Many years and a few pastorates ago I was taught that the proper way to eat an oyster is raw. From the first time I let one slide down with a dollop of hot sauce I was hooked. Is it any wonder that we plan our vacations near Apalachicola, oyster capital of the USA? This year was no exception. One night I sat down and ate two dozen oysters right out of the shell and chased them with a hot dog. Life is good.
While on vacation I watched the sun rise every morning, read a few good books, kayaked with the dolphins, laughed with some dear friends and caught up with my family. In spite of my pasty white complexion I managed to avoid getting sunburned. Life is good.
While I cannot help but feel a bit melancholy when the time comes to fold up the beach chairs and head for home, it is such a comfort to know of the welcoming embrace of our church family. Here is where I know that no matter how far I go our home is here with each of you. Life is good.
Life is good not simply because good things happen, or good circumstances occur. That is hedonism whose promises are empty. Life is good because of the pleasure and joy in relationships – friends, family and community. Thanks be to my good congregation for allowing my family and me time to get away, get reacquainted and get some rest. They help make life good.
Are you living the good life? I hope so.
… for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:1-13, NRSV)
Living the good life,
Greg
Recent Comments