The Hopeless Case (Part 2)

Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:10-12

Tessa decided to go with her mother to visit their elderly neighbor a second time—and several times after that. “Don’t you think we might as well give up?” Tessa asked at last. “I don’t think Mrs. Bennett will ever have any interest in God.”

“Don’t forget, being a friend is a long-term commitment,” said Mom. “Let’s not give up.” Tessa sighed, but she continued to go along when her mother went to visit Mrs. Bennett.

One day, Tessa was surprised to hear Mrs. Bennett ask, “Why do you keep coming to see me? My own children hardly ever visit me!”

“We care about you,” Mom replied. “I know it can be lonely when you live by yourself, but did you know there’s a friend who wants to be with you all the time?”

Mrs. Bennett frowned. “Who would that be?”

Tessa spoke up, surprising herself. “It’s Jesus.”

Mom nodded. “We visit and bring treats, but Jesus has done so much more for

you. He died and rose again to save you from sin. Having Him in your life will bring you great comfort and peace, even when you aren’t around other people.”

Mrs. Bennett listened quietly, and Tessa noticed that she seemed to be thinking about it. “Do you have a Bible?” asked Mom.

“Someplace. I haven’t done anything with it in years,” said Mrs. Bennett. “Why?” “If you can find it, Tessa will show you a special verse,” said Mom.

Tessa looked surprised as Mrs. Bennett rose and shuffled to another room. “What

verse?” she whispered.

“John 3:16,” Mom whispered back. “And here’s a card you can give her that

explains the way of salvation very simply.”

When Mrs. Bennett returned with the Bible, Tessa took it and found the verse.

“Here, Mrs. Bennett,” she said. “This verse tells you how much God loves you.” Mrs. Bennett took the Bible and the card. “I’ll read this after my nap,” she said. Tessa was thoughtful on the way home. “I think you’re right, Mom,” she said.

“Mrs. Bennett isn’t hopeless at all—at least not to Jesus.” • Jorlyn A. Grasser

How About You?

Do you continue to pray for someone who seems hopeless to you? Do you keep sharing God’s love with that person? Sometimes it may take months—or even years—before you see any results, but don’t give up. Keep on being a friend to them, praying for them, and sharing the truth of God’s Word. He promises that it will accomplish His purpose.

Today’s Key Verse:
Isaiah 55:11 [My word] will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Don’t give up on others