A couple months ago, Becky and I had one of those whirlwind trips driving almost 2500 miles in 5 days. I have a new respect for truckers or anyone having to drive to make a living. I am grateful I wasn’t called to sit behind a wheel for 8 to 10 hours a day.
Our trip required us to stay a couple nights in a hotel. I admit that as a result of past experiences, (you know the ones where they sling a rag around the sink and vacuum down the center of the room) I am willing to pay a few dollars more to stay in a room that is clean and comfortable.
There are a couple hotel chains we prefer when traveling. They are usually about the same price, both satisfy our expectations and neither will bankrupt us. So when possible we choose the one where we receive rewards after so many stays. We have never been disappointed in the accommodations, so I was a little surprised when we checked in that first night. I had thrown the bags on the bed and a post it note caught my attention. It was stuck to the headboard. It was obviously computer generated, but it was done to appear it had been hand written. The note read: “we value your stay, all duvets and sheets are cleaned daily for our guests.” My first response (in my out loud voice) was I certainly hope so. If these aren’t clean sheets, I’m out of here. Now I’m having this conversation, mainly with myself, as to the purpose of such a note. Are the rooms discounted if the sheets are used? That’s just gross!
The next night over 400 miles away, I found the same note on the headboard. My response was a little different. It was still … I hope so, but this time I began to think they are simply reminding every guest of just how important they are. They take great care in making sure every guest enjoys their stay and will choose their hotel again.
A couple days later I was reminded that God gives us that same kind of affirmation. His Word reminds us that we are important and valued. God leaves us many post it notes, but my favorite is: Jeremiah 29:11 … for I know the plans I have for you … plans to give you hope and a future.
Article provided by Pastor Larry A. Attig of the Melbounre First Church of the Nazarene.