May 14 2024 27 mins
In this last episode of our Take Heart Series, Emily and Alyssa get very practical about what it might look like to come alongside someone who is suffering.
Topics discussed in this episode:
- The barriers we often run into that keep us from coming alongside other people.
- Alyssa talks about her mom's "gift closet".
- Getting rid of the idea that serving others needs to be elaborate or fancy.
- Panera bagels and cream cheese
- Freezer meals on the front porch
- Food gift cards when someone doesn't feel like cooking
- Learning to say, "I'd like to make you a meal this week so which day works better, Monday or Tuesday?" instead of "let me know if you need anything."
- Remembering the care-takers. Considering offering your time to sit with someone.
- Learning to stop and say, "Can I pray for you right now?" instead of "I'll be praying for you."
- Learning to live alert. Write down important dates (loss of a child, death in the family, etc.)
- Alyssa shares her favorite blank cards to send people.
- "In a crisis situation, always go. "
- Walking alongside others in long-term suffering
Our favorite things to gift others in suffering:
- The Lord of Psalm 23
- Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy
- Held by Abbey Wedgeworth
- Any Time, Any Place, Any Prayer