Finding Christ on my Front Porch

          The past few months have given me food for thought and loving reasons for thanksgivings to God. In mid-April, I finally gave in to hand surgery to address carpal tunnel and remove a, what I considered, huge cyst in my right wrist. Other than my aversion to anything involving an IV, the surgery was not a big deal so I tried not to make a big deal of it. Carol has the task of keeping my sane for the IVs. A friend sat with Steve and me, keeping us company until it was time for the procedure. That evening, I received text messages asking if I had survived. Two days later, I received a call from a parishioner who was not that pleased that 1) I had kept the news of my surgery to myself and 2) that I was already out and about rather than being settled at home. The following day, I received call from yet another parishioner who explained that I did not set a good example by disallowing others the opportunity to care for me, especially when I took such delight providing pastoral care to others. I was asked to drop by the individual's house to pick up a "few things". The few things was a cooler stuffed with cookies, casseroles, soup and fresh fruit.Over the next few weeks, I received a bounty of cards and calls. I learned the importance of allowing others to love and care for me even as I love and care for them. I think I have even preached on a similar theme.

          This past Memorial Day weekend seemed peppered with an unusual amount of grief, some of which struck incredibly close to my heart. I came home from a lunch engagement Monday to find a beautiful case of lilies, a contained of delicious soup and a bag with an adorable stuffed turtle and chocolate. Yes, a parishioner had driven the 30+ miles to scenic Millersburg to leave me a token of love and care of my front porch.

          Last night, as I sat in the darkness of our sunroom, listening to a late-night storm and talking to God, I gave thanks for the incredibly loving parish I am privileged to serve. I am filled with love and awe for the people who make up the Body of  Christ at Christ Church Cathedral. Gracious God, watch over your children of Christ Church. Fill them with the glory of your loving kindness all the days of their lives. And God, thank-you for allowing me to serve as their deacon. Amen..