Then those who are righteous will reply to him, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink? When did we see you as a stranger and welcome you, or naked and give you clothes to wear? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?” Then the king will reply to them, “I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me.”

Matthew 25:37-40

Happy Sunday, friends. If this 9-11 weekend needs any kind of a counterbalance to all the sadness and the pain of remembrance, then I’d like to offer this brief observation that highlights the great span of life we are committed to support and respect and nurture.

Nine months to nine years to ninety and more – it’s all in this post!

First – and I have been trying hard not to overshare images of these amazing children – here are the latest photos of the grandkids in Miami. Also, this report that our other grandchild (the fabulous Mr. T. in Manama) is happy and thriving in his new home, “killing it” at his daycare, and bringing constant delight to his parents, Andrew and Alicia.

Geoffrey – #flyingbabyalert – seems to absolutely love both his siblings and the beach (all beach photos by Naomi/Craig Campbell).

Then, next door, dealing with the challenges of their combined 183 years, my mum and dad are spending some extra time in their recliners, watched over lovingly by Max, who gives them both so much joy.

Liberty and justice for all…

We do not stand for freedom and everything this amazing nation represents because we feel a sense of entitlement, or special status, or “I can do what I like because I’m a free American…” but, we invest ourselves in all of this because we celebrate a world in which we take seriously our commitment to community. Because we the blessed are blessed to care for the vulnerable, the elderly, those who depend on us for care and support, and especially the children who hold so much promise for the future.

Look at these images. Nine months; nine years; ninety and ninety-three. Celebrate freedom. Pray for peace. Ask God what you can do, what you can give of yourselves, what you can work for… to keep this beacon of light and hope shining.

So full with light and love that it cannot help but spill over on those around us.

In love, and because of love – DEREK