Over the past week I have had a couple of friends reach out to me to see how I was doing with the move to Brandon. I told them Gary and I are really enjoying getting to know the people and the ministries of St. Andrew's. I told them the girls and I are enjoying walking in the neighborhood. We love all the trees that line Nature’s Way giving us shade when we walk far. We have all decided that Toppers has amazing ice cream. We have not found the perfect pizza place yet and are open to anyone’s suggestions. Overall, I think we are doing quite well. It is funny how God created us to change, even if it sometimes feels a bit scary. Our girls will be leaving soon for UF. That feels scary because of COVID, but it also feels scary to be an empty nester. Yet still, I know I will continue to see God’s grace in all the changes. One nice thing about getting older is the assurance of God’s faithfulness, even when life is looking uncertain.
Next Sunday, we will have the quarterly update by our lay leaders at the end of each worship service. I will not share those details now, but I have to say that God’s grace has clearly been at work in this church in spite of COVID and all the changes it has brought. I know many churches have been hit hard through this pandemic. We are happy to report that ministry continues to happen at St. Andrew's despite all the changes. It is exciting to see God’s handiwork through the church at a time when much of life seems to be on hold. Please do not despair if you are frustrated by canceled plans, a lost job, or just too much time at home. Change is always a constant in our lives. Thankfully, God’s grace at work around us is also a constant. Scripture tells us that as the people of Israel prepared for huge change in their lives, God spoke these words to them. "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
Those are also words for us today. We too are the people of God and we can trust Him and have assurance that His presence is constantly with us.
Blessings to you today. We hope to see you in worship on Sunday.
Pastor Jayne
Comments