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Dear San Marco Church Family: I offer special appreciation to Brian Niece for preaching in my absence this past Sunday. He shared an excellent and timely message, and it is so healthy to have some different voices in the pulpit. As I mentioned in my last blog, our family celebrated my oldest son, Thomas, and his bride Sydney, at their wedding this past weekend. The event gave me the opportunity to reflect with gratitude on the privilege of attending such an event. To see my son genuinely thrilled to marry the love of his life was humbling and inspiring. I am very aware that I am fortunate as a parent, and that not everyone has the privilege of such opportunities. My prayer is that God will remind me of the gratitude I feel today when future challenges in life inevitably arise. Gratitude is one of those human emotions that dwells deep in our hearts. It softens the heart in the best of ways, and causes us to live with compassion toward those around us. I have come to see gratitude as one of God’s greatest gifts to us all. Many years ago, I was struggling in life. I remember a phone call with my parents when I recited a laundry list of things that were wrong in my life and going wrong in the world. After my long, venting diatribe, my father just had one, quietly stated comment. Essentially, he said, “your misery exists because you are not grateful for all that you have in life.” His comment made me pause and think because I knew he was right. While I may have had good reasons to complain, I also was fortunate in many ways. My father died in 1997, a long time ago, but I still cherish his comment. Upon our return to Jacksonville Sunday, we learned about the tragic death of a young father and his 1 year old son here in Jacksonville. I did not know him well, but I did remember him from my time at Lakewood United Methodist Church back in 2009. I extend prayers to his widow and to the extended family and friends who mourn during this time. May God’s grace offer some healing and hope that only the Holy Spirit can provide. In the midst of tragedy, seeking comfort from Christ is our best option. This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day, and it is a time to honor all those who have given their lives in service to their country. I encourage you to say a prayer in memory of a friend or relative who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you for your continuing support of San Marco Church. I look forward to seeing you in worship Sunday! Steve Hart
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