Episode 190

TODAY’S READING:

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.

3 John 1:2

 

In this book, the writer is writing to his friend, Gaius. He starts his greeting with this verse and it really got me thinking of how beautiful life would be if we took more time to write to those around us. To really congratulate them on their successes and to really mourn with them when they hurt.

 

We look to the word of God to see how Jesus lived. We studied His life, we study His teachings, but we also must take time to study how people lived in the days and years after Jesus acceded to heaven. After all, their lives should be examples to us all as we are human and as were they. Don’t get this mistaken, they were imperfect and it isn’t to make a god out of any of them because our one true example is Jesus, but I do think they lived lives that are relatable in that they too snuggled and chose to be Christian even when the world told them to believe in anything but Christ.

 

This opening sentence really got me thinking of those I love around me. We live in such a fast-paced society, but we must remember to truly slow down, and speak and listen to those around us.

 

I pray we are quick to wish them good health, and not to just ask them for favors. In my prayer time today, as I was reading this, I was encouraged to write a list of those around me. The circle God has placed in my life. My family, friends, co-workers, and mentors and wish them good health.

 

It encouraged me to strike up a conversation and listen to their needs.

 

I know this year was a crazy one and I bet you a lot of them are walking through a season they probably haven’t wanted to open up about. Everyone is going through something and no one deserves to go through it alone.

 

I hope that you take some time to do the same. Even if it’s just one person. Listen to them, extend them well wishes, and follow up with them. Sometimes the best way we can extend the love of Jesus to others is to listen to them and comfort them right where they meet us.

 

PRAYER

Father God, thank you for blessing yet another week. We ask that you are present and guide us when we make our list today. Help us reach those that need to hear your love. Help us to be selfless in wishing others good health rather than looking for ways to ask for favors. We want to give to others because you give to us. You bless us each and every day and we thank you for everything you do. We ask that you create a memory-filled weekend for us. Bless the day ahead of us, bless our family and our friends. We love you with everything in us, it is in your Holy name that we pray, AMEN!