Happy Summer

I’ve always thought that August is a weird month. I might be one of only a few who think this way. In many ways, it’s part of summer - some people are still taking vacations and enjoying the great outdoors. We hold our annual barbeque. The weather is often so hot that we have our air conditioners working at their maximum settings.

But in other ways, August marks the END of summer and the beginning of the autumn season. Many public and private schools and universities begin during the last few weeks of August. Some of our summer playthings may be placed into storage until next year. Summer crops have been harvested and fall crops begin to ripen.

For me, as a pastor, August marks a time of preparation for the upcoming school year, and a return to a fuller schedule in the church. Sunday School, choir and other ministries resume after a summer hiatus. These all need some planning and preparation. I really enjoy the summer and its time of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. But I also appreciate the return to regular routine and a time of refocusing.

That’s an important part of August for me. Looking at where we want to be as individual children of God AND as a family of faith, called upon to share God’s love with others.
As I write this, I am part of a group of youth and adults involved in a summer “Vacation Bible School”. Our congregation, as well as St. Martin’s LC and Bethlehem LC in Webster, are sharing God’s love and the Light of Christ with almost 30 younger children. Five adults and four teenagers from our congregation are giving of themselves to let these youngsters know that they are loved by God and God’s people.

Seeing the joy and excitement in these youngsters gives me peace. Watching them learn and grow in their lives as children of God gives me hope for the future. Witnessing the commitment and dedication of our adults and teens gives me the assurance I can use to strengthen me to face our journey together into the future.

With all the various problems facing the world, with all the struggles challenging individuals and families today, with all the confusion that surrounds us daily, I find hope that God is still working in us. We have so much more to do. We have a great deal to offer to this troubled world.

August is a great time to plan and prepare for an exciting new year of doing God’s work in this world. I hope and pray that are enjoying your summer, and that you are looking forward to a new year of ministry at Transfiguration Lutheran Church.

Yours in Christ’s Love & Service,
Pastor Craig