At The Grove

The rain pummeled the canvas top of the Jeep as we rose over hills and through the valleys from southern Virginia to the New Jersey shore. An evening stopover south of Baltimore, gave a respite to an otherwise grueling nine hour journey. We talked, we reminisced, and we expressed our gratitude for opportunities of experiences both easy and challenging that we have been provided through the years. A brief detour through the old neighborhood we used to call home in rural Delaware County, Pennsylvania stoked the fires of memories past in preparation for a weekend of renewal and reconnection with dear friends from years ago. Ocean Grove, New Jersey is like no other place. It is dotted with Victorian residences interspersed with summer camp meeting huts and their attached tents. A centerpiece of the town is the great tabernacle built in the late 1800’s. The tabernacle itself seats ten thousand people and has been a magnet for worship services and religious concerts for more than a century. Thornley Chapel on the square, attached to the modest police station, offered the perfect setting for our worship and learning sessions. Minds were challenged and hearts were touched as we listened and observed and enjoyed the fellowship with friends old and new during mealtime or in the rockers on the front porch of the guest house. The time was short, but the connections were deep and meaningful and gave more than ample inspiration that lifted our spirits all the way home. I’m reminded that even a momentary touch can be the spark that ignites healing. Though rain and wind littered our way, the Spirit of hope, trust, and thankfulness was our companion for the ride. With those divine ingredients we knead the dough of faith to watch it rise and sustain us for today’s journey.