Joy

For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;
I Thessalonians 3:9

Assisted living night always brings joy to my heart. Mark teaches a Bible study once a month and I get to “go along for the ride”. Visiting and chatting with the residents before and after the study is always a highlight for me (I think they enjoy it too.)

Each month the subject varies, of course, some months are already “planned” with the subject to be taught. December is one of those months.

This month he taught about the angel coming to Mary to announce the pending birth of our Lord. The people attending range in age from 70 and up with about 82 being the average age. The women attending are bright and inquisitive, listening very attentively. Most of the women have never heard the lessons before having been told by leaders of their churches to not read the Bible.

We have one woman who took care of the linens for the altar and was very active in her church. One night she told us, in awe, that all the years she attended church she never heard the things of the Bible. Praise God she faithfully attends Bible study and a few years ago trusted Jesus as her Savior. Up until about a year ago, before declining health, she was our biggest supporter, going door to door to remind people of Bible study or Sunday service. God has faithfully provided another “great supporter” who has taken up the baton.

As the lessons are taught, my husband gets the people actively involved by asking questions and giving thought provoking statements. There is laughter and joking too. One of the questions was, “What would you do if you found out you were to have a baby at your age?” The looks, comments and shaking of the heads was priceless. He continued to teach, when we heard a little laughter. Looking around we saw the culprit giggling. Once the laughter subsided she said, “I was thinking about all of us expecting a baby. What would people think?” This statement caused another ripple of laughter from everyone.

I count it a great privilege to be able to go and minister to these “forgotten” people. They are not in a foreign land but right here in our own cities and states. There are many elderly residents that do not have family or friends living close by and desire a few minutes of companionship. A listening ear, a hug and kiss or maybe just a smile is all that is needed to make a person’s day. I receive all of these things when I go and spend some time with my “mature” friends.

Have a blessed day,
Donna

Be a light

For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: Ephesians 5:8

December is upon us. The entire month is hustle and bustle. We are busy throughout the year but it seems that as soon as December arrives every day is booked. There are so many things going on during the month of December. Church activities, Bible studies, plays, Christmas bazaars, brunches, lunches, time with extended family, Christmas parties for work the list goes on and on. We run from one activity to another sometimes having two or more things to attend on one day.

In the midst of this busy time, we need to take time to reflect about all the busyness. Most of us are busy because it is the “holiday” season. What “holiday” are we celebrating? Most people tend to forget what the “holiday” is centered around. We are celebrating the birth of Christ. The Savior of the World, the One the whole Bible is centered around. The Light of the World. Are we being the “lights” to those around us? Are we allowing the Light to shine through us?

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

In the busyness of the season never forget the true meaning: Jesus is the reason for the season. I am praying for guidance to keep my perspective right. Ask the Lord to give you JOY this season by putting him first.

Jesus
Others
You

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. John 15:11