DOCTOR
Make friends with the doctor, for he is essential to you; God has also established him in his profession. From God the doctor has wisdom, and from the king he receives sustenance. Knowledge makes the doctor distinguished, and gives access to those in authority (Sirach 38:1-3).
Give the doctor his place lest he leave; you need him too. For there are times when recovery is in his hands. He too prays to God that his diagnosis may be correct and his treatment bring about a cure (Sirach 38:12-14).
Whoever is a sinner before his Maker will be defiant toward the doctor (Sirach 38:15).
I went to see some doctors for a cure. . . (Tobit 2:10)
MEDICINE
God makes the earth yield healing herbs which the prudent should not neglect; Was not the water sweetened by a twig, so that all might learn his power? (Sirach 38:4-5)
He endows people with knowledge, to glory in his mighty works, through which the doctor eases pain, and the druggist prepares his medicines. Thus God’s work continues without cease in its efficacy on the surface of the earth (Sirach 38:6-8).
Tythey anointed my eyes with various salves. . . (Tobit 2:10)
PRAYER, CLEANSING AND OFFERING
My son, when you are ill, do not delay, but pray to God, for it is he who heals. Flee wickedness and purify your hands; cleanse your heart of every sin. Offer your sweet-smelling oblation and memorial, a generous offering according to your means (Sirach 38:9-11).
Christ, like a skillful physician, understands the weakness of men. He loves to teach the ignorant and the erring he turns again to his own true way. He is easily found by those who live by faith and to those of pure eye and holy heart, who desire to knock at the door, he opens immediately. -- St. Hyppolytus (Treatise on Christ and Antichrist)
Let us understand that God is a physician, and that suffering is a medicine for salvation, not a punishment for damnation. -- St Augustine
