Today I feel like summer is almost here, that I can breathe in the air and not be afraid that it might snow again. My first summer indicator was that I was at my parent’s cottage today and I was so happy to think that SOON it would be cottage time. I could smell the summer smell! I almost wheelbarrowed myself into the river, but I didn’t even care, I was just so happy to be outside! My second summer indicator was not so fun. Over the weekend, I did the task that all womankind dread – the changing of the closets for a new season. (ok, maybe some men do this too….I don’t want to be presumptuous). It seems like over the winter, things just stack up – and it feels SO good to get things cleaned out and ready for a new season. Bye bye boots, hello flip flops that I adore. See ya later sweaters, hello shorts! It’s a good feeling, I’m not gonna lie!
I love seasons, because each one brings a new thing. A new time, a new focus, new exciting opportunities and challenges. Time even to look back and “clean out” if you will, things that we don’t need, and focus on what is fresh and exciting for what is ahead.
I am astounded to think that I am almost finishing up my first year here at Compass Point. Where has the time gone? It’s significant to me, to complete a first year of something – to go through all the seasons – especially in ministry. I am glad that I am coming up upon that completed year cycle. That I have have been able to learn, grow and connect with the church through the different seasons. It’s had it’s high moments, and it’s low ones (mostly high 
) - like any seasons that we go through. I am happy to say that I am coming out of it feeling incredibly blessed and assured that God is directing our children’s ministry, that he is directing me and that we move ahead with confidence in whatever he has for the future!
I am excited about this summer – we are doing 3 children’s outreach programs – one at each campus. That is very important to us as we try to grow our ministries in our various communities. We will be doing SUMMER SLAM VBS at both our Kerns and Ellis campus - this year our theme is Godrocks! Starlight Rescue – A Galactic Adventure in God! We also will be hosting a Sports Camp at our Eaglesfield Campus. Exciting times as we have opportunities to connect with children and families in our community. The summer season gives us a great outlet to share Jesus! Look also for some Family Connect events, just some time to hang out and get to know each other and build relationship – that is important as well, as we grow together.
One thing that always reassures me, no matter what season I am in personally, or ministry wise – is that Jesus remains our strength through all our seasons of life. While things around us may change, he is our constant. Our rock. Our Fortress, in HIM we can trust and in HIM we get our strength. I can face anything as long as I have Jesus by my side. My steadfast in all the seasons!
Spring Cleaned Shelly
