SCHOOL STARTS

It is that time again. The start of a school year. Do you remember the beginning of school each year? Summer was over. Haircuts (for boys), school clothes shopping, school supplies (including those wonderful new boxes of Crayons). Some years were more eventlful than others. First grade - BIG. Junior High/Middle school - awesome - new building, a teacher for each class, lockers. High School - nearing the end - especially Senior Year (wooohooooo). College - a little fear, personal responsibility.

We have two in school. Andrew is beginning his Sophmore year of College at the University of Arkansas. He already knows after one day that it will be hard - three Lit. classes with a major paper in each, Spanish taught by a teacher who is fluent in Spanish (not so fluent in English). Benjamin begins Middle School tomorrow at East Helena, Montana Middle School.

Every time something new begins - new job, new house, new school year, new season of the year I can't help but think of the renewal that God gives to those who love Him. We can start fresh. We can change (actually be changed). Even if last year was a bad year, and even if it was bad because of my choices, I can experience freshness.

Just like that brand new box of Crayons. None missing. The colors of the rainbow (the 24 count is my favorite). No broken ones. All with sharp points. Just waiting to produce a work of art, or just to doodle a little. That is how it is with God's renewal. Opportunities abound. Everything new.

I hope you have found the ultimate renewal in Christ through salvation. He really does make all things new. If you are a believer already, I pray that from time to time you seek His ever renewing power.

Steve