I’m Not Praying For Healing

(Or: Why I Didn’t Stand Up at Church Last Sunday)

“Anyone else?” the pastor asked, scanning the sanctuary. “Anyone else need healing?” The lights had been dimmed and there were people on their feet dotted throughout the room. I felt a rustling on my right as the man sitting next to me put his phone on the floor and stood up. A woman two rows in front of me looked around skittishly before rising to her feet as well.

Given my recent diagnosis, the one that everyone seems to know about but skillfully avoids should they find themselves in unexpected…