Life Lessons

For 25 years, Diane and I taught in the Youth and Family Ministry of the Pioneer Valley Church of Christ in Western Ma. We would often utilize in our class, group challenges and alternative games to get to know the groups as well as the individuals.

I love the Bible and what it teaches and equally how it teaches. I have come to appreciate what matters most, is unseen. Furthermore, I have come to love the metaphorical teaching style of Jesus. Here are some of the thoughts and lessons resulting from time spent with KINDNESS. Enjoy!

-Dave

David Merck 5/13/21 David Merck 5/13/21

KINDNESS & Restoring

Challenges. What are challenges? They are obstacles, bumps in the road toward a perceived goal. They take away a piece of ourselves, creating a void to be filled with something better, more meaningful. They refine us. They purify our authority in this world so we can be worthy of a great calling. Out with the old and in with new.

Are there any challenges associated with restoring a fifteen year old boat named KINDNESS, more than a few. There is not a major system on KINDNESS we have not touched and in some cases even replaced. The process is exhausting. Yet, KINDNESS is being restored.

You have probably heard me say this before and I will undoubtedly say it again, "What matters most is unseen, the physical counts for nothing". Every challenge is an opportunity for restoration but where do we go for repairs when we are broken? Who restores us? Who is capable of making us new? I recall the Indiana Jones quote from the movie, Raiders of the Lost Ark where he comically compares being physically worn out to that of an old car, "It's not years, it's the mileage."

We live in a world where we are constantly poked by our challenges, saying to us "You are not enough" over and over. It wears on you over time, our own challenges, or even the challenge of loving others with their challenges.

When I look at a sunrise with Diane resting in my arms, I am reminded of grace/unconditional Love and the unconditional love speaks to me, "You are, enough" and for a moment I know peace. I need the constant reminder.

Sometimes, it seems, Diane and I have experienced and witnessed so many deep challenges, there is not much left of the original us. The original us has been purified away in a fiery furnace the way metal is melted, purified, and ultimately reformed into something more purposeful. I think this is true for anyone who cares deeply about others and tries to do what is right.

However, I have to contend with a lingering desire to hold on to a worldly part of the old me. I sometimes get mad, and rebel against the process. Perhaps KINDNESS and all her challenges is teaching me to embrace who I am meant to become. Some might even call this maturity. So KINDNESS is maturing but then again, so am I.

Thanks for allowing us to share a piece of KINDNESS with you.

KINDNESS is being restored.