Family Stories

There are few things I enjoy more than sitting down with my parents and listening to some of their stories from an era that is so foreign to me. Last night was one such occasion as we had dinner with Mom and Dad. One of my dad’s favorite stories is of his dog named “Shep.” Shep was a collie that would help my dad and grandfather do the work on their farm. My dad loved Shep and Shep lived for nearly 12 years as my dad’s pet. It has really become a family joke that anything my dad loves and refuses to get rid of is now called “Shep.”

One such item is my dad’s car. He still drives a 1989 Pontiac Bonneville. It is without a doubt the absolute ugliest thing on four wheels you’ve ever seen. There is hardly any paint left, scratches, dents, rust, etc. Yet, he loves that car. Another is an old coat he’s got. I remember him wearing it when I was a kid and I’m 37 now. It’s old, faded, holes in it, but he still loves it.

Of course, there is something we can all learn from this – probably many things. But having talked about the Legacy of Love this past Sunday, the thought occurred to me – when you really love something (or more appropriately someone) you just don’t see “ugly.” They can begin to become someone you would hate to do without.

When it comes to people, we’re quick to pass judgment, to question intentions, to hold grudges, and to ignore. We’re quick to see “ugly.” But when we are truly loving people, something weird – even supernatural – happens. We cease seeing “ugly.” I encourage you today that if there is someone upon which you have been dwelling on their “ugly,” commit to loving them for the rest of this week. Pray for them. Serve them. Call them. Just love them and let God change your heart so that your eyes don’t focus on the “ugly,” but on the glory of God in them. You never know, they just may become your “Shep.”