Uncategorized

First John is one of those books! 

Let me just say that this is a book found in the Christian Scriptures.  I’m learning that most people around me have not been brought up to recognize the books of the Bible – as I am somewhat ignorant of the Kuran or of the rabbinical books of the Jewish faith.

Probably my first real push into the book came  in a time when I was travelling full time in a singing group.  Each week we had a time of concentrated study together (we call these devotional times).  Our leader had picked up a book that smelled new, with grapes on the front and published by “Benson”.  Funny how certain details stick out.

Inside was a commentary on First John.  Now, 40 years ago, most commentaries were dry reads.  You had to really focus because the writing was academic and often unrelated to life.

This book/commentary was open and fun and storytelling.  While I can’t remember much of the actual wording, I do remember that the thrust was to live together in harmony – both before God and before other people.

So, as I was looking for a sermon series, one of the reasons I turned to First John was that very theme.  We are all surrounded by other people and God is always present.  We are always going to have to work at working/playing/loving/living together.

Now, 40 years later, I’d like to go back and dig a little deeper.  Perhaps something old and something new will make for a good combination!

Well, the last week or so went quickly.  The trip to Ottawa was there – and then back.  Conference business and services were packed in with a little time to see the Parliament Hill.

Today was a regroup day.  I did laundry and mowed lawn and shopped.  I talked to a friend, my daughter and my wife – all over the phone! 

Tomorrow is back to work day. 

And Sunday is our anniversary – one year of marriage!

Good to be back! Again and again!

A day at the beach is great.

I have a bit of red that was not there prior to sitting on the dock.  I slipped into the water enjoyed a short swim (emphasis on short!).  Campfire time and picnic lunch were included.

And then the time just to sit and talk with someone.  In the car, on the beach and in the cabin.

For those who regularly take a summer vacation, you know the advantage that this time gives.  I had wondered how one day would be.  Perhaps knowing it would only be one day heightened my awareness.

All in all, well worth the time.  And now, off to church service this morning, a manor service in the afternoon and then preparation to head out to Ottawa for a few days for our denominational conference.

OK, the water isn’t warm enough yet.

But for the next day or so, I’m off to the beach.  My wife’s sister has a cabin.  We are not sure what this will be like – we’ve both not been there before.

But family is a great opportunity.  And this is family.  Sleeping on air mattresses.  Eating camping food.  And enjoying each other.

Sound good to me!