March 6 – “Bittersweet”

We had kind of a bittersweet moment at church yesterday.  We had to say goodbye to two of our Winter Texan couples who have been here for several months.  There’s the bitter part.  They are heading back to their homes (and grandchildren – there’s the sweet part, for them, at least) way up north (Indiana, I think).  In that time they have both jumped in headfirst and become involved in life here at Seaside. It was always great to see their smiling faces, and they were among the best at inviting folks from their campgrounds to join for worship.  In fact they brought yet another couple with them Sunday morning.  After chatting with them for a while, I asked the new family, “So, are you going to take their place since they are leaving us?”  After a long pause they replied, “No.  I don’t think we’ll be replacing them.  We’ll just make our own place.  How’s that?”  That, my new friend, is a perfect answer.  Welcome to Galveston.  And welcome to Seaside.

2 Thessalonians 3:4-5 says, “We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command.  May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance.”

Father, ride home with our good friends who are headed north this week.  Give them a great reunion with their families.  Amen.