As we celebrate National Nurses Day, it is vital to take a moment to recognize and appreciate the incredible work that Nurses do. Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion make them true heroes, as they are carrying out the work of the Father. To all my fellow Nurses out there, thank you for being a “Work of Heart” and doing what you do, each and every day! ©Rita Larson 5/6/2023
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