Your "sister test" reminded me of a young man my older daughter dated throughout her senior year in high school. He was at our house often, and on several occasions her three siblings were there as well. She was the second of four; he was an only child. When all four were there the conversation raced from one to another with lots of laughter. Finally the young man told Lisa that though he loved their dates and being together with her, he was totally overwhelmed by her family and really couldn't keep up and just didn't fit in. The family didn't reject him; he rejected us. I am sure it was for the best and really appreciate his recognition of the dynamics at such a young age. And that's a form of grace as well.
You got me thinking of a guy who used to work with my first husband; His wife was a co-worker and friend. When I divorced, he showed up for ME. When I needed support (and remembered to ask), he's been available. He's Family without being blood family. I've reconnected with them since joining Good Shepherd's Family!
Your wife sounds like an amazing woman, just saying, this whole post really touched me and had me thinking about acceptance and feeling like you belong which of course made me think of Sam my transgender grandchild.
Wonderful read, Jake. The subject of grace is one of my favorites, and Galatians 3:28 as well. Years ago I read about the 7 dispensations of man and was impacted by the stark transition from Law to Grace. It’s literally a different era for us, a different relationship with God - as ushered in by Christ. However, I’ve observed that humans invariably tend to return to Law and behavior as how we relate to God. Rather than accepting the gift of Grace and allowing it to transform our relationship with God, we tend to want rules to follow - quid pro quo mentality. It’s a shame, really. Christ came to usher in the dispensation of Grace!!
Thank you Korie! And greetings from Portland. I’m spending the first week of my sabbatical here for a change of pace. And I’ll still stay connected to our Substack community. This isn’t work for me
Your "sister test" reminded me of a young man my older daughter dated throughout her senior year in high school. He was at our house often, and on several occasions her three siblings were there as well. She was the second of four; he was an only child. When all four were there the conversation raced from one to another with lots of laughter. Finally the young man told Lisa that though he loved their dates and being together with her, he was totally overwhelmed by her family and really couldn't keep up and just didn't fit in. The family didn't reject him; he rejected us. I am sure it was for the best and really appreciate his recognition of the dynamics at such a young age. And that's a form of grace as well.
That is a form of grace Ruth. Thanks for sharing this terrific story
Yep, that's the Joy that I know!
You got me thinking of a guy who used to work with my first husband; His wife was a co-worker and friend. When I divorced, he showed up for ME. When I needed support (and remembered to ask), he's been available. He's Family without being blood family. I've reconnected with them since joining Good Shepherd's Family!
That sounds like the family of God to me
Your wife sounds like an amazing woman, just saying, this whole post really touched me and had me thinking about acceptance and feeling like you belong which of course made me think of Sam my transgender grandchild.
She is indeed. And blessings on Sam (and Sam’s grand)
Love it, Jake! As you may recall, belonging is a big thing for me, and it’s even my one word for 2025! Many thanks for this!
I do recall Angie! Glad this one lined with one of your important themes. Just back from a rainy walk in Portland. Mulling over the next series
Enjoy all the moments of your sabbatical!
Wonderful read, Jake. The subject of grace is one of my favorites, and Galatians 3:28 as well. Years ago I read about the 7 dispensations of man and was impacted by the stark transition from Law to Grace. It’s literally a different era for us, a different relationship with God - as ushered in by Christ. However, I’ve observed that humans invariably tend to return to Law and behavior as how we relate to God. Rather than accepting the gift of Grace and allowing it to transform our relationship with God, we tend to want rules to follow - quid pro quo mentality. It’s a shame, really. Christ came to usher in the dispensation of Grace!!
Thank you Korie! And greetings from Portland. I’m spending the first week of my sabbatical here for a change of pace. And I’ll still stay connected to our Substack community. This isn’t work for me
Enjoy!!