“We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 1:3

Years ago there was a popular bumper sticker that read, “Working in Florida is a Tropical Depression.” The reasoning implied that there were 2 kinds of people in this state. Workers… and those here on vacation to beat winter’s cold. We STILL call the latter ‘Snowbirds.’ Yesterday, the first of OURS flew away!

Our Church, like ANY organization in this land of sunshine, has spaces reserved for our snowbirds. They come and go with the seasons, but they are FULLY a part of us and are never really gone. It’s kind of like they just stepped out to take a really LONG nap! But we always figure they’ll be back! They’re arrival is joyous! They’re departure… not so much.

When they come in the fall we celebrate, and everything stops until everyone is greeted and hugged. Though not as fun when they leave, they’re never really GONE gone! Because we remember! Sometimes we can see the work that they did on the building or property. Other times we just miss their presence and generosity. Especially habits of bringing cookies or donuts! We miss those too! But it’s their love and smiles we miss the most.

Work, labor and endurance are the products of faith, love and hope. That is what today’s verse says. And while it may be nearly impossible to physically hold those qualities in our hands, they DO leave footprints. Footprints that leave marks on our hearts and no less real than a deer’s hoof print in the mud.

Jesus Christ came into my life and made a HUGE influence on me. So much so, that my life is no longer mine. His visitation made such an impression that I invited Him to stay and make my heart His home. And He did! Which sometimes becomes uncomfortable when He moves out my favorite chair to replace it with an anvil! He’s more of a laborer than a sitter!

We will miss the influence of our snowbirds, as one by one they fly back home. But we are encouraged and blessed by the reminder that OUR footprints are making an impression on THEIR hearts as well. It gives us reason to keep up the GOOD work and effort. Because when it comes to Jesus living in us, for both the worker AND the vacationer… this place is NOT our home!

Where do YOUR tail-feathers call home?