Two by Two by Two

I really enjoy breakfast food. Fried eggs, bacon, pancakes, sausages, or ham, it’s all good. Along with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice, breakfast is a meal that’s tough to beat at any time of day! My favorite breakfast combo to order at IHOP is called “2 x 2 x 2” – You get two eggs, two buttermilk pancakes, and two crispy strips of bacon. (Are you hungry yet?) I like the combo because you get a little bit of everything. The variety creates a more appealing dish than just having all eggs or all pancakes.

Our work of encouraging our church family will be more successful when we incorporate variety as well. Allow me to present a “2 x 2 x 2” strategy for Christian edification. This plan would be good all the time, but it is especially needed while so many are stuck at home. Best of all, these are things that every member of the church can do. No special skillset is required, only your willingness to act.

First, make two phone calls each day. Some would say that a text will do, but phone calls really are superior. We have brothers and sisters who are lonely, particularly right now. It would mean so much to them to hear a kind voice. Really, this is an expression of warmth and love that we all need. But think specifically about members who don’t have family checking in with them, who are isolated, or who have health problems. A few minutes can provide hours of comfort and positivity.

Second, mail two handwritten letters each week. These could be sympathy cards, birthday cards, or just because cards. The focus is to personally write a short paragraph or maybe two, offering encouragement and demonstrating love. In the modern age of Facebook and email, the personal touch of putting pen to paper is very meaningful. If you are so inclined, try including a little artwork in your letter. That way, the recipient has something to display and look at to remind them how they aren’t alone.

Third and most important, offer two special prayers each day. Count these as separate from your prayers before meals, prayers included in a worship service, or family devotional prayers. Make these prayers your special time with God. Use them to express gratitude for the Lord’s loving provision (1 Thess 5:16-18). Use them to lift up those who are hurting (Jam 5:13-16). Use them to pray for our elders and church leaders across the world (Heb 13:17-18). Use them to pray for leaders in government (1 Tim 2:1-2). Pray that our faith would grow stronger (Col 1:9-10).

Let’s work together as a church family to stay connected and pick each other up. Let’s use variety to reach out to one another in many ways and deepen our relationships. Consistent and faithful service will give us joy and satisfaction. It will be even more satisfying than a great breakfast combo!