Outpouring of Love

I thought I would follow up on a recent post below. Two weeks ago I posted about my friends baby who was in the hospital with seizures. It was such a helpless feeling to be so far away. With the help of many, her older children were provided for, her needs while at the hospital were met and more then anything a sense of community coming together was felt. People all over the nation sent help.
What touches me more then anything, is a complete stranger to us, yet a sister in Christ, was able to go be with our friend at the hospital. A much needed shoulder to cry on, and arm to hold up. My heart was filled knowing that kindness and compassion are not dead.
The baby is doing much better now after 11 days in the hospital. Mom, Dad and baby are being reunited with their family today. I feel so blessed to have been a part in helping.

On a side note, while the families kids were here it became quite apparent they had not packed to be away from home for more then a day. Families from our group stepped up to purchase clothing for these kids. A simple way to show we loved them. Two boys I know took their own money and their own clothes to these kids. When I asked why they wanted to give, the reply was, " they really needed it and I have it to give."

Offering Hope When A Family is Dealing With a Sick Child

I don't know what is worse. Getting a call that your child is ill, or getting the call that your friends child is very ill. I think my heart hurts just as much for them as it would if it was just for me.

My friend called this morning to tell me that our mutual friends baby was having seizures. What makes this hit even harder is that the baby is 4 days old and they are at least 6 hours away. How can you offer help when your so far away? What can you possibly do except pray? It's hard to hug through a phone, hold up your friend as she struggles with how to cope. It really gives you a helpless feeling. I have tried putting myself in her shoes. What would I want my friends to do for me? Help with my kids, provide some meals, pray. Yes, I would love to do all of those immediately. However, from 500 miles away how is it possible? I've spent the afternoon making calls, trying to get other families gathering to pray. Trying to make connections with families near her. Asking them to be my hands. Reminding myself that I would do it for someone else if I were asked.

With all the new technology and up to the second updates thanks to facebook and twitter, nothing can replace the arms of a friend. I guess my thought today, is if you were called upon, in your town to reach out to a stranger because a friend has asked you to for her, would you? I know that after today, my answer is yes. I will offer my arms and my means if someone ever asks me too. Would you?