Family

Today was a special day for me. I was privileged to be with extended family. The Plank family, sons and daughters of my oldest sister, Estella and her husband, John Plank, with their families were here in Hesston as part of their annual family reunion. There were six children in that family (sorry Kevin, I didn't have a pic that included you), and now there is an extended family of close to 40. In addition my brother-in-law, Mervin Troyer, his daughter, Elnor, husband Don, and their son Dalton with his family were also present. And my wife, Clara, was there also.

It was a day of getting re-acquainted with nephews and nieces I had not seen for 24 years, some I had seen more recently, and learning to know some in their families I had never seen. It was a day of worship with a band of 22 from this family, and singing some of the old hymns we used to sing in the Mennonite churches we grew up in. I am extremely grateful that these people came to Hesston and invited us to be a part of their family get together.

These people are part of my family, our family. Family ties are so important in our broken world. Being with those we love and truly care for gives stability that is hard to find elsewhere. I'm so grateful for the bonds that exist in Clara's and my family. We have not found a way to come together annually, but we do come together in some way as often as possible. I hope that when I'm no longer here our family will continue to give importance to being together, and I'm confident they will.

This day has left me "spent," but its something I wouldn't have wanted to miss. Thanks again Max, Dennis, Jay, Marianne, Linda, and Kevin for taking the time and making the effort to be with your extended family here in Hesston. And God's richest blessings to all of you is my prayer. I remain

Pilgrim on the way