By Pastor Mark Hopper
Pastor Mark Hopper
There is a remarkable woman in our church family who is now in her 90s. Her name is Louise.I met her several years ago. She is a close friend of a family at our church. She has a vibrant personality and a twinkle in her eye. She could play the piano with enthusiasm and always enjoyed the company of others.
In the last few years of her life, she has lived in an assisted living facility nearby. Many people would find this discouraging, but Louise has a very different attitude. She has impacted the caregivers and staff in many ways. Some would stop by to see her even before and after their shifts. She loves people and is always finding ways to encourage others.
Louise also has a heart for prayer. She faithfully prays for others and encourages others to pray, too. Before moving to the care home, she always attended the small prayer group at our church early on Sunday mornings.
Even though her body is wearing out, her mind is sharp and her handwriting is steady. Now that she has a breathing tube, Louise can no longer speak. But she still communicates by writing notes and she can carry on a conversation in this way.
Louise has a big fan club. A number of friends stop by to see her often. Recently, when I stopped by to see her, her friend and former pastor, was there, too. I was surprised that she had a gift for me. She gave me a book. I asked her to sign it so I can remember who gave it to me. With steady, clear handwriting she wrote her name in the book.
The purpose of my visit was to encourage Louise. But the result of my visit was that I left encouraged as well.
Let me encourage you to take time to call or visit an older friend in your life. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness and you will be encouraged, too!
Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.
