SANDWICHED

I made a flying trip to Ruston this weekend with #1 Daughter and the two littles.  We went with the specific purpose of seeing her grandmother and the woman whom I have loved dearly for well over 40 years.  Something told me Lulu would need to assist with the one and three year old, so I threw together a bag and off we went.    And more last minute decisions, the two brothers decided to meet us ----SO---a RARE and delightful treat---all three of my best accomplishments together---be it ever so brief!

Somehow we got pictures made at our first stop with the Conville Clan, but never got pictures with the James Gang later that day.

As I sat sandwiched between my two brothers and visited, it was a beautiful moment of reflection of how important all these people are and have been over the years. We have spent a lifetime creating this family sandwich.     Say what you want, but for our families to love us when they know us better than anyone else, is a gift of grace beyond measure.  They have seen us at our very worst---physically, emotionally, and spiritually---and still love us.  They love us in spite of it all.

To have my brothers tell me they miss me and ask when am I coming home, left me longing for the daily presence of dear extended family in my life.  The love of our family--with nothing expected in return--is a bond beyond description.

This is a perfect reflection of God's love for us---His desire to be in a living relationship with us.  His great love sandwiched around us---in spite of how undeserving we are.  God knows it all--has seen it all--heard even our deepest thoughts---and yet He loves us!  A beautiful picture of grace!

To know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Ephesians 3:19