As she shared her memories, and those of her siblings and cousins, I was truly touched by how connected she felt to her grandfather. That feeling only grew as a son told stories about his father… and it was also clear that he was deeply connected to him. What a blessing it is to come to the end of one’s mortal life and be surrounded by family and friends who feel so connected to you.
This was the case last week as we gathered to celebrate the life and ministry of Henry Hoover. It was without a doubt a privilege to preside at Henry’s funeral. The witness of love and connectedness to Henry was evident and impressive.
Over the last two weeks I have been able to spend time with my siblings, cousins, in-laws, lifelong friends, and my childhood camp companions. Each one of these individuals are not only incredibly important in my life, but have been so instrumental in shaping much of who I am today.
The thread that ties all of these folks together is how connected I feel to each and every one of them. We have history, we have shared experience, but it goes much deeper than that. There is a bond, a synthesis, a… connection – that is life shaping and life giving.
The letter of Paul to the Romans describes it best… “So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another.” Romans 12:5.