Week 21

Bringing good news

Nowadays, it is rare to receive a handwritten letter in the mailbox. Most of the mail we receive consists of government notices, bank statements, utility bills, or promotional leaflets. Even birthday greetings and festive wishes have largely moved to text messages, emails, and social media. While these modern forms of communication are convenient and instant, they can never quite replace the warmth of seeing a familiar handwriting on an envelope addressed personally to us.

There was a time when the arrival of the postman was quietly anticipated. The gentle clatter of letters dropping through the letterbox often stirred excitement and curiosity. Perhaps it was a handwritten letter from a loved one, a postcard from someone travelling overseas, news of a new opportunity, or simply a note to say, “I’m thinking of you.” Before the envelope was even opened, our hearts were already filled with anticipation. Those ordinary moments often became treasured memories, reminding us that someone cared enough to take the time to write.

Yet behind every letter was the faithful work of many unseen hands. Someone carefully penned each message. Postal workers patiently sorted thousands of letters. The postman walked familiar streets, rain or shine, delivering messages that connected families, strengthened friendships, and brought comfort and hope to countless homes. Their work was rarely celebrated, yet it quietly touched lives every single day. It reminds us that God often works through faithful people whose service may go unnoticed but whose labour becomes a blessing to many.

Reflecting, we can also see how God has faithfully delivered “good news” into our own lives. A prayer answered in His perfect timing, an unexpected provision when we needed it most, a word of encouragement that lifted our spirits, or the loving support of family and friends during difficult seasons—none of these were mere coincidences. They were quiet reminders that our Heavenly Father has always been watching over us, faithfully providing for our needs and filling our lives with reasons to hope.

Today, God continues to entrust each of us with the privilege of sharing His love and encouragement. A kind conversation, a thoughtful message, a sincere prayer, or a simple visit can become God’s letter of hope to someone who is weary or discouraged. Why not do something uncommon this week? Write a handwritten note or letter to a family member, a friend, or someone who may be lonely. Take the time to choose your words carefully, place the letter in an envelope, affix a stamp, and post it. It may seem slow and inconvenient in our digital age, but the effort itself speaks of love. Long after a text message has been deleted or forgotten, a handwritten letter is often treasured, reread, and kept for years. In the same way, a few heartfelt words, offered in Christ’s love, may become a lasting encouragement that God uses to brighten someone’s journey.

Bible Verse:

And how will they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the Good News of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!’

Romans 10:15 WEB

Blessings:

God has filled your life with reminders of His goodness and continues to use ordinary people and everyday moments to bring hope, encouragement, and joy into your journey.

Reflection Point:

God has blessed us with countless messages of hope throughout our lives, often delivered through the faithful work and kindness of ordinary people.

Reflection Question:

When was the last time God encouraged your heart through someone’s words or actions? Who might be waiting today for a message of hope from you?

Action to Consider for this week:

Send an unexpected message of encouragement to someone. Write a note, make a phone call, or simply tell them they are remembered, appreciated, and prayed for. Your words may become the good news they need today.


Hymn for the Reflection

I Love to Tell the Story

Hymn Writer

Arabella Katherine Hankey (1834–1911) was an English Bible teacher, missionary, and hymn writer. Born into a prosperous London family, she devoted much of her life to Christian ministry, especially among the poor and working-class communities.

Hankey had a deep love for the Bible and a passion for sharing the message of Jesus Christ. She regularly taught Bible classes and encouraged others to know the Saviour personally.

Although she wrote only a few hymns, “I Love to Tell the Story” became one of the most beloved evangelistic hymns in Christian history, inspiring generations of believers to joyfully share the Gospel.

The Story Behind the Hymn

In 1866, at the age of thirty-two, Arabella Hankey became seriously ill.

Confined to bed for many months, she was unable to continue her active ministry. During this prolonged period of recovery, she spent much of her time reading Scripture and reflecting on the life of Jesus.

Out of these quiet months came a long poem entitled “The Old, Old Story.”

The poem consisted of two parts: The Story Wanted and The Story Told

Together they contained more than one hundred verses.

From the second section came the words we now know as “I Love to Tell the Story.”

A few years later, American musician William G. Fischer read the poem and was deeply moved. He composed the familiar melody that transformed the poem into one of the world’s most treasured hymns.

Rather than weakening her faith, Arabella’s illness deepened her appreciation for the Gospel and strengthened her desire to tell others about Christ.