We are all Family


Treat your family like friends, and your friends like family.
--Anonymous


What an amazing experience! Yesterday, I joined my husband for lunch with the group from a local nursing home that he drives a bus for. Lunch was at PJ McIntyre’s—you guessed it, an Irish pub restaurant.

The first woman I spoke with, Bridget, is one of the nursing home residents and has a delightful Irish brogue. It turns out she is the first cousin of Patrick (PJ) McIntyre. And today—well, today was a celebration!

Family had come from several cities away to celebrate a granddaughter’s nineteenth birthday. Bridget introduced her to each one of us. We also met Bridget’s sister-in-law and other children and grandchildren. Truly, a delightful clan!

As we ate our dinners, Bridget cruised around, checking on us. Was the food delicious? Did we need anything? (Our very pregnant server had a bit of a break!) Oh—and Patrick said everyone gets dessert—on the house! (Like we needed dessert. There was also carrot cake for the Birthday Girl. That was also shared widely.) We laughed, we cheered, we sang—and we all felt like members of Bridget’s family. Food is a great unifying force, isn’t it?

Sometimes I think maybe Jesus had Irish roots, the way he welcomes everyone to the Table. Jesus never cared about our skin color or who we love or what language we speak. He knows: we were family before we learned to question our roots, and we will be Family again. Always. Welcome Home! Dinner’s ready soon.


Monday Is there someone whose name or face is on your heart? Invite them for a meal. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Enjoy catching up. Proverbs 8:1

Tuesday If you are out and about today, consider buying coffee or whatever for the person behind you. Psalm 8:1-4

Wednesday Look around. Is there someone sitting alone—but not looking like they’re enjoying it? Ask if they would like company. Let the Spirit lead. Proverbs 8:22-31

Thursday Spend some time outdoors today, if you can. Listen to the sounds of nature. Breathe deeply. Rest. Psalm 8:3-9

Friday Most people are looking forward to the weekend. What’s in store for you? Who is family in your life? Romans 5:1-5

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, give thanks for your family that raised you. Ask God where you are to “pay it forward” today. John 3:16

Sunday Look around your house of worship. What do you see? Who do you see? Introduce yourself to someone you might not already know. John 16:12-15

Friends are not “like family.” When people say this, they are defining family incorrectly. Of course, you can be closer to friends than members of your family. . . . Love them or hate them, 
you are stuck with your family. –Deborah Tannen

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