Ep 244 Spa Days for Heaven's Sake: Inviting the Stranger with Sue Donaldson

This podcast tells two stories of women who felt forgotten and left behind. I met them while they were doing their daily work. I was on the receiving end of their good work until they were on the receiving end of God’s good work. He leads in common things like spas, salons and tea parties. Everyone is waiting for consolation and invitation

I tell you these two stories because you never know who is ready to make a new friend or needs to meet the Friend who never forgets His children. 

 

Someone wrote,“The friendship connection is more than the way to health and memory; it is the call of God to be people who create community and bring those who have been forgotten into our hearts.”

 

To bring those who have been forgotten into our hearts.

 

You may feel forgotten yourself. God will use your life experience to help someone else. Your pain is never wasted, unless you keep it to yourself.

 

You may not be called to go to Korea or Mongolia, but we are all called to make connections.  To reach out, gently, tentatively, like dipping our toes into the steaming water for a pedicure, asking one question followed by another which might lead to a simple invitation: “Would you like to get together for coffee? I've got some great scones from Trader Joe's.” 

 

Look for opportunities for coming alongside. And, go to the Beauty College.

1. Think of a time when you felt overwhelmed by circumstances.

 

2. Did God send a friend or a stranger to strengthen and comfort you?

 

    3. What did you learn about yourself?

 

    4. What did you learn about God?

 

A prayer for your day (and maybe someone else's!)

Dear Father,

Thank you for seeing my pain and loneliness. My name is written on your hands so I know I’m never alone. Please help me be alert to another who may feel all alone in their difficulties. Nothing is hidden from you and I’m grateful. Strengthen us both according to your word. Thank you and amen.

A reminder from the Word:

“See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands;

your walls are ever before me” (Isaiah 49:16)