passing of the years

My friend Kim D turned 40 today. She's had a full day of being celebrated by many of her friends here in the SC, and there's more to come. Kim and I are taking her out for din-din tonight, which should be fun. The food at the Tavern (a State College landmark) is fabuloso.

40 years--that's a lot of living. It's not too far off in my distant future, either.

I always wondered if I'd be a youth pastor at 40. There seems to be a lot of speculation about that--how long can a person relate to middle and high school students.

I'll admit to stressing over that call. There are lots of days when I can't imagine anything better than ministry with students. I think that years add perspective and experience that a kid fresh out of college simply can't have--even one armed with the super-powerful BA in youth ministry.

I am praying for KD today, and for others like us, close to the mid-point in life.

May we have the wisdom we need, the ears to hear the Spirit's voice, the courage to follow Jesus boldly, and the compassion for others that Jesus displayed. May our lives be guided by the Spirit of God. May our hands and feet--all our resources--be used to build up others. May we live humbly, simply, and fearlessly. May our lives be marked by an unwavering love of God and others.