When GOD Brings Us Compassion Through HIV Medication

The alarm rings at 7 o'clock, twice a day at our house...  Each time it rings, I feel Brad's sigh as he reaches to take medicine.  We have both come to dread that alarm.  

During the medical camp we had a few weeks ago, Brad got pricked with a used needle.

 













Because there was no way of even knowing whose needle it was, we decided NOT to take the .3% chance of contracting HIV.  So Brad started taking the same medicine that so many of our friends and neighbors take on a daily basis.  The only difference is that in 30 days, Brad would be able to stop... they will continue the twice a day routine for the rest of their lives.

As I read the list of possible side effects of the medication, I think that Brad is experiencing EVERY one of them!  He has even stopped drinking coffee because of the nausea!

NINE days of treatment left (yes, we are counting!).  As I reflect, I am realizing that GOD orchestrated this situation - as a special answer to our prayers!

COMPASSION...

We've prayed for GOD to fill us with it!
...That we would never become calloused, as we walk with people through hardships on a daily basis.  
...That we would never loose our SHOCK when we encounter abuse, ...PAIN when we see sickness or death, ...DISTRESS at others' hunger, or lack...

Many of the ladies that we work with are HIV positive!  They have shared about those days - when the medication just makes them want to stay in bed.  When they feel depressed, nauseous, sick...   I KNOW that I will respond differently after this experience!  This is REAL!!!  These things are not easy!  

When we hear tough stories every day... when the person we helped yesterday turns out to have lied to us... when we are worn out ourselves,  GOD please continue to fill us with compassion!!!   Because I believe that it is through our compassion that God speaks!

And, as we continue to pray for compassion, I realize now...  sometimes GOD brings us those answers through our own pain! 

He (Jesus) comforts us when we are in trouble, so that we can share that same comfort with others in trouble.  We share in the terrible sufferings of Christ, but also in the wonderful comfort he gives. 
2 Corinthians 1:3-5