Most days as an artist, or even in ministry, you don’t get a huge amount of encouragement. That’s not to say it’s not there, nor do we do what we do based upon encouragement alone. But every now and then something comes along that makes you stop and say, “Wow, that’s why I’m doing this.” I’d like to share two with you that came in within 24-hours of each other.
Yesterday I got an e-mail from a mom, Uta, who’s son Stephan is currently serving in Iraq. Partly because of my own family’s long military service to this country, and partly because of my current proximity to Ft. Drum, I have a tremendous heart for our soldiers. So it’s a speechless delight when I’m able to have an impact on there lives, even in the smallest of ways. I’ll let the photo do all the talking.
Didn’t notice anything? Zoom in on the book on his night stand.
You are in our thoughts and prayers, Stephan! God bless you, Mighty Dibor!
Lastly, today I got an e-mail from Dr. David Dunn, the Director of the Roberts Cultural Life Center at Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, NY. As many of you know, we played there on June 19th for the National Bible Quiz Finals. The next morning, the staff collected all the comment cards from the week, and David wrote this to me:
“This young lady said she enjoyed the college experience – food could have been better and really enjoyed the Jolt Cola that we put in the rooms prior to their arrival. Then at the end of the comment card, she wrote, ‘And last night I rededicated my life to Jesus.’ (We picked the cards up on Saturday, so she rededicated here life to Christ at the concert!).”
You never know who’s life you might be touching in the midst of your work day, or while “stuck” at home. You never know who’s watching, who’s reading, who’s modeling you. I’m fortunate to get letters every now and again. But for those who don’t, what you do is equally as priceless. So allow me to encourage you today. Keep going. Souls are waiting on the other side of your obediance.
Thanks for reading.
CHÂ
Aw, God bless and protect him.
I, too, have a really big soft spot for those who serve. Especially now, when service requires so very, very much courage and endurance.
Mir
Hey, this guy is totally independent of the GI we met in Alexandria, right? Have you heard back from him?
That was cool.
I was sorta wondering the same thing as well…
Totally independent. I’ll be pulling out his e-mail for you from the sign-up sheets this week.
C.
I know what you mean – just a couple of weeks ago a published writer dropped by my blog and said some nice things about my own writing…
Mir,
I’m with you! By the way, you came up more than once during our tour! Seems everyone that knows you loves you; a true mark of greatness. Bless you!
UK Steve,
Touchez; appreciate the feedback. I also talked you up during the many hours in the van. Can’t wait to get a hold of your books!
CH
Hey, Christopher, did you get that picture of you and he that I took in Alexandria? I posted it on my blog, but I emailed you the link to my photos, and it was in there.
Way to go! I love the ministry of encouragement. I think that is the single most important thing we can do for others…and it’s alot more than just words. It does involve awareness, insight, communication, understanding, risk, courage, I could go on and on. Who knows what tragedy could next be avoided if we take the time to encourage our fellow sojourners on the oftentimes tough path of life.
How to encourage
So true, Kay G! Here-here!
CH