The Last Leaf

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  “The day slowly passed. As it grew dark, they could still see the leaf hanging from its branch against the wall. And then, as the night  came, the north wind began again to blow. The rain still beat against the windows. When it was light enough the next morning, Johnsy again commanded that she be allowed to see. The leaf was still there.” “The Last Leaf” A Short Story by O Henry (1905)

Greetings!

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On a recent shopping trip, as I was leaving the register area, the cashier said, "Have a blessed day!" I took it as one of those secret sayings just among us Christians. Whether or not that was her intention, I don't know, but the incident got me thinking about how we greet people and what do we say when they leave our presence. Consider the 20th Psalm where David writes a number of blessings that he give to other people.

"May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble!" (20:1) (Help that is perfectly timed)

"May the name of the God of Jacob set you securely on high!" (20:2) (Help that is perfectly secure)

"May He grant you your heart's desire and fulfill your counsel!" (20:4) (Help that is complete)

"May the LORD fulfill all your petitions" (20:5) (Help that is comprehensive)

"May the King answer us in the day we call" (20:9) (Help that is prompt)

(From my friend, Dr. John Williamson, at First Baptist Church of Ridgeway, SC)

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