Double holidays, was among many of the pleasures of living in South America.

As a US citizen, I celebrated our own national holidays. As a resident in a host nation, I found joy celebrating important holidays of a people I loved.

I love holidays.

However, I find myself conflicted on holidays. There is the joy that celebration brings. Yet, my joy is somewhat tainted with sorrow.

Death grabbed precious people who sat around holiday tables of the past. Their empty chairs are forever with us.

As we celebrate the Fourth of July over the remainder of the week, I want to remember to give special attention and love to those present at my table. One day they won’t be in their chair—one day I won’t be in mine.

The truth is people around each of our tables will yet face death. Let’s love them while we can.

Should there be any breaks in family relations, let me encourage you to ask God to open paths for healing. No matter who was the aggressor in the break—you be the aggressor in the healing process.

I think God must smile when he see family around the table.

See you next week after the holiday.

Stay Tuned.

Gary J. Sorrells on Cross Church

P.S. The healing of the church family would also make God smile.