Those of us over the age of forty remember when “opening windows” meant that you turned the crank. I still do that in my truck. All my controls are manual. Now, since the new age of the personal, home computer in the last forty years, “opening Windows” means starting Microsoft-ware operating system. Conventional, actual windows don’t get opened much in Florida, either at home or driving. Many of us can’t handle the humidity aspect. We all look forward to the first cool snap in October or November when it feels refreshing to open things off and give the A.C. a break. Same goes for February or March when it warms up just enough to do the same.

  Our relationship with God means keeping the windows of our souls open to the Holy Spirit’s action. Think of that first, humidity-free breeze. We sigh contentedly, smile. That healthy Co2 replenishing our breathing apparatus. It is also about vision, our “window on the world”. Sharing the vision that is ours courtesy of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. “Sharing” is the first word in Joy Lutheran’s mission statement. It’s kind of like opening a window adjacent to your neighbor’s and sharing stories of life. There’s been a lot of “window ministry” during these days of coronavirus. Prayer is another window that allows for the reception of God’s grace for us. “Keep a window open for the Spirit”, said Pope John XXIII. When it comes to evangelism, sharing the Good News, we must finally dispense with the notion of competition. If only…our nation collectively, without denominational biases, turned as one to God for deliverance. I believe that God’s window is open to pouring out His blessings and healing our divisiveness. We must be ready all the time for God to do new things in us. We have adapted to Microsoft Windows, power windows. I know that our Sexton Harold takes great pride and delight in using the remote on Sunday mornings to “magically” open the blinds in the worship space so that our colorful stained glass windows can catch the sunlight of God’s radiant beams. Our windows on the world, and the windows to our souls, should always be open to the possibilities and opportunities we have to be made new again.

Unconditional love is the gift that awaits all who would simply believe and trust. Time is precious; events become more dire, and the need for God’s forgiving mercies is strong. I hope and pray that more lost souls and closed windows would be open to His amazing grace.

Pastor Art