Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.
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He read from it before the square, which was in front of the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of men and women, those who could understand; and all the people were attentive to the book of the law. – Nehemiah 8:3
Summer is reserved for fun in the sun, relaxed hours, and time with family and friends. While these indolent days, with their unbearable heat, beckon us to take time off, we are still in the business of providing health care. How do we stay motivated to do the tasks we have set before us during these midsummer months? What keeps us focused when we are facing challenges in our area, unit or department? How do we endure the pressure of meeting work expectations when our personal lives are falling apart?
Once more we can look to Nehemiah’s experience for suggestions on how to stay single-minded on the tasks at hand. Upon completion of the wall, all the people gathered in the square by the Water Gate and listened to the reading of the “Law of Moses.” The people stood for hours, listening. Why did they listen so attentively? I think they thoughtfully attended because these words of the law defined who they were as a people and validated their reason for being in Jerusalem once more.
What would we define as “The Law” for Loma Linda University Health? We would only have to look at the mission and vision statements of our organization. We exist to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Our vision is innovating excellence in Christ-centered health care.
Staying grounded when there are distractions, challenges and unexpected circumstances requires periodic refocusing. This reorientation should happen whenever we gather together as a team — staff meetings, project-planning sessions or in committees. We should review our department or school mission/vision statements to ascertain whether or not the work we are doing is actually helping us to progress to the overarching goal of Loma Linda University Health. Our statements help define who we are as an organization and confirm our purpose in the Inland Empire.
Remaining focused when we are facing challenges in our area, unit or department requires a commitment to transparency, accountability and support. When our personal lives are falling apart, we should take advantage of the resources afforded through the Living Whole Wellness Plan, the Drayson Center, mental health support and time with family and friends. Summer is here for a few more months. As long as we stay on mission, as one Loma Linda family, we can continue to provide excellent health care and instruction to our patients, students and partners. As long as we stay on mission.
Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University