We’ve had the incredible privilege to host lots of visitors over the past several weeks as we engage with friends and family who want to encourage, pray with and serve Mary and me during this time of recovery from Mary’s cycling accident. I had no idea nine weeks ago what the network of hope as represented by the body of Christ would do to strengthen and inspire us.
Often our visitors provide a gift that they leave behind once their visit is complete. This ranges from beautiful floral arrangements, to outstanding meals, to irresistible sweets… and more.
These gifts have become fuel for the engine of recovery that now permeates our home. We’ve consistently been humbled and blessed by the thoughtfulness and generosity that marks these signs of love.
This pattern – this practice of providing a “leave behind” gift is well precedented. In fact, it’s biblically inspired and connected. Quite literally a box of chocolate covered pretzels, or a wonderful pasta dish, or a stunning bouquet, or huge strawberries, or an act of service tug me to the strong words of Jesus in John 14 –
“These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Peace. From Jesus. His peace.
He left it for us. His gift in abundance that He extended to His followers when it was time for Him to leave planet earth. Delivered without ceasing by His Holy Spirit. Our helper. Our usher to peace. Every day.
The profound generosity of those who have ministered to us over the last nine weeks has not simply provided food, and beauty, and calories, and assistance – these gifts have provided peace. Shalom. Comfort. Courage. Companionship. As followers of Jesus extend gifts of grace they extend the message of John 14 – they live out the promise of peace – they become peace incarnate – shalom in the flesh.
Jesus uses a meatloaf, and roses, and a wheelchair ramp, and neighbors that water our plants, and jewelry, and new pajamas… to deliver “peace, my peace.”
Gifts come alive. They inspire. They model. They convict. Oh, and yes, they become the sweet embrace of Jesus – His peace – a soul comforting shalom – in the storm – through the storm – because of the storm…
Beyond words – peace.
P.S. – Our mailman and our UPS delivery driver have literally become agents of peace – cards, letters, packages – shalom with a stamp – comfort in a cardboard box.
Bless you. Thank you.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Great post! The Lord used people and their gifts while I was critically ill as a child as well.
May His peace continue to surround your family and your wife’s recovery. (I am a cyclist and am always so sad when I hear of cycling accidents.) God bless you!