Hospital Bed Evangelism

And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15]

For me -- still on partial bed rest in the hospital -- “all the world” has taken on a slightly different meaning. Many times when we say “go out into the world”, we’re talking about physically going out into the community, teaching those who are lost. But what about those who literally cannot GO? What about the homebound, the hospital bound, the nursing home bound? Does this mean that they’re out of luck when it comes to trying to fulfill this command? Absolutely not. Here are some ideas for personal evangelism that are completely doable from a hospital bed...

1.       Use the power of the Internet. Many scoff at the efficacy of "Internet Evangelism" and claim that it’s no substitute for face-to-face evangelism. And while I generally agree, what about when it’s one of your only options? It’s an excellent tool!

o   Write blog articles with religious applications.

o   Write encouraging e-mails to people (erring members, non-Christians, even faithful Christians can use encouragement!)

o   Start an online Bible study with someone. (You may think that no one will want to do this. But you’d be surprised at how many will say “yes” if you’ll only take the time to ask.)

o   Keep your status updates on Facebook positive in order to let your light shine. (Think of those people who are constantly whining, complaining, and bemoaning something on FB. Are they people you want to emulate? Probably not. Don’t fall into that category yourself. Just as we ourselves should try to be Christ-like, we should make others want to imitate Him as well.)

2.       Limited or no internet connection? Write some old fashioned letters (which is a good idea even if you do have the internet) to those in need. Consider taking the time to write down your nurses' and nurses aides' names every day and write each one a personalized 'thank you' note at the end of your stay (be sure to include a spiritual message or a link to your blog, a spiritual website, a congregation's website, etc.).

3.       Have the right (cheerful, thankful, etc.) attitude! If you’re around nurses, doctors, or other caregivers, focus on being a grateful patient. Let them see that you’re different, even if you’re in pain, sick, or not wanting to be on bed rest! It was difficult at first for me to keep my attitude positive. After all, I just wanted to go home. But, the day that I stopped feeling sorry for myself, my doctor immediately commented on my cheery disposition. My goal is to be uplifting to everyone, everyday so that they can see Christ through me! [Matthew 5:16]

4.       Pray often. [1 Thessalonians 5:17] Remember that prayer IS an evangelism tool! Praying for the lost and those who are coming in contact with them (including yourself) is profitable.

5.    Study. [2 Tim 2:15] The more you know the more you can SHARE! Don’t let idle time get the best of you. It may be tempting to watch TV all day or read romance novels until midnight. But think about all the personal study that you could be getting in! (No, I’m not saying to avoid TV, puzzles, games, or books – but don’t forsake your Christian responsibilities for those pleasurable time fillers!)

Go on now -- shine your light! And if you're not confined to a hospital bed/room, you've got even more options to chose from!

~Martha Howell