Grace

It has been an unbelievable week. To start, one of my best friend’s wife passed away. I learned that a friend from a long time ago recently died in Europe. Another friend I’ve known for 60+ years had a severe stroke, and my favorite aunt died. Talk about a piling-on! It seems like everywhere I look right now, people are suffering losses in one form or fashion.

These events have caused me to realize, once again, that we’re not alone in this journey. The year has brought grief to everyone in some form or fashion. Maybe it’s grief over lost employment, a closed business, a struggle with family, or death. Whatever the source, I believe our nation and world suffer from some level of grief. If there is one thing grief calls for, it’s grace. As I think back over my grief journey over the last 18+ months, I remember how much grace I was shown. I know I was a disagreeable and miserable guy. There are days now that I still am. Thankfully, they’re getting to be fewer and fewer. I know I’m not always the easiest guy to be around, but I’m trying. All we can do is try.

I think it’s important that we now be intentional and diligent in showing others the grace shown us. I believe this is a time in the lives of many people we know and love that a dose of grace is in order, the same way we all received and continue to receive grace from our close family and friends.

I’m spending some time this holiday season volunteering with an agency that helps families get clothes on their backs and food on their tables. I find it rewarding for many reasons. The biggest reason is, in my opinion, the most valuable gift we can give someone is our time. I believe giving this time and serving will make a difference in someone’s life. The agency is completing its annual toy drive. This week, thanks to this group’s efforts, 535 children will have brand new high-quality toys to open on Christmas. We will give away over 125 new bicycles and clothing to many families with good current fashion garments.

Another reason I like serving as a volunteer with a group like this is because it reminds me of how good we still have it. I view my service as a way of showing grace to my fellow travelers on life’s journey. I also consider my service as a way of reminding me to embrace the grace I’ve been shown. Grace, in knowing that my life is continuing to emerge and move forward. Grace, in our attitude of how we treat our fellow man. We are not on this journey alone. Let’s endeavor to treat others with the same grace and dignity we were hopefully shown.

As you prepare or continue to celebrate whatever holiday this season brings you, I wish you to be filled with peace, hope, and grace. Peace as you remember the past, hope as you envision your future, and grace as you continue the journey.

Blessings, my friends.

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