The written word.
I don’t seem to see it as often as in years passed. Even with birthdays, it seems so many send electronic cards. Now don’t get me wrong, I love those too. It is always a surprise to see them in my inbox.
But the written word falls like a balm to the soul and a feast to the eyes.
There is something so special about seeing handwriting. Not penmanship but handwriting. It is so personal to each of us – neat or sloppy, big or small, slanted or straight, blue ink or black. And then to realize…there is a hand which touched our paper, a person who cared enough to share. Yes, that is why I will hold onto and cherish each card I receive for a long time.
Have we forgotten how endearing and precious the written word can be? The power and impact they can have on a thirsty soul?
God certainly knew as He gave Moses the two stone tablets inscribed with the terms of the covenant, written by the finger of God. (Exodus 31:18, NLT) Can we even imagine the sight of the very penmanship of God?
Paul, while imprisoned in Rome, also knew the comfort of the written word. In writing to Timothy, he instructs him, “When you come, be sure to bring the coat that I left with Carpas at Troas. Also bring my books, and especially my papers.” (2 Timothy 4:13, NLT) Paul received comfort from personal notes and letters he had received. He wanted the familiar scrolls, probably parchment paper, in his hands. The familiar would bring him joy.
And the Lord is still writing each day ….
“Clearly, you are a letter from Christ showing the result of our ministry among you. This “letter” is written not with pen and ink, but with the Spirit of the living God. It is carved not on tablets of stone, but on human hearts.”
(2 Corinthians 3:3, NLT)
Perhaps this is the very reason my heart skips a beat when I see a handwritten envelope, with my name on it, in the mail. Amidst the junk mail and advertisements and mail for others and bills, there is one envelope which comes from the heart. The one piece of mail which will come from the heart and deposit into my heart a bit of encouragement, hope and love.
A little piece of that which He has written on the heart of another delivered right to my heart in its moment of need.
The written word.
We all need some now and then.
In our mailbox.
From one heart to another.
I am linking with … #fmfpartysnailmail .
It’s so fun to get those cards in the mail…and I think it’s becoming a lost art, not only the penmenship but the skillful use of words in a letter. Glad to be participating in the #fmfpartysnailmail that makes us write those encouraging things to one another!
Holly, you are right – it is a lost art. May we each regain back the joy of sending (& receiving) cards! Like you, I am glad to be participating!
Joanne-you described this so perfectly. I love your words that the written word has such an impact on the thirsty soul! Amen to that! And the thought of seeing God’s words in HIs handwriting-gave me chills. How awesome would that be? Blessed to be part of this wonderful community with you! Blessings, Mary
Mary, I have to be honest – I wasn’t going to write a post for this linkup. And then the image of God’s handwriting on the tablets came before me. Like you, I had the chills as I had never thought of it those terms before. I knew I had to share it with all of you who are putting your words down on paper, with your own fingers & handwriting. It’s a joy to be doing this with you too!
This gives me goosebumps. Beautifully shared, as always. I signed up for this session but last minute I knew I had to step back. With all going on I was too afraid I’d miss a week and it was something I didn’t want to mess up. My first priority . . . getting letters to that Sailor of mine!! But I have many cards of encouragement ready to bless others with.
Much love.
xoxo
Beth, I am glad you liked the post. I can fully understand your men being a priority for you. And it really is always best not to overwhelm yourself with too much. Besides, all your comments left to all of us is encouragement enough from you :)) There is always the next round!
Joanne,
Oh, I so agree…I get a big smile whenever I see a note in the mail…and that verse about how the Spirit writes on our hearts gave me chills to think about it…Thank you for this timely reminder 🙂
It gives me the chills as well, Dolly, as I realize this … He would write on my heart every day if I gave Him opportunity. Thank you for stopping here & sharing as well. Keep writing your words as they truly do make a difference!
Oh my goodness, with each passage of Scripture I thought “oh I want to say how wonderful this is in the comments” and then would read the next! What the penmanship of God might look like… who can imagine?! But I love how we are called a letter. Thanks for linking up!
Kaitlyn, I am grateful the Scriptures spoke to your heart. May we hold onto the truth that we are not only a letter but a continuous letter. He would write on our hearts every opportunity offered to Him. I am grateful our paths crossed. And that you took on such a project. This was a most encouraging idea for a linkup! Blessings!