We had a patient come through for evacuation because he was a danger to himself. He was a part of the convoys that are the constant target of improvised explosive devices or IEDs. He had seen at least three buddies injured from IEDs and he didn’t want to go back home in pieces. He said he would rather end his own life than to be blown up. It seemed like this fighting man didn’t feel anything or anyone was protecting him from harm.

My thoughts went to the book of Hebrews 13:5-6 where it says “….Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you. So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my Helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

It also reminded me a story I read in Jesus Freaks a book about Martyrs. The Martyr was Thomas Hauker in England, year 1555

“Thomas” his friend lowered his voice so as not to be heard by the guard. “I have to ask you a favor. I need to know if what others say about the grace of God is true. Tomorrow, when they burn you at the stake, if the pain is tolerable and your mind is still at peace, lift your hands above your head. Do it right before you die. Thomas, I have to know.”

Thomas Hauker whispered to his friend, “I will.”

The next morning, Hauker was bound to the stake and the fire was lit. The fire burned a long time, but Hauker remained motionless. His skin was burnt to a crisp and his fingers were gone. Everyone watching supposed that he was dead.

Suddenly, miraculously, Hauker lifted his hands, still on fire, above his head. He reached them up to the living God, and then, with great rejoicing, clapped them together three times.

The people there broke into shouts of praise and applause. Hauker’s friend had his answer.

Hauker lived out the verse in Pillipians 4:6-7 “ Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Soli Deo Gloria