Welcome Back, “Stranger”

Welcome Back, “Stranger”

Before me lies the local funeral home’s photo calendar. I admire Big Ben (July), Mount Rainier (August), and an Indiana shoreline (September). During these months, our neighbors and church members are away on vacation. Soon I will notice they’ve returned. Maybe they’ve had a memorably good time: good weather, seeing family, enjoying the land or water. Maybe they’ve had a disappointing experience: bad weather, family feuds, or disagreements about activities. It’s a natural time to listen to their excitement or empathize with their sadness. With conversation comes an opportunity to mention our creator God regarding the beauty these folks witnessed. With conversation comes an opportunity to gently share our encouraging understanding of their vacation disappointment, that is, the encouragement of Jesus. Whatever situation presents itself, the “stranger” will be happy to have been welcomed back ... by the listening ear of a Christian.

What’s Old Is New

Gen Z — those born between 1997 and 2012 — are making what’s old new again. Buying vintage from secondhand stores and consignment shops is the new craze. Some call it “thrifting.” I call it “re-purposing.” As we age, it’s tempting to think we are “past our expiration date,” or that we no longer serve a purpose. While it’s true that we can no longer do everything we used to, through Christ we have been made new. The old is gone (yes), but the new has come. We are older (yes), but we are a beautiful mix of past and present, gifted by God in unique ways. We’re vintage, and if we look hard enough, we’ll find ways to re- purpose our gifts by the power of God. Happy thrifting.

Mourning and Comforting

I’ve been to lots of funerals. The best and most comforting ones are where Jesus is talked about the most. It is good to remind the people at the funeral of the good things about the person who has died, but it should never be the last word. The best, most fitting, last words are, “Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!” We mourn, but not like those who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). A funeral is a resurrection celebration, because it is in the resurrection that we find true comfort in our mourning. As much as we may miss the person who has died, and as much as that person’s suffering might still be fresh in our minds, we know that death does not get the last word over that person. Jesus does, and He says, “Welcome home my child! Come! Let’s enjoy life together forever!”

Brain Games for the Soul

My mom used to recite all the presidents and vice presidents to keep her mind sharp. My mental exercise involves naming the multiples of nine, forwards and backwards. I also recall facts from the past, such as, “29 Army Trail Road,” my childhood address. Can you remember yours? How about your zip code? Hopefully, our recollections include more than history and math facts. All the verses and hymns we learned long ago are hidden in our hearts and minds. When we revisit these treasures, they not only challenge our brain but build our spirits and soothe our souls. Brain games, although fun, can’t compete with the living and active power of the Bible. When learned, memorized, and remembered, God’s Word brings strength for today and hope for tomorrow.

I’m Praying for You

Lately, I have been dealing with cancer, and I appreciate receiving get-well cards with Bible verses on them. I’m amazed how so many cards contain different Bible passages that all speak about God’s healing ability. Actually, I really appreciate the get-well cards where friends wrote, “I am praying for you!” One person offered to pray for me over the phone! St. John wrote about prayer: “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.” So, John here prayed that God make them physically healthy, but also that God make them spiritually healthy, as they received Christ’s forgiveness and strength. Thus, our friends’ prayers can make a difference!