Dancing and Playing

When John's messengers had gone, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are dressed in splendid clothing and live in luxury are in kings' courts. What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is he of whom it is written,“‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face,who will prepare your way before you.’ I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” (When all the people heard this, and the tax collectors too, they declared God just, having been baptized with the baptism of John, but the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected the purpose of God for themselves, not having been baptized by him.)
“To what then shall I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another,“‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not weep.’ Luke 7:24-31

Last night our youngest daughter Phoebe came home for a few days visit. It was a last minute thing, but none the less, completely welcomed. We have not see she and Andrew since last month at a family wedding and then our time was not our own. I am thrilled to have them here, and want to stop writing and working right now and celebrate the sunny day with them. There are times in your life when you have to put regular on hold so that the wonderful surprizes can be enjoyed.

Today, we are invited by Christ to hear and see the good news that John is bringing. For me these are special moments to be savored and given thanks for. The days of celebrations are fwe and God invites each of us to celebrate and enjoy when we can, for there is always more work to do and more rules to follow. May this be a day of joy for many.