I was sitting in the backseat of the van tonight, when I found myself immersed in love and grace. It was a really long drive from Colorado Springs to Ardmore, and you would have thought the last thing on my mind was thankfulness, but you would have been wrong.
After arguing about the air temperature in the van :-), I ‘compromised’ and dug out a sleeping bag for Kara, who complained that she was freezing! As she fell asleep, I thought back to the time when I came to Park Row. JD was starting his senior year, and Kara was only 9, so I guess Kate was 10 or maybe 11 at the time. As the lights of the city flashed intermittently across her face, I still saw that same little girl but realized profoundly that now she is almost grown.
Earlier in the evening Kara told me her mom was her best friend, and I told her how much DeeDee had meant to me, and how much she had done for our family. I realized how thankful I am for so many who have shared their life and family with me.
As Kara drifted off into sleep I reflected on what has been a most wonderful week spent in the mountains of Colorado with JP, my long time friend and new business partner. I thought of Taylor’s constant laughter at my jokes(so good for my ego!) and infectious, joyous spirit. How many times have we cracked each other up this week? I gave thanks for having seen Keith regain himself through the cleansing of friendship, love and acceptance. Of fond memories of Cheri, and her tolerance for all of my shenanigans these last 8 years together! She alone has had to endure me each step of the way -- as youth minister and pulpit minister!
I understood how important it was to be able to spend time with my family in Amy’s childhood home, for Nate to go fishing with his grandfather and to hike up to Hanging Lake together as a family! I reflected on the depth of our devotional times and how deep and rich our relationships have become. I wondered aloud at the voice of God in His scriptures, as we heard them clearly and profoundly thundering forth from the monks at Snowmass Monastery.
All of these things made me so VERY thankful. As I prepare for a short night here in Ardmore, OK (it is already 1:30am) -- I am also looking forward to joining with my friends and the saints at the Pilot Point Church of Christ in a few hours!
I am awash in love and grace!!!!
3 comments:
Hearing you say these things now gives me joy. These times are so important. Drink it in, brother.
Welcome back to the heat! Shucks, y'all missed the lovely three-digit heat wave this past week. You all may have a rough time reacclimating to the climate here in Texas.
I'm glad you guys and gals are all back and that you had a good trip.
I am going to drink it in, Greg! And we are glad to be back, Connie...God has been very good!
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