I’m a nurse too. When you were recounting the story and said “his name is Carlos his wife’s name is Maria and they have four kids, etc.“ it made me cry. What an incredible impact that Dr must’ve had on 1000s of lives over the years! What a great reminder of how a small shift in focus, as we live out our day today, could impact peoples lives! Love this story ❤
What a great story. It’s such a good reminder that being seen is so important. Thank you to you both thank you Nancy fir this wonderful story and reminder.
Encouraging, Inspiring and relevant as usual. Also it was kind of awesome that the verse of the day in the Bible App was the exact same scripture in Colossians 3:23-24. Blessings on all of your team.
John, you could continue to do this series forever. Every story has helped me to pause, think and glean from them. Each a person created by our Holy God, with a story. I desire more and more to step into my story and be used for His Glory in this hurting world. Thank you
Sometimes when someone is helping me and there is a line behind me, I know they don’t have a lot of time to chat. So I pick something quick like, “Your nails are beautiful!” or their tattoo or the store is decorated well or whatever. They just LIGHT UP. Every time. If there is NOT a line, we can chat and it is surprising what they share. We can bless people just in our daily life-being nice on the phone, thanking people and our tone of voice-it changes their day. ❤
I try to say something also. Perhaps comment on their name, if it’s unusual, I will say that it is beautiful or something positive. If the line is long , I’ll say that she/he is probably looking forward to the break/lunch/dinner. Always try to interact.
Thank You, John & Nancy! I am looking forward to spending the week together with both of you and exploring how each of us can contribute to God's grand design. In His divine plan, every job, no matter how small it may seem, holds immense value and purpose. Each role we undertake contributes to the larger picture, weaving together a tapestry of service, community, and purpose. This belief is rooted in the understanding that God values every individual and the work they do, as expressed in Colossians 3:23-24: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Every job matters to God because every person matters to God. Whether one is a teacher, janitor, CEO, or volunteer, each position is an opportunity to serve and reflect God's love and purpose. When we perform our tasks with dedication and integrity, infused with compassion, caring, love, and grace, we honor God and contribute to His work in the world.
John, Kathy and Tim too! Thank You. It’s like you are right here (almost) and sharing stories as well as encouragement. I am very good at forgetting names and very bad at remembering the name. My goal today will be to recognize opportunity and take it to really see persons I meet along the way. And I hope to pay attention to opportunities. My comfort zone is to be in the background so this is difficult.
Back in Willow’s Axis days, Nancy told the story of watching a McDonald’s manager ‘working the room’ in a life-giving way. ‘Angels’ in our midst. Oh Lord-give us eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts and minds to make connections and to care!
I remember Nancy sharing this story when she spoke at church years ago. It made a deep impression on me. I’ve befriended the older Mexican cleaning lady at my office. We share stories about our families and vacations. We exchange small Christmas gifts and I’m always so touched that she notices things like my favorite gum and snacks. I was honored to be invited to her wedding to her second husband several years ago. I would never have made this friend if it were not for Nancy. Thank you for teaching me to try to “see” everyone and that everyone is important.
So precious - thank you for sharing your story of befriending the older Mexican cleaning women - and how it blossomed into a beautiful friendship. We are blessed Bucky
I work as a chaplain at a hospital in Niagara Falls, NY and I hold a chapel service once a week. I will be sharing Nancy's story tomorrow in chapel of the importance of each person is important part of the team.
