I am sitting in the quiet at the lake this morning knowing that by this time tomorrow my family will gather for our family reunion. The quiet will suddenly burst into greetings, laughter, and stories with everyone talking at once (we don’t care if no one listens.) The chaos is wrapped in quiet smiles and hugs as each one arrives.
It is a special time for me. My heart is warmed as I see each one come in. I visit with cousins and relive memories of childhood. I meet small children for the first time. These babies represent the 6th generation since our reunion first started. This gathering is so unique, and I know that many people do not have the closeness of family to enjoy time together, and I feel blessed.
What keeps us going from one generation to the next? (Someone has to organize it–but I digress!) I can answer that with two words: love and faith. The love of family and faith in a Heavenly Father who loved us first and taught us to love one another.
As the Apostle Paul blesses Timothy, he reminds him of the importance of family and faith:
“I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which was first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” 2 Timothy 1:5-6.
I pray that each of you reading this devotional will have a wonderful day. I know I will.
In Christian love,
Diane