Not having a vast knowledge of the Spanish language can be challenging at times. A few years ago, a friend asked me to go buy him some Hemorrhoid cream. I am often asked to purchase medicine for those who can’t afford it. In fact, I have 3 prescriptions laying on the bar that I will get filled later today. We appreciate your giving which allows us to do so. I am well known at the local pharmacy. Unfortunately, it isn’t because of the ministry or the fact that I spend so much money there. The reason I am so popular is because, when I don’t know the word for what I am looking for, I try every way possible to come back with my medicine. Never come home empty handed! The hemorrhoid cream led to quite possibly the most embarrassing situation I have been in here in Nicaragua. Although it happened 2 years ago, it never seems to go away. However, I walked away with a tube of cream that fit the bill.
A few months ago, there was a lady who came to me with a prescription for some medicine dealing with a feminine issue. April consulted her and learned that she really needed the medicine. It was never really discussed with me what the medicine was or what it did, nor will it be discussed with anyone in the future! Suffice to say, I had a piece of paper with the name of a medicine written on it and I had no clue what it was or what it was for. I bee bopped into the pharmacy with a smile on my face. The ladies all smiled and greeted me by name. Hola, Don Joel!” I handed them the paper and smiled. I noticed the girls expression was one of a puzzling nature. She went to the shelf and returned and asked me something that I wasn’t real sure what she meant. So, I replied, “I don’t know, it’s not for me.” When I said that, it was like a punch line. All the pharmacists busted out laughing. And the attendant said, “We know.” We still laugh about that kind of stuff hat happens day to day with me.
The kicker was, last night I was invited to speak at a home study group for youth and young adults. It was a very small and humble home and over 20 people crowded in. There were no bells and whistles…no basketball court, no amusing attractions, AND it was a Friday night. It was quite refreshing to know that people, even young people will gather to hear the word and need nothing else to hold their attention. The topic was “Examine yourselves to see if you are I the faith.”
As I walked in the door and greeted everyone, I saw the pharmacist. She was already laughing. I knew why. She remembers me from the prescription.
Prov 17:22A joyful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
That they may know Christ..... 