Seen, Remembered, Loved
When members can’t make it to church, we have the opportunity to bring church to them.
Sometimes that looks simple — sitting across from someone at their kitchen table, offering unhurried conversation, listening well, reading Scripture together, or singing a favorite hymn.
Sometimes it’s bringing a small meal or a bouquet of flowers.
Small reminders that they are not forgotten.
Small reminders of God’s steady care.
Erica Baldwin knows firsthand the encouragement of a visit during a difficult, home-bound season.
“What surprised me most was how mutual the blessing was. As 2 Corinthians reminds us, we extend the comfort we ourselves have received from God. Encouragement flows both directions.
In my thirties, I realized something was missing: curiosity about other people’s stories. One unexpected gift of this decade of life has been intergenerational friendships. By slowing down, asking better questions, and listening intentionally, God has given me rich interactions beyond my typical circle. Some of those conversations have turned into interviews for our church blog. Others have simply looked like sitting quietly with open ears rather than busy hands.
One sweet memory is sitting with an aging widow so her caregiver daughter could step out for a while. She told me about meeting her husband, their years of ministry together, and what she had been reading in her Bible.
As she spoke, I noticed the lines etched into her hands and face, visible evidence of decades of God’s faithfulness. I quietly captured a photo of that sacred moment, wanting to remember what steadfast grace looks like.
From stories like hers, I learn. I grow. I am strengthened to press on in my own walk with God.
We truly have much to learn from our senior saints. We simply have to take time to listen.”
So today on National Shut-In Visitation Day, may we humbly receive the gentle reminder that
our faith isn’t only something we believe — it’s something we practice
James 1:27 describes “pure religion” as caring for the vulnerable, including widows. Throughout Scripture we see that love for God shows up in love for people, especially those who may feel overlooked.
Jesus said that when we care for “the least of these,” we are serving Him (Matthew 25:40). And 1 John 3:18 encourages us to love not just with words, but in action.
Small things matter.
Practical Ways to Visit Homebound Members
If you’ve never visited a shut-in before, here are a few simple ideas:
- Be a good listener. Ask thoughtful questions and give space for stories.
- Share an encouraging passage of Scripture.
- Pray together.
- Do a small practical chore (wash dishes, fold laundry, tidy up).
- Watch an online church service together.
- Sing a familiar hymn.
- If possible, help them sit outside for fresh air and sunshine.
You don’t need special training — just a willing heart and a little time.
Heavenly Father,
Today we pause and ask that You would make us mindful of those who simply need to know they are seen, remembered, and loved. Open our eyes to notice them. Soften our hearts to care. Slow our steps enough to listen.
Thank You for the overwhelming love of Christ that has been poured out on us. May that love not stop with us, but move us to action — to reach out, to visit, to call, to serve, to encourage.
Let us be faithful reflections of Your compassion today.
If you would like to be part of the FBC Encouragement Ministry, including regular visits to our shut-ins and other care opportunities, please reach out to the FBC office or connect directly with Nan Hamann.