Dear Rose Park,
Last Friday, I took my three-year-old daughter, Winnie, on a pastoral visit. After we dropped off Simon at school, went to church to get communion ready, and quickly stopped by the library to pick up some books we made our way to Resthaven Maplewoods on 32nd street. We signed the visitors book, said hi to the receptionist, and then wandered the halls until we found room 149.
As we entered the room, our eyes fell on the beloved guest we were visiting. Pearl Riemersma is 90 years old and is filled with joy. Her short-term memory isn’t the clearest, so we re-introduced ourselves and took a seat in a couple folding chairs next to her rocker. Pearl and I exchanged small talk about her adjustment to Resthaven and then discussed the recent death of her sister-in-law. All the while, Winnie quietly flipped through her books.
A few minutes later, Winnie asked to see my phone. Some might not approve, but I willingly handed over my phone and let her look through photos while Pearl and I chatted. Winnie started to giggle looking at photos of her and Simon. It only took a few seconds, but before I knew it I was the third wheel in the room; Winnie was standing next to Pearl showing her pictures and telling her the stories behind them. This is me playing soccer…this is my puppy, Rudy…this is my new popcorn bowl and my doll Elsa…and my personal favorite, this is me getting a marshmallow after going potty.
It’s been the only time in my life I wish I had another phone, so I could take a picture of this sweet moment. A three-year-old and a ninety-year-old asking each other questions and laughing with their full voice. For a brief second, I caught a glimpse of what heaven might look like and thought of Psalm 148: Praise the Lord…kings of the earth and all nations, you princes and all rulers on earth, young men and women, old men and children.
In the harsh world we live in, we need joyous encounters every once in a while, where young men and women, old men and children praise the Lord with joy and laughter. These kinds of encounters simply remind us of the gift of life and love. Whether you’re three, ninety, or somewhere in between I hope and pray you might find a daily dose of joy and a faithful reminder of God’s love.
Grace & Peace,
