“Happy are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord.
Happy are those who keep his decrees,
who seek him with their whole heart,
who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways.”
Psalm 119:1-3
Last week, I was able to share a visit with my Grandma and Mom. Earlier that week, Rick, a close church friend of my Dad’s before his death last September, brought some of his homemade collard soup to share with Grandma and Mom. Fortunately for me, I was able to enjoy some of this soup. Tasting and seeing all the ingredients in my bowl – collards, chicken, carrots, beans and tomatoes. It was a great night for soup, as the temperature was falling outside, and we gathered around the kitchen table with our bowls, spoons, crackers and drinks. A simple meal, with great benefits for our bodies, minds, and spirits, as we shared fellowship and laughter around the table together.
I have been in Rick’s presence a few times, mostly when he stopped by to see Dad, both at home and in the nursing home, and other times at worship on Sunday mornings. Any time Rick visited Dad, he brought a gentle smile and offered an uplifting greeting. Rick has this unique gift of creating a peaceful space for those fortunate to be around him, and just makes you feel at ease when you are in his company. Rick has a servant’s heart and always appears to be striving to share love with others. Rick leaves an impression upon me every time I see him, with his quiet confidence and humble spirit reflecting his very real faith.
Collard soup not only warmed my body that night, it also highlighted the man who made it. Rick’s life is a life of discipleship, as he seeks the Lord with his whole heart, and walks in his ways. Thanks be to God for Rick, and his delicious collard soup.
What’s for dinner tonight? I recommend the soup.
Blessings,
David
[pic above is Rick’s Collard Soup taken (& enjoyed) February 2023]