Years ago, my mother’s best friend started a card ministry under the umbrella of their local church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Terrie was an artist and created all kinds of beautiful cards with people, children, characters, animals, and scenes along with encouraging words and scriptures. Her artwork was then printed off in mass production and often hand-colored by volunteers.
These loyal servants of God met weekly and prayed over the numerous needs of people in their large church congregation followed up with a card. They also responded to any prayer requests and needs of others outside their congregation. I was frequently the recipient of a beautiful card and comforting words from both Terrie and my mother over the years.
The card ministry grew and soon I was ordering Terrie’s unique cards that she designed and sent out every single week. I knew others needed that same kind of encouragement in my church in Little Rock, Arkansas, or my circle of influence. I loved getting my weekly package and sending out the cards and words of inspiration from God. I participated with them in this ministry for well over 30 years in my own life. I told Terrie and my mom: “I’m your missionary!”
Sadly, Terrie lost her battle with lymphoma nearly a decade ago and a few years later, my mom, Betty, followed her best friend home to Heaven after her battle with colon cancer. Six years ago, different artists tried to follow in their footsteps until the Covid pandemic hit in 2020 and the card ministry ceased to operate altogether.
But I knew the card ministry was needed more than ever. And just because churches closed or their various ministries stopped, God’s Word never ceased! The need for others to be encouraged never ceased either. It was then that I started hand-crafting cards when my friend Kay introduced me to her card class and a product line called Stampin’ Up. Now 4 years later, I’m still finding new ways to continue their vision for a prayer card ministry. And I find a special joy in opening boxes of card crafting materials and being creative in my unique way. This passion and desire to encourage people lives on and has been instilled in me by my godly mentors.
Everyone needs an encouraging word. God’s Word was written just for you: like a card or an inspiring letter you need for whatever battle, difficulty, or loss you are facing. He wants to send you just the right Word you need. If you seek Him and open your Bible, He will speak through His letters of encouragement too!
Beloved:
I love you and care about you more deeply than you can ever know. When you’re weary and discouraged turn to Me. When you’re facing any trial, illness, or loss come to Me! Ask Me for that special Word of encouragement and let Me lead you and speak to you. I long to help you beloved. The Bible has many of My love letters or passages to encourage you!
“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4)
“My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ.” (Colossians 2:2)
