Saturday was a wonderful day of celebration – the young couple getting married was full of joy and anticipation. It was a good party.

At the church I was reminded of the last time this family gathered there thirty years ago. It was for the funeral of their 10 year old son – the brother the groom never knew.

Then, I had stood at the front of the church offering a eulogy. Now, I sat in celebration of the creation of the new family unit. Behind the parents’ joyful smiles was the memory shared by but a few.

It was a fresh reminder to be more patient with those who come across my path – I don’t know what life experience has brought them to this point. Only our compassionate God can see it all – and I need the Divine patience more then any.

A Prayer for Today

God, life has its bittersweet days. My joyful moment may be someone else’s’ painful memory – and I seldom realize it. Help me have a portion of your love and patience with those you send my way today. You know what has made them who they are- grant me your capacity for acceptance and love. For Jesus’ sake….