Last week, I began a series within the “Stuff Soldiers Like” series of gift for spiritual encouragement.
In addition to church bulletins–which I find that many people don’t know what they are. Church Bulletins are the programs given at church. This week, I want to encourage the sending of Spiritual books.
When sending spiritual books downrange to Soldiers, I recommend new books highly–used paperbacks do not convey the same importance as a carefully selected new book does. I receive plenty of used books in my office. Many of them from well intention people from the US. I display them on my shelf, but they are never taken. The new books go quickly. This isn’t a criticism, this a simple fact. Some of the used books are very nice and very good books, but the newer ones are much more attractive. For one they aren’t as worn–so they look crisp. Second, the covers are up-to-date. Older books are marketed for a different audience. Now, sometimes, if you are sending a book to a specific Soldier in mind, a previously owned book is welcomed if it is accompanied by a brief explanation of why this book was special enough to be sent.
Another consideration is the size of the book–the Soldier may or not be a big reader; so get them something they would actually read.
A third word about books would be to get a book that fits the Soldier you are sending to. If the Soldier is truly dealing with an issue, go with that book. However, if they aren’t depressed, don’t send them a book about conquering depression. Most Soldiers here, now, are not dealing with complex answers to hard questions. They are dealing with the everyday stuff. Think encouragement more than therapy.
And don’t forget a good Bible. A Bible can be a very special gift. I have had Soldiers proudly show me a Bible that was sent to them by a loved one. I would encourage you to make it personal. If you just want him to have a Bible–tell the Soldier to visit his Chaplain. I have literally hundreds. I have New Testament and full Bibles–all with ACU (Army Combat Uniform) covering. I have New Living Translation and New International Translation. I am hoping that we will start seeing the English Standard Version show up in ACU patterns.
So, next time you fill a care package send him/her a spiritual book.
Stephanie says
Could you give some suggestions on how one might connect with a paritcular soldier? I do not know anyone serving in Iraq other than you. How do I find someone to send a gift to? I like the idea of sending things to “random” soldiers, but I’d like something more concrete for the girls.