Hardcover, paperback, printed, electronic, or audio—I need books in my life. Always have. So I happily volunteered to create a book cart at the hospice unit and included copies of Daily Guideposts—especially valuable with its short and varied stories—and Bibles. I made part of one shelf for the children—there are often grandkids running through the hospice. I added novels to pass the long night hours. I even included a few poetry books that, to my surprise, were very popular.
Once the cart was filled, I wheeled it into the corridor and wondered whether anyone would be glad to find it there. No worries! Week after week I found it nicely jumbled and messy, needing tidying up and more books.
Far and away the most requested book is the Bible. Both the dying and their loved ones clearly derive such comfort from Scripture. These well-thumbed volumes are working their own kind of spiritual transformation, comforting the sick and reassuring their families. Familiarity is particularly needed at times of stress. Which Psalm is the most requested? Always the words of the Twenty-Third: “Your rod and your staff—they comfort me.” And they do.
Thank You, Lord, for Your words of Scripture. May they always bring comfort and wisdom as we face change and farewells.
Written by Brigitte Weeks
Digging Deeper: Ps 23; Prv 30:5
