12/5/12

Dear Family of faith, I didn’t get to serve on the jury this week. As it turns out, the case I was selected for had to do with armed robbery, and when asked whether I had ever been the victim of crime, I had to reply honestly “Yes, I was burglarized three times.” Well, it didn’t take a genius to see the defending attorney’s reaction to that! The fact that I am a pastor and that I have a nephew who is a police officer didn’t help much either! It was an interesting process, though, as far as it went. I hope you all get the chance someday—and maybe you’ll make it to the real trial! My only living aunt (from Calgary, Alberta) has been visiting her sister, my mother (who lives in Minnesota), this past week. Aunt Nettie left for home yesterday. I couldn’t help think about how painful those good-byes must have been since my mother is 89 and in failing health. It may well be the last time they see each other in this world. There were a lot of shared memories, growing up together and being the only two siblings (the oldest and youngest) still living. It made me ponder how fortunate those are who live close to family and how even more blessed are those who share a common faith. It was the playwright Johann von Goethe who wrote, “Those who live in the Lord never see each other for the last time.” I hold that truth close to my heart in regard to all of you who are part of my family of faith. We will never say goodbye for the last time! Even so, don’t let pass those occasions when you can share with those in your family. They become more precious with each passing year. May this Second Week of Advent bring the blessing of peace to you and all those you love. See you on Sunday! With affection, Pastor Carlan