“My hope is that my visit with you is going to be one of Christ’s more extravagant blessings.” Romans 15:29 (MSG)

“Paul lived for two years in his rented house. He welcomed everyone who came to visit.” Acts 28:30 (MSG)

When I was in grade 11, I had a classmate who was seriously ill. He attended school for a while, but eventually he ended in a hospital in Brugge, about 20 kms from where I lived. I wanted to visit him. It was important that my friend knew he wasn’t alone in this. The only problem was that I had no car, and the only way to get there was by train. I asked permission from my mom, and she decided to come with me to the hospital. Bonus!

When I entered his room, he smiled genuinely. I was his friend, and he knew it. I made his day, and somehow I felt I had done the right thing. I encouraged him and stayed with him as long as I could. He appreciated that I was there.

When it was time to leave, my mom showed me some beautiful places in Brugge. It was an extra bonus. However, what I remember was not the tourist attractions; but rather, the smile of my friend me when I entered his room. Nothing is more important than family and friends.

I know that most of us are quite busy. We make honey bees look lazy. We have no time. We have tasks to finish. Nothing is more important.

All of these are certainly less important, however, than visiting a friend in a hospital or in a nursing home. By visiting them we give them hope. They are not alone. They are not forgotten, and this sustains them. One visit will not take that much time; and interestingly enough, it will fill us with excitement as it is exhilarating indeed to be able to encourage someone. What a great feeling!

Do you know anyone who is lonely? Why not call or text them or even better, run by for a visit?

Rob Chaffart


(To access the entire “Dragon Tramps or Kingdom Heirs” devotional series, please click here.)