My elderly cousin is unaffiliated. I introduced her to prayer many years ago when I sent her a siddur and a Sefer Tehillim. I also sent her a subscription to The Jewish Press. I explained to her how useful they could be in times of stress, illness and sorrow, as well as in times of joy.
Until this day she blesses me for those sefarim. She uses them to help her get through most of her challenges.
She recently became a dialysis patient and her whole life focuses on the three days of treatment and its aftermath. (She is so happy to have Shabbos off.) She always has her Tehillim with her, and prays with it all the time. I continue to daven for her every day and check on her daily progress.
On December 25 her husband became ill and was rushed to the hospital. The doctors told her that he had less than a five percent chance of survival after all the surgeries were completed. They basically offered no hope whatsoever. She whispered in his ear not to go to the “light” or to any deceased relatives that he might envision because we were all davening and saying Tehillim for his speedy recovery.
As the doctors shook their heads, he came out of an induced coma. In disbelief the doctors said it was not their doing but rather a true miracle that such a choleh could survive this illness. He returned home a few days later. Right before lighting my Shabbos candles, I called them and Avram ben Dobrish answered the phone. He told me to keep davening for him because nothing else worked to save him. Just to hear his voice – strong and alive – brought tears of happiness to my eyes. This is an example of the power of prayer.
Even an atheist must sometimes believe. Here’s another reason why:
My friend went into the hospital for a “quick, simple” procedure. Unfortunately, she suffered severe and significant complications. As a friend, all I could do was daven and say Tehillim on her behalf. Her prognosis was poor and she almost didn’t make it.
I believe in the power of prayer through the recitation of Tehillim. I am grateful to HaKadosh Baruch Hu for giving us this precious tool for refuah. Elka Masha bas Rivka Chava still has a long road to recovery but she has the help of her many friends who daven on her behalf. Her husband, though not a believer, thanked me profusely for my prayers and kindness.
My friend, like my cousin, returned home on the same day – before Shabbos.
Such is the power of Tehillim.