After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”

“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.

John 21:15

Photo Friday this week is all about people. From the youngest in the family – Geoffrey – all the way to his great-granddaddy David. From eleven months to 93.

All good photos, to be sure, but it is this one of David and Beks, enjoying some family time at their favorite Key Largo restaurant, that makes my heart so happy. I am so grateful that Naomi has such a good eye for photography, because it is killing me not to be doing my paparazzi thing with the grandkids.

I know people are used to the invitation to “smile for the photo!” But there is something else going on with my grandchildren and I can tell real joy when I see it because it goes beyond the surface and reaches into their bones. Miami is altogether too far away, but they are happy there and I am grateful.

My Parents:

The photo of my parents simply shows a beautiful fall day in Wake Forest, where dad is able to get out of the house, up the driveway, and around the cul-de-sac.

Mr. Max Retriever is so patient, walking at their pace and sitting down – with a sigh – to wait when necessary.

A story that needs to be told:

Then the picture of three of our WFPC friends goes with an article I am writing on the church community garden. Melanie, Kris, and Pam are key movers and shakers for the expansive Giving Garden project, and this week I interviewed them with a view to crafting a feature article for the national Presbyterian News Service.

Why try and place my writing with Presbyterians Today? Essentially, this is an important story that needs a wider audience, because there is so much healing in a garden; healing not only for those who work and for those who eat, but for those who are fed through hearing, and learning, and who are inspired in their own way to continue the ministry of Jesus, who said – on many occasions and in many ways, “Feed my sheep.”

Rocking the hat!

Finally, I couldn’t resist the image of Rebekah reading in the late afternoon. She was unwilling to draw the blinds and stop the beautiful autumn light pouring through the windows, but unable to read in the glare.

This is why gardening sun hats can be appropriate indoors too. Besides, Rebekah has always worn hats with her own unique style and panache, a sense of éclat few could pull off.

So happy “Photo-Friday” friends, and keep your eyes open for great photo-ops this weekend!

Peace and love – DEREK