This is the question I ask at the end of all my visits with shut-ins and people in the hospital. Most everyone answers this question, "No, we're fine but thank you." A few weeks ago I was visiting a parishioner whose husband has early onset dementia. Recently he has found it difficult to stand on his own. He is no longer able to participate in his daily ritual of standing in front of the mirror to shave his face. Every man knows how refreshing shaving is. Because he no longer can shave he had two weeks worth of stubble (or a beard). I knew the beard must have been uncomfortable for him. His wife told me that she was hoping to get someone to shave his face soon.
As I was about to leave we prayed together then I asked the question, "Is there anything else I can do for both of you?" I got the typical answer, "No we are fine." But then I asked a more pointed question, "Can I give him a shave before I leave?" I saw the calculation. "How could she ask a preacher to shave her husband?" But she said, "yes."
I don't want to get too theological but there are times that I don't "feel" like a pastor. I can't explain it. But in that moment when I was giving this man a fresh shave, I felt like I was his pastor. I felt like I was doing exactly what Jesus called me to do.
In many ways, it felt like I had the honor of washing his feet.
After my visits with them, she always says, "Let me get you something for doing that..." My response, "The blessing is all mine." Because in serving in such a way I to find Jesus.
