The Power of a Handwritten Word
Life, as we know, isn’t always a gentle stroll through a blooming garden. Don’t we wish! In fact, scripture tells us “in this life we will have trouble” John 16:33. Those words from Jesus didn’t say “if you have trouble”; He said “YOU WILL HAVE TROUBLE”. Sometimes, it’s a climb up a steep, rocky hill where you can barely see the next step. It seems these days that the list of those I’m praying for is longer. That the trials seem harder; the sickness more common. Maybe it’s my age and the large number of people I now know. I’m not sure. I’ve walked those rocky hills and felt the weariness of the journey. I’ve asked of the Lord “when will things get easier?” In those moments, when the weight of the world feels heavy, or when the path ahead seems impossibly unclear, it’s the small, tangible reminders of God’s love and the love of others that have carried me through.
A SWEET REMINDER
The other day as I was tidying things up for spring, I ran across several notes in my bedstand from a dear friend. Then I glanced to my dresser where we have been keeping a basket of cards that were sent to either my husband or I over this past year. And I was reminded: there’s something beautiful about the gift and power of a handwritten note. I pick a few up and read them. I smile. I feel a warm hug. I sense the Lord saying “Julie, how I love you”.
In our digital age, where communication is often reduced to fleeting texts and impersonal emails, the simple act of putting pen to paper becomes a sacred gesture. It’s a tangible expression of care, a piece of someone’s heart delivered directly to yours. It says, “I took the time. I thought of you. I prayed for you.”
Think about it. A handwritten note isn’t just words on paper. It’s time invested, a physical manifestation of someone’s thoughts and prayers. It’s the slight slant of their handwriting, the gentle pressure of the pen, the look and feel of the paper. Sometimes even a little gift placed inside the card or package – all carrying a message of love and support. It’s a reminder that you are seen, valued, and held in someone’s heart. I love picking up those cards and looking at them. They remind me Jesus loves me.
As Christians, we understand the power of tangible reminders. We cherish the bread and wine of communion, the physical symbol of Christ’s sacrifice. In this week before Holy week, we’re even more acutely aware as we’re going to theaters watching The Chosen’s well done Last Supper series. (Do go – it’s SO good!) We hold dear the worn pages of our Bibles, the physical testament to God’s enduring Word. A handwritten note is similar, a small, tangible reminder of God’s love expressed through the hands of His children.
When life throws someone a curveball, when transitions feel overwhelming, or even when you simply want to acknowledge someone’s victories – a handwritten note is a gift to the recipient. It can be a gentle nudge, a quiet encouragement, or a fun “way to go” that resonates deeper than any digital affirmation.
Perhaps it’s a verse of scripture, carefully chosen and lovingly written. Or maybe it’s a simple, “I’m praying for you,” written with sincerity. It could be a recollection of a shared memory, a testament to someone’s strength, or a simple expression of gratitude.
My family gathered around the table recently to celebrate my birthday. My grandkids vary in age (17, 11 and 8). My son is a grown man who expects a lot from me in our family business – we enjoy working together, but it’s not always easy. My daughter-in-law is a precious gift. At her nudging I’m sure, they all spoke to AI, gave it the parameters, and then handwrote birthday cards. We had a lot of fun with those; but quite frankly, even though it was AI assisted, I will cherish those cards for a VERY long time. They quite effectively captured the essence of who they are and who I am.
So, I encourage you, take a moment to write a note. Reach out to a friend who’s struggling. Acknowledge a family member who needs encouragement, or someone who simply deserves to be celebrated. Let your words be a gentle reminder of God’s unwavering love. Let the ink on paper be a testament to the power of human connection and a tangible expression of grace. The power of a handwritten note is without doubt a gift to the recipient and the giver.
As scripture reminds us in Hebrews 10:24-25, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
