It has been nearly 30 years ago.  I joined a ministry colleague to sit with a family while two surgeries took place simultaneously.  A lady from church was receiving a kidney from her cousin, who was the donor.  I have never forgotten what it felt like to sit in a surgery waiting room at a Dallas hospital that day. There are so many things that run through your head.  The term “sacrifice” took on new meaning, as we waited.  The solidarity among family members was nothing like I have ever experienced.  It was an inspiring experience to say the very least.

Tomorrow that scenario is going to be repeated in Dallas.  A high school classmate will receive a kidney.  The donor is not a cousin… The donor is her son.  Her son… As parents, we will do anything for our children. This young man obviously will do anything for his mother.

The surgery waiting room tomorrow will not be filled family members and friends. Hospitals are being extra cautious, as they navigate the challenges of a pandemic. Those unique feelings that stem from someone donating and another person receiving will not be confined to the surgery waiting room.  Family members, friends, and high school classmates will feel that inspiration flowing tomorrow morning.  

It will be a special privilege to pray for the surgery and recuperation of not one, but two people at the same time. And I think our understanding of such things as sacrifice, commitment, and love will be enhanced tomorrow.   There is a special relationship between a son and his mother. Boys are naturally protective of their mothers.  And when those boys become men, they do whatever they have to take care of their mother. As both surgeries get underway, another son will be flying solo in the waiting room.  He too is to be commended. Blessings on two surgeries tomorrow.  Blessings for Kerri and Evan.  And may Preston be surrounded by compassionate and caring medical professionals.