Ilwaco Light House carved in stone from the Ilwaco Light HouseIlwaco Light House

Today is the last of July 2023. It’s my one official day off of the week. My plate is full of personal tasks, so I’ll get busy after feeding the dogs.

My normal routine is done, and I culminate the hour with a few thoughts for my blog.

Yesterday was a busy and enjoyable day. I didn’t preach or teach, but those responsible stepped up to the task and presented well. Afterward, we had our first church picnic in a long time. It was well attended. The food and fellowship satisfied a lot of what I’ve been missing. There was something for everyone.

As I wandered the edges of our picnic shelter,
I watched how others interacted.
Our kids played in the playground,
I wondered and felt like this was a “family reunion.”

Shining, Beacons, and Miscellaneous Thoughts: Wandering and Wondering, I felt like our church picnic was a grand "Family Reunion!" Go, Church, Go!! Click To Tweet

Adults sat and visited, connecting and reconnecting.
Those whose focus was the food stayed busy helping,
and there were even table games of Wahoo, Bannanagram, and the like.
Hmmm. Next time we’ll introduce Washers.

Our visitors had plenty of opportunities
to be met, greeted, named, and remembered.
The church did what it does best,
Someone was always chatting with them.

Go, Church! Go!

As with everything we do,
I took notes and made memories
Everyone was shining like a beacon
And all had a wonderful time.

From this moment, I gleaned and gathered
The church knows how to do what they do.
It’s a blessed feeling to know we are still there
Doing what Jesus taught in his opening message
In what we call “The Sermon on the Mount.”


Matthew 5:2-12 NKJV
[Emphasis Mine for your consideration.]

Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
For they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
For they shall be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
For they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
For they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
For they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you,
and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.
Rejoice and be exceedingly glad,
for great is your reward in heaven,

for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

By Michael Gurley

Making Sense of Life, One Thought at a Time!