By Cindy Fenske and Justin Rossow

Dr. Cindy Fenske is the Dean of the School of Nursing at Concordia University, Ann Arbor and a member of Living Water Lutheran Church of Whitmore Lake

Whether you are visiting someone in the hospital or spending time there yourself, it’s sometimes hard to know how to pray. We asked Cindy Fenske from Concordia’s School of Nursing how we might pray for the nurses who serve us. And then we added some Scripture verses and other prayers for situations we encounter in the hospital.

Before Surgery

But I trust in you, LORD; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hands. Psalm 31:14-15

Jesus, sometimes it’s hard to trust as we step into the unknown. But you promise to be with me. My times are in your hands. Use the doctors and nurses as your instruments of healing. I trust in you, Lord; you are my God. Amen.

During Recovery

Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:31

It’s easy to get impatient, Lord! Give me your peace as my body heals. Give me your patience as I go through ups and down. Give my your Spirit to be your representative to family, friends, doctors and nurses. Renew my strength, Jesus; my hope is in you. Amen.

Waiting for a Diagnosis

I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. Psalm 130:5

Lord, search my heart and comfort my thoughts. It’s so easy to let fears and worries drive my imagination. So many questions swirl around in my head. Quiet my turbulent emotions, Jesus, as I wait for a clearer picture of what comes next. Whatever it is, I face the future with hope, because I belong to you. Amen.

Praying for your Nurses

Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 15:34

Heavenly Father, we come to you in thanksgiving for the nurses in our midst. You have given them an important and challenging vocation, one that requires them to mirror your love and compassion for the sick and dying. Fill them with your Spirit as they minister to their patients with Your healing touch. Let Your love shine through in all that they do. Amen.

Cindy Fenske will be the guest speaker at the LWML Spring Rally on April 29. The Rally will take place at the Concordia University Ann Arbor School of Nursing (North Campus) located at 3475 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. followed by a devotion, speaker, and tour of the facilities. Lunch available for $8.00 in the school cafeteria on the CUAA main campus. RSVP to Carol Koch or Linda Murdock.