SUNDAY RELATIONSHIP
READ: COLOSSIANS 3: 12-15
Since God chose you to be his holy people, whom he loves, you must clothe yourself with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (V. 12)
Our Sunday relationship actually began during a weekday game of the Hagerstown Suns minor league baseball team. During the game we noticed Wayne, Bev, and David at the ball yard and although we knew they attended King Street Church we had never established any type of relationship, outside of saying hello, with them. This changed as we introduced ourselves to each other and learned that Brian, their adult son, had some physical and mental challenges but was a huge baseball fan of the Suns. But, we also discovered that Wayne and Bev were thoroughly delightful people setting the stage for our Sunday relationship. From this point forward we made it a point to talk to each other about our lives after church services in the lobby before heading home.
Permit me to focus on Bev for a reason that will soon become apparent as this devotion unfolds. She was a model of true Christian graciousness always greeting us with a warm smile even though her day might not be unfolding in a positive manner. She consistently asked how we were doing, knowing that my wife had struggled with some health issues in recent years, before letting us know what was transpiring with her family. This caring for others first was remarkable for in recent months she had a lot to be concerned with as her husband’s shoulder surgery and Brian needing extensive surgeries and treatment to help ease pain associated with his physical disabilities. In all of our conversations she exuded humility and kindness that brought a smile to Jesus face!
Last week, partially blinded by the sun while leaving a restaurant, she ran into a Plexiglas window panel thinking it was the door. This tragic accident caused her to sustain a traumatic brain bleed injury due to being on blood thinners. Within a day she passed into the arms of her Savior, Jesus. leaving Wayne, Brian and her family and friends shocked and grieving. At her funeral we learned that Bev, spurred on by her intense personal relationship with Christ, lived a life truly reflective of Paul’s writing’s in Colossians 3. She was actively involved with a “gang” of other parents with special needs children and was always available to talk and help them with any situation; she and Wayne would drive out of their way to pick up their nieces and make sure they got to church and knew Jesus; she was a second mother to a niece who came to live with them from time to time; she supported and helped Wayne with his business; and cared for Brain with love that would challenge infinity. Her legacy was secure and written by her active Christian living.
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Be open to a Sunday relationship for you never know what God has it store.
Dear Jesus-help us bring kindness, humility, graciousness and patience into our lives each day bringing Glory to you.
You’re Brother in Christ,
Fred Ailes