Although those lines refer to graduation, they also fit for most of us on our life’s journey.  The past has so much more clarity than the future – especially right now.  The past may seem comfortable and secure, the future can feel scary and uncertain.  And yet, as people of faith we believe that as God has been with us in the past, so God will be with us now and in the future.  

We are leaning into a season of graduation.  Our high school, college and post college graduates are entering an exciting and celebrative time of transition in their lives.  Unfortunately, no one graduating will get to go through a normal graduation – everything will be done remotely and virtually, at least for the Spring.  As part of that, and in some small way of wanting to keep a little normalcy in the midst of the current disruption, we would like to honor our graduates here in the Wave in the coming month.  To that end, we’re asking all graduates (or parents) to send in a photo along with a few lines of where you are graduating from and what your hoped-for next steps are.  Please send your submission to Lauren prior to Friday, May 29. 
 
This coming Sunday is Mother’s Day when we honor the women in our lives who have nurtured us, loved us and blessed us especially during our formative years.  Normally, we would hand out carnations to all the moms in the congregation, but since that won’t be happening this year – let me offer a deep word of gratitude to all who are mothers and who have been like mothers to others.   Having additional time for reflection during these past weeks, perhaps we can all give thanks for those in our lives who have displayed mothering qualities.  And for those who are mothers, perhaps you can be thankful for opportunities to nurture those entrusted to your care.
 
Let’s consider graduates and moms, times of transition and those key people in our lives who have helped shape us along the way - for these are the days the Lord has made and we will be glad and celebrate!
                                                
Appreciatively,

Rev. Dr. David D. Young
Senior Minister