I know, I know, I've always been one to procrastinate, but now I'm actually missing the deadlines and trying to forget things I had previously scheduled to do.  Take, for example my most recent church newsletter article (actually, this blog!)  I'm not even sure that my work is in time for publication.  How does this make me feel?  Well, to be honest, not too bad. 

I've always taken pride in being where I said I'd be; on time and ready to do business.  I've always gotten things done on my "to do" list in a timely manner.  So, not making a deadline, or not getting something done makes me feel a bit guilty...but just a bit.  I'm at a point in my life that my values are changing, and getting to shift things around based on these new values, give me a feeling of satisfaction, not guilt.  

The biggest change in my value system is what the Bible describes koinonia.  This Greek word describes a fellowship that goes beyond a casual definition of fellow human beings gathering together for a meal.  The New Testament uses this word to describe the closeness and connective-ness of the family of God.  Since beginning my ministry in 1977, I've always known that.  Now I want to live it, especially within my own family circle. 

Nowadays little things in life mean a lot.  I enjoy listening to my daughters and son and their families talking and laughing around the table, sharing a cup of coffee with my daughter, reminiscing with my in-laws, listening to my grandson tell about the latest episode of Sponge Bob, watching my granddaughter grow, walking hand-in-hand with my wife of 40 years at the mall or sharing our day's activities at the end of the day.  But I don't have to tell you about family values...you're there.  It's just taken me a bit longer.