So while Tracey is sick, our parents have been taking care of our children. It is really nice for Tracey to have the time to rest, but we have both been suffering from a severe loneliness without the kids. They are a pain in the neck, to be sure. They wake up at odd hours. They misbehave at the worst possible moments. They whine (my word, do they whine!). But the trouble they cause is insignificant to the joy they bring to our lives... their laughter, the crazy things they say and do, their unconditional love for us.

This reminds me of what the church is to be in our lives. It is true that there is a lot within the church to annoy us. But it is insignificant compared to the joy the fellowship of believers can bring. Are you lonely? Find a place to belong.