In the previous post I quoted from 1 John 4:17 in the Message: “God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us.”

That helps me see why Living Room used to do me so much good. It also helps me see why the Connections Coffee House where I volunteered did me so much good. I enjoy being around people and am at my happiest when I share God’s love with them.

When I spend time with others, I have the opportunity to live the life of love John talks about. I do feel God living inside me. Pretty hard for that to happen when you don’t have people around. But in the past few years I haven’t had too many of those opportunities, except at church on Sundays. Although I do have occasional visits with friends, I’ve been pretty isolated, spending most of my time in our condo.

My spirit rises when I greet neighbours in the elevator. Amazing what that does to my mood and how those brief encounters bring forth the familiar feelings I remember from Living Room days – the warm feelings of love and joy.

Over the past while my health seems to be improving. I’m starting to feel stronger. I just pray I’m not premature in thinking I’m getting well, as I have done so many times in the past. Today I do think things are different. (I pray, I pray)

An opportunity to volunteer with the elderly has opened up. And how I would love to show God’s love to such people!

Please keep me strong, Lord.