Readings from the James Watson and Charles Watson Memorial Service

New Testament Reading from Revelations
Read by Peter G. Watson

[Revelations 7: 9-17]

One of the elders turned to me and said: "These men that are robed in white - who are they and from where do they come? But I answered, 'My Lord, you know, not I.' Then he said to me, 'These are the men who have passed through the great ordeal; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. That is why they stand before the throne of God and minister to him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will dwell with them. They shall never again feel hunger or thirst, the sun shall not beat on them nor any scorching heat, because the Lamb who is at the heart of the throne will be their shepherd and will guide them to the springs of the water of life; and God will wipe all tears from their eyes.'

Old Testament Reading from Ecclesiasticus
Read by Robert H. Flory, Jr.

Honour the doctor with the honour that is his due in return for his services; for he too has been created by the Lord. Healing itself comes from the Most High, like a gift from a King. The doctor's learning keeps his head high, and he stands erect in the presence of great men. The Lord has brought medicines into existence from the earth, and the sensible man will not despise them.

He has also given men learning so they may glory in his mighty works. He uses them to heal and to relieve pain, the chemist makes up a mixture from them. Thus there is no end to his activities, and through him health extends across the world.

My son, when you are ill, do not be depressed, but pray to the Lord and he will heal you. Renounce your faults, keep your hands unsoiled, and cleanse your heart from all sin.

Then let the doctor take over - the Lord created him too - and do not let him leave you, for you need him. Sometimes success is in their hands, since they in turn will beseech the Lord to grant them the grace to relieve and to heal, that life may be saved.

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