Thinking about respirator tubes, and prayer

Two new developments at the hospital: First of all, Nathan was responsive, not only in the evening (as he has been the last couple days), but also in the early afternoon. He continues to move his arms and hands, squeezing our hands, frowning, and perhaps even trying to smile. That is encouraging. The other new development: they have had to restrain Nathan's arms to keep him from yanking the respirator tube out of his mouth. The fact that he is alert enough to try to get rid of that tube is good news. But sadly, the tube is a necessary annoyance until his breathing is stronger. Nathan initiates virtually every breath on his own now, but he needs the respirator to deepen his breathing in order to get enough oxygen.

One frustrating side effect of having that tube in place: Nathan cannot talk to us. I was reminded of Psalm 27:8: "My heart has heard you say, 'Come and talk with me.' And my heart responds, 'Lord, I am coming.'" (New Living Translation)

One of the joys of relationship is hearing the voice of our loved ones. That that respirator tube prevents Nathan from talking to us is distressing to him and to us. We are looking forward to getting rid of that miserable tube! It is sad, and hard, to relate to a loved one who doesn't talk.

I'm not entirely sure why God so rarely speaks audibly (except that it invariably scares the hearers spitless!). But our Father's invitation (or plea) in Psalm 27:8 makes it clear that hearing from us is important to him. He knows full well what's going on, and what's on our minds and hearts. But He wants to hear us talk to him. Reason enough to pray.