Speaking of Home . . .

Our hearts break for all those families who lost loved ones, possessions, and homes in last week’s hurricanes (Helene, followed closely by Milton), and by the tornadoes they spawned.  

These events hit close to home when you have friends and relatives in those areas, as I discussed in last week’s blog. And then, the angst and sorrow we feel for those affected is even greater.

But, events such as these also bring to mind the importance of home. Wrapped up in the “American Dream” is  . . . “a home of your own.” Home is part of one’s identity. How often are you asked, when introduced to someone, “And . . . where are you from?”

Home is your little corner of this great, big world. It’s where you live, eat, sleep, where you return at the end of the day when school lets out, or you punch out on the time clock at the office, factory, store, or wherever you work.  

Home is where you interact with husband or wife, parents, brothers and sisters, and at times, grandparents or other relatives. It’s the place values are learned, character is shaped, and most important, one feels loved.

Let’s continue to pray for those who lost loved ones, homes and possessions in last week’s devastation. There, but for the grace of God, are we.

Grace and peace to you,

Mary Emma