Physician, Heal Thyself

Luke 4:14-30: "And He opened the book and found the place where it was written, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord." "And He closed the book, gave it back to the attendant and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." "And all were speaking well of Him, and wondering at the gracious words which were falling from His lips; and they were saying, "Is this not Joseph's son?" And He said to them, "No doubt you will quote this proverb to Me, 'Physician, heal yourself Whatever we heard was done at Capernaum, do here in your hometown as well.'" What is the irony of this historical proverb, and how did Jesus use it to illustrate the expectations upon Him from those He ministered to? How can we as physicians and caregivers look to His example when met with the pressures of medical care today? Join me in this much-needed contemplation for the soul, the mind, body and spirit, for those who seek to give their all for others, while sometimes needing to pause when counting the cost.