We all need help.  In fact, we spend most of our waking moments [and fitful dreams] imagining how we can marshall our resources to accomplish the tasks that seem most pressing.  For those of us who are graced with good friends, good family, and good community, we know that there is a cadre of folks we can look to and ask for help.  Those relationships where the ability to ask feels free and unrestricted are a tremendous gift.  Yet we would probably all agree that if there is a way we could get that to do list done without asking anyone–  well, that’s what we would prefer.

Which is why it is such a game changer for someone to come offering to help.  Initiative, going first, leading with grace are extraordinary gifts.  On those days when you feel like–  ok, I think I can get this all done–  if everything goes perfectly and no one is late…  On those days when you are just on the edge of ‘cooked’.  If someone shows up on those days and says, ‘What can I do to help?’   Well, you don’t know whether to laugh, or cry, kiss ’em.

Honoring our parents and not exasperating our kids.  These are tall orders when there is a list of disappointments and unmet expectations.  So this simple question just gives us a practical way to keep stepping, to keep laying pipe, to keep doing the right thing:  Today.  Now.  Aware of all that is out there.  ‘What can I do to help?’  How can I leverage who I am for what you need, today?

Healthy relationships and healthy families are really the accumulation of millions of good steps, right choices, and simple questions.  I hope this one helps you.

What can you do to help at Restoration?  The leadership of our facility team, our architects, and our civil engineer had a great meeting with Arlington county today. They reminded us of our agreement to ONLY park on the deck at Washington-Lee High School.  They reminded me that if anyone in our congregation thinks its ok ‘just this once’ to park on Quincy or a side street, it is not.  We have agreed to always and only park either at Washington-Lee or in our own lot.  So come 5 minutes earlier, meet some friends on the shuttle, smile at our neighbors [even ask them the question!], and say hi to James the shuttle driver.

Hope you voted at the polls and worshiped with Restoration at our Election Day Eucharist.  As you crawl into bed, give thanks for our nation, for the privilege of peaceful elections, and the freedom to worship Jesus.

Grateful to be on the journey with you.

-David