Rev. A.C.Oommen is a well known interpreter of the vocation of healing and health care and has influenced our lives immensely at the time when Anna and I were coping with the home call of Anita in 1981, while we were working at CMC, Vellore. It was he, at Anita's funeral service, who made a prophetic remark,'this grief of Anna and M.C will turn to make others joyful'. This prophetic call was one of the signs which led us to start Ashirvad Christian Concern for Child care in 1983. We are now into the thirtieth year of the mission of Ashirvad.
Anna and I have had several occasions during the last thirty five years to keep in touch with Rev.Oommen, the last being early this month at a wedding, where he was speaking.
He has crossed ninety years and lives with his daughter at Pune. He recalled our experience of 1981 and encouraged us to continue following the call of God in our lives.
What is so graceful about him at ninety years? He is even more seeking after God and radiating His love. There is a connection which he establishes with people by remembering the seminal events in their lives. He speaks very little about his health or other age related needs and even deflects direct questions in order to be able to focus on others and their needs. There is a genuine and gentle way of listening and responding. He reposes faith on the person and finds a word of encouragement which meets a need at that particular time.
During our recent meeting, he mentioned to us that, 'there are many in health care mission who would need encouragement and keep them in our thoughts'. This came as a call and we are still pondering over it.
'Godliness with contentment' is a virtue of ageing wisdom, which is what Oommen Achen conveys. His love touches and inspires. There is warmth and affection, which has a charismatic touch. His ability to communicate from the Scripture is even more sound now, because he speaks from an intimacy of fellowship with his Master. He does not just speak, but communicates lovingly. It is evident that this is the fruit of silent communion with God.
What a refreshing experience it was to have been with Rev. Oommen once again!
M.C.Mathew(text and photo)
Oommen Achen is truly an inspiration. I am thankful that I had the privilage of having him teach my "confirmation" classes. He conducted my engagement, and I still treasure the walks and talks we've had , especially the letter he wrote to me before my wedding.
ReplyDeleteI am glad his prophetic words in your life came to fruition. What a blessing!