Mr. Harry's Smile

In one of the nursing homes where we do Chapel Services there is a gentleman named Mr. Harry.  Now he tells me that it is his father who is named Mr. Harry and his name is just Harry.  But Mr. Harry is the sort of person who deserves the greatest amount of respect I can show him.

Mr. Harry is a handsome man with a winsome smile.  He is gracious and kind to everyone around him.  I saw proof of this one day in our meetings.

The meeting had already started when one of the aids pushed Mr. Harry's wheelchair into the room right next to Mrs. Loretta.  Mrs. Loretta has been forlorn for the last few months since her husband died.  When Mr. Harry's wheelchair came next to hers, he put out his hand to her and her face brightened with a huge smile.  It was the first time I had seen her smile in weeks.

Why did Mrs. Loretta smile?  Because Mr. Harry loves the Lord, he seeks to walk in a way pleasing to his Lord and in doing so, he spreads love and joy to those around him.  I can just imagine that his days are spent encouraging those with him in this facility, comforting them, sharing joy and contentment with them everywhere he goes. 

Wherever the Lord puts us is where he wants us to bloom and grow and shed joy to those around us.  We may not feel happy about where we are, but we can know He has a purpose and a plan for us being there.  It is no doubt to me that the Lord has Mr. Harry where he is to be a minister of joy and comfort to those around him.  

Let us follow his example and joy in the place the Lord has planted us.  Let us live our lives in ways that glorify our Lord and honor His Son.

"Not that I speak in respect of want: 

for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, 

therewith to be content." 

Philippians 4:11