Guided by faith: navigating the healthcare science journey

If you are an employee or student at Loma Linda University Health, you have embarked on a journey of being a healthcare professional. You have entered a world of immense knowledge, challenges, and opportunities. Practicing and pursuing healthcare science demands a deep understanding of the intricacies of the human body, cutting-edge research, and the ability to translate this into compassionate care. It is a powerful calling that will bring great joy and profound challenges. In this season of your life, I want to encourage you to reflect on the wisdom in 2 Corinthians 5:7: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

The apostle Paul’s words remind us that faith is not limited to matters of religion alone. It is the lens through which you “see” life in a paradigm-shifting way, a GPS that can illuminate and transform every aspect of your life—professional and personal. Here are some essentials for living your dreams:

The first essential is to embrace uncertainty: In healthcare science, you will encounter situations where the outcome is uncertain, and you won’t always have all the answers. It’s in these moments that your faith becomes essential. Trust that your education and training have prepared you for the challenges ahead, but also acknowledge the limits of human understanding. Embrace uncertainty as an opportunity for growth and reliance on the Great Healer’s pathway.

The second essential is to seek wisdom: Walking by faith doesn’t mean mindlessly ignoring evidence or expertise. Instead, it encourages you to seek wisdom and discernment in your decisions. Strive for excellence in your studies, research, and patient care, but recognize that there are factors beyond your control. Trust that your efforts and faith can lead to transformational outcomes.

The third essential is showing compassion: Healthcare science is about technical skills and caring for people in their most vulnerable moments. Following Jesus’ healing method means your faith can inspire compassion and empathy. Remember that every patient has their fears, hopes, and stories. Treat people with dignity and respect; your faith will shine through your actions.

The fourth essential is persevering through challenges: your life as a healthcare professional can and will be mentally and emotionally taxing. Practicing the art of your healthcare profession guarantees that there will be moments when you question your abilities and your decision to pursue this path. You will feel that what you face is greater than the resources and skills you contain. During such times, remember that faith is the anchor that can help you endure. Have faith in your abilities, in the support of your mentors and peers, and in the purpose behind your calling. Most of all, have faith in the One who has called you to bring wholeness to others.

Finally, cultivate a heart of service: As you “continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus,” walk by faith and recognize that your knowledge and skills are gifts to be used for the betterment of others. Approach your work humbly, acknowledging that your talents are meant to alleviate suffering and promote healing. You have been called to change the world, one patient, one person, one moment at a time.

The words of 2 Corinthians 5:7, “For we walk by faith, not by sight,” invite you to live a life transcending the visible and tangible. As healthcare professionals, employee, or student, you are not merely acquiring knowledge and putting it into practice; you are also cultivating a mindset of faith, trust, and compassion that will shape your professional journey. Embrace the challenges and uncertainties with the confidence that you are walking by faith, guided by a higher purpose.

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care.