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There are some days when ministry – the vocational type – tips various balance points in the minister’s life.

Today I was a little late to arise.  I felt the need to rejuvenate so I wasn’t up until shortly after 8:00.  I only had to brush up on my sermon, along with attending a funeral. 

Until I found that one of my parishioners was in the hospital.  And another parishioner, whom I had not spent time with for some time, invited me out to lunch.  As the afternoon completed, I found that I was energized by Jesus.  Not a bad thing.

For all the best plans, sometimes there are other plans.  And I need to be ready to flow with where God is headed.

Am I young or am I old?

I’m am 60 (almost).  I have always considered myself to be the next year’s age – which is always just around the corner.

So, I have been in a dilemma trying to figure out what 60 means for me.  Mostly the conundrum comes from those who talk to me with varying degrees of advice.

On the one side, yesterday someone called me into the category of the seniors (of which she was one).  “We older people can now speak our minds.  We can do what we want to do.  We are mature.”  I like living on this side of being a senior!

On the other side, I am being told I am young. 

I like that thought, especially when I look in the mirror!  OK, most are not referring to my looks.  Most are referring to my seeking out a new wife.  My first wife, Jill, would have been in total agreement – get to it!!  Others figure the best years of life are still ahead for a “senior just turning 60.”  I agree and am on that journey with intention and intensity!

So, today I am ready to begin the day.  I think I have solved the dilemma.  I will suspend time and just get on with living!!

As I awoke this morning, I wondered what phrases spill from God’s heart to mine.  This has been a busy last few weeks, and the sabbath of my soul is found best in God made real through Jesus and given live through His Spirit!

• You are my beloved
• Your sins are taken because of Jesus’ work of redemption
• Your life is given abundance in Jesus’ name
• You are called to others
• You are called to serve
• Enjoy this day – I have made it!

And so I head into this day with assurance and desire to see what God has for me!

As I awoke this morning, I immediately began thinking of things that this year will include.  Little things and big things.  All things that will make for an eventful year.

And now, I’m off to the first event – back to work!  The holidays have been great – a bit of work and more of family time.

My reflection on the past year is that change is inevitable.  Only God knows what is going to happen.  I’m glad for that.  What looked to be disastrous in the death of my wife, has become a glorious beginning.

Jill has been welcomed home.  To a place where there are no more heart problems or people conflicts or budget concerns.

At the same time, I have begun new relationships that have stretched me.  Both with the way our society views certain customs, and with the health and joy that friendship and companionship brings.

Our church has weathered the change of new people.  This coming year will be one of adopting wholeheartedly those who have come, and welcoming in even more people who seek to be kingdom keepers with us.

In all, this year looks to be the same as last year.  Which means nothing is the same!