Here in Malta

Marty, Kari and I are off to Valetta and possibly temple ruins a thousand years older than stonehenge. Last night Marty and I were praying on the roof overlooking the harbour. It was the festa of Peter and Paul with fireworks here and there in the sky. But what really got my attention was the sky under the full moon. The whole sky was opening up. Flashes of light like a sparkler... it was deeply spiritual and cosmic. And it's not about the "wow" of the moment - It's about intimacy with the Almighty, that God would reveal such things to little people praying on rooftops in Malta, That's what amazes me... when God hugs me and doesn't say a word, that's special! Last night was also the dedication of a world renown hospital here in Valetta.

I've been reading about the Knights of Malta who were the knights of the hospital - world class doctors of their days. And Malta was their base for generations... there is something here on this island. Something about worship and healing. The Maltese have always been known as a people of peace. Everyone around them has fought over their island. But the maltese have a deep desire to worship and an extraordinary character. They are a nation of healers who are yet to meet their healer, in order to learn how to be the healers they're meant to be.

They did not forget their original calling, establishing a hospital for serving pilgrims to the East, as well as a separate infirmary for the brethren. A much larger hospital was opened in 1483... each patient received a separate bed, with its own balcony for fresh air and privy. In addition to being checked by a doctor twice daily, each of the sick was assigned a servant to care for them. Medicines were provided free of charge. Doctors also prescribed special diets for patients, who were served meals on silver dishes with silver spoons.
The Maltese Cross: a strategic history of Malta