Last weekend was a very special time for my family and me. We celebrated my Dad’s 90th birthday on Saturday with a family gathering at my parents. It was a joyful occasion with delicious food, birthday cake, ice cream, presents and even six week old Tristan, the first great grandchild.
Sunday was equally as grand. My sister sang Sandi Patti’s arrangement of “How Great Thou Art” during the worship service. Dad was able to attend a portion of worship while a friend stayed with Mom, who’s recovering from a broken arm. After church, the congregation lingered, showering the family with greetings and encouraging words.
Later in the afternoon, we ‘gathered at the river’ to fellowship as a family, take a boat ride, swim and cookout for supper. What a blessing to see my oldest son, Bradley, almost 26, swimming with his cousins, Elizabeth and Roy, Brandon and Makera, laughing, enjoying each other’s company on the dock whilst the older folks sat up on the screened porch with the baby on the glidder, held by Gramy (my sister, Judi) or Grand Daddy (my brother-in-law, Barry), Larry and Sara…they’re getting on up there…’course, so am I.
We stayed at the river until dark and started meandering our way back home around 9:00. We even lingered at our vehicles telling each other good-bye, hugging, shaking hands, and giving away kisses on the cheeks…another sign of love and affection in the family along with good ol’ Southern hospitality. Upon reflection of all the good things of the weekend, it was a time to linger, show love and laugh as we live life.
Isn’t that the way church should be? I’ve always thought of our communities of faith as a family. And to me, a sign of a healthy congregation is when we linger, show our love, one to another and laugh…after all, laughter is the best medicine, says Proverbs.
So, how is it with you, my friend? Do you linger in God’s word and ponder it in your heart? Do you show love to those who are lonely and need a touch of God’s grace? Are you able to laugh, even at yourself? When you face difficulties, sickness, deteriorating health, family, financial and work problems, to whom do you turn? Remembering things from the past are good and ok, but don’t stay there. Move forward! Live life to its fullest! Laugh and show the love of God to others! As a result, you will receive blessings and benefits too numerous to count. And you know what? You’ll be the better for it!!
Holy One, remind me that no matter what happens, it’s important to linger, laugh and love. Thank you for your grace that’s sufficient and for life that’s everlasting. Amen.
With joy in my heart as we serve together, I remain…
Your friend,
Mark David Jackson
