This has been a long summer of one political piece of craziness after another. We have fundamental clashes on the best way to run our nation. On any given day there is scandal after scandal being reported. Most people I talk to express a great deal of frustration with the political climate. We’d like our leaders to work together and simply do what is best for us.

It was in the midst of all the political one upmanship that I caught a radio show. On Fridays, WCCO radio in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis-St Paul, sets aside time for people to call in with things that are going right in their life.  It’s called Happy Hour and for a few minutes you just get to listen to those small blessings which made life rich.

Usually one hears about birthdays and anniversaries. A man told of the birth of two new grandsons and while another texted in about their 14month old who had just taken a first step. A woman expressed her gratitude that her once very sick baby is now a healthy four year old. One man’s joy was that  when he got up that morning his twin sons both told him, “I love you.”   I was reminded of the many small blessings I daily take for granted.

The gift of the church is to remind us that God has called us into a community that lives differently in the world. As the body of Christ we are followers of one who asks us to “take up our cross” and follow him. In community we transcend our differences creating a spaces where healing and hope can grow.   We work  to make a better society and to put our efforts into creating a  healthier  world.    We celebrate together  the joys of life, while giving support and encouragement in the hard times.  We  pause to reflect on God’s goodness.

We are reminded that our lives and times are held by God. We are children of God. Called to live as God’s children in the world. In these summer days  may you be reminded of the small, but significant blessings in your life.