Transition, according to dictionary.com, is “the movement, passage, or change from one position, state, stage, subject, concept, etc., to another.”
The transition of seasons, the changes in the academic year, the seasons of life, the changes in our congregation – some transitions are more impactful than others. The Daylight Saving Time change is minimal when compared with all the changes we are seeing in our world and daily life these days.
So – how do we, as Christians, deal with transitions?
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NKJV)
That middle part – in everything – is what often trips up even the best intentioned among us, and yet heartfelt thanks is something we always have as we rejoice because of Christ Jesus.
As we come through this time of harvest and the celebration day for giving thanks, let us keep in mind that we should pray without ceasing and rejoice always.
And in the transitions, we humble ourselves, bow down before Him, and lift up our souls to God in prayer even as we give thanks. As for myself, I say along with St. Paul:
15 For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, (Ephesians 1:15-16)
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving – today and every day!
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Jim Kirschenmann
Zion Lutheran Church, Vassar, Kan.
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