And they went forth and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. (Mark 16:20)

I read of a man who was involved in a tragic accident. He lost both legs and his left arm and only a finger and thumb remained on his right hand. But he still possessed a brilliant mind, enriched with a good education and broadened with world travel. At first he thought there was nothing he could do but remain a helpless sufferer.

A thought came to him. It was always nice to receive letters, but why not write them—he could still use his right hand with some difficulty. But to whom should he write?

Was there anyone shut in and incapacitated like he was who could be encouraged by his letters? He thought of men in prison—they did have some hope of release whereas he had none—but it was worth a try.

He wrote to a Christian organization concerned with prison ministry. He was told that his letters could not be answered—it was against prison rules, but he commenced this one-sided correspondence.

He wrote twice a week, and it taxed his strength to the limit. But into the letters who put his whole soul, all his experience, all his faith, all his wit, and all his Christian optimism. Frequently he felt discouraged and was tempted to give it up. But it was his one remaining activity, and he resolved to continue as long as he could.

At last he got a letter. It was very short, written on prison stationery, by the officer whose duty it was to censor the incoming mail. All it said was: “Please write on the best paper you can afford. Your letters are passed from cell to cell until they literally fall to pieces.”

No matter what our personal situation is, we still have God-given gifts and talents, experience, and encouragement that we can share with others.

Holy Creator, grant us the strength to witness of You to others, no matter what our circumstances may be. Help us to get out of “self” and share with others Your awesome gifts!