End of the Summer

Whether you’re ready for it or not, summer is ending. This is Labor Day weekend, kids are back in school, and now that everyone is back from summer vacations, fall programming ramps back up. There is an interesting rhythm to the year in our country—whether we have kids or not, are retired, working, not working, there seems to be a collective “busy-ness” that kicks in in September. The church is no exception. 

           In my life, this summer is ending with a lot of changes. This weekend we take Caroline off to college to the University of Rhode Island. I’m really excited for her! My mother-in-law’s an hour away, where Stephanie grew up. The area has that familiar New England feel. This also makes us empty nesters! Meanwhile, Eric the middle child, just turned 21, has a job, an apartment with his girlfriend, and a 6-week-old baby. We’re empty nesters AND grandparents! And Nathan the oldest, who’s been working in Maryland with a defense subcontractor, is going back to get a Masters in Aerodynamics in the spring. Pray for a research assistantship! Needless to say, we’ve had a lot to absorb in 2025.

           All this change brings up lots of feelings... Spiritually, I have A LOT to be thankful for. God has been very good to us. Yes, we’ve had problems over the years, but they recede into the “cloud of forgetfulness” when God’s Joy impresses itself on my heart. Meanwhile, the fact that I’m getting older also impresses itself on my mind. The “self-inventory” comes with a push to ask and answer the “Now what?” questions—in other words, be at peace and do something meaningful. 

           I’m sure you’ve noticed a lot of “meanwhiles.” But I guess life is like that. Meanwhile, what will my empty nester hobby become? I don’t know…maybe oil painting… 

Peace,

Pr. Christian