A few weeks ago, my girlfriend invited me to join her at her parents’ home in Kelowna, British

Columbia. They live on a beautiful piece of property with an orchard of apples, grapes, and apricots. I

thought I could use the time to unwind, relax, and just be still. From the moment I entered their

home, a peace washed over me. For the next five days, I was served delicious meals, taught how to

can 29 jars of freezer apricot jam, slept better than I can ever remember, got to swing on their back

deck as I watched deer (and coyote) run by, had a quiet time on the beach by a lake, sipped wine at a

winery, tried my first-ever head spa, and so many other fun activities.

But behind it all were a man and woman with quiet, gentle spirits who knew how to make a home a

respite. A place where people can come to find solace and rest, receive many hugs, be doted on, and

the sweetest dog named Bucky to love all over you. There was affection, peace, and an intentional

way that they live their lives in order to help others. To make them feel safe, welcomed, and part of

the family. In fact, once I accidentally slipped up and called them both “Mom” and “Dad” because

that is how they treat people. Like one of their own. I felt so embarrassed, but instead of making me

feel silly, they said it was the best compliment they could receive.

When it was time to return home to Washington, I found it difficult to leave. So much so that as we

were pulling away, I broke down in tears. I couldn’t figure out why I was so distraught. But then it hit

me. It has been so long since I have been loved by a mother and father in that way with just complete

and unconditional love. So selfless in its delivery and purity. No strings attached. Not wanting

anything in return but just that, as a guest I left feeling entirely at ease, refreshed in spirit, and totally

at peace. They told me that as a couple, they pray a presence of peace over their home when guests

stay with them. Well, their prayers worked because I felt enveloped and blanketed in the most

profound peace I have felt. It’s because their home is filled with Jesus’ love. Their countenance and

how they work hard to live like Jesus spills over into every part of their lives. And we get to be the

beneficiaries of that love. They are such great examples of how to exude His character, and I left

there wanting to be a better person, mother, wife, friend, sister, etc. Because of what I experienced

in their home that week, it encouraged me to improve the way I show love and hospitality. They set

the bar high.

We all need the love of a good mother and father. That yearning never ceases. So, I would encourage

all of us that if we know of someone who is lacking a parental role model in their lives, reach out to

them. Fill that void. Love on them like a mother or father would. Chances are, they desperately need

it. Thank you, Oral and Corrine, for loving people well. You are a gift, a treasure, and wonderful

teachers!