It was a typical quarantine kind of day.  Cup of coffee on one side of my computer; glass of water on the other; I was front and center working my way through an inbox overflowing with emails.

I reached a point where I needed to move around a bit.  A trip to the mailbox would be perfect.

I arrived at my destination, opened the box, and there waiting for me was a handwritten card!  Call me old-fashioned, but handwritten letters and cards delivered by the United States Postal Service absolutely brighten my day and never fail to bring a smile to my face!

Why is that?

Because it’s such a simple but profound gesture that says a few very important things:

~Someone thought of me

~Someone invested precious time out of their day to act on this thought

~Someone values me enough to connect in this very personal way

In a season right now where people are tempted to feel isolated and disconnected, letter writing is one of the most simple and unique ways to express love and care!

Several of the books recorded in the New Testament happen to be letters that Paul wrote to churches and/or individuals.  Paul understood the value of a handwritten letter and used that medium to encourage, inspire, instruct, commend, and value the recipients of them.

Paul used letters to express his thankfulness (Romans 1:8; I Cor. 1:4); his affection (I Tim. 1:2; 2 Tim. 1:2); and his care and prayers (Eph. 1:16-19; Phil. 1: 3-6).

Our culture has predominantly shifted to using online methods to connect now – emails, video conferencing, and a myriad of social media sites.  And, yet, there’s just something so incredibly personal about a handwritten note, isn’t there?

You might be wondering as you read this how you can easily occupy your time while quarantined AND bless someone else??  Grab some paper and a pen and write away!  It doesn’t have to be eloquent and fancy – just authentic and heartfelt.

In the words of journalist Phyllis Theroux, “To send a letter is a good way to go somewhere without moving anything but your heart.” 

Fifty-five cents is a small price to pay to let someone know how priceless they are.

Until next time, Grace and Glory!