I had a wonderful experience two weeks ago. Our son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Joleen, belong to a small struggling Episcopal Church in Franklin, Mass. Currently their minister is a Sunday supply who comes for the day. I offered to help out from time to time which needed approval by the Bishop in their system. Two weeks ago I helped out. I was the preacher for what was essentially a family service. For the sermon, about 30 kids gathered around at the chancel steps with proud beaming parents in the pews.

But the proud and beaming was even more so me. Our son Scott was the usher; granddaughter Morgan was the reader; grandson Corey was the acolyte; and 5 year old grandson Brandon was one of those thirty faces. And and our daughter in law Joleen, with the help of my wife Judy, coordinated the coffee hour. Judy and I went home feeling a powerful sense of family. I was proud of what each one did, but that is not the point. Our being together and worshipping together was empowering, fulfilling, and spiritually rich.

Family is so important especially at this time of year. My friend Todd who is 45 and single just lost his 82 year old aunt... the last of that generation. He feels alone. He is currently reaching out to two friends who have taken him in especially during the holidays. He plays ping pong with them, enjoys their kids, and feels connected. There is a real sense of family.

Some of us may feel a distance from family, because of miles or a mild estrangement. Maybe this is the time for a card or a phone call. Or like Todd, we need to "construct" a family. Someone once said "If your family is biological, it may be good or you may be stuck with them. However if you construct a family, you are free to choose."

And this can be a double blessing, for yourself and for the person you choose.

Remember what Jesus said, "Where two or three are gathered together..."