Nectar for the Soul by Pastor Irwin Van Leeuwen, Supervisor - November 13, 2011

Each one of us would like to receive a personal card in the mail from time to time.  It is always fun to receive these notes which encourage us and uplift us.  This past spring, I needed to go through a surgery.  I was overwhelmed with the number of cards which were sent my way.  So many people wanted to share personal thoughts with me to encourage me.  Don’t overlook the powerful ministry you have in ministering to others.
But I have to tell you a true fact.  I am not a person who spends a lot of time looking for cards which have just the right message for someone to read.  In fact, I am a better receiver than sender.  Last week it was my wife’s birthday and I forgot to buy her a card.  She knows this is not one of my strong suits of how I show compassion.  So here I am on the day after her birthday feeling bad I did not purchase a card.  So do you know what I did?  I have some post cards in the office that read “Happy Birthday from your Pastor”.  I sent one of those very meaningful post cards to her!!  Now that had all the makings of being personal, didn’t it?  My wife just laughed and we had a good time with such foolishness. 
Seriously, we like to get a personal note from time to time.  In fact, my wife is great in sending me a card and she underlines the key words she does not want me to miss.  If they are really important words she will double underline.  It is very meaningful.  Well, let me share with you a personal message from our Heavenly Father.  In John 15:9 we read “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.  Now remain in my love.”  Friends, your personal card reminds you today you are loved by God.  What I really find helpful is letting the Word of God become personal.  What I do sometimes is insert my name in a verse.  Let God speak to you in a personal way.  It is effective and it helps you hear what God desires of you.  Take this passage for John 15 and insert your name.
Give it a try and notice how the Word becomes more alive.  His Word was written for you.  Absorb it and then live it.

Be a blessing to someone.
Irwin