Dusk, Dinner, Dear Friends, and Delight

Earlier in the week, we were faced with this view of Cambridge from the Esplanade (Boston side of the Charles River) on our way to share a picnic with our good friends, Matt and Sara.

When has there ever been a moment that you would whole-heartedly forsake, even deny, the opportunity to see a beautiful sunset? Or, to dine al fresco in near perfect weather? Or, to make time for dear friends to merely enjoy their company?

Possibility for delight in these things alone is grand, but the sheer possibility of simultaneous delight in all of them is immeasurable since it is ultimately orchestrated by the God, who is both infinite and personal. The majesty of the moment realized in the details, great and small, like the sky, the air, the smell, the calm, the taste, the fill, and the time of day, displays his infinite character and moves us to delight with gratitude in our transcendant God. The miracle of the moment occurring in a relationship between sinful people makes for a trick of sorts turning independence, selfishness, and pride on their heads. For sharing the meal, listening to one another, and caring for the well-being of each other, each have all taken place in this moment amongst these people because of the Cross and Empty Tomb of Jesus Christ and because of God the Father’s relationship to the Son and because of the Spirit of God filling us with all the presence of Christ. Yes, every delight we experience comes from above, from within the relationship of Father, Son, and Spirit, personal and infinite, that we might give thanks and glory in the Maker of Heaven and Earth, the Bread of Life, the Friend of sinners, and the Redeemer of our souls.

This dinner at dusk with dear friends is nothing but delight leading to Delight!