Stop the car

As we pull out of the driveway we see him walking to his mailbox. We've only glimpsed him a couple of times even though he's our neighbor because that's how it is out here in the middle of nowhere. We see a lot more herons and hawks than we do people. So we slow down a bit and he looks uncomfortable At first, not knowing if we are just going to wave or demand more of him this cold winter evening. We stop the truck and we ask how he his and doesn't he go by Bill?  I see the bags under his eyes and there is a hint of sadness In His disposition. We talk about how far we both live from everything and that we both love it when we do get home. He says this evening he is a bit later because his dad is In the hospital dying of a brain tumor. And I know why we stopped. Yes we will bake him cookies and write him cards but that only shifts his thoughts for a moment. What will change now is that we will lift him and his father up to the God of the universe, the God who comforts. I often underestimate the power of prayer, suggesting that it isn't enough  and that I really need to do something tangible. In reality it is everything. It is what matters most. It is what brings peace in the midst of the storm. I remember as a child finding a prayer my mom had written for me. I remember thinking with all that was going She took the time to pray for me. I felt so loved. It is the greatest gift. Never to be underestimated.