On the farm growing up we had a large swing set. As best as I can recall – after all, it was many years ago – it had two swings and was made of either telephone posts or barn rafters. I remember swinging with my two cousins who lived next door, and my brother, Mike. One of them probably could provide a more accurate picture. These days, our granddaughter Brooklyn loves to swing – this picture, whether in her back yard, at Metro Beach, or elsewhere, is very clear to me.
And now I am finally finding myself “Back in the Swing”. Although, many musicians would tend to use different phrases. Gene Autrey and Aerosmith would say that I am “Back in the Saddle Again”. “On the Road Again” is our old friend Willie Nelson’s version. And, I must say, it feels really good to be back having face-to-face visits again.
One day last week I made eight stops. This week I have already seen nine people, and I have seven more scheduled this week. Most visits include communion. All include prayer and words of encouragement, accompanied by friendly conversation. Some come to see me, as did the eight individuals who came to “Drive Through Communion” last Sunday. However, for many, getting out is not a viable option. Yes, I am definitely “Back in the Swing.”
I have often said that, if I could spend all of my time every day just visiting people, I would not complain – in fact, I would rejoice. I believe I could very easily give up preaching, worship planning, administration, even teaching. One-on-one or small group gatherings, that is where my true heart lies. So, yes, it really feels good to be “Back in the Swing.”
Unfortunately, I have so many names on my list at this time that I can only see them every 2-3 months. This round I am sharing with them a beautiful and encouraging benediction. “May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble! May the name of the God of Jacob protect you! May he send you help from the sanctuary and give you support from Zion! May he remember all your offerings and regard with favor your burnt sacrifices. May he grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans. May we shout for joy over your salvation, and in the name of our God set up our banners for you. May the Lord grant all your requests. This I know: The Lord gives victory to his anointed. He answers us from his sanctuary with the victorious power of his right hand. Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. Those others are brought to their knees and fall but we rise up and stand firm. Lord, give us victory! Answer us when we call.” (Psalm 20)
I pray that you are encouraged as this blessing comes upon you. We know that our Lord Jesus – God the Father’s anointed Messiah – has won victory over sin, death, and the devil. He has now anointed us with his Holy Spirit, and thus the victory is ours.
And this simple, rock-solid truth puts us “Back in the Swing” – ready to share this blessing, this benediction, with everyone we meet. Read these words again … meditate upon them … let each individual phrase linger in your heart. As you do, I will “shout for joy over your salvation, and in the name of God set up banners for you.” And maybe – hopefully – we can find the opportunity to visit one-on-one – in person or electronically. You see, I would really like to hear how Jesus has you “Back in the Swing” with me.