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“We
thank you for coming to our home this evening to share a meal and
heart-warming conversation. God has truly blessed us with extraordinary
neighbors like you. We pray for the Lord’s blessing over your homes,
families, jobs and health.”
All of Our Best,
Joan and Frank Clark
Frank became distraught over the way the evening
went and was embarrassed that he had allowed so much gossip and anger to
prevail. Even the gifts they handed out seemed contrived and silly in light of
the attitudes.
The next day, Joan joined some women for a social at
church. As he was taking out the garbage, Brian Johnson called out. “It looks
like you had a party last night,” Brian said.
Frank wanted to evaporate on the spot.
“Yes, we thought about inviting the whole
neighborhood,” he lied, “but we would have had to get another home equity loan.”
“I’m sure you would,” Brian said, smiling.
“I’m sorry we didn’t call,” Frank said.
“It’s OK. I wasn’t home part of the time anyway,”
Brian said.
“Oh, really, that’s good. I mean, I hope, um,” Frank
said. “I hope you were with friends as well.”
Brian hesitated to follow up with Frank. He thought
about what his pastor said – about keeping volunteerism private. Up until now,
he had never felt compelled to talk about what he did for others. The safe
conversations with the Clarks never moved in that direction.
In a flash, Brian sensed the presence of the Lord.
“Tell Frank what I do through you,” the Lord seemed to whisper.
Brian paused another second, knowing that where he
goes each week is strictly confidential. And yet, some education is encouraged.
“I guess you could say I was with friends. I
volunteer at a home for people with AIDS; they go there to die. I hang out with
them, feed them, wash them.”
“Really. That’s interesting.”
“My girlfriend, Stacey, helps out, too, when she can.”
“You have a girlfriend?” Frank said.
“Yeah, of course,” Brian laughed. “I met her around
Thanksgiving. We don’t hang out here much. It’s easier with our jobs, our
parents. We spend a lot of time on the East side. She’s only been here a couple
of times. I guess I didn’t mention it with being inside during winter and all.”
“You met her last fall?”
“Yes, I met her at our community church.”
“Wonderful,” Frank said.
“Yes, she is, we are, yes,” Brian said. “I hadn’t
been serious about anyone for at least a year – not sure why. I think we’re
falling in love.”
Continue To Part 6
(each part is this length or less)
Can you fairly judge others' sins? Should you make just as big a deal about your
sins as you do other sins? How do you repent for your sins? |