“As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people, from this time forth and forevermore.” Psalm 125:2
Samer is surrounded. He is surrounded by love, compassion, and a great deal of care from many people. This young orphan boy from Bethlehem came to Sheba Medical Center today to be admitted for a big open heart surgery that will take place tomorrow morning, Lord willing. He was accompanied by a sweet French woman named Anne, a volunteer, who will be his companion at the hospital over his coming recovery. Though he is very shy, Anne does a fabulous job helping him feel safe and loved. Samer clearly trusts this sweet woman who is putting her all into helping him.
As we were getting him checked in, which included receiving an EKG, blood draw, and x-ray, we were also joined by another volunteer program based here in Israel who brought him toys and treats galore. They too will be sharing the load of visiting him on a daily basis. Within an hour of arriving at the hospital, Samer was surrounded by five people, and that number quickly grew. The story of his life spread rapidly among the staff at Sheba, and everyone who heard it reacted with so much love.
Some women at the cardiology desk immediately offered him some candy, and once he was admitted to the ICU, all the doctors and nurses flocked to say hello and make him feel comfortable. The support didn’t stop there as three children’s therapists also came to help care for, and evaluate him. As a cherry on top to all of this, our kind Dr. Evy, upon hearing of his situation, asked the owner of a hospital therapy dog to pop in for a visit. Samer absolutely loved the dog, although he was a little bit unsure at first.
To say the least, this young boy has unknowingly captured the hearts of everyone he met today. While he sadly does not have the presence of a father or mother, there is no lack in the love that is being poured out upon him. His cup is indeed overflowing! We praise the Lord for the support He has stirred up among so many. But, we also must be praying for him to have courage and peace. He was so brave today as he came to the hospital— I can hardly imagine how terrifying it would be to come to a new place, surrounded by a bunch of beeping machines, with a huge group of people who don’t speak your language, and then to be poked and prodded without end. For example, when he got his IV line put in, it took about five attempts, an artery finding machine, and five nurses to hold him down so they could put it in. But soon after, he was happy and relaxed as love continued to flow from many.
