I Thank God

Thank God, the travel is all over. It's a privilege to be back home with family and friends; to realize there is a country, a state, and even a family where I belong. There are people who dress just like me, speak just like me, and eat just like me. I hear familiar music play on the radio, and I watch familiar programs on tv. It's good to be home.


Thank God, my flights from South America went well. Not a single piece of luggage lost or damaged, not a single flight delayed or connection missed. I arrived in Miami for a splendid visit with Mrs. Moxley, then continued on to Nashville to meet up with Luke. After a short visit to Music City, we flew northward to meet up with our family for Thanksgiving Day.


Thank God, everyone was able to be together the Friday after Thanksgiving for my Grandpa's funeral. All my mom's family, much of my dad's, and a whole host of old friends from church came to offer sympathy and pay their respects. I officiated my first funeral service, and I trust that God used it as a tribute to both my Grandpa's life and His faithfulness revealed in it. It was a cold, cold, day, but one filled with many warm memories and the sweet consolation of grace.


Thank God, following a very short weekend search, an affordable and well-working car was provided for my use. It's a black 97 Toyota Corrolla with only 98 K miles, and a splendid first car for a very-recently-returned missionary. It runs smooth, and, when the day comes to sell, ought to fetch a good price as a used vehicle, too.


Thank God, after a busy weekend, I was able to travel on a university-touring expedition with my new car. With gas prices so low, it cost next-to-nothing to visit Notre Dame with Dad on Tuesday, and Boston College and Yale on Thursday. Along the way, I had the chance to visit with a dear friend from high school in Boston and a dear friend from Georgetown in New Jersey.


Thank God, last weekend I spent a wonderful time in Washington, DC, where I got to meet up with every one of my good friends from university. Most have stayed in the greater DC area, and the weekend was filled with sweet reunion after sweet reunion. Old friends hosted me at their houses, and several fed me as well. Highlights from the weekend included an early morning hike with old roommates and a midday lunch at the Jesuit residence at Georgetown with a dear priest, mentor, and professor friend.


Thank God, Sunday was spent congregating with Georgetown Baptist Church. I was invited to sing in the choir once again, and was overjoyed to find Pastor Carl in good health and cheerful spirits. Truly, God was faithful and good to this congregation, and faithful in answering so many petitions prayed on their behalf.


Thank God, this week has been much more laid back. The family is passing through a rough time, but I've been able to spend time with each one sharing and listening. A job search continues, with a possible opening and interview set for Monday morning. God-willing I'll be able to work next week and settle into a good healthy routine.


Thank God, because it's good to be home.