Terri walks into the local White Castle store, and the counter person calls out, “Terri’s here! Bring her donuts.” The White Castle glazed donuts Terri shares with the community kindled a friendship between her and the White Castle staff.
The store manager was recently shot and killed by a local gang member. A sense of helpless grief caused Terri to drive to the now locked store the next day. As she waited patiently in her car, the district manager came out to see what Terri wanted.
Terri shared her grief over the death of the kind, patient, and always smiling store manager. She then asked the district manager if she could, right there, pray for the White Castle staff. The manager agreed, and Terri prayed for God to comfort all and bring good out of the tragedy.
Sensing her mission was not quite complete, Terri asked the district manager if she could give her a hug. The manager agreed. As Terri’s arms enfolded her, she sobbed, saying, “This is so very sad,” over and over. Terri encouraged her to find hope in Jesus. The district manager responded, “Your visit made my day!”
Caring community members know each other’s names and together celebrate joys and sorrows despite differences, even in the midst of a pandemic. These are the elements of happy, healthy communities.
As I write this, I’m reminded to phone my 82-year-old widower, letting him know I’m thinking about him. I know our conversation boosted his health and happiness. Science proves loving compassion, words, hugs, and attention strengthens one’s immune system and improves energy levels.
CONSIDER:
Paying attention to God’s promptings prepares our path to provide greater love and hope to others in the midst of tragedy and trials. And did you know, as you deliver those words and acts of love, you benefit with greater physical and mental health yourself?
Love is large and incredibly patient. Love is gentle and consistently kind to all. It refuses to be jealous when blessing comes to someone else. Love doesn’t brag about one’s achievements or inflate its own importance. Love doesn’t traffic in shame and disrespect, nor selfishly seek its own honor. Love isn’t easily irritated or quick to take offense. Love joyfully celebrates honesty and finds no delight in what is wrong. Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others, Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up. 1 Cor. 13:4-7 TPT