"For the love of Christ urges us on… he died for all, so that those who live might live no longer for themselves, but for him who died and was raised for them." (2 Corinthians 5:14-15)
My grandfather, my hero, would sometimes say in his 90s, with a soft sigh, “It’s hard to live each day" ("하루하루 사는 게 힘들어"). Today, I heard a similar sentiment from Rev. Lee.
But here is the amazing thing: he still smiled. Though he admitted life’s difficulty, he continues to pour himself out. He is still thinking about our church and caring for others. There is no self-pity party, no giving up. I am simply amazed by that resilient love and joy.
Today's visit with Rev. Lee was particularly meaningful because I delivered a very special gift: a prayer shawl crafted by a beautiful mother-and-daughter team, Liz and Lisa Taylor.
Liz learned crocheting from her daughter and has spent years lovingly gifting these shawls to people needing comfort across many states. Unfortunately, with age, her hands could no longer manage the yarn.
Upon sorting through her mother's belongings, Lisa found this specific shawl - mostly completed, but not quite finished. Knowing how much prayer her mother had poured into those initial stitches, Lisa couldn’t just toss it aside or unravel it. Instead, she picked up her mother's work right where she left off and finished it, adding her own prayers with every knot she tied.
Love begets love. It is the most powerful force in the world because only love can change a heart from the inside out. I pray that this agape love - the selfless devotion of the Taylor family, the unwavering commitment of Rev. Lee, and most of all, the ultimate sacrifice of Christ - may continue to spread like powerful, comforting ripples among us and extend far beyond our walls.
Thank you for the countless ways you share your love. Stay well, stay safe, and be encouraged.
In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor
No comments:
Post a Comment