I've often heard Christian friends wonder aloud what God would have them do with their lives, now that they're securely heaven-bound and feel compelled to serve Him. If you're wondering the same thing, have you ever considered conducting a Bible study at a nearby nursing home?
Our post-COVID Bible Time numbers at "my" nursing home have dwindled considerably compared to our pre-2020 attendance, with typical weekly attendance averaging just seven residents. But today's smaller numbers make our sessions even more warm and loving, with lots of participation among our faithful attendees.
We've settled into a new format that everyone seems to appreciate. We spend the first half hour or so on readings directly from the Bible, or from a well-vetted book on a compelling subject. We devote the second half hour to various articles, essays and talks on topics ranging from the names of God to why He allows His children to suffer. We pray. And in the midst of it all, we belt out a few classic hymns with singers like Jim Nabors and Tennessee Ernie Ford.
Just to give you an idea of the Bible-based readings that work for us, this past summer, we read through the highlights of Randy Alcorn’s riveting book Heaven. At over 500 pages, it’s a comprehensive analysis of what the Bible says about the believer’s ultimate destination, as well as what various theologians have added to the discourse over the years. It seems that many of us have some major misconceptions about eternity; in Heaven, Alcorn addresses them one by one, providing a biblically accurate picture of the “happily ever after” awaiting every born-again Christian.
At the moment, we're finishing up the late Phillip Keller’s peerless A Shepherd Looks at the 23rd Psalm. This heart-warming book has taken us deep into the extraordinary ways the Good Shepherd cares for His flock. The 23rd Psalm may be only six verses. But thanks to real-life shepherd Keller’s charming explanations of each one, our group has found this psalm to be a wonderful source of divinely inspired comfort, support and joy to sustain us through virtually any trial.
Next up: Tim Keesee's terrific new book A Day's Journey: Stories of Hope and Death-Defying Joy. It's a truly thought-provoking, encouraging and God-glorifying read, especially for those of us waiting patiently on the cusp of eternity – which means virtually everyone, it seems to me.
How about you?
If you have a heart for the elderly, a love for the Lord, and a little time to spare, I hope you’ll consider conducting a Bible discussion of your own at a nearby nursing home or assisted-living facility. Simply contact the Activities Director or Administrator to introduce yourself and make your pitch. If you’re turned down by the first one, keep trying; the Lord will open just the right door for you.
If I can be of any encouragement, don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’d be happy to share my week-by-week outlines with you, if you need some help getting started.
Don’t wait – there are undoubtedly some elderly folks in your area who are hungering and thirsting for someone like you to share the word of God with them.
Our post-COVID Bible Time numbers at "my" nursing home have dwindled considerably compared to our pre-2020 attendance, with typical weekly attendance averaging just seven residents. But today's smaller numbers make our sessions even more warm and loving, with lots of participation among our faithful attendees.
We've settled into a new format that everyone seems to appreciate. We spend the first half hour or so on readings directly from the Bible, or from a well-vetted book on a compelling subject. We devote the second half hour to various articles, essays and talks on topics ranging from the names of God to why He allows His children to suffer. We pray. And in the midst of it all, we belt out a few classic hymns with singers like Jim Nabors and Tennessee Ernie Ford.
Just to give you an idea of the Bible-based readings that work for us, this past summer, we read through the highlights of Randy Alcorn’s riveting book Heaven. At over 500 pages, it’s a comprehensive analysis of what the Bible says about the believer’s ultimate destination, as well as what various theologians have added to the discourse over the years. It seems that many of us have some major misconceptions about eternity; in Heaven, Alcorn addresses them one by one, providing a biblically accurate picture of the “happily ever after” awaiting every born-again Christian.
At the moment, we're finishing up the late Phillip Keller’s peerless A Shepherd Looks at the 23rd Psalm. This heart-warming book has taken us deep into the extraordinary ways the Good Shepherd cares for His flock. The 23rd Psalm may be only six verses. But thanks to real-life shepherd Keller’s charming explanations of each one, our group has found this psalm to be a wonderful source of divinely inspired comfort, support and joy to sustain us through virtually any trial.
Next up: Tim Keesee's terrific new book A Day's Journey: Stories of Hope and Death-Defying Joy. It's a truly thought-provoking, encouraging and God-glorifying read, especially for those of us waiting patiently on the cusp of eternity – which means virtually everyone, it seems to me.
How about you?
If you have a heart for the elderly, a love for the Lord, and a little time to spare, I hope you’ll consider conducting a Bible discussion of your own at a nearby nursing home or assisted-living facility. Simply contact the Activities Director or Administrator to introduce yourself and make your pitch. If you’re turned down by the first one, keep trying; the Lord will open just the right door for you.
If I can be of any encouragement, don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’d be happy to share my week-by-week outlines with you, if you need some help getting started.
Don’t wait – there are undoubtedly some elderly folks in your area who are hungering and thirsting for someone like you to share the word of God with them.
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