Renowned American pastor and author, TD Jakes, has finally broken his silence after a health scare on stage during a live-streamed sermon on Sunday.
The 67-year-old cleric was in the middle of a prayer when he suddenly lowered his microphone and began shaking, prompting an abrupt cut-off of the live stream.
In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Jakes expressed his gratitude to the healthcare team that assisted him and to the countless individuals who prayed, sent messages, and expressed their support. Visibly emotional, Jakes said, “It didn’t have to end this good. I’m so grateful… I’m grateful to y’all, all the people who prayed, all the people who texted, all the people who had prayer vigils, all the people who were concerned and sent love and sent notes. I’m just grateful.”
Jakes also took the opportunity to reflect on the experience, acknowledging the privilege of serving God’s people and the importance of relying on divine strength. In the post’s caption, he wrote, “Serving God’s people is an extraordinary privilege, and Sunday was no exception as I gave my all in delivering the message God placed on my heart. Even when I sensed the weight of my humanity and pushed through nonetheless, I’m reminded that even the strongest must rely on His strength.”
Jakes also gave thanks that he didn’t have a stroke and credited God’s intervention for the positive outcome. He wrote, “I give thanks unto the Lord that I did not have a stroke, however the event could’ve been fatal if it weren’t for God’s intervention. A special thank you to God and the medical professionals in our city whose speed and expertise were beyond exceptional.”
The pastor also expressed his gratitude to his family and church members, saying, “My job is to recuperate and reflect on God’s protection. I owe it to my amazing family and church members to rest and ruminate as He restores me towards His service.”
Jakes also emphasized the importance of rest, saying, “As God calls us to honor the Sabbath, I’m reminded that rest is not a weakness – it is a divine gift.”
The pastor concluded by thanking his friends and supporters from around the world, saying, “I’ve heard from friends from the global community who expressed God’s love in ways that were astonishing! God’s faithfulness was unmistakable to all those present. I’m forever humbled by your outpouring of love and support. I will always give my best. May His presence continue to guide and sustain you and provide peace and protection over you all.”