Emphasis Preaching Journal

Ron is naturally cheerful. His smile lights up any room he enters. His gentle voice brings comfort to many people. But Ron wasn't always happy. Fifteen years ago, Ron had cancer. Ron had the support of his wife, children, family, and friends. By the grace of God, he was able to win the battle against cancer. He recently celebrated his thirteenth year of being cancer-free. That is the driving force of Ron's enthusiasm. He is alive and has been given a new chance in life. And he is very, very grateful. Ron's way of "returning the favor" is to bring some cheer to the children at the children's hospitals in the area on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Three days a week seems minute to him, but Ron tries to make the children happy. He learned magic tricks and mime. Ron tells bald jokes, pukey jokes, and chemo jokes. Those who can't come to his "shows" get a personal magic show. And mime is part of his stroll down the hallways. His favorite targets are the doctors. But the best part of all is their time of sharing. Ron tells his story every week, and he listens as children tell of their fears, their dreams, and their needs. He provokes them to love and encourage one another while they are together on the ward. Ron does gentle deeds in return for his gift of life.
-- Berg