"Having many things to write to you, I did not wish to do so with paper and ink; but I hope to come to you and speak face to face, that our joy may be full" (2 Jn. 12, NKJV). So the apostle John wrote in the first century. His inspired words convey his realization of how encouraging a card or letter can be, as well as the joy of a personal visit.

Among the many good works of the LaVergne church of Christ is our "card ministry." In any given week, it would be hard even to estimate exactly how many cards are mailed out from individuals here at LaVergne, as well as from various classes & groups. Literally hundreds of cards go out every week. Our members send out a wide variety of cards: get well; sympathy; encouragement; birthday; anniversary; congratulations; holidays; general. In showing our love & concern with cards, this is one way we can weep with those who weep & rejoice with those who rejoice (Rom. 12:15). I commend each one here who is so active in sending cards.

Recently, Paul Gentry shared with me an email he received from his friend Edward Watson. Three years ago, Paul had told the church that Edward was very sick with cancer & in turn Edward received numerous cards from LaVergne. Edward is now in remission, but he has never forgotten LaVergne's cards which conveyed our love, prayers, & kindness to him. In fact, he was so impressed with our cards that he even spread the news in his Christmas cards & continues today to tell people about our card ministry. He told some people who decided to go to their individual congregations & ask them to implement similar programs. Edward writes, "who knows how many, or how far, the effects of that act have traveled. Pretty impressive if you ask me. Your church is to be commended." So the good example of the LaVergne church has had a ripple effect in encouraging good works in other places far & wide.

The apostle Paul commended the Corinthian church, saying that their zeal & willingness in ministry had encouraged & motivated others to similar good works (2 Cor. 9:1-2). Every good work of our congregation impacts many lives & motivates others to greater service as well. And I commend each of you here at LaVergne who send cards as part of your service to the Lord. Aren't you thankful to be a part of such a loving Christian family as is here at LaVergne?

Edward has now asked a favor of us: to send cards to Dominic Aurino, his friend with leukemia (address inside bulletin). I believe Edward knows he can count on the LaVergne church to send cards to this young man also - to encourage him with our love, prayers, & kindness.

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Mt. 5:16).