A Bonus Blessing

Every once in a while someone will offer to pray for me, but today it was different.

We always enjoy our visits to our Heartland Churches. It's not the size of the church that matters or, the building that houses our worshippers. It's the people. Just ordinary people doing what they know to do to please that Lord. Today, a bonus blessing awaited me as the service came to a close.

The distance to the church was longer than we expected, and we arrived a bit late.  We made ourselves at home on the pew that was placed against the back wall of the small sanctuary. A quick scan of the room always comes first when you visit a new church. The building was well kept and very presentable. A precious Sr. Saint was teaching, and, by the way, did so with a careful, sincere style that was easy to listen to, and most enjoyable.

Several folks were scattered around the sanctuary.  But what caught and held my attention for a good while was as young man seated in powered wheelchair - strategically parked in the center isle just a few feet away from the teacher.

It's not an unfamiliar sight to see someone with a crippling condition having to rely on the support of such a device. But sadly, it is not something you see very often in this setting. I watched as his head would lean to one side mostly, and I noticed that his hands were not fully functional. But there he was, listening intently as the Scriptures were read, and comments were made.  I believe I did hear him make some audible sounds along with others who were affirming the teacher's comments.

When the class concluded, I did what I do, I made my way toward the front shaking hands with the people. As I approached the young man in the chair, he reached up to me as much as he could, and offered me his hand. I noted the weakness of his grip, but the message came through strong clear as he greeted me with - "Welcome Brother Pense."

We enjoyed our time of worship and a very proficient pastor's remarks as he lead the people in prayer. The Lord helped me as I spoke of the foundation stones of a church, help, hope, and healing. We had an excellent prayer time at the conclusion of the service. When the last amens were said, I stepped into the isle again to greet the young man who had sat quietly as I spoke.

As I was about to step on down the isle, I listened intently to him as he asked, "Can I pray for you?" My heart melted as I watched and listened as he, with great effort formed the words he prayed - for me. Then, I heard that heavenly language - quietly, but clearly. To say I was touched would be a vast understatement. I should have been praying for him. I did get to return that favor later, however, before we left for home.

The good folks had prepared a nice dinner - church folk can do that you know. We were able to visit with the pastor and several of the people around the table. I did glance over at my new friend who had come in last, and was placed at the end of one of the tables. I watched as his caregiver helped him eat.

As we finished and were about to leave, his caregiver came over and told me that Jonathan wanted to tell me goodbye. I went over and talked a bit with him. He asked if we would be coming back. He said, "I hope it won't be a long time." Then he said, "I'll be here when you come back unless I go to my other home."

It was a very good day. It was a bonus blessing day for me. Pray for Jonathan, and count your blessings. I plan to do just that.