As I drove up Stebner Road yesterday the sun was shining through the trees calling attention to the brilliant colors of Autumn.
Like me, I am sure you have noticed the hours of daylight are shorter, the air is cooler and the leaves have begun their journey of change and transition. This is my favorite time of the year. I like putting my jeans and sweatshirts back on after the warmth of summer. And for me, this season prepares me for the season of winter, a time to go in deep to reflect and reconnect with my inner most self – and with God.
The seasons of the year remind us that life is full of change and transition. If we pay attention we realize there is beauty and meaning in each season of the year and in each of our seasons of life. There may be times of challenge and difficulty but we can always be assured we are not making the journey alone. God’s presence and love, strength and compassion are with us each step of the way.
Last Thursday at our Moses study we closed our time together by reading this Scripture passage from Isaiah 43:
But now, says the Lord —
the One who created you Jacob,
the One who formed you Israel:
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
when through the rivers,
they won’t sweep
over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned, and the flame will not
consume you.
I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. . . Because you are
precious in my eyes,
and honored, and I love you.
I give people in return for you,
and nations in exchange for your life.
(Isaiah 43:1-3a, 4)
Here at Asbury our new “church program year” is in full swing. Sunday school has begun and our children are busy learning about God, Jesus and our faith. Committees are meeting and planning and ministry is happening. A group of adults are meeting weekly to learn about Moses, the reluctant prophet. We made pasties and are now preparing for pies, donuts, the Fall Pantry and our much-anticipated Meatball Dinner!
This Messenger is full of information and opportunities that tell a story about who we are as a community of faith. Come and participate, invite your family and friends. This is a place that welcomes the stranger, embraces the hurting and celebrates God’s great gifts of mercy, forgiveness, compassion, and love.
Blessings,
Pastor Cindy