Dear New Life,

As I sought the Lord about what to write today, the image that popped into mind was a flashback to my youth baseball. My favorite (and least favorite) spot to play was short stop. I loved it because you were really in the game at short stop, but conversely, you always had to be ready.

I can still feel the muscle memory of my hand in my glove, shifting my weight back and forth, and visualizing the ball popping off the bat and careening toward me.

Be ready.

There are many places in scripture where we (as followers of Jesus) are told to be ready. To be watchful. Now feels like one of those moments. Whether your life is impacted by the coming college or K-12 school years, we live in a community where the rhythms shift this time of year. I feel it happening already.

There isn't a single follower of Jesus that is supposed to be sitting on the bench. We are all in the play! As a team effort, we need to be vigilant to play our part when the ball comes to us. My conviction is that the ball is coming to you.

Be ready!

Joel VanderSchel, on Behalf of the Elder and Minister Team