"Strength in Community" (Day 4)

Verse of the Day

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25, NIV


I was born into a large family in Danforth, Maine—one of eleven children. We didn’t have much, but we had each other. Church was the center of our life. Even when my parents could not always attend, my mother made sure we children were there. That church community shaped my heart. Neighbors helped one another, and we learned early that caring for others was simply how life worked.

When I was sixteen, I married Dellie. Some thought I was too young, but we loved each other deeply. We built a life together through hard work and faith. Jobs were scarce, so we moved where work could be found. Money was limited, but love was not.

One of our hardest seasons came when Dellie had a stroke. I will never forget the moment he cried and asked, “How am I going to take care of my babies?” It broke my heart. Yet that trial became a turning point. With strength and determination, he learned to work with one arm and continued to provide in every way he could. Our church family surrounded us with care—taking him fishing, inviting him to camps, and reminding us we were not alone. Through that season, I saw how God works through community.

Later, I returned to school, earned my diploma, and worked with special education students. That work brought me deep joy. Looking back, I see a life shaped not by ease, but by faith, perseverance, and the kindness of many people along the way.

If there is one lesson my journey has taught me, it is this: people matter most. Small acts of kindness, steady faith, and caring for one another—this is where transformation happens. – Georgia Mailman

 

Thought for the Day

In what ways do you see and experience the church caring, serving, and loving as the Body of Christ?

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