Cross Lutheran Church

It's time for a NEW Pictorial Directory for Cross! Please use this link to sign up for your pictures!  Free Picture and Directory. Orders for additional pictures can be placed, but are not required. URL: https://booknow-lifetouch.appointment-plus.com/ydyq9z3g.

This last December my wife of 32 years and I parted ways, getting divorced. This mutual decision was difficult, but necessary. With the divorce changes quickly unfolded for me. Moving, decisions on possessions, paperwork, address changes, new community, new neighbors, new doctors, etc. It felt like wave and wave of change came my way. Most of the changes were expected, yet some unexpected. 

My challenge with these changes centered on how I would react and take responsibility. Would I take on the unpleasant changes with openness and commitment or would I try to overlook them for the time being. Would I resist the changes or embrace them? Would I make the necessary adjustments needed with all the changes or not. 

My son and daughter, Eric and Laura, are adjusting to this new family reality. Even though they are young adults it is still a huge shift in their world. I’ve kept in close contact with them theses past months letting them know that they will still have a strong relationship with me and with their mother. My relationship with them is a work in progress and more of our friends and acquaintances becomes aware of what I’ve termed “The Great Departure.” 

What changes are you experiencing in your life these days? What are you challenges with these changes? Which are difficult to adjust to and which are easier? Do you find yourself growing as a person and as a follower of Christ through these changes. 

With your changes how are you taking responsibility? How are others helping you navigate all the changes? How has your faith in Christ given you strength to move ahead in your faith and life? 

In Hebrews we read that Jesus is “the same, yesterday, today, and forevermore.” At the end of Matthew’s gospel Jesus gives the Great Commission. Jesus concludes his directive to baptism all nations with the words, “and, behold, I am with you to the end of the ages.” 

I hope that you experience the presence of Jesus with you every step of the way in your life changes. Trust the presence of Jesus. Celebrate God’s presence being with you every step of the way. Personally, my faith in Christ has brought me through tough life changes. His grace and love uphold me and can uphold you in your life changes as well. 

Peace, 

-Pastor Durk K. Peterson