We recently experienced the Fall Equinox, thus marking the end of summer. The days and nights are close to being equal in time. But the daylight will continue to lessen as we move deeper into autumn.
Since it has been such a hot summer, many people I talk to are looking forward to the cooler weather of fall. You? Personally, I enjoy the heat.
Yet I thoroughly enjoy the beautiful artwork of our Creator as the leaves turn many colors. I used to live in western New York, and there I experienced the beautiful sights of the forests as I drove through the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains. Ahhh! But before we know it, winter will be here.
As much as I hate to admit it, I have entered into the autumn of my life. I have been out of high school 47 years, with my 50-year reunion just around the corner. I don’t know about you, but when I was in my twenties, I thought people who had graduated 50 years ago had one foot in the grave. Heck, I thought people who graduated 25 years ago were old.
I can tell you for certain, I don’t have either foot near my grave. And those who have been out of school for 25 years are so young. Yet I do find myself thinking a lot about my life. Where have the years gone?
What happened to my three little girls? They grew up and got married, that’s what. Now I ask what happened to my little grandchildren. Two are in college and two in high school, that’s what.
Fortunately, I have a 3½-year-old grandson and a granddaughter due in early December. Plus I am blessed with two cute little stepgranddaughters who came into my life when I married their Nana. So maybe I will stay a little younger a little longer.
I also have been reminiscing about my 30+ years in the ministry, and I ask: Where have those years gone? I have received many blessings serving the Lord all these years. I have made many friends.
I must confess, though, being a pastor is not easy. I have heard that the pastorate is one of the last generalist professions that remain. Every other profession is now specialized. Along with the blessings came many frustrations over the years. My mentors have helped me through these times.
The man I still consider to be my pastor has told me more than once, “Being a pastor wouldn’t be so bad if it weren’t for the church members!” I reckon if that quote offends you, you might be one of those members.
Anyway, the time has come for me to retire from pastoral ministry. On Dec. 31, I will have completed 30½ years serving as a senior pastor. I will not, however, be retiring from serving the Lord. No Christian can ever retire from serving the Lord.
Keep on serving and making a difference. Blessings.
Mark Wesler is pastor of New Palestine United Methodist Church. This weekly column is written by local clergy members. Send comments to dr-editorial@greenfield reporter.com.
