An Agent of God

Dearest Lord, though you hide yourself behind the unattractive disguise of the irritable, the exacting, the unreasonable, may I still recognize you, and say, "Jesus, my patient, how sweet it is to serve you." — Mother Teresa

Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men ..."

Mother and Paul remind me that my ultimate customer is not the families of the fallen. Each of those nearly 3000 families are God's ultimate customer. He cares more profoundly, grieves more deeply and and knows more intimately. He fulfills the promise to go with them all the way. He is with them through the dark and lonely nights. He delivers His healing when the pain is too great to bear. He fills the empty place in their hearts with meaning. He heals broken minds with memory of precious moments and will administer, at just the right moment, the relief of humor. He strengthens weak knees and lifts broken spirit. He offers the dignity, honor and respect that could only come from the Divine.

And what about me? My ultimate customer is the Lord. During a very brief moment on a families journey I pray a prayer, offer condolence and walk intimately with them during the repatriation of their loved one. I offer an opportunity to grieve hard and fast. I open the door to life story and remembrance of humor. I am a channel for His strength and comfort. I am an agent of God.

Mother and Paul remind me that my ultimate customer is not the young folks who work in the mortuary. Each of these young and not so young soldiers, airmen, marines and civilians are children of God. Each is created and loved by the God who went to extraordinary lengths to demonstrate that love. God has blessed them with strength of character, categorical attention to detail and a focus on their mission which is almost absolute. They carry the horror of war with grace but each bear a lifetime of spiritual scar. Each is more precious and valuable than either they or I could possibly know.

And what about me? My ultimate customer is the Lord. For a few brief months I get to stand beside them while they work. I provide distraction, perspective and a personal touch. I am third in the ping-pong hall of fame and first in the foosball hall of shame. I offer a nonjudgmental ear and a safe shoulder. I provide a comfortable space and offer nearly unconditional acceptance. At various times, I am father, confessor, counselor or morale booster. I perform religious rites, personnel arbitration and pray for and/or with each. I am the Presence of the Holy. I am an agent of God.