Extra note – As a pastor of a congregation I saw the struggles people have with feeling like they are cut off from not only their congregation but even their friends.  I always tried to encourage them that they were not forgotten.

            Since becoming disabled I see the truth of what they felt.  People are busy with their lives and families and they do not think about those who they used to fellowship and worship with.  Church families without meaning to forget those they used to worship with.

            The Body is often more interested in filling pews and forget about those who can no longer “serve” the congregation.  By this they lose so much!!!

            Since becoming disabled I spend much time praying for the people I know and the congregations we served.  God has given me a prayer ministry for not only those I love but for those around the world who God loves.

            I joke with Bonnie that while trapped in our home I travel the world as God calls me to pray for so many nations and peoples around the world!  At times I feel like I travel more than I ever have as at times as God calls me to pray I feel as though I am there.

            I also send cards to shut-ins and those who need hope and encouragement.  What I am saying is that congregations by forgetting about their shut-ins lose out on the ministry they can bring!

            I learned this in my first charge where a lady had a terrible stroke and could no longer talk.  She finally realized that she could say short phrases if she sang them.  One day she told me she felt so worthless and sad.  God moved me to ask her to start praying for congregations that made up the charge.

            During the time I was there many wonderful things happened and I know that a great part of the success was due to her ministry of prayer!