i was informed today that a former client passed away recently likely due to a drug overdose. (for those who don’t know, i work at a group home for adults with mental illness and chemical dependency). he was here just a couple of months ago. i felt like i had developed good rapport with him and i am very saddened by the news of his death. he had been struggling with addiction for years. he was outgoing and in-your-face, but i cared for him and we really connected. i’m not sure if he knew Christ, but my guess is that he didn’t. i know that it’s not my job here to talk about Christ, but it makes me really sad that i had so much contact with him and was unable to share the hope i have.
this just reminds me of the “bigger picture.” this job can be very rewarding, especially when you hear the success stories. but there aren’t a ton of them. in fact, many times you hear bad news when you hear of a former client. there are many factors that can account for that. some may be our responsibility as providers, however, the clientele we work with have a poorer prognosis than most .
i feel this renewed sense of urgency to share the love of Christ with as many people as i can, with no shame, with no regrets. this life is short and for many it is a difficult, painful life. but there is hope. the blood of Jesus washes us clean, we are not guilty of our sins, and we are able to be in good standing with our Creator. this is the only way i have been able to find lasting hope. part of the reason i plan on embarking on this missions trip is to help me find some guidance in my life. more and more i am feeling called to be in a setting where i am able to proclaim the name of Jesus without fear of losing my job.
i will remember this client when i start to shy away from telling someone about the hope i have. i will remember this client when i start to focus on myself rather than others. i will remember this client when i start to focus on the details and forget the bigger picture. i will remember this client…
