Music helps a grieving heart. Whenever someone close to us loses a loved one we want to do something to help. It can be difficult to find the right words – or any words – that adequately expresses our sympathy....
How can we care for a person with cancer? Ask Important Questions! Ask, “How are you, today?” and also ask, “What’s going to be the hard part for you?” Be sincere and show them that what they are going through is important to you. Tell them you’re coming over …. Then visit them. Be creative with special treats and conversations that will brighten their days. Even if they say they don’t need anything, that’s when they will most appreciate that you are there.
I am longing for something beautiful, meaningful and joyous to happen this Christmas season. Maybe you are, too! I believe one way to find this beauty and meaning is to focus some of our attention outward to those...
What is the purpose of prayer? One of my pastors, Jill Russell, said in a sermon, “We have asked and it has not been given. We have looked and have not found; we have knocked and the door was locked tight. We’ve prayed...
DO Start off the conversations with "I've been thinking about you." or "How are you doing today?" Offer to help with a specific task. Take the time to call the grieving person, and listen for what their needs might...
During my early years as a pastor, I had a hard time balancing the demands of my job with the needs of my wife and family. Putting in long hours, struggling to get organized, and trying to figure out if I was up to this, I considered leaving the ministry. Eventually, the stress contributed to a divorce from my first wife.
During the difficult time when I was going through my divorce there was only one person from the church who called me daily, took me out for coffee to listen to me, and invited me to dinner. He did not lecture, did not pry, and did not try to get my wife and me back together. He was simply, steadfastly there for me. I will never forget the strength that man gave me.
What does flying a plane or riding a bike or walking 60 miles have to do with our subject of caring for individuals who are going through a crisis? Listen to this radio program and the connection will become clear.
Editor's Note: the following poem was written by Karen Mulder's friend Ruth, who attends church with Karen. My Friend My friend Mayo Clinic Devastating news: Cancer! Surgery to remove pancreas, spleen and a portion of...
