Disciples of Christ

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 At one church, the Lenten theme was boldly set as “Forty Days of Love.” For those forty days, every member was invited to express their love and gratitude in new, unexpected ways. In the very first week, the congregation was encouraged to send handwritten notes to people who had made a positive impact on their lives.

After the opening service, a man—known around the church as a rugged, self-made individual with a history as a football player and a passion for hunting and fishing—approached his pastor. “I love you and I love this church,” he said, “but I just can’t get behind this Forty Days of Love idea. It’s too sentimental and over the top for me.” His admission, rough around the edges, hinted at a hard-won self-reliance that left little room for vulnerability.

Yet, a week later, the man returned to the pastor with a noticeably softer tone. “I need to apologize for my attitude last Sunday,” he began. “On Wednesday, something happened that made me see things differently.” Intrigued, the pastor pressed, “What happened on Wednesday?”

With a mix of awe and emotion, the man explained that he had unexpectedly received one of those letters—a simple note from someone he’d never have thought would reach out to him. That letter, arriving quietly from a familiar mailbox rather than from an exalted altar, touched him so deeply that he now kept it in his pocket. “Every time I read it, I can’t help but get teary-eyed,” he confessed. The gentle act had shifted something within him, revealing a profound sense of being truly loved by his community.

In the wake of that powerful moment, the man’s outlook was completely transformed. Moved by the unexpected kindness, he was inspired to act in return—so much so that he sat down and wrote ten letters of his own, each carrying the same authentic, heartfelt message that had changed him. His personal journey is a testament to how a single, genuine gesture can melt even the most guarded hearts, opening the door to deeper connection and compassion.

In this quiet yet transformative episode, the ordinary act of sending or receiving a letter became a vehicle for change. It’s a vivid reminder that love may break into our lives at the most unexpected moments—and that true transformation often begins with the smallest, sincere gestures.

 

 

 

 

 

Pastor Skip French

1500 Forest Hills Blvd (Hwy 279)              479 . 855 . 2780         Bella Vista, Arkansas 72715

Monday Musings are e-mailed weekly to the congregation's email group.

The weekly Monday Musings are published in Bella Vista weekly newspaper.

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Peace & Blessings,

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