From the Pulpit: Bring it to fulfillment

When we think of the month of August, what usually comes to mind?  Probably, we most often think about the end of summer and the beginning of school! I’m sure there are a lot of other things that happen in this month that are important, especially for our farmers. However, it seems like most often August prepares us for transitional moments in our lives, especially for our children and youth. Not only can it be challenging for our kids going off to our local schools or even college, but also for the parents who guide them through these transitional days.  

Often when I think of these August days, I recall the life of Moses of whom we read about in the Old Testament. Moses was called by God to prepare and lead the Israelites out of slavery in the land of Egypt and into the Promised Land. This was a difficult task that he didn’t feel he was qualified to carry out for God.  Immediately after he is called he questions God by saying, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” God showed Moses his purpose and prepared him not only for this initial task but also that he would need to teach the Israelites to trust God and to be faithful followers.  Again, this was not an easy task, but he did it.

So, my encouragement is not only for our children and youth, but also for our parents during these somewhat challenging or difficult days ahead. You, like Moses, were given a great task and also an opportunity to assist your children for these profound moments in their lives. You taught them the skills to be persistent during adversity, courageous to stand for what is right and perseverance to reach their goals. Are there areas where we could have done better? Probably, as nobody is perfect.  

Moses prepared, guided and taught the Israelites for 40 years for the day they would enter the Promised Land.  Just prior to that day, Moses climbed Mount Nebo (Deuteronomy 34) only to look at the Promised Land to which he would send the Israelites to inherit, but of which he would not be allowed to enter. Moses had done all that he could do but now entrusted them to the Lord to finish the good work that the Lord had begun through him. I don’t think many of our local principals or college professors will allow our parents to stick around for too long at the schools before affirming them in the good work they too have done, and then kicking them out the door. It is time to trust the administrators, and ultimately the Lord, to continue the work for another year of school.  

“Be strong and steadfast; have no fear or dread of them, for it is the Lord, your God, who marches with you; he will never fail you or forsake you.” - Deuteronomy 31