03 September 2010
I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. 2 John 1:12
There is a growing fascination with life in outer space, and more and more people are listening to voices from only God knows where. I, for one, however, am much more interested in the voices of you who heard Guidelines and write or e-mail us to let us know what is happening in your life and how God has spoken to you through Guidelines.
Mail comes to us in Manila where Amor and Maricar Alvarez respond to you who are in Asia. In the U.S. it comes to our office in Laguna Niguel, and in Russia mail goes to the offices of the Far East Broadcasting Company. E-mail comes to us from all over the world at guidelines@guidelines.org
Who is listening--besides yourself? Almost every kind of person imaginable. Earlier this year I did two series of programs which brought unprecedented response: one series on a topic we wish were not necessary to address--suicide; the other on the needs and problems of single parents. Among the many who responded to the series on suicide, there were eight who were seriously contemplating ending their lives. Yes, each of them received personal attention. Many single parents responded by pouring out their hearts, sending letters and e-mail responses which contained page after page of anguish.
Frankly, after many years of hearing from the wonderful people who listen to Guidelines, I'd felt as though I had heard it all. Not so! I couldn't help choking up, my eyes filled with tears, as I read some of the quotes from listeners.
From an inmate in prison comes this letter: "I went to the library here and picked up a very good book you wrote, Unlocking Your Potential. That began me on my road to recovery. I thank you so much for writing that book. Please pray that God gives me endurance and perseverance. I sincerely hope we see each other on the streets of gold in Heaven."
From a Catholic priest in the Philippines came this note: "The Jesuits had given me a solid philosophical, psychological and theological foundation. But in times of sorrow, aloneness and depression, it occurs to me that your program seems to be the only solace in the desert. Having taught dogmatic theological subjects, I find your personal, down-to-earth approach more consoling, humanizing and inspiring. Dr. Sala, you are a gem that sparkles in the dark. You are a soothing voice that quickens the sorrowing spirit. Please speak some more of Christ’s peace and love. You have healed many a soul--including mine."
A friend of Guidelines wrote, "One of the things that impressed me about you is the fact that you don't put the need for money first. I am sure that it is expensive to run Guidelines, but it is good to find folks who are in the ministry, not the money." Forty-seven years ago this week Guidelines went on the air--making this the longest running five-minute program in Christian radio. As you've probably noticed, in those years, we have never solicited money over the air. As God provides, we roll the presses and expand. It's His work, not ours.
Ending on a somewhat humorous note, I have time enough to include a letter which came from a dear Catholic sister who invited us for a visit. She wrote, " I do hope you’ll be able to drop in and please take along a swimming outfit. We have a swimming pool to wash away all worries and cobwebs after a busy day. However, it’s not necessary. Your presence without the swimming outfit is most welcome." I think I know what she really meant. Yes, indeed.
Resource reading: 2 John.