Last week, we told you about a now-viral video of Bishop T.D. Jakes’ during a November 24 sermon at his Dallas megachurch, The Potter’s House, that had viewers concerned about the health of the popular faith leader.
Now, one week later, Jakes gave an update on his condition, addressing the Potter’s House congregation in a video message introduced by his son-in-law, Toure Roberts. His on-screen image was greeted by a standing ovation from those inside the church.
Jakes began with a message of thanks to his parishioners in the church and online around the world for their prayers and support.
“I’m so delighted to see you. I’m grateful for God’s faithfulness. I’m grateful for your faithfulness. I’m grateful for this season in my life,” Jakes said in his video message. “I told you last Sunday that I’d see you this Sunday, and so here I am.”
During the November 24 incident, Jakes was seen taking off his glasses in the middle of his sermon and wiping his forehead with a handkerchief. As his speech appeared to slow, he looked down and convulsed slightly before staff rushed to his aid. The congregation was asked to pray for Bishop Jakes before the video ended.
While there are still some unanswered questions around what actually happened, Jakes told viewers he was rushed to the hospital where he had emergency surgery.
“I am grateful to God for his goodness and his mercy and his grace. Many of you don’t realize that you’re looking at a miracle. I faced a life-threatening calamity. I was rushed to the ICU unit. I had emergency surgery,” he continued.
He added that he had a physical before the incident, where his doctor told him he was “fine.”
Those who watched Jakes’ words left prayers and messages of thanks that Jakes appeared to be on the mend.
“He sounds good. praise the Lord. Thank you Lord Praying for quick recovery,” wrote someone in the comments of the video posted on YouTube.
Jakes ended his video telling viewers that he’s taking his doctors’ advice and taking his recovery process slowly. He said he plans to take a few weeks to heal, recover and reflect before jumping back into his usual schedule.
“Every moment, every second, every minute of your life, you should recognize that somebody’s headed to the morgue while you’re headed to the light,” Jakes said in his video message. “Not because you’re any better, not because they’re any worse, but by the amazing grace of God.”