The Quilt

When we made the difficult decision to leave the church we served in Tucson, the people in the church gave us a wonderful celebration. It was a fun filled evening where people shared stories and memories of our 13 years at the Chapel in the Hills.

In addition they presented us with several gifts. One of the most memorable was a quilt. The quilt was a large bedspread with a collection of squares made by individual families. We kept the quilt in a large trunk for many years.

Recently I came across the trunk and was delighted to see the quilt again. It has been over 30 years since we were given this thoughtful gift. I took time to read many of the squares and was deeply touched by the messages people shared.

Just reading the names of families and individuals brought smiles to my face. I was reminded of many adventures we shared together. We raised our children together and built church buildings together. We went on campouts and family retreats together.

I was reminded of individuals who came to faith in Christ during our years at Chapel in the Hills. I smiled as I reflected on memorable moments like weddings and the births of children. The names on the quilt and the creative designs were helpful reminders of God’s blessing in our lives and theirs.

In his second letter to the Christians in Corinth the Apostle Paul referred to the people in the church as “living letters” who reminded him of all that God had done through his ministry with them (Second Corinthians 3:2-3). They were living proof of a loving God.

The squares on the quilt were visible reminders of how God touched people as we served together with these friends. There were older adults who were like grandparents to our young children. There were young couples who were raising their children just as we were. Each square told a different story. Let me encourage you to write a letter or send an email this week to some people who have touched your life and family in the past. You may want to add an old photo or memento that reminds you of adventures you shared together. They will be glad you did and you will too.

You can read more stories written by the author in his newest book Let Me Encourage You More by Mark Hopper. The price is $25 plus postage ($5). Order your copy at markh@efreedb.org.