Breathing Eagle Air

Breathing Eagle Air

You know how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Exodus 19:4

Gene didn’t seem to have much left physically or emotionally. He had end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, with less than 20 percent lung capacity, and he was limping through the last leg of his race here on earth. It was hard for him to breathe, and his quality of life was greatly impaired.

When I saw him, he was straggling down the hall to the exam room, dragging his oxygen tank. From the way his body slumped, he looked downtrodden and depressed. He also looked more tired than usual.

“Everything okay, Gene? You look tired.”

“Yeah, I’m exhausted.”

“Well, I looked at your numbers. Your oxygen saturation is 93 percent when you’re on it. That’s better than it was the last time we checked.”

“I know.” He paused for a moment, then said, “You know, my wife died last year. And all my kids have moved away. The only pleasure I had left was smoking, and then you told me to quit. I just don’t know what to do anymore. I don’t feel like going on; all the joy has left my life. Have you ever felt that way?”

I put my hand on his shoulder, “Look, Gene, I know this next question isn’t directly related to your checkup, but have you tried praying lately?”

“No, not really.”

“Do you have a relationship with God?”

“It’s been a long time since I went to church. But maybe I could go this weekend.”

We talked a little more, and I encouraged him to give it a try.

At his next appointment, two months later, Gene entered the exam room with his head up. He was still very ill, but he had a bit of a pep in his step.

“How are you doing?’ I asked.

“The pastor at my church told me that Jesus would lift me up on eagles’ wings if I would let him. So I did.”

“That’s great!” I said.

What Gene said next made me smile and remember today’s verse. “You know, Doc, when you’re flying with eagles; it’s a lot easier to breathe!”

TODAY’S RX

When you cannot take another step, allow Jesus to carry you on eagles’ wings. He will renew your life and give you air to breathe.

Father, refresh my spirit today, and give me a renewed sense of vigor. I desire to hold my head up high and enjoy this life you’ve given me.