Thursday, July 1, 2010

Family Of God

I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God
I’ve been washed in the fountain
And cleansed by His blood
Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod
For I’m a part of the family
The family of God

You will notice we say "brother and sister" 'round here
It’s because we’re a family and these folks are so near
When one has a heartache we all share the tears
We rejoice in each victory in this family so dear

I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God
I’ve been washed in the fountain
And cleansed by His blood
Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod
For I’m part of the family
The family of God

From the door of an orphanage to the house of the King
No longer an outcast, a new song I sing
From rags unto riches, from the weak to the strong
I’m not worthy to be here but praise God I belong

I’m so glad I’m a part of the family of God
I’ve been washed in the fountain
And cleansed by His blood
Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod
For I’m a part of the family
The family of God

Yes I’m a part of His family
The family of God
© 1970 by William J. Gaither. All rights reserved.

When I was just 7 years old a fellow classmate named Cindy Armstead invited me to Whirlybirds and Jet Cadets at Valley Falls Christian Church.  It was an after school program offered on Wednesdays and I loved it.  This was the beginning of my relationship with Christ.  It wasn't long after I was baptized and the hunger for God's word and His people became a huge part of my life.

Cindy moved away when we were young and I've always had a great fondness for her and wondered where she was, who she was.  Did she have any idea the impact her simple invite had on my life?  We saw each other briefly over the years and at 17 lost touch.  Thanks to Facebook I found her a couple weeks ago and was finally able to tell her how much she affected the course of my life.

Her in-laws live on Parallel and she's super familiar with the area and even comes to visit on a regular basis.  Today we met again and went to lunch.  Even though we were practically strangers we chatted for hours.  You would think we wouldn't have anything in common due to not seeing each other for 15 years.  In fact we had a pleasant conversation like old friends since the most important thing about us we share, our faith.   We are sisters in Christ.

I am so thankful for the family God grants this side of Glory.  My visit with Cindy today was a blessing to me.  An encouragement that we have camaraderie and a connection with His people.  My visit with Cindy today was a reminder that we are not alone.  Thank you Lord for the gift that is your bride.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

So heart-warming, Shannon! Thank you for sharing! I, for one, am so thankful that Cindy invited that little lost, lonely redhead to church! We love you!

Mom Anita

Anonymous said...

I am blessed by you too, friend! Had a smile for hours after lunch. :) Isn't it amazing that even with so much time gone by, and actually only a few shared experiences, our love of the Lord bonds us more than the rest could have. I love how comfortable the conversation was, too, when it could have been totally awkward. Could have stayed twice as long and not even thought about the time. :) --Cindy