REFLECTIONS...
It is the eve of a "milestone" for me personally. I am officially turning 65. The age where you qualify for Medicare, for ALL senior adult discounts, and realize that you have been around for a while. I catch myself saying "I remember when..." and I do. But don't ask me about a few hours ago. And I laugh at myself more and more. I "belong" to the "Old Guys Rule Club". I have a shirt that basically states my motto "The older I get, the better I was!" Which means that I am getting better and better - at least in my imagination. Isn't it amazing how awesome we were in our memories (not necessarily realities) of our past ...
Seriously, hitting this "milestone" is causing me to reflect. As I look back over the years I see God's hand so loving, yet firm, guiding and sometimes even carrying me through life. There are joyful times, stressful times, challenging times, and incredible time. There are times of pain and tears, and times of joy and laughter. But God is always there - whether I recognize it at the time or not... He is. And from all of these experiences, I have been, and continue to be, molded into the person that I am. It is truly an ongoing process. As I reflect upon my crazy adventure (so far) I still believe that I am the richest (not monetarily wealthiest), but truly the richest man that I know. Faith, Family, and Friends really does say it all. And I thank YOU for being a part of making my life richer.
Last Sunday I missed an incredible Service. The Praise band was awesome, attendance good, and Matt shared a powerful message. Thank you for allowing me to be where I needed to be - with my parents. An update, Dad is progressing extremely well. He is in great spirits and back to being himself. Please continue to pray for his afib and knees - which are "his thorn in the side". My beautiful spunky Mom just turned 86 and we were able to celebrate her birthday with her. Again, I appreciate my FCC family being so concerned and supportive of my "original" family.
So, as I reflect, I am also renewing, recharging, and refocusing. There is so much more life to live! For those of you who think 65 is old, let me remind you that Benjamin Franklin signed the Declaration of Independence at age 70, Grandma Moses did not start painting until age 76, Moses began leading the Israelites out of Egypt at age 80, and Sarah was 90 and Abraham 100 when Issac was born. So if age is just a number, well, I guess I'm just getting started...! I hope to see you Sunday...
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!" (Isaiah 43:18-19a)
Remember, YOU ARE LOVED!
Pastor Lonnie
"More in 2024"
(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or text 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)