Bible Discussion Thread

Bible Study. I have been blessed (finally) with the opportunity of having a Nursing Home (actually rehabilitation center) Bible study as of last week; and am planning a routine Sunday afternoon event. This has come after months of discussion with the director and a church member who works as activities director and finally going there myself after waiting to hear from the director since December. They are sending people into an activities room at 1:00 pm; last week about 8 showed up; 3 or 4 of which had some discussion and/or were willing to offer prayer requests. One lady is particularly trained in Catholic theology; she is by far the most vocal.

I did Psalm 16 for my first study (sort of picked the first thing I could open up to with minimal time for prep). After some thought and prayer I feel it is good to explain how in the flesh none of us desire God and to give a basic explanation of the Gospel. John comes to mind as a good starting point. That would be my first request that the material and reception would be led by the Spirit; secondly that discussions will be within the parameters the Lord would set so that the materials can enhance discussion and questions and that things wouldn't sway too far into side issues. Thirdly; I am going to try to ask my church to supply Bibles and obtain large print ones if possible. Also in light of that I am thinking of printing out a large print outline for my studies. Pray that any homework questions will be those the Lord could use so that people start reading scriptures. There is a library study room where I speak with donated books; I hope to leave Bibles there; and also get clear indication from the Director (who is a believer) as to whether I can leave any tracts there.

Lastly; I would ask for more boldness as well as opportunities to present themselves in sharing the Gospel. Also for anyone else that feels led to join me in the study from my church.

Thanks; Agape

RIch P

Please don't forget about the ones that can get out of bed or moved, & those who can't respond with words. I pray you will get opportunities to read the Scriptures to those who need it most, maybe by their bedsides & pray for them .

Matthew 25:31-46, James 1:27,

Due to continuing space parameters it seems I need to remain a few feet away from the patients and my initial inquiry into visiting individuals in their rooms is not something I have been granted permission to do at present. There are others I am praying for (such as roommates) that are not in the meeting space along with some people that haven't said much at present. Thankfully; the lady who does activities works there full time and undoubtably has more access. She has been given requests by residents and should be there every other weekend (perhaps this Sunday depending on her schedule). Maybe she can bring some people in or give me some more latitude there as I continue. Her boss is in charge of the whole program for activities and is saved so for now I am getting permission to bring more Bibles into the reading room and have asked him about tracts. I will have to see about that. Getting in early has allowed me a bit more interaction as well.

Thanks for your concerns there.

Agape; Rich P

Richard H. Priday,

It's wisdom to have anyone trying to volunteer with vulnerable people to, first prove themselves. I believe once you're there showing true love & kindness, hearts & doors should open. GOD can make a way, when there seems to be no way. How many times in life we're met with gatekeepers?.. trying to do good.. & then GOD moves & we're not just in the room but reaching more & doing more than we even expected.

I will be very surprised if you don't have people, even their family members seeking you out to pray for their loved ones & patients very soon. Luke 16:10,

Amen, That certainly is a blessing Richard.

That's the type of Facility my brother is in.

My the Lord lead you in your efforts

God bless.