Thursday, April 18, 2013

As the years go by…. God be with you

While I write on this morning in which my spirit is once again reawakening to the real presence of the One Who is alone steadfast, faithful and true to me and you, I am reminded of the saying, "April showers bring May flowers."

 
 

The thought comes to mind that somehow or another the passing of the seasons is meant for us to experience the journey of faith through the passage of time in ways that would bring us closer in our relationship with God. Even when rain showers down upon our lives, though we might not regard it as a blessing at the time, the Lord God almighty is able to turn and uses them for good in our walk with one another in Christ.

 
 

The writer of wisdom in Ecclesiastes (3:1) tells us:

 
 

There is a time for everything,

    and a season for every activity under the heavens:

 
 

In all things taking place under the sun, God works for the good of those who love the Lord, who are the called out ones according to God's purpose. (Romans 8:28)

 
 

As April showers would bring May flowers in this season of Easter through Pentecost, I also find myself reminiscing of times before when I might recall past celebrations of graduations, commencement exercises and wedding ceremonies at springtime. A renewing perspective of theological reflection and familial experience embraces me in these latter days as I bear witness to my eldest child graduating from college, a daughter's confirmation in faith, the baptism of a precious little one to preside over, a niece and Godchild's move from secondary education toward matriculation in her undergraduate studies, and a friend and relative's anticipated vows of promise together in the covenant of marriage.

 
 

It is, for me it seems, amidst the transitions of life and ministry in the Lord that events transpire in a way that can make any sense. Through the ebb and flow of our lives lived for the glory of God in Christ, we are continually transformed by the power and presence of God the Holy Spirit who is ever conforming us to the image of Jesus. (Romans 8:29; 12:2)

 
 

As I await the next season of call for the glory of the Lord, and bid one another farewell upon the upcoming transition in ministry at this time and place under the sun, excerpts of lyrics in the song "Sunrise, Sunset" from the musical Fiddler on the Roof by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick echo within my soul.

 
 

Is this the little girl I carried?

Is this the little boy at play? 

I don't remember growing older

When did they? 

 
 

Sunrise, sunset

Sunrise, sunset

Swiftly flow the days

Seedlings turn overnight to sunflowers

Blossoming even as we gaze

 
 

What words of wisdom can I give them?

How can I help to ease their way? 

Now they must learn from one another

Day by day

 
 

Sunrise, sunset

Sunrise, sunset

Swiftly fly the years

One season following another

Laden with happiness and tears

 
 

The Lord be with you and yours in these seasons under the sun through the passing of the years

 
 

In Christ,

Pastor Rex