Some of them come in profound bedside conversations or when seeking the presence of God in the midst of crisis. However, many of these lessons fall into a category that may be described as more mundane, less impressive, yet still important. I have found that when wandering around a hospital as a pastor it is always easier to get forgiveness than it is permission. On one visit to Our Lady of Lourdes hospital in Camden I was not permitted into intensive care. I went home, changed into clergy collar, went back, and walked right in without any questions.
Forgiveness is always more grace-filled than permission.
The Spirit is present and effective in the fleshiness of life, the nuts and bolts, the details. Time after time I would be looking for family members to visit during a loved one s surgery. I have found people in elevators, walking from the parking lots, in crowded cafeterias. I have made that phone call at just the necessary time. Sometimes a visit is just meant to be.