Young Couple

Enjoyed an evening meal with a young couple from a neighboring congregation. The church is struggling - only had 10 in attendance tonight. At one time nearly one hundred. The years have been difficult on the church there. But this young couple was refreshing. They could be worshipping in a much larger group but choose to help out this small nest of God's people to encourage them. Expecting their first child in November. Married a few years. Much in love and happy with one another. Invited Karen and I out for a meal this evening. We picked up the check because we are "old and have insurance" and I suspect they probably did not have a lot of nickels to rub together. But they invited us out anyway. What a great example. Had a lovely time talking with this young couple. Laughed and shared stories. Most pleasant evening. Our young couples are not the church of the future but the church of now. We need more young people to give their lives in service to the cause of Christ. Thankful for those we do have and who try in their own way to encourage others and show care for others. In larger congregations it is easy to take so many things for granted and fail to appreciate how others struggle. They plod along and try to make a difference. We should build these people up as they help us. It should remind us of what is really important in life: relationships. I remember growing up how often we would go to homes and play games and just enjoy some time together eating whatever could be found. No great fanfare or expense. Peanut-butter and Jelly if necessary. But the laughter, stories, friendship was an important bond. Taking children to homes for the fellowship and learning how to behave in the homes of other people. Mixing older folk with young folk. Sitting and talking to someone over 80 years old and learning about the living history before us. Learned a lot from W. O. Brown. But the key was enjoying spending time with one another. Taking the time to enjoy taking time with one another. Slowing life down a little and making memories that will last a lifetime. Not being in such a hurry all the time. Enjoyed the evening at a slower pace with a beautiful couple of God's children. Nice.