September is a strange month. It's still hot and part of summer, but we sometimes consider it part of Autumn. The kids return to school, and the last vacations have ended for the season. But it's still nice enough to cook out. Although, in Maryland, October can be pretty warm as well. For the church, September means a return to some of our regular administrative meetings and preparations for Charge or its sometimes-called Church Conference. Our Conference will be in October, but the preparations will start soon.
I want to encourage anyone who feels called to get involved in the church's ministries, studies, or committees to talk to me or any other leaders. We need to fill some positions on the Evangelism and Outreach committee and the Congregational Care committee. Congrega-tional Care is the group that plans the events and fellowships we enjoy, and Evangelism is our outreach to the surrounding communities. Neither requires a lot of experience, just a willing-ness to try, plan, and be social. If none of those appeal to you, there are other areas to get involved in.
We are also preparing for the busyness that will happen later in November. We gather objects and crafts to sell and find volunteers to help make the bazaar happen. September, for us, is a month of preparing and getting ready-getting ready for school and work, the next season of nature, and the church year.
How do you prepare yourself for the next season of life's events?
In the Bible, we read,
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens (Ecclesiastes 3 NIV)."
The Bible lists events and actions to reflect on as we prepare for what comes next. Or you can look for the song by the Byrds from 1965, "Turn Turn Turn." And play that as you prepare.
But no matter what you are getting ready for, remember that God seeks to bless and guide you on your way.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. (Jeremiah 29:11-12NIV)."
Don't forget to get in touch with God's plan as you make your own.
Pastor Josh
