As young people growing up in any age, music always seems to play an an important part in expressing whatever is happening in the world at that time. It was no different for me. One of those artists was James Taylor. His music always told stories about life and the words to his songs seemed to reflect my world, my joys, my concerns.
With everything going on lately…fires, floods, people and animals trying to escape the danger…it only makes his words seem closer to home. “I’ve seen fire and I’ve seen rain.” Seems like a song written for our time.
Fires and Floods
Our world is changing quickly. The environment we deal with is much more subject to the extreme weather we now face. Fires are raging up here in the Northland. Homes close to us have been destroyed. The good news is no one has lost their life. We want to lift everyone affected up in prayer.
There’s more to this song though than just the opening line. “I’ve seen sunny days that I thought would never end.” We live in one of the most picturesque cities in America. As fickle as the weather can be here, we still enjoy great summer weather, ideal for walking the beaches on Park Point or Brighton Beach. We are aware these are precious times; our summers are short and our winters are long. And, as we approach June, we imagine these sunny days will never end.
Truthfully, it is the isolation of the long winters that makes us appreciate the summer days. As the song reminds us. “I’ve seen lonely times when I could not find a friend.” One of the reasons that I am drawn to church is that I find people who care about me. It’s a community of believers and people who value the gathering of friends, a listening ear to share stories with, and even grieve with. Our church families are healthy places for us to grow up in and grow old in. I am ever grateful to be a part of your lives and I believe that I can be a good person for you to share your life with.
Don’t Be a Stranger
Summer is the time that we all seem to take some time off. Not necessarily from church, but to explore the world around us. I have heard of some people going on vacations here or there. But… come the fall, I expect to see everyone again. “But I always thought I’d see you again.” I love hearing about your summers and all the activities we collectively are doing: home repairs, painting the house, going on a canoe trip, or just basking in the sun. Then, as the summer comes to a close, I start looking forward to the familiar faces, football season, and fall soccer with the grandkids. I am always happiest when I see you all again.
Please continue to worship as often as you can. Support your church and have a few barbeque suppers in the evenings. Stay healthy and engaged and be a friend to all. God knows who we are and what we need, and we need each other.
I see you!
Blessings and Peace,
Pastor Jeff