And then there was joy

Oftentimes, disappointment gives way to gratitude.

Such is the case this morning, as I am home rather than at a men’s breakfast at my church.

Our church is located on north Whidbey Island in a rural setting, equidistant from the two communities most of our brothers and sisters call home. Snow is rare, and periods of prolonged snow and ice are even less common.

So, when forecasts of snow, cold, wind and more snow proved to be true, we were forced to cancel our quarterly men’s gathering over breakfast. The decision to cancel was reached after weighing safe travel variables, and the cancellation notice brought numerous replies of regret.

That’s where the gratitude comes in. It occurred to me that the emotions I experienced with the cancellation were the same most of my brothers were having.

Postponed was the opportunity for our early morning crew to set up tables, make coffee and heat up the grill to cook pancakes, bacon and scrambled eggs.

Disappointment is easy to understand when I recall the lively atmosphere as dozens of men (and boys) stream into the building to greet each other, filling the room with conversation and laughter in anticipation of food and devotions.

Then there is the special time of prayer among brothers as the speaker ends his remarks and tables are cleared. This is a time when brothers of all ages are given a chance to add “dimension” to relationships outside of their usual social circles.

I can’t speak for others, but I know strong bonds of friendship for me have often started in shared prayer. So it is that I raise a prayer of gratitude this morning for a group of men who, in the midst of hectic schedules, make time to gather together in the name of Jesus.

This is so much more than a club or service organization, a gathering of co-workers or guys passionate about the same hobby or sports franchise.

This is a precious “family” of fellow believers drawn together not only for fun, but for prayer and time in the Word.

It is a wise believer who recognizes that our Father calls us to relationship, not only with Him but with other believers.

I believe without question that God richly rewards those drawn to each other by a common faith and desire to live a life that reflects commitment to His will.

Proverbs 27:17: “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

Romans 14:19: “So then let us pursue what makes for peace and mutual upbuilding.”

Galatians 6:2: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”