Thanks Tim. It's been just over a week now since the incident and I'm feeling a lot better, though not nearly 100%. I'm immensely grateful that I wrote this piece before everything happened, it was a constant reminder of what God had done, is doing, and will go on to do.
To your question, I think it's complicated.
I think the primary function is to bring prayer, light, Scripture, and to physically act as the body of Christ, which can help to jumpstart dwindling spiritual practices and encourage those struggling with their faith.
Aside from that though, on the phone, someone might be more likely to act as though things are better than they are, to pretend they are eating correctly, or that their domestic life hasn't taken a hit, stepping into the home though means that you'll be able to assess their needs better, to speak to the spouse or family members and get to know their needs, and maybe then to provide better help through other members of the church.
Finally, I think visits can be, as touched on in this article and sermon, a way of the afflicted using their own gifting too. If there's someone apt to teach stuck in bed, they would likely delight in encouraging saints that come through their door. Too often in today's society we just write off those who aren't as physically able, whether they're too old or just too decrepit—many have done this to me—despite them having so much to give.
God doesn't give gifts accidentally, so the church shouldn't act like it.
I hope that helps.
P.S. I'm thankful to be in a church now that is incredibly caring and has supported us a tonne during this time. We've only had one visit, but that's purely because I needed time initially because I was mostly asleep during the first few days!
Thanks again John! I’m so glad I recorded this and wrote the article when I did. I ended up in hospital last Sunday and I’m still recovering. Spending the time to focus in on this did my soul more good than I can explain, I hope it does the same for others.
Thanks Adsum. This was very helpful. Praying for a speedy recovery. You mentioned not having a visit.
For those of us who visit, is there anything particularly helpful or is it just the fact of being remembered?
Thanks Tim. It's been just over a week now since the incident and I'm feeling a lot better, though not nearly 100%. I'm immensely grateful that I wrote this piece before everything happened, it was a constant reminder of what God had done, is doing, and will go on to do.
To your question, I think it's complicated.
I think the primary function is to bring prayer, light, Scripture, and to physically act as the body of Christ, which can help to jumpstart dwindling spiritual practices and encourage those struggling with their faith.
Aside from that though, on the phone, someone might be more likely to act as though things are better than they are, to pretend they are eating correctly, or that their domestic life hasn't taken a hit, stepping into the home though means that you'll be able to assess their needs better, to speak to the spouse or family members and get to know their needs, and maybe then to provide better help through other members of the church.
Finally, I think visits can be, as touched on in this article and sermon, a way of the afflicted using their own gifting too. If there's someone apt to teach stuck in bed, they would likely delight in encouraging saints that come through their door. Too often in today's society we just write off those who aren't as physically able, whether they're too old or just too decrepit—many have done this to me—despite them having so much to give.
God doesn't give gifts accidentally, so the church shouldn't act like it.
I hope that helps.
P.S. I'm thankful to be in a church now that is incredibly caring and has supported us a tonne during this time. We've only had one visit, but that's purely because I needed time initially because I was mostly asleep during the first few days!
Your faith is inspiring to me, Adsum. Thank you for sharing your story.
Thanks again John! I’m so glad I recorded this and wrote the article when I did. I ended up in hospital last Sunday and I’m still recovering. Spending the time to focus in on this did my soul more good than I can explain, I hope it does the same for others.
Do let me know if you listen to the sermon.
Praying for healing and recovery 🙏🏽
I truly appreciate it brother.
Well argued article, Adsum. Spurgeon has such great words on suffering and for sufferers.
Thanks Jessica! I hope the sermon will be an encouragement to you too.