Family Time

I am spending some time visiting my parents (83 and soon to be 80), my brother, and my middle son – all who live in northeast Nebraska.  As I spend this time with some of my favorite people, I am struck by what a precious gift family is.  Do we argue or disagree or go through some tough times?  Of course, but my parents are the wisest people I know, their faith is living and strong and nurtured my own life of faith, and they are the most welcoming and loving people to be with.  Year after year I am more and more convinced that I have the best parents in the world.  I think the small town in which they live loves them almost as much as I do.

In addition, I get to see my brother at work.  He is not only works full-time, he is a paramedic and one of the few ambulance crew members in this town of volunteer fire and ambulance personnel.  He is an officer in the fire department and a good neighbor to everyone in town.  On top of this, he contributes more than most realize in the labor needed for our country Lutheran church and its in town parsonage.  He is one of those who do more than anyone knows and goes without credit for all that he does.  We are very different people but we are closer now than ever.

Then there is the time we get to spend with my middle son, who lives 45 minutes away from my home town.  He is well settled in a job, a net work of friends, a church family, and has a host of friends to be a support system.  It is a wonderful thing to see an adult child operate as an adult in his own environment.

All in all, time spent with family is time well spent.  I am so happy to spend these days with my family and to feel at home again with those so very dear to me.  One of the sad consequences of modern society, and church work in particular, is that it often takes you far from these folks.  Coming together to refresh the old memories, to re-connect with those so geographically distant, and to renew the bonds of love and family is a noble work and a very special activity.  I heartily encourage folks to take the time and make the effort and bridge the distance just to sit together, to reminisce, to laugh, and, of course, to eat... what a wonderful part of life.  It is a precious thing to be treasured and an opportunity not to be squandered...