Life-giving Words

The Bible speaks of kind and aptly spoken words as being like apples of gold in settings of silver. Life-giving words are priceless treasures. When I go to my neighbors' home, Dave and Vickie, they lavish such words upon me. Late afternoon had me wrapping Vickie's present. I decided to drop it off, hoping to catch my friends before dinner or any evening Christmas activities they might have.

I threw on my long wool coat because there is suddenly a chill in the air. Light snow is predicted for the higher elevations. It's only a matter of a few yards to their door, and I am ringing the doorbell in no time. Standing by their door, I am welcomed by twinkling icicle lights, a large nativity on the lawn and a brilliantly lit tree cheerily peeking out of the living room window.

Becky, their daughter, who is a beautiful young woman, answers and warmly beckons me in. I slip the presents under the tree, and am joyfully greeted by Vickie. She is  one of the nicest persons on the entire planet. Before I know it, I am having appetizers followed by wonderfully filling tortellini soup. Dave, Vickie and Becky welcome me as if I am part of their family. They make me feel loved and special.

In honor of my three special neighbors, I am painting three pears tonight in a still life. They are full of life just like the life-giving qualities of Vickie, Dave and Becky. Thank you, Lord, for them as well as their life-giving words. I know they love You, and their kindnesses are the fruit of a love relationship with You.