"What Really Matters"

“What Really Matters”

I come from a small family. My father had one brother and my mother two sisters, and from them I had six first cousins. Since Dad’s brother and one of Mom’s sisters lived at a distance my family became especially close to my Aunt Blanche, Uncle Al, and cousin Lillian (now known as Lee) who were nearby. We spent a lot of time together as I grew up, and even after I moved to upstate New York we enjoyed getting together when Karen, Dave, Kristie, and I visited Long Island.

As the years went by I grew to appreciate Uncle Al’s wisdom and how he lived out his faith. Several examples stand out. He was probably the first member of our family to recognize that God’s family was bigger than the circles we were part of. At one Christmas dinner the discussion around the table drifted towards a check list of what a “good Christian” did (or didn’t do). Finally Uncle Al said something like, “If you believe the Bible and that you’re saved by faith in Christ, you’re a friend of mine!” This began my journey of seeing all believers as one unit (“…In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”—Romans 12:5).

During a difficult period almost 30 years ago Uncle Al (by then he and Aunt Blanche were living in Arizona) wrote me affirming his belief that my actions had been biblically correct but asking me what I’d learned that would help shape the future. This was one of a number of factors which made the second half of my pastoral ministry much different (and better). “My troubles turned out all for the best—they forced me to learn from your textbook.” (Psalm 119:71, The Message).

Aunt Blanche stepped into Heaven in 2011 at the age of 93. Guess who was her main caregiver at age 96—right, Uncle Al. He set a great example of honoring his commitment made 70 years before: “Husbands, love your wives….” (Ephesians 5:25) and “…Serve one another in love.” (Galatians 5:13). May his tribe increase!

Jesus (and Aunt Blanche) welcomed Uncle Al Home in 2013 at 98 years young. He left a great legacy which still speaks to me and others by showing what really matters. Hopefully I’ve learned (and will continue to learn) my lessons well.

Blessings!

Jim McMillan