An open letter to health care workers

I grew up with a fighting fear of needles. This all began when I was four years old. My mom took me to the Health Department in Calhoun City, MS for my four-year vaccinations. I was the kid others could hear screaming at the top of their lungs when the vaccine needle came out. I don’t have the courage to do what doctors and nurses do.

That nurse and all the doctors and nurses I have had the privilege of knowing are all really nice people that I respect. Your needles aren’t instruments to torture and terrorize 4 year olds. Rather, they are a tool of healing the sick and protecting us from harmful viruses, for which I am very grateful and now gladly offer my arm when my doctor asks me.

Speaking of viruses. Our lives are consumed by one right now: COVID-19. A microscopic parasite has hijacked its way into our cells bringing nations, economies, and life as we know it to a halt. We are social distancing and sheltering in place to help stop the spread, but not you. Like first responders rushing into a burning building when everyone else is running out, are the men and women dressed in their PPE. You are on the front lines of this fight, not our military. You are our heroes, and we are cheering you on in our time of crisis.

Today, I woke up with you on my heart. I am thankful you are in our community healing the sick and comforting the dying. I believe if you are on my heart you must certainly be on God’s heart for his heart is so much more loving than mine.

Jesus spent most of his ministry among people who suffered from various physical and mental illness. These were the people that burdened his heart. Often, we are told in the Gospels that Jesus was moved with compassion for the sick and would stop everything to give them his attention.

Jesus said that all who visit the sick, clothe the naked, feed the hungry, and welcome the stranger would be doing it to him. Those who serve others, serve Christ. There can be no greater mission on earth. Those who possess the gifts of healing and compassion for the sick share the heart of Jesus and his mission. You will fight against COVID-19 with the courage of a Marine because it is an enemy that must be defeated. I pray and I hope that one day your needle will contain a vaccine for COVID-19. You have the heart of Christ in you, and you are the heart of our community. Your friends and neighbors are praying for you. Keep the faith and keep being His Heart!

Jimmy Criddle

Lead Pastor,

First United Methodist Church

Columbus

The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.