My plans (Lord willing) are to head south at the end of February traveling through New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Florida, and back through South Carolina and North Carolina and then back to Maine.  If you know of individuals, small groups, pastors or churches I might be able to share with along the way, let me know.  I will try to schedule accordingly.

 

I am open to address the three areas of ministry in Compassion’s Calling:

 

1. How to care for those who are hurting (God’s 4Hs);

2. How much HE cares for each individual (Is God a Personal God);

3. How much do we care (Are We Being Distracted by the Puppet Master).

 

In a couple of weeks I anticipate being interviewed on radio by the director of the Christian Civic League of Maine, Carroll Conley.  Your prayers are appreciated.

 

Ten Commandments for Comforters

 

1. Go to those who are bereaved as soon as possible, even if it is inconvenient for you (Pastors).

2. Be swift to hear, slow to speak and slow to react to words and feelings that my appear unchristian.

3. Do not try to explain everything.

4. Share the promises of God.

5. Avoid saying, “I know how you feel.”  Nobody will believe you and the statement accomplishes nothing.

6. Words often fail, so express yourself through a loving hug, a handshake, even a simple touch.  Just being there is ministry.

7. Do not be afraid to weep with those who weep.”

8. Remember that grieving is a difficult process that takes time.  Be patient with those who mourn and try not to say, “Are you over it yet?”

9. Visit regularly during the weeks after the funeral.

10. Keep confidence.  Don’t turn the experience into an illustration unless the family gives you permission.

                                                                                                                              Comforting the Bereaved

                                                                                                                              by Warren and David Wiersbe

 

Continue to pray for me when the Lord brings me to mind.  God alone knows what I need (Colossians 4:3-4,

Isaiah 58:11).

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In Christ,

Pastor Vail

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Isaiah 58:11  The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; 

You shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.

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