Sickness in sermons

Sickness in sermons

Thank you for the story about Penny Williams’ book on her struggles and triumphs with cerebral palsy. The prayer list for the sick in our church in Jackson is long — so many with cancer. I have had physical limitations for years and have noted, with dismay, that there are very few sermons from pulpits in church, on television and radio relating to the seriously ill and shut-ins.

Most pastors, understandably, urge us to get out and do something for Christ, yet many who listen are wishing with all of their hearts that they could. “The grace of Jesus helped me” was the title used on Penny’s story in the Sept. 10 issue.

Yes, God’s “grace is sufficient” and there are many more helps in Scripture for the weaker saints. Many passages speak of “suffering and glory” simultaneously. It would be great if this silence on sickness in sermons were interspersed occasionally with hopeful remarks for the ill and their caregivers.

Betty Jo Hardy
Jackson, Ala.