One of my joys while practicing as a nurse has been serving in a several nursing homes throughout the east coast. My husband was in the Navy and we were transferred various places during his service. For a young woman with limited ministry experience, my time working in a nursing home has helped me grow as a volunteer minister and chaplain and has put my shepherding skills to use.

When the apostle Paul reminded the Ephesian elders that they “must help the weak,” he also instructed them to remember Jesus’ words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). There is more joy in serving than in being served.

Every season of life has particular challenges. Many residents in nursing homes experience pronounced feelings of loneliness, frustration, uselessness, and pain. I’m able to be a friend and engage them in conversation; I’m able to rehearse the gospel to them while at the same time encourage them to serve in little ways, like praying for unbelievers around them.

In turn, then, I witness faith in the midst of great trial, weakness, and loss. The blessing flows two ways: I’m encouraged even as I try to encourage others. Tempted as I am sometimes to fool myself into thinking I’ve scaled the mountains of Christian maturity, it’s good to be reminded I’m but a neophyte in the faith. I’m a dwarf in the presence of towering spiritual Redwoods, and I have much to learn.

"It’s a precious blessing to be the vehicle by which the Lord encourages His people in their faith."