My husband’s birthday is coming up. Actually, his birthday is March 17, St. Patrick’s Day. Over the years, we have celebrated his birthday in a variety of ways. Typically, the celebration includes good food and drink, and good people to celebrate with … as birthdays in particular and celebrations in general should.
Sometimes the food includes a home-cooked meal by him, of corned beef and cabbage and boiled potatoes and carrots, and a homemade dessert by me. Only one time have I tried to recreate his mother’s chocolate layer cake with date and nut filling, a favorite of his growing up. Often, a pie is involved. Oftentimes, he’ll seek out a local pub for his birthday corned beef and cabbage and complimentary ale. Yet, if encouraged to go to one of his favorite restaurants on his birthday, the food is Italian, paired with a nice glass of wine. But on two occasions, soon to be three, we have purposely, and purposefully, been out of town on St. Patrick’s Day. We have come to love New Orleans … its great food and drink, and especially its great people … by way of vacations, multiple trips for mission work in the area after Hurricane Katrina, and a clergywomen’s gathering with colleagues. We have recognized that the people of New Orleans, even in the face of adversity, certainly know how to hang onto hope, make the best of things, and celebrate life … and the importance of doing so. Is it any wonder that New Orleans is where Mr. Pat wanted to once again celebrate his birthday? So as you read this … whether the day of, or the day before, or even a day or two after March 17th … be assured that the St. Patrick’s Day baby is celebrating his 74th birthday in style. With great Cajun, Creole, and home-style cooking. With a Pat O’Brien’s hurricane or two. Attending a couple of St. Patrick’s Day parades. And with purposeful people having a particular determination and resolve to remain hopeful, make the best of things, and celebrate life. Lord, as we await your heavenly banquet, may we experience every once in a while a foretaste of your feast to come. Grace and peace … --Pastor Pat
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