Growing up, I did a lot of homework and ate a lot of meals around this old library table that had been saved before the demolition of the old Alamo High School building and served as my grandparents’ dining table for as long as I can remember.

I was in Alamo bright and early recently to visit my aging grandparents, and while they napped, I even managed to squeeze in a little early morning , last minute grad school work at the familiar table.

Come to this table. You are welcome at this table. You are loved at this table.

Things often really do come full circle. 

No matter how far I have wandered or how often I have strayed, I knew this place existed.

A place of care.

A place of love.

A place of acceptance.

Reflecting during this holiday season, I am ever thankful for my family members who have loved and encouraged me all throughout my life. They taught me to love learning, to respect others, to do what was right, and to take responsibility when I failed to do so. They taught me that we are so much more than our greatest successes or our biggest mistakes.

Any good I have accomplished in my years of Christian ministry springs from the two constants of God’s grace and their love- often times experienced right here at this very table.

I am truly blessed.

I pray that my own life is always experienced as a place of love, welcome, and encouragement for others.

May our communities, our congregations, and our homes ever be places where love is felt and all are welcomed.