There’s a time for everything <3

When we started attending First Christian Church almost 3 decades ago, it was in a rather old brick facility right on the edge of downtown. There were three stories and like all churches from the era it was built, it had a labyrinth feel about getting around to all the rooms and a unique smell. 

We were invited to attend a Sunday school class and since our children were all in there classes, we accepted. The class was named “The Young Disciples” and consisted of people in their 30’s and early 40’s. There were other classes for age mates ahead of us on the journey and they all had their specific names as well. 

One Sunday morning a contingency from the eldest of these groups arrived at our class. Several ladies with white hair, laden with what appeared to be dirty kitchen towels. They introduced themselves and then very sweetly shared how when they had been our age, they started taking turns bringing home any dirty kitchen cloths to wash and return the following Sunday. 

Then in the most matter of fact tone, the leader of the group declared that they were tired of doing them and it was our turn. We did this for years until the church purchased a washer and dryer, but we still laugh about as we certainly don’t look like “young” disciples any more, but feel it in our hearts. 

Yesterday we were invited to Rachel and Zach’s for Thanksgiving. Rachel told me that both she and Zach had talked about would I be okay not hosting as I do enjoy that. They know that both of their moms would love to have our kitchens humming and a bunch of tables set, a pile of shoes at the door and sink full of dishes. But it was okay. 

I was very okay. 

Since we hosted the four little ones for an overnight Monday and play day all day Tuesday, it was refreshing on Wednesday to be able to do my usual activities and then enjoy fixing the three dishes I had signed up for. I had peace in my heart and a special joy as I knew I didn’t need to fuss about cleaning or setting the table or finding serving dishes. 

As I sat at the counter yesterday chatting with Caroline, I could hear our oldest daughter quietly calculating times that various things needed to go in and come out and have lids removed and toppings added and it was precious to see her in that role. 

We had a wonderful time and I loved being the dishwasher and the dog walker and just enjoying watching her pull of her first Thanksgiving feast. God is good. And I am thankful.