Good morning, Besides the election the most popular topic of conversation this week has been the awesome November weather. It’s been wonderful to step outside without grabbing a jacket, take walks and soak up summer-like sunshine without mosquitoes spoiling the moment. What makes these days even sweeter and more precious is that we know they won’t last. The forecast calls for a chill and clouds by next Tuesday. Along with the enjoyment there is a sense of urgency. The neighbors have been out mowing their lawns. I’ve emptied flower pots and stored the garden hoses for the winter. It’s a good reminder that just as seasons come to an end, Jesus warns us that this earth itself will not endure. We are living in the last season of history. It’s a time to appreciate and soak up the sunshine of God’s grace. Each new day is a precious gift. “Because of the LORD’S great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning” (Lam. 3:22-23). We want to fully appreciate the beauties of creation, the smiles of loved ones, the satisfaction of a job well done, and all the other blessings which make life on earth joyful. At the same time, we want to keep in mind that they won’t last forever. This present time is God’s gift for us to use in preparing for the end of all things when Jesus returns. “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation” (2 Cor. 6:2). Now is the time, not tomorrow or the next day, to prepare our hearts for what comes next by trusting in Jesus for the righteousness we need to stand before God and looking forward to the glory of heaven. A beautiful, warm day—a gift of God! Let’s enjoy it. May we also use it to its fullest in reading and listening to the Lord in His Word, speaking to Him in prayer, and knowing that really, the best is yet to come! Yours in Christ, Pastor Service times tomorrow are 8:00 and 10:45 a.m. Our intergenerational Sunday school will meet in the fellowship area at 9:30 a.m. to view the second part of a mission presentation by the CLC Committee on Domestic Fields. All ages are welcome. Here is the link for service signup: https://tinyurl.com/y2j5r8sn Signing up for the Sunday service by 6 p.m. Saturday is appreciated and helpful and a way of showing Christian love for one another. It gives the Elders and ushers an idea of how many people to prepare for. When you sign up you can also see how full the service will be, and if you wish, consider attending the other service. By signing up, you can easily be informed if that were advisable because of contact with someone at the service who later became ill. The governor’s mask order is still in effect for all indoor spaces, including churches. Masks are available in the entry if you forget yours.
