I love Easter. And I do believe that Jesus’ resurrection means we should listen to His words.
After a lovely Easter service at church, my son and I went to my friend’s house.
I have known this friend, Darlene, since 3rd grade. And when I moved to Virginia almost 10 years ago now, I and my two kids, then 12 and 18, lived in Darlene’s basement for six weeks. Darlene’s kids were 2 and 4.
Darlene has invited us over many times in the years that followed. Today my youngest son, who is now 21 and a college graduate, and I went over for Easter dinner. Darlene’s kids are almost-12 and just-turned-14. Her oldest is considerably taller than me now.
And having dinner with them felt like being with family. Darlene’s husband Matt talked with my son about the challenges of finding a job. I think it was helpful for my son, but was done in a friendly way and not at all a patronizing way.
And we did lots of eating and lots of talking and taught one of our favorite games to them and just had a lovely time.
There’s something extra special about knowing people — the whole family — over time.
My “real” family is on the west coast. But I still have family here.
And that’s a blessing.