Keeping in mind the promises made by a couple before the altar in Church at their wedding, a man and woman promise to look after each other “in sickness and in health” among other promises they make at the same time. This is significant because we tend to handle most of what comes our way in life on our own. But in sickness we are often unable to do this. We need the help of someone else.

Recently I was hospitalised at St John (Diocesan) Hospital in Mzuzu with gastro-intestinal infection that gave me a two-day stay there recovering on IV drips and medication. In sickness I found I could not take care of myself as I usually can do. I needed someone else to find extra blankets, put the mosquito net in place, take me to the hospital when the fever became dangerous, and stay in the hospital room with me until I was conscious again.

We need each other. Sometimes we prefer to be alone, and need to be alone. But there are times we need others in our lives to be a help and offer love and friendship. We are individuals but we are interconnected. “No man is an island” we hear. And that is indeed true. We are bridged one to another in our common humanity, and in the Kingdom of God as disciples. When any one member is suffering we need to have a great concern. And turn that concern outward to reach those who are most in need where ever they are.

“…sick and you cared for me…” – Jesus