Dear Beloved Members of Lord of Life,

As we gather together in this blessed community of faith, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity you continue to give me to try new things in my vocation. In the spirit of our Lutheran tradition, let us journey together through the month of September, seeking God's guidance and grace as we continue to both work and rest as disciples of Christ.

September arrives as a time of transition, a bridge between the warmth of summer and the coolness of autumn. Our young members prepare to return to their labor as students, and we gather to bless them and their educational journey. Let us lift them up in prayer, asking for God's guidance and protection as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As the students begin their work, farmers too prepare to reap the benefits of their tireless labor in the fields. In this transformational season, let us also be reminded of the beauty of change and the steadfastness of God's love. We extend our prayers and gratitude to the farming community, recognizing their vital role in providing sustenance for our tables and the broader community. May God's blessings be upon them as they continue to toil and harvest the fruits of their labor.

We begin this month by celebrating Labor Day. This national holiday is a time to honor the contributions of workers and the labor movement in our country. It's a day to recognize the dignity of work and the importance of justice and fair treatment for all laborers. As Lutherans, we are called to uphold the values of justice and fairness, and this Labor Day, let us reflect on how we can better support workers and advocate for economic equity in our communities.

Labor Day also offers us a unique opportunity to connect our faith with our daily lives. The work we do, whether in our jobs, homes, or communities, is a calling from God. But Labor Day also reminds us that just as God rested on the seventh day, we too should make time in our busy schedules to rest. Rest itself is valuable and important to God. It helps us to slow down, recover, and reconnect with ourselves, our families, our communities and God. Rest is a spiritual practice we have the opportunity to practice this month.  

As we journey through this September, let us hold fast to our faith, knowing that God's love and grace are with us every step of the way, in labor and in rest. Our church family is a source of strength, support, and love, and I am grateful for each one of you.

I invite you to join me in prayer for our congregation, our community, and the world at large. May God's spirit guide us as we seek to live out our faith in meaningful and impactful ways.

Blessings,

Pastor Adam