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There are times when the smallest act of kindness can have resounding effects, like a pebble in a stream. Our church kids made Easter cards during Children's Church to be given to hospital patients. In response, the chaplain wrote this note:

To the Children of Sauganash Community Church, I am a mental health chaplain here at Good Sumaritan Hospital. I am writing to you to thank you for the beautiful cards that you made for my patients. I want you to know that when the people opened your cards, every one of them was deeply touched by the care and love that went into making them. You brought a smile and encouragement to people who are very sad and struggling with mental illness. I wanted you to know that your cards were a sign of hope and joy to them. Thank you.
   Chaplain Arlene Bowie

Myron Erickson told me that the chaplain had written a special note on the side for my son Sean. At first I said, "Oh no!" I was afraid that he had written something inappropriate. Even at age 6 Sean is always saying something that gets him in trouble. I was so relieved when I read the following note:

   A note to Sean: A young man received your card and wanted me to say thank you to you personally. He was so happy to think that someone cares about him. Thanks.

For quite a while I was really overwhelmed by her gratitude. What our children did was such a simple act. We had no idea these homemade Easter cards would have such a profound effect on these patients. We wanted to with them a happy Easter. Wish them a speedy recovery. Tell them that God loves them. But these people have fallen into an abyss. They feel unloved and forgotten. And perhaps in many ways they are.
   What about those around us? Do we know friends, neighbors and relatives who feel lonely and isolated? Are there people who you have lost touch with for long periods of time simply because we don't take the time to stay connected? What effect could you have on the lonely people you know?
   If you suspect that someone you know is depressed, it is important that you not say, "snap out of it." Sometimes feeling down is a normal part of life, and they may need God's love straight from you in the form of a hug or an invitation, a listening ear, or reassurance of your support. Don't feel afraid or unqualified to reach out. God uses the Seans of the world, sinners, people who are not perfect, and those who don't think they should be chosen, to do His work.
   Most of the cards the kids send to people say something very straightforward like "Jesus loves you and so do I." Or, "I am praying that you feel better soon." Could you invite a friend to church and out for lunch afterwards? Or could you send a card to someone you know is struggling with reassurance that "I know you are going through a rough time. I want you to know that I am thinking about you and praying for you." Praying that God will grant them comfort and His healing touch is such a great gift!
   Remember Psalm 42, verses 6-7: "Yet I am standing here depressed and gloomy, but I will meditate upon your kindness to this lovely land where the Jordan River flows and where Mount Hermon and Mount Mizar stand. All your waves and billows have gone over me, and floods of sorrow pour upon me like a thundering cataract. Yet day by day the Lord also pours out his steadfast love upon me, and through the night I sing his songs and pray to God who gives me life."
   Think of how many thousands of years ago the Psalms were written. Even God's people get depressed. That why we have each other!

CHILDREN'S CHURCH by Jean Wiley
In March the children's church was quite busy, the children learned about Lent and how some of the traditions evolved. The T.L.C. packets made in February's Kingdom Kids class were distributed at the Church of Our Savior soup kitchen on March 5, by Wendy, Randal and Brandon Buffington, Judy, Sam and Joey Waddick, and Jean and Honore Wiley. Both the church and recipients appreciated SCC's efforts and kindness.
   The children also had lots of fun in March with the scavenger hunt featuring everyday items found in scripture. They also made beaded survivalware bracelets to ware as a reminder of Christ and his love for us.
   On our final Sunday in March, the children made Easter cards for the patients at Good Sumaritan Hospital which were distributed by Myron Erickson and the Chaplaincy department. Thanks to the children and all of their artistic efforts. The kid's well wishes and Easter greetings went over wonderfully. A big thanks to Mindy Erickson for the original idea, and to Wendy Buffington for her help, most creative ideas, and her dedication to stimulating the children's missions.