"My hope is that my visit with you is going to be one of Christ's more
extravagant blessings." Romans 15:29 (MSG)
"Paul lived for two years in his rented house. He welcomed everyone who came to
visit." Acts 28:30 (MSG)
When I was in grade 11, I had a classmate who was seriously ill. He attended
school for a while, but eventually he ended in a hospital in Brugge, about 20
kms from where I lived. I wanted to visit him. It was important that my friend
knew he wasn't alone in this. The only problem was that I had no car, and the
only way to get there was by train. I asked permission from my mom, and she
decided to come with me to the hospital. Bonus!
When I entered his room, he smiled genuinely. I was his friend, and he knew it.
I made his day, and somehow I felt I had done the right thing. I encouraged him
and stayed with him as long as I could. He appreciated that I was there.
When it was time to leave, my mom showed me some beautiful places in Brugge. It
was an extra bonus. However, what I remember was not the tourist attractions;
but rather, the smile of my friend me when I entered his room. Nothing is more
important than family and friends.
I know that most of us are quite busy. We make honey bees look lazy. We have no
time. We have tasks to finish. Nothing is more important.
All of these are certainly less important, however, than visiting a friend in a
hospital or in a nursing home. By visiting them we give them hope. They are not
alone. They are not forgotten, and this sustains them. One visit will not take
that much time; and interestingly enough, it will fill us with excitement as it
is exhilarating indeed to be able to encourage someone. What a great feeling!
Do you know anyone who is lonely? Why not call or text them or even better, run
by for a visit?
Rob Chaffart
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
everyone to look towards Jesus as the source of all the solutions to our
problems. It contains a daily inspirational story, a Bible verse and encouraging
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The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.