“We live in a row of 14 terraced miner’s cottages, surrounded by farmland. I gave each home a box of Free Range eggs at Easter, with a non-religious Easter card, in which I wrote, ‘God bless you and your family this Easter.’ At Christmas I have given each home various things, including the Alpha booklet, Why Jesus… When one couple told me they were getting married after living together for almost 30 years, we hugged them and gave them a bottle of champagne! One neighbour had 3 close family members die this year, leaving an elderly father and middle aged son. I bake them a pudding regularly.”
“Another couple have made it obvious that they are atheist, and do not welcome anything ‘religious’. Recently, the man was rushed into hospital for an emergency op on a blocked intestine, resulting in a colostomy bag. We told his wife we would pray for his total recovery and restoration – because even though they are not believers, we have seen God do miracles and He wants to do them good too! When the husband came out of hospital, we gave him a Get Well card and a bottle of wine… Last week the wife rather sheepishly called me over, to tell me he does not have cancer or Crohn’s disease as they suspected, but the blockage has disappeared and he can return to a totally normal life without the bag! She also said, ‘I do listen to what you say, and remember it.’
We told her religion has presented a lie about God, that He is the best Father ever, and the best earthly father is only a pale reflection of the love and goodness He desires to pour out on people. She agreed! We will continue to love and serve our neighbours, re-presenting Jesus in a non-religious way, and believe for the salvation of the whole row.”
Source: From the Neighbourhood Prayer Network Newsletter
BIBLE STUDY: Luke 2:10
PRAISE: God for the dedication of this couple to their neighbours. Pray that many may do the same.