New Year

"You're in your second year here!" That's what a member of the congregation said to me this morning, and he's right! Happy New Year! After Christmas Eve service here at UniChu, and Christmas Day with my family on the Ranch, Gwen and I were in Minnesota for a few days to visit her family. I had the chance to go cross country skiing for the first time and also had my third serving of Lutefisk (that's three in my entire life. And, unless you looked closely, you wouldn't even have seen it on my plate!). It was in the 20s in MN and snowing, which was beautiful. Upon our return to California (where it's in the 60s), I realized how much has changed since this time last year. A new call, a new house, a new community, etc. It's great! I just love it here and love these people. Also, it was fun to note two more signs of time's march forward: A professor of mine from seminary has been called to be the Admissions Director. He will be wonderful! And, another friend has been called to a position that I was asked to consider at the same time that I was asked to consider this call. He will be good in that position (probably better than I would have been) as Special Assistant to the President for University Ministries at a fairly reputable university. So, time rolls on. And here we are approaching Epiphany. Which means I have a homily to think about . . . .