Dear Members and Friends of Our Saviour's,
In my morning walk, I often pass by a house with a message in the front window, "Change," and then the name of a political candidate. The thought behind this message is that we need a change from the current administration. I think about that word often, but maybe with a different meaning. We are all going through change, yet for some this change can be unwelcome. For others, change can be a most positive experience.
I have heard two words in the recent weeks: "empty nest." The meaning behind these two words is that Julie and I will no longer have any of our children at home. As I write this, my thoughts are of Allison heading off to college at Bethany in Mankato, MN, in just a number of hours. Although I will miss her dearly, I know this change is for the good of all of us. Julie and I will be entering a new stage in our lives and Allison will be entering an exciting time in her life.
As I think of our church family, many of you have gone though this experience and for the majority of you it has been very positive. You describe how difficult it was at first, but after a time of adjustment, life continued on. For some of you, you will be entering this time of being "empty nesters" at the same time as Julie and I. If you feel some emptiness in the weeks to come, call me and we can share our experiences. For others, your time will come. And to all of you, I say to enjoy where God has placed you.
Because I will not be able to help my daughter travel to Mankato, I picked out a card expressing my thoughts to her. I also chose a section of Scripture that I hope gives her encouragement when college life becomes difficult. These words are found in Phillippians 4:4-7: "Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
So, in this world of change, this time when the days are getting shorter, remember that the Lord who does not change is near!
God be with you!
Pastor Brad Homan
