And I wonder, do we choose the things that make us crazy busy, or do we allow them to choose us. For most of us, I wonder if we really stop and think about the purpose behind the busy. I wonder if we do a good job of setting good priorities or if we get swept up in a whirlwind that just seems to be the norm for most people, especially families.

  Many of you are aware that I lost my beloved Labrador Retriever Bailey back in May. She had been a part of my life for almost 14 years. As she aged she slowed down and along the way we actually spent less time together. Her slow down allowed me to get overly busy in other things because she simply wasn't able to do all the things we used to do together, everything from long walks to canoe trips to chasing Frisbees in the back yard. Over time I became increasingly worried about her health and how to properly care for my aging 100lb fuzz ball. I hadn't noticed how I had let my busy-ness at work mask the fact that I was already grieving the loss of those fun times that were healthy for both of us and I had gotten into a routine that wasn't all that healthy.

  Many of you also know that several weeks ago I adopted a puppy from Joe Joe's Place Animal Rescue in Medford. Her name is Jessie, she is 4 months old, and she is fully engaged in manic teething puppy-hood. But I am loving every minute of it. Having Jessie forces me to take time away from the busy, to get out and get some exercise and to breathe the fresh air and enjoy the sunshine. She makes me laugh and she keeps me from feeling alone. And she is forcing me to get my priorities straight. Now in taking time for her I also make time for myself and to do the things that keep me healthy in body, mind and spirit when I otherwise would be my usual over-achieving, over scheduled self, like many of you...

  So who or what is a Jessie in your life? Who or what can you count on as you look forward to the return of the school year craziness to help you keep your priorities straight and remind you to make quality time for you and your family so that you can be all that God desires you to be in body mind and spirit? Why not let Lord of Life be a significant part of that for you and your family this fall and beyond. Maybe it's time, or even way past time, to "let go and let God" help reorient, refocus, and renew your life through opportunities for worship and learning and fellowship with everyone else here at LOL who is in exactly the same boat.

  Jessie and I look forward to seeing some of you out there on a trail, in a canoe, or splashing through a puddle somewhere. But I'm especially looking forward to seeing you at Lord of Life at one or more of the myriad of ways in which we take time for ourselves with our God.  

          Peace, Pastor Sue