Monthly Archives: May 2006

My father became a weather forcaster when he was around 40 years old.

For all the weather maps he brought home (and there were a number — just the right size for coloring on), I never really figured out this whole weather system thing.

When a high pressure system comes in the low leaves – or is it the other way around?  And which one brings the nice weather? 

We had a barometer in the house.  Dad seemed to know which weather system was on the way just by looking at it.  I liked its look because it was framed by a beautiful dark stained wood.

Which may explain why I enjoy wood work more than weather wonders!

You need a plan.

That’s what we are told. 

I was talking to a cancer patient today.  The plans weren’t that extensive.  Maybe minute by minute is good.  Or into next week.

On the other hand, we bought a house that needed work.  We could have sought to do everything at one time.  But when we sat down, the realism of the situation presented itself.  So, we developed a three phase plan. 

Renew the upstairs was Phase I.  Phase II is outdoor renovation.  We have had water in the basement.  That needed to be corrected with proper landscaping.  Then we can move to Phase III – fix up the basement flooring and repaint the walls.

All in proper timing.

Life presents itself that way.  To chew off too much at one time would kill us — or at least give excrutiating indigestion.

When I was a youth Friday evening was fun night. 

We had a group of us who got together and we would do all sorts of activities.  I still fondly remember things from Sadie Hawkins picnic baskets to Scavenger Hunts to sitting around and just talking.

Tonight Jill and I started out on a walk together. 

Friday night.  Around the block.  By the A&W.  Up a back alley.  Into the bowling alley.

We had heard balls hitting pins as we ventured up the back alley.  30 years ago we bowled in a league in the same bowling alley.  5 of us on the team.  Our bowling was terrible.  Our handicap was high. 

The final tournament arrived and we all played our best games ever.  We won the tournament, went out for coffee and split up the prize money.  Two couples and one single.

Tonight there was a group of Junior Hi’s with their pastor.  Attempting to bowl.  We yelled encouragement.  Tried to help.  Laughed. 

And as we walked home I remembered why I like Friday nights!!

OK, not quite all.

Today I went back through the church directory.  From 1984 onwards there is a parade of names.  Some I recognize – some I have trouble pronouncing!

I could note times when people moved on.  Some to another church.  Some to another town.  Some to heaven.  And some to nowhere.

I could note times when people moved in.  Some from another church.  Some from another town.  Some in need of heaven.  And some because this was better than the nowhere they were headed.

I’ve been reviewing our church history.  The statistics are merely an indication.   We are not seeing exceptional growth.  In fact, we are just trying to stabilize.

Someone asked me if I am discouraged.   I suppose my first answer would be – “Should I be?”  We are reaping a time of wind and fire.  For right now, visible flames are not to be seen.  Nor is the wind anywhere near gale strength.

So, my answer right now is, “I’m not discouraged but I am realistic.”  As with any group of people there are times that bring a new perspective on life — unfortunately we have to go through the fire and wind to get there. 

One of the slogans our denomination uses is — “We do nothing with out praying first.”  

Sometimes I wish prayer went faster!  Right now we are listening — to see where God is moving.  I sense some perspectives arising — we are the only church in our subdivision, we have a history of innovation and excellence, we have the ability to produce events well, and we have a core of people who are deeply committed to Jesus!

Just a start!!