Waxing nostalgia, I looked at pictures that chronicled our blissful, blessing-filled Hawaii tour of adventures from 1996-1999. I had gotten those dream orders to Pacific Fleet Band, based at Pearl Harbor. Amy was half-way through 2^nd grade when we arrived. Great memories! We were able to visit the Big Island of Hawaii and walk on the “Black Desert” of lava rock, while seeing the orange glow flow off the cliff into the ocean, and the steam thereof. Breathtaking. We also got to Kauai and Maui, and I did a Navy band gig on Molokai, looking down from 900 feet upon the old leper colony. I have enjoyed hearing your stories of trips taken to the Hawaiian Islands and comparing notes.

 I am thankful for those Navy experiences, grateful that God seemed to put us in the right place at the right time. There were places I missed out on, and I ruefully reflect on not getting to Singapore, Hong Kong, or Italy. But there was Perth, Australia, Christmas of 1986. A charmed 20-year career, it was. It prepared me for 2002 and beyond, the full-of-grace opportunity to be a pastor. The seasoning was invaluable to and for the ministry I am ordained into. I love swapping seas stories with fellow parishioners/shipmates. It was an honor yesterday to acknowledge that once again as the “Amazzzzzing Steel Drum Ensemble” played tribute to the branches of the military at our “Seasons of JOY!” Concert.

You have memories too. We live vicariously through one another. Together, we remember that we are claimed by our Lord Jesus Christ, redeemed by His precious blood, and part of his merry band of 21^st Century disciples. There is no greater “tour of duty”. We sail out upon uncertain seas, sometimes turbulent waters, but always knowing who captains our ship and says, “Fear not.” Wherever the tides and currents take us, we know that the winds are fair. So, sit back and enjoy the voyage, riding the waves of God’s unconditional love.

Pastor Art