Tired of feeling helpless when those you love are hurting? Or maybe you feel awkward, like you’re intruding in someone’s personal business. Or guilty because you haven’t talked to them in forever and now they are going through a hard time.
Still, there’s a deep desire within you to reach out and let them know you care.
At Love Does That, we’ll help you overcome the obstacles so you can encourage your friends in the midst of their pain.
Instead of asking questions about what to say or do when someone you care about is hurting, you will compassionately reach out to demonstrate care and support.
Instead of feeling guilty for the long period of silence, you’ll extend grace for yourself and courageously step forward, seeing what you can do to help.
You’ll show up. And you’ll love them through it.
And we’ll be here to help you as you do.
Let’s encourage one another,
Hi, I’m Kari Bartkus.
If there’s anything I’ve learned about coming alongside those who are hurting, it’s this: I don’t have much encouragement to offer to others if I haven’t been spending time with Jesus.
Perhaps you see it in your own life: a shorter frustration fuse so that even the “little things” bother you more than they should, a lack of empathy that your daughter just stubbed her toe and is in a great deal of pain, a gradual grumpiness that seeps into interactions with your family.
How do we encourage others when we’re coming from a place like that?
Instead, we need to abide with Jesus through Bible study, prayer, and other spiritual practices. Then Jesus can bear His fruit in us–patience, love, gentleness, joy–and that’s what others begin to see.
But you don’t have to do this alone. My background is a blend of communication, spiritual direction, and ministry, and I use that to not only equip you to reach out to those who are hurting, but also to encourage you in your relationship with Christ.
We’re talking practical steps and biblical truths. All in the context of teaching you how to care for those in your neck of the woods.
Incorporating Art into Faith
When I was little, I loved art. Mostly drawing. I took summer art classes. I filled my sketchbooks at home. We even started an art club at my school when I was in sixth grade.
But I also loved to write. And by the time I got to high school, I had to make a choice: art or writing?
I chose writing.
When we started Love Does That, it was really just a place for us to share the Imagine Bible study devotional. But then I started diving into art again and found that it was a great way to pray. Because sometimes, there are no words. Especially when someone is hurting. I often create a card, a Tear Bottle, or an art piece as an act of prayer.
I’d love to help you explore how art and faith can come together in your life, too.
Do you like to write?
I do, too.
Words are some of my favorite things. They’ve helped me process what is stirring in my heart and soul in ways that talking out loud doesn’t always allow for me.
That’s why I offer written spiritual direction. I use a modern-day letter writing approach because I know that is what has worked for me.
If you’re a more introverted Christian woman drawn to quiet spaces and written words, there’s a pretty good chance God has wired you the same way. And if you’re in the midst of a difficult season, I’d be honored to walk alongside you as we seek God together.
Little Tidbits & Trivia
- Love Does That wouldn’t be here without my husband Mike’s support and encouragement.
- I love Jesus.
- We live in a tiny town in Indiana with our elementary-aged daughter and preschool-aged son.
- I like vanilla chai. Maybe a little bit too much.
- My Master’s degree is in Communication. I loved diving into the worlds of rhetoric (a fancy name for public speaking) and transformational leadership communication (a fancy way to say “leading people through change”).
- Daniel Tiger is my favorite kids show.
- When we get a delivery, Mike assumes it’s a new book for me.
- I love to take classes and learn. (Is there a way to get paid for that?)
- I’m an identical twin.
- We have a black long-haired teacup chihuahua named Hero. Super Hero, to be exact.
I’d love to hear a bit about you.
Would you take a moment to share? Just fill out the form below.
