In response to my thirst for adventure that I described in my last blog post (which received wider-than-normal readership because it also ran in our church newsletter) I have had no shortage of suggestions from friends on how to kick-start the jaw-dropping life I desire. One guy suggested that I join him on an upcoming two-week backpacking trip. I think he was kidding, as I doubt he wants to carry me out of the woods after three days. But his long-lived passion for serious hiking is contagious.

A woman offered me the chance to join her in leading a group of middle/high school students on a whitewater rafting trip. I might actually try this one, though I fear it may remind me how much I like to sit inside where it is warm and dry and read. Another friend at church suggested that if I wanted adventure I could lead the soon-to-be-enjoyed congregational budget meeting. Um, no.
The suggestions, along with a great supportive email from another friend, reminded me that even when life is unsatisfying, it is great to have community, Christian friends who care what you think and respond to it.
I’m seeing it this weekend in our church’s grief over the death of A. L. Woody, a thirty-seven-year-old husband and father who died suddenly on Saturday evening after battling an aggressive cancer for all of this year. I can see in our church family that people not only want to help this family, we actually grieve with them.

Thanks for providing me with community. Thanks to those of you who have invited the Woodys into your life. Let’s keep our eyes open for those who still need to be welcomed in to the family.

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