Easter B.L.E.S.S.-ings
We've heard some great stories of New Hopers continuing to use the B.L.E.S.S. strategies to love their neighbors and start/continue meaningful relationships over Easter! Here are a few B.L.E.S.S. moments to celebrate:
--One church member discovered that one of her neighbors (a single, older woman) moved into their neighborhood 6 years ago, and no neighbors ever made an effort to get to know her. On Easter weekend, this New Hoper took her neighbor a bowl of fresh strawberries her family had just picked that morning, and wished her a Happy Easter. Her neighbor was ecstatic, hugging, smiling and expressing the sweetest appreciation.
--After church on Easter Sunday, one New Hoper saw a neighbor sitting in the driveway with her daughter, chalking and blowing bubbles. This New Hoper took her niece, who was visiting for Easter, outside to meet the neighboring child (about the same age), and both were invited to stay and chalk with them. This church member got to ask questions to get to better know this family.
--Easter weekend saw the deepening of one neighboring relationship for a New Hope family. December 2021, a new neighbor moved in, and this New Hope family decided to give their new neighbors a carton of popcorn and sparklers to ring in the New Year. Last October, this family distributed candy on Halloween night in their front yard, with a kid-friendly movie projecting on their garage door. This new family stopped by and made friendly conversation. Over Easter weekend, this neighbor walked over and asked our church member if their family wanted a growing plant she was trying to rehome. This started a deeper and more personal conversation of that neighbor's life situation. Our church member was able to encourage, offer help and identify specific things to pray over.
B.L.E.S.S. really does work, church! It doesn't take special training; only an awareness of the work God is doing around you, and obedience to His promptings regarding those in your spheres of influence. Remember this: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." --Galatians 6:9.
Who is God showing you to B.L.E.S.S.?
Not heard of the B.L.E.S.S. strategies to love your neighbor and change the world, one person at a time? Click to learn more.
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