Empty Chairs at Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day, 2008

During a phone conversation last night with Chaplain Babs Meairs I realized that this would be the first Thanksgiving without her recently deceased mother Beverly. A few days ago Anne Bauer wife of the Rev. Tom Bauer died suddenly after a brief illness. Tom is the priest at the St. George's community at Fort Meade. Our hearts are with your families, Babs and Tom. Adjusting to the empty chairs at the table today won't be easy.

For that matter I should have mentioned in my recent Thanksgiving message the empty chairs of those serving in Iraq right now. Eric, Bob, Ted, Vic, and David, you and your loved ones will certainly be on our minds today. Your service ultimately characterizes what we are about.

The story goes full circle, though, with recently returned Dale and Sean and we rejoice with their families that they have taken their seats again. May we be confidant that our futures--here and heavenly--we will always be at tables where God brings all to fill the seats. +gep