Turn the Tables

March 11, 2008

By Bob Caldwell

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you” (John 15:12, NIV).

Recently (Feb. 14), I told you of my badly broken arm that prevented me from sleeping. I am glad to report the bones are completely healed and physical therapy is helping me get my range of motion back.

Without boring you with too many details, the place I broke my arm was right at the shoulder. I was in significant pain and could do basically nothing with my left arm for a month. Getting dressed was an adventure. Opening a soda bottle was nearly impossible. I could only type with one hand. Worst of all, I was unable to play guitar.

During this time, my wife and kids helped me out a lot. Even after I could dress myself, I could not reach to tie my shoes. Someone else had to. I never felt so helpless in my life.

Gradually, I have returned to the place where I can do whatever I need to. I don’t need anyone’s help for everyday tasks. It’s a good feeling.

Ironically, on Feb. 12, my wife, Tina, fell on the ice in front of the post office. She fell on her left wrist and was afraid she broke it. So now it was my turn to take her to the doctor, carry her stuff, help her get dressed, fetch stuff for her. After more than a month of me being waited on, I became the one who waited.

Fortunately for Tina, her arm was only sprained and she was able to return to work (she is the manager, so she has all the help she needs there). She already needs me less than I needed her and should be back to 100 percent within a week or two. And she was able to sleep in our bed instead of in a recliner (see the Valentine’s Day article for that story).

The tables were turned in our relationship. The waiter became the “waitee” and vice versa. I was able to use the comfort and help Tina gave me to minister to her need. I believe I would have been there for her anyway, but I am sure my recent experience in being comforted did make me more ready to comfort someone else.

The comfort we receive from God should spur us on to comfort others in their need. God doesn’t bless us just for our sakes, but also for the sakes of others.

— Bob Caldwell is a Ph.D. student at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis.