When my father died, several ladies from our little community showed up to keep house while we attended the funeral. They brought food, set up a buffet area, greeted others who brought food, sliced pies, made coffee, and cleaned up after the post funeral meal.
There they were-standing in the gap.
When my husband died, friends came to our home. They brought food, dusted my furniture, cleaned my kitchen, comforted, drove us to the airport for the funeral in Mississippi and picked us up when we returned home. My friend, Dixie, even hemmed my daughter’s pantsuit she wore to the service.
There they were-standing in the gap.
Post funeral, godly men with financial business talents, gave me insightful help to make some important decisions. One of these men and his wife even went with me twice when buying a new car as my husband always handled this.
There they were-standing in the gap
Author Rebecca Cooper wrote, “ I need you to remember that we need to do that, too. “Let me know if you need anything,” is not sufficient. Show up. Get your hands dirty.
Stand in the gap.
And if you live far away, send a gift card. Send plates and forks. Send a handwritten note.
If your neighbor is experiencing a loss, or a new neighbor is moving in, or if a neighbor lost a job or a baby or a husband -
Stand in the gap.
This is the way.
This is how we walk each other back home.”
I’m reminded of the words of Jesus, Himself, “inasmuch as you have done unto one of the least of these, my brothers, you have done it unto ME.” THIS is loving your neighbor as yourself.
If you need recipe ideas for some comfort food, check out the recipe section.
I’m glad to stand in the gap.
Confectionately Yours,
Sue