This week, our family is coming home. I can't wait. Growing up in New York, summer was always my favorite season. I enjoy the warmer weather, and on some occasions we were able to travel and visit family when the farm work and crops were up to date. As I grew older and had my own family, we would sometimes 'go home' to visit - and frankly we did that whenever we could. It was often at Christmas. I love all the seasons, summer just happens to be my favorite.
I still remember Kathy and me driving from Tennessee to return home for Christmas, with our young two month old daughter. Beginning this weekend, we aren't going away, but our family is coming home. Now the kids have grown up. Saturday I will see our oldest, and hold two granddaughters in my arms. Sunday, our son will be home. Wednesday, our next daughter with her husband. For a few days with the exception of one son-in-law unable to make the trip our whole family will be together.
For years I've believed that to keep the fire burning, you just need a few things. First, faith is the priority. Nothing is more important than trusting Jesus as Savior and Lord. He keeps my fire burning. I'm so grateful for His presence, His word, His power, and His direction. Second, it's family. Particularly in ministry, (but in any field!), don't miss out on the blessing of your own family! I love my wife, my children, their spouses, and my grandchildren. Third, thank the Lord for friends. Just today, I saw a friend in the parking lot of Starbucks. I had the privilege of leading him to the Lord a few years ago, and he has been an encouraging voice into my life many times and continues to be.
Seasons change. I'm not a little boy on the farm anymore. I'm not a young single college student. I'm not the newlywed, pastoring his first church in Tennessee. I'm not the father of a newborn. Life is different now, but I've got to say it feels like Christmas in July. From casual conversations, to golf, to dinner, and yes - worshipping together, I'm so grateful for the week the family is coming home. Thank you Jesus.
