I love the seasons that lead up to Easter!  But I also love to celebrate the days that follow the resurrection holiday.  It is always a very special time of year.  The air smells fresh, the grass becomes green, flowers break through, and the longer days remind me that the darkness of winter has faded away.  It is a wonderful time to celebrate the newness of life.

Our Lenten conversations reminded us that God loves to break through into our lives.  Spring and the experience of Easter is one of the ways God reminds us of those break through moments.  It is time for life that is lived with a spirit of joy.

For many of us the season of Spring also helps us recall that the restoration of the land also reflects the renovation of our own lives.  Typically, that means some kind of change, renewal, or transformation.  Just like the weather shifts from snow to afternoon showers, so our lives are rekindled by the change that comes our way.

There is no question that this is a time of significant change for the life of our congregation.  One way that change and transformation arrives is through natural growth.  Our worship services are growing, our classrooms are full to over flowing, and our preschool is at capacity with a waiting list.  Growth naturally means that things do not stay the same.  We continue to change as the wind of the Spirit moves us forward.

Another new element is the launch of the Tapestry congregation.  By summer, the plan will be coming to life!  People are gathering even now as they prepare for the early steps of the launch process.  Before long, they will locate a place for worship and the development of new life will be moving forward.  As one experience come to an end, another fresh beginning is born.

The Tapestry launch will also mean a change in our staffing patterns along with the responsibilities that various staff members carry.  Old systems will give birth to new faces and fresh fields of ministry.

In the middle of changing times, we can be eternally thankful that there are some things that stay the same.  I Corinthians 13 reminds us that faith, hope and love always abide.  And the Book of Hebrews tells us that God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.  New life is always a gift.  So is the faith that makes it all happen.   I am so amazed at the goodness of God.  Every time I look at the beautiful things the Lord is doing in our church, I can only confess that God has been good!

Let the Son shine on your life!  As always, I am looking forward to seeing you on Sunday!

Peace

Randy Jessen