From West Texas to the Kingdom of God

August 10, 2025 Off By Donna Wuerch Noble

Carl and I are back in Lubbock — old stomping grounds and the heartland of all things Texas Tech Red Raiders. Guns up! But the real celebration this time is another family reunion.

Last June, we hosted the Noble Family Reunion in Fort Worth — Carl’s dad’s side. We wrangled about 130 kinfolk together — toddlers, teens, retirees, and everyone in between. And yes, Carl and a few of his cousins officially claimed the “Oldest in Attendance” title. We gave out hugs like party favors and swapped lots of stories.

Yesterday, Saturday, we gathered again — (but with the Mize Clan, from Carl’s mom’s side. His mother, Gladys, was the only girl among seven brothers. Three became farmers, two became successful contractors — including Uncle Fred and cousin Don, who built the Regency Hotel in Dallas. Clearly, the Mizes weren’t afraid of a little dirt or drywall.

This year’s reunion was hosted at Brent (Carl’s brother) and Cathy’s beautiful home, with cousins Shirley, Debbie, and Sandy sprinkling the day with good food, laughter, and backyard pool splashes. Lots of stories for the hundredth time like they were brand new — and they still made us laugh!

Families. They’re beautiful, complicated, and sometimes messy. But whether we come from picture-perfect roots or deeply tangled trees, we’ve all been given a new name in God’s family.

He invites us in — quirks, history, heartbreak, and all. No one’s excluded. And in this family, there’s no sibling rivalry or black sheep — just grace, love, and a seat at the table.

Jesus said His followers would be known by their love. Not the polished kind, but the kind that reaches, invites, hugs, and forgives.

So, let’s remember: Whether we’re in Lubbock or church pews, cookouts or quiet moments, we are wanted, loved, and adopted by the One who created family in the first place.

And there’s always room for one more. Families — they’re loud, loving, and sometimes a little lopsided… but oh, what a gift!