My sister and her family left a couple of hours ago to make their way back to North Carolina. Their visit was really nice, though tiring (for me). We went to the beach, and to Trap Pond. We destroyed a gas grill, caught Delaware on fire, got wicked sunburns, and killed two troublesome chickens who had the audacity to poop all over our steps and walkway. The kids got along and there were no outbursts or any crazy dramas, which is rare where family is concerned. Rebekah and I shed some tears when they left.

I have to preach tomorrow morning, and I haven’t finalized a message yet. I may go to the church for a couple of hours this afternoon to pray and type out some notes.

Two families in the church were somewhat traumatized yesterday when a young couple who’ve been engaged a long time broke off their marriage...though I guess it’s more accurate to say the groom broke off the marriage, and he did so in a cowardly, hurtful way. I don’t judge him for being an inconsiderate bastard, because I’ve been one at times. But he threw an entire community of family, friends, and most of the members of our church into turmoil. The wedding was scheduled for today, and he told his fiancé last night that he “wasn’t ready” to get married. Of course the bride and her family (our next door neighbors) are agonized and angry.

All that to say, people are going to be coming into the church with that in their hearts and minds. So I’m feeling some pressure. Father, what do You want me to say? What’s on Your heart?

Jess and I have been blessed by acts of kindness and grace this week.