A kind word or gesture goes a long way towards healing

Last week I was reminded that although in pain, it was pain well earned in a life well lived. Since then, I have been touched deeply by the heartfelt well wishes and acts of kindness that people have shared to lift my spirits. I am sure I will miss some, and for those missed, please know that your words and gestures have been my lifeline in recent days. These acts of kindness have ranged from text received sending prayers or hope for quick healing, to co-workers all stepping in to take critical tasks from me so I can give myself time to heal and rest. Reminders from friends and co-workers alike that when we get these “nudges” to rest, we need to obey. I received beautiful photos to remind me of God’s omniscient presence and ability to bring forth miraculous healing-after all, he created the Heavens and the Earth. Finally, I heard an unexpected knock on my door this evening and on my porch stood someone with bags of groceries loaded with a few of mine and my family’s favorite things. A grocery delivery from a dear friend to bring us all a bit of joy. In all of these moments, the pain that was just recently all consuming took a step back and I was filled with joy and love from all the kindness shared. Paul tells us in Galatians that those who seek to please themselves and their flesh will find destruction and then he follows with the best words of encouragement to do as all of these friends, co-workers and family have done for me. “whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Galatians 6:8-10, NIV) I know they didn’t reach out to me for a potential benefit they may receive, but because as believers, we are called to do good for others, for all people. What a Blessing it is to not only be called to share this gift but to also receive this gift when you need it most.

I remember when Rob’s mom had her heart attack. Rob and I were members of our local church, but she attended a different church. As we sat at the hospital for days as she recovered from her life saving surgery, our Pastors came to visit not only us, but her. They sat with her and prayed with her. I recall sitting their in awe to think they had an entire congregation they served, but they took the time to sit with our mom who wasn’t a member of our church to comfort her and cover her in prayer because we are called to do good to all people-not just those that are members of our church or in our circles, but all people.

I also think of my favorite ministry in our church that I have shared in the past, the quilt ministry (you can read the blog about the quilt ministry here). I cannot tell you how many times I have thread a quilt with someone I didn’t know having hope that once they read the card and know that they are covered in prayers that it would provide comfort and hope in difficult days. These ladies come together to make beautiful quilts not knowing where they may end up or who they may impact, yet with each stitch they are prayerful knowing that wherever they go, someone, somewhere will be covered in prayer.

I am a true believer that healing is not just a physical battle, but a mental one as well. If we come defeated mentally, we will end defeated physically. These kind words, the kind gestures are words and acts of healing. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Today, I pray that you share a kind word or gesture with someone that may need it most. I pray that you find creative ways like my friends that get groceries delivered with a few of my favorite things. I pray that one day, when you need it the most, you feel the love I feel today.

I pray these words spoke to you, please share with a friend. Don’t miss a blog post, subscribe to my web page.