Several years ago I was walking down a street with a few friends. Across the street was a vacant lot. A flatbed truck was parked in the heap of rocks. Some young people were standing on the flatbed looking for some thrills. They began throwing some rocks at us. They were pretty far away so most of their throws fell short. Some, however, reached their mark and hit us. While they were throwing the rocks they shouted an unusual question: “Do you still love us?” Now, I will admit that in most situations like this I would not have responded with much kindness. However, this time my friends and I could genuinely respond with “Yes, we still love you!”
God gave us the grace to respond in love. These young people became our friends and guardians while we were working in their neighborhood. They introduced us to friends and family and invited us to meals with their families. You see, we were just applying a scriptural truth to a stressful situation. I Peter 7-8 says, “The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”
The love which God gave us allowed us to overcome the obstacles of that difficult time. All of us were able to see past the trouble to build relationships of mutual trust and encouragement.
Reluctant Retiree 