The Midwest

A note from John:

As we drive on the Pennsylvania Turnpike on our way to New Jersey, Fall has set in, and the trees are as colorful and vibrant as I’ve ever seen them…This part of North America is so beautiful in the fall, and for some reason always evokes feelings of comfort, warmth, and peace in my soul. I’m thankful for the changing seasons, and how they bring about expectation and tradition in us…I think the physical world and it’s seasons force us as human beings to change and to move forward. But they also force us to take a step back and be still as the world moves on so quickly…I find myself looking back more and finding reasons to be thankful as I remember years past when the leaves fell in Autumn…Remembering what’s important and what’s of value. I think with changing seasons comes expectation and excitement, and a reminder of the promise that God has a plan for me, a hope and a future, and even as life moves forward, and the years go by, I am still his child who he dearly loves, and cares deeply for.

In this time of reflection and thanksgiving, take a step back, and remember how God has led and guided you. Be thankful for times of blessing and the times of trial and how God has used those times to refine and strengthen you…And most of all, find a new trust in him. His ways are higher than ours, and we can’t begin to understand the complexity of his role in our lives, but we CAN receive his love and trust that he is in control every day. - Jon.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28