Some Blessings Are Messy (08/19/2024)

Yesterday, we gathered as a family for July, August, and September birthdays. There were 15 of us ranging in age from 77 to 12. When we were all talking, which was most of the time, the noise level was on par with a full stadium of Packer fans. We shared hugs, stories, and great food. And midway through the abundance of blessings, I stood and took in the full view of my family room and kitchen. It was a 10 on the messy scale. And I felt so blessed.

As I think about the blessings throughout my life, I realize that the majority of them were messy. And then I realized that they flow from life and life is messy, don’t you know. The blessings I receive within my church moments, at Mass and at prayer with the community, they are so real and without mess. But one of the blessings of this life is the realization that the LORD is with us wherever we are and that blessings will occur at non-religious sites and times. And often, they will not be neat.

I think back to the years of raising my children and the messes that occurred daily in our home as the three children, a year apart in ages, constructed and deconstructed. Daily life was anything by neat; however, blessings were in abundance as they learned, as they grew, as they loved. I wish I had realized then more surely and deeply that cleanliness and neatness may be overrated. They are no match for blessings which can occur in the midst of a mess.

As we continue our journeys, let us remain vigilant for the blessings of our moments. Let us appreciate them regardless of the location or the staging. And let us take time to give thanks to our all-loving and all-present LORD from whom all blessings flow.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.