The Odyssey…Van that is Part IV

The morning sun rose beautifully on that Sunday morning. I have typically been an early riser so while the rest of the guys were sleeping. I went outside and sat on the swing by the lake for just a little while praying and meditating. Soon it was ready to get ready for church. We went to Grace Church in Morton, Il. It was a wonderful service. The speaker was the associate pastor and he had been in the mission field abroad before coming to Morton. He spoke on Luke 15 and shared insights that he learned from reading this story with those who are from the middle east. It really showed me how much my culture as an American tints my reading/interpretations of the Bible.

We then went to one of my favorite places, Monical’s pizza. Though having only been there once before, I came close to begging that we go there again. They have the best thin crust pizza. The atmosphere is very eccentric. With movie posters, old lunch boxes and toys adorning the walls and shelves. It was a great time. We ordered 2 pizzas and I think had to force feed Eric and Jill to eat the last few pieces.

From there we departed to drop Jill off and then head to Pekin County High School to take a tour of Eric’s classroom. So we drop Jill off and go pick up Kim, Eric’s sister to take her to Bradley to drop off some items. So we precede to drive to PCHS, get out the car and in typical Eric fashion, he realizes that he has forgotten his work keys. We all start laughing and then saunter down a hill to peek into a small window of his classroom to get a glimpse of the room. He then takes us on a tour of the area. We stop at Bradley, Eric bachelors Alma Mater. We take a brief tour and then help Kim take some stuff to her dorm.

We then pile back in and head back the Larson homestead. Rosy had planned this meal for when we arrived on Friday but do to car trouble had postponed it for Sunday evening. The entire Larson family, minus the Dad, who was away on work, gathered round the table, laughing and story telling. There was no mistake. This family loves each other but further, each one loves God. Coming from a family that is similar in that aspect, I am continually thankful for that blessing. People gradually went home and it was just the Band and Paul outside half-heartedly playing hoops.

We all went towards the dam embankment and just sat and let the Spirit guide us. I could attempt to explain that night but words fail me because I can’t begin to explain the feelings, sights or sounds that came from God being presence with us and guiding our thoughts, songs, and prayers. It was good. Praise God.

After that experience, reality of the world began to set in. Eric had school in the AM and we had to get on the road to head back towards KY to see about my car. We awoke and loaded up. Giving our hugs and farewells to Eric and Rosy. It was hard for me because I knew that it would be awhile before I would physically see one of my best friends again. I am not ashamed of my sentimental attitude. But life is life and friends move away.

To wrap up the saga. My car’s engine had died. So after quick decision making, we extended our rental and headed to Auburn in the Odyssey. Leaving my car to be repaired. (that is a story for another time but not today).

I want to thank my faithful readers for reading my story of that weekend in September. It will be a weekend I won’t soon forget. The Band of Brothers lives on, in fact we meet tonight. But right now I have to go to Walmart and pick up my new contact lenses.

DD