Bethany

Everyone needs a place to kick off our shoes once in a while. We all need a place where we can put aside all the expectations of work and just relax.

Tonight, I was given a rare gift. An invitation to share supper with some friends turned out to be a true blessing. It's such a grace to find moments in our lives, and people with whom we can truly relate. If we're truly lucky, we even find the friends or family members who can almost read us, predict our thoughts and actions before we even think them, and welcome them without judgement.

Jesus found such a place in the village of Bethany, in the home of Martha and Mary. I am beginning to understand how he must have loved these women, and treasured the time he could spend with them. How many times did he arrive at their door, in the early morning hours, or late at night? How many times did they open the door to him and welcome him 'home' from a long journey, providing a meal or simply a place to lay his head? How many times did he sit with them at the table and unburden himself of some of the frustrations that surely were part of his work?

There is a Bethany for everyone. We just need to find it. It is the place where each of us can truly unwind. It is the place where those who love us welcome us, feed us, listen to us, comfort us and allow us to be rejuvinated. Where is Bethany for you? Who are Martha and Mary for you? How often do you visit? How often do you give thanks for the gift of rest and a place to unwind? All of this is a gift from God, meant for our benefit and enjoyment.

For all of this and more, we give thanks.