But, the time has now come for Nathan to take seriously those conversations about "what I want to do when I grow up." It is time for him to begin that transition from thinking to doing, for looking at the possibilities in the world and putting to use the talents he has been given. I can hardly remember what it is like to be 17 years old and have the whole world before you and the possibility of doing anything you want with the gifts and talents you have. How exciting it must be to consider all the possibilities of the future.

At 168 years old it may seem a little strange to be having conversations about "what I want to do when I grow up," but that is exactly what we, as a congregation, are being invited to do.

Like Nathan, a whole world of possibilities lies before us. God has granted us a myriad of gifts and talents to use in a world full of possibilities to bear witness to the gospel and serve our neighbor in need. And now is the time to take a serious look at those gifts and needs and decide what we want to do with our future.

The Evangelism and Mission Committee is inviting each and every one of us to take part in a conversation, a holy conversation, about our future. On Sunday, October 8 following worship and lunch (provided by the committee), you are invited to participate in a discussion of the future ministries of Immanuel Lutheran Church. It will be a conversation among ourselves and with God about our gifts, our desires, and our call to share the gospel with the world. It will be a conversation not only about "what we want to do when we grow up," but, with God’s guidance, also a transition from "talking" to "doing" as we take our next steps into the future as a community of faith.

Please plan to join us on October 8 for worship, a meal, and this very important conversation.

In Christ,

Pastor Knowles