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We've officially entered my favorite season—September and football season! The Huskers kick off this Saturday, and the hope and anticipation in the air are contagious. I know I say this every year, but I just can't help myself; this time of year fills me with such joy. There's something about college football that just makes my heart sing!
This year feels even more special as Analise and I are back from a truly wonderful vacation. The cruise to Alaska was breathtaking—words simply can't capture the majesty of the glaciers, the beauty of the wildlife, and the tranquility of the open sea. It was a time of much-needed rest and reflection. Though the trip was incredible, it was followed by an unexpected bout with COVID, which knocked me down for a while. But, thanks to God's grace and your prayers, I'm feeling much better and am so grateful to be back on my feet.
As much as I enjoyed my time away, I'm thrilled to be back home with all of you. I can't wait to return to the pulpit. There's something about getting back into the routine of ministry that feels like coming home in the truest sense. I've missed the fellowship, the worship, and the joy of sharing God's word with you all.
This time of year often stirs up a bit of nostalgia for me. September has a way of reminding me how quickly time passes. I think back to the excitement I felt as a boy at the start of each new school year, and later, as a young dad, watching my own children begin their school journeys. Now, seeing my grandchildren head off to sixth and second grades, I can't help but wonder, "Where has the time gone?" It feels like just yesterday our daughter Sarah was in sixth grade, and our son Peter was starting kindergarten.
I still vividly remember taking Peter to his first day of kindergarten—holding his tiny hand, walking him to his classroom, and helping him find his seat. It was such a tender moment for Analise and me. We were misty-eyed as we watched him settle in, wondering how he would manage without us. And then, after a few minutes of our hovering, Peter looked up and said, "You can go now." That memory always brings a smile to my face.
As much as I cherish these memories, I've learned that dwelling on the past can sometimes prevent us from fully embracing the present. There's a passage from Isaiah that says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past." The word "dwell" means to reside, and where we reside is where we live. I believe God is encouraging us not to live in the past because if we do, we might miss out on the present God's giving us today.
While a trip down memory lane can be heartwarming, being consumed by what used to be can be unhealthy and unproductive. Whether the past was good or bad, holding onto it too tightly can prevent us from moving forward. It's easier said than done, I know, but I want to encourage you today to let go of your regrets. Don't wrap yourself in a blanket of past mistakes or missed opportunities and tuck yourself away from life. If you feel like the best days of your life are behind you, remember this: if you keep thinking that way, they will be.
Especially in a year like 2024, when so much has been unexpected, it's more important than ever to find ways to live hopefully and joyfully. This moment—right now—is all we truly have.
Blessings,
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