Grace Visits

Proverbs is full of sayings about listening to the teachings of the father and that the father whose son listens or follows instructions is glad. Luke 15 tells the stories of lost things, particularly the son who eventually is found with joyful celebration.

Perhaps there is no more wonderful thing than spending time with our own children who return after a long absence. That depends on relationships of course. But for us, these past few days have been such a time as our son from Montana came home to help us fix things around the house.  Project after project: a door now closes; a lamp shine brighter; trees are ready for firewood; cabinet doors hang straight; paths are clear for snowshoeing this winter.  Yes, and our hearts are burning brighter in the glow of good times to remember. A more current proverb, absence makes the heart grow fonder is also true.

Now we wait in expectation of our Oregon son and our three grandsons summer visit.  Water parks are on the agenda. Our yard now also has a seven-foot tree stump ready for totem pole carving and a willow awaiting climbing adventures.

Make the most of opportunities, full of grace and seasoned with salt (Col 4:6). We did, and I think a key is always grace, as there are always reasons to be upset about something, but grace covers all. Salt also heals wounds and seasons bad tastes when necessary.  Scripture also says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends upon you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18).