New Testament story presents model for health care ministry

Those who minister to the sick and the aged can learn several lessons from the experience of two disciples who met Jesus on the road to Emmaus. Though the men, who were leaving Jerusalem to escape the confusion caused by Jesus' crucifixion, did not initially recognize him, Jesus walked alongside them and drew them into conversation about the preceding days' events. His attentive listening and perceptive questioning, which allowed them to vent their feelings, helped the men to deal with the reality of their suffering. When they asked Christ to remain, he accepted their invitation, knowing that they needed additional support. As they broke bread together that evening, the disciples recognized Jesus, "whereupon he vanished from their sight." Care givers, too, at times need to walk away from their work, not only to allow time for reflection but also to enable patients to experience God's presence. They must be alert to everything a patient says so that words meant to comfort do not cause suffering, and they must learn to recognize the subtle ways in which patients ask them to stay with them. Helping patients face the truth requires courage and the ability to help another appreciate his or her self-worth. Just as the disciples recognized Jesus' presence in those they encountered, so, too, must care givers allow themselves to be transformed at the eucharistic table and to see in others--even the unlovely-an existential, holistic love.