Scripture reading
When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, so you truly love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord, “he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
–John 21:15
Thought of the Day
It was not as hard as I thought it would be. Oh, it was tough, just easier than I had imagined. Yesterday, we took my son, Parker, away to college. For weeks I had been thinking about the actual moment that we said goodbye. I really was not looking forward to that time, because I knew it would be hard to say anything, because of all the emotions that would be there. The drive to Austin went well, just a few minor crisis’ when we would remember important things that we forgot to grab from the house before we left. The check-in at the dorm was a piece of cake. I did think we spent too much time at the door to door laundry service table. I mean, what else is Beverly supposed to do on that first visit home when Parker comes through the door bearing gifts of dirty clothes. Unloading was pretty easy. With the rolling cart and a lot of friends, we made it in two trips. It took a while to unpack and set up the computer and stereo and DVD player and all the other important things Parker brought. We ate some lunch and then made a trip to Walmart and Sam’s. It was like Christmas for Parker. Any kind of snacks he wanted, he got. Hopefully it will last him through the week. After getting back to the dorm and unloading that stuff, it was time to leave. This was the moment I knew was going to be the hardest. Parker walked us down to the car to say goodbye. He hugged his sister, Kelly and then his mom. It was then my turn. I shook his hand and then we hugged. All I remember saying is “I love you”. He just nodded. It was about to rain so we got in the car and left.
You know why it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be? I think it was because of those three simple words, “I love you”. What else could I have said to him? I certainly have given him all kinds of advice over the years. I didn’t need to tell him to study hard. I didn’t need to tell him anything other than that I loved him. Guess what? Maybe there is someone in your life that just needs to hear those three little words from you. Try it. It is easier than you might think.
Prayer
Christ Jesus, I love you. Amen.