On December 30, 2016 – two days after our 42nd wedding anniversary – Mary and I had a life-altering experience. That morning Mary insisted that I buy and install carbon monoxide detectors. I did as I was told. Early the next morning we had a furnace fire, which never spread out of the furnace, but released carbon monoxide into the fan force venting. All four of our new alarms went off. I vaguely remember calling 911 and being told to exit the house immediately. We left the house, and I changed into summer golf shorts and a shirt. I knew that Mary had also left but did not know where she went. I remember the firefighters searching the house looking for Mary only to find her sitting in the heated car. The Bethesda Rescue Squad Paramedic said we were being transported to the hospital by ambulance.

As we recovered, the nurses put us in the same treatment room. Hours later the Emergency Room physician came in and told us that we should have "come in the back door." I corrected the doctor and said we came by ambulance. He replied you should have come in the back door because that is where deceased patients come in. He looked at me and said you two are incredibly lucky to be alive.

We realized we were blessed by the Lord, during that terrifying time when we realized that we could have died. I began to question, “why did I survive?” No one whom I asked could give me an answer that comforted me. I examined my relationship with the Lord, and I found myself to be a “check the box” Christian. What does that mean?

•   Go to church - check

•   Pledge - check

•   Act interested during the sermons – check

•   Attend some church events – check

My conclusion was that I go to church, but I need to live the church. There is a difference between the two. Changes I have made: I read the Bible and pray every day, we go to evening prayer at least once per week, and I read three daily devotions and serve on the vestry.

As I continue to read the Bible, two of my favorite passages are the following:

“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace, I leave with you; my peach I give you. I do not give it to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14: 24-27)

“Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid and do not be afraid. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 14:27)

I encourage you to go to church, but also to live the church.

God bless you!

Bob