I haven't posted anything new for a while, but that may be changing in the not-too-distant future...
Here are some thoughts from a year ago that I never posted. Soon I will likely post one about this this year.
September? 2016
Change is in the air.
Quite literally in fact. Summer has become fall, and now we are bouncing between highs of 80 and 50. The leaves here at camp are also in full change mode, but all at different stages. The walnuts lost their leaves a few weeks ago, now the hickories are in full yellow, while the oaks cling to their green crowns.
Change happens slowly, often slower than we notice. It's been slowly getting cooler, then it will warm up a bit again, then drop even more. Slowly we've put away the paddle boats, the gaga ball pit, the outdoor volleyball, and the 9 square. Camp is slowly getting ready for the coming winter. Even my beard is creeping longer and longer as I take procrastinate longer and longer between shaves :)
When I look back over this last (almost) year (it's only been a year!!) since I started working at Menno Haven I am amazed at the changes I've experienced.
On a personal level I have grown in confidence. I have gained confidence in being able to speak extemporaneously, I am more confident of my role and responsibilities here at camp, and I am becoming more comfortable and fluid in public prayer.
On a spiritual level I am learning to trust God through tough situations and in answering questions that have many months yet to ferment before they can be answered.
On a professional level I am learning how to be an effective pastoral presence in whatever setting I'm required to assume that role. I've also built a comfortable network of peers, advisers, and mentors for those times when I feel in over my head.
These changes have all happened slowly, in fits and starts, and they are far from complete.
Self reflection and confessional times with God continue to reveal the mountain of pride that exists in my life, and my limited knowledge and life experience continues to be a stumbling block. Perhaps the casual observer might not see it in me, but the deeper and closer I move to God the more my short comings and deformities are revealed in the Father's light.
This fall, as I watch the leaves turn beautiful colors and die, I am challenged to think of the areas of my life that still need to fall away, the leaves that I need to surrender, the change that is ongoing. They were perhaps necessary for a season, and some can maybe even be celebrated for the beauty of their utility for this season, but now it may be time to let them go.
Winter is coming soon. A time for rest, an opportunity to prepare for the new growth and change that is right around the corner.
What season are you in right now?
How does God want to change you? Where has God been at work in your life and heart this past week? Season? Year? Are you ready to let go of any old leaves? What is God's hope for you in this time?
May we be aware and present in our current situations, and conscious of the seasons yet to come.
