From the Desk of the Associate Pastor

“Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” (Proverbs 16:24)

I see these words, and I think of customer service. Yes, you heard me right—I am thinking about our interpersonal relationships with those in the service industry, whether it be retail, beauty, contracting, sales, or countless other professions. Perhaps my recent experience has shaped this reflection just a little bit.

Several months ago, a pipe burst in my basement. There was no way I could have known it had burst because it was hidden behind the drywall. I had gone outside to use the hose, and the pipe connecting the hose bib to the water main was the one that had failed. About an hour later, I went downstairs and stepped onto the carpet only to hear a loud squish as my socks were immediately soaked with water. I looked around and realized my basement was covered in water. The entire basement had to be stripped down with flood cuts, and all of the flooring had to be removed. I was grateful for my hands that day, as they allowed me to dial my insurance agent and to fold in prayer, asking God for calmness and perspective.

Last month, reconstruction began. To keep it brief, let’s just say there was some negligence on the part of the reconstruction team that led to yet another water leak. It was clear that this was no fault of my own, and the project was going to be set back to square one. I immediately called the project manager to explain what had happened. There was a delay in getting a water mitigation crew to my home, and I was forced to take action myself. I kindly but firmly expressed my displeasure and requested that the issue be resolved promptly. Thankfully, it was.

The very next day, I stopped at a local shop to pick up a gift for my wife. I was met with exemplary customer service. I was genuinely impressed by the consideration, kindness, and craftsmanship that went into the item I had purchased. I expressed my gratitude and left the store. As I drove away, the words from Proverbs echoed in my mind. I turned my car around, went back into the store, and said, “May I have the contact information for your manager? Don’t worry—I want to put in a good word for you and sing your praises.” In that moment, Proverbs 16:24 hit me over the head and reminded me of a simple truth: as people, we are often quick to complain and slow to praise.

In today’s world, people need encouragement. They need kindness. So I have made it my new “thing” not only to speak with management when there is an obvious problem, but also to go out of my way to commend someone when they have done an exceptional job. I can only hope that we can all join together in bringing a little more sweetness to the souls of God’s people especially those working in the service industry. After all, as Scripture reminds us, “your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Sometimes the encouragement we offer today may be exactly what someone needs to keep going tomorrow.

In Christ,