From Your Pastor's Heart August 30, 2022

My heart is full today from a great weekend visit with family members. My wife’s brother, sister-in-law and nephew came from Texas for a few days. We had a fantastic time showing them the sights of our city and introducing them to some of our favorite eating places. We are grateful to have enjoyed that precious time with them.

I am reminded of the importance of time spent together in building and maintaining personal relationships of all types. Couples need to some quality time together to keep their marriage strong. Even after 48 years together, my wife and I schedule a weekly “date night” to focus on our relationship. I know it is hard, when you have children still at home, but that only makes the need for time to talk to each other even more urgent.

Children also need to have some bonding time with each of their parents. Moms and dads need to find individual time to spend with each of their kids, doing something that they enjoy. Finding a mutual interest can be challenging, especially for parents of the opposite gender, during the teenage years. I recall how hard it was to stay connected, as Dad to a teen daughter. Fortunately, we shared a love for football and the Cowboys!

There is also no substitute for time spent together, if we want to maintain and grow our relationship with the Lord. As followers of Christ, we must find time regularly to spend in God’s Word and in prayer in order for Him to direct our steps. We need to share our burdens with Him, but also listen for His wisdom and guidance in response. If we truly want a closer walk with Jesus, then we must work to deepen that relationship. And, that requires spending time with Him!

Serving in love,

Bro. Jim