An Encouraging Community

I still enjoy participating in runs, though lately I have been walking with my grandson, Jamie, who rides in the stroller. The encouraging community continues to support all participants. The last run I participated in was a fundraiser for the Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. As people finished their half-marathon race, their names were announced. When we got to the finish line the announcer, after getting my grandson’s name from me, announced: “And now finishing, Jamie in his stroller!” What fun and what a testament to how caring and kind people can be! His mother, Clara, who had already finished her 5K, was delighted.

And there it is in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you are doing” (NRSVUE). Encouragement doesn’t require a huge effort. It is usually a simple kindness that makes someone’s day. Encouragement can be a few words or a look that says, “I see you and value you.” Sometimes a bit of encouragement is all someone needs to continue on in whatever struggle they face. That encouragement can be a gift that brings a person closer to the knowledge that they are a valued part of the family of God. Encouraging others is a simple way of sharing God’s love. What a blessing!