Vacation to Home this Week

Here is a picture of my hometown during the autumn season. Charles City, IA boasts of a great midwestern life. The changes in seasons bring the smells of tailgating, the sound of birds heading south for the winter and the beautiful sights of leaves that are changing colors and are ready to fall off their branches. The brisk chill of air that comes during football season is absolutely spectacular.

At left is a photo of the historical Suspension Bridge that has been a landmark of our city for many years. On my trip home this coming week I will be praying for our town to come together to revitalize and to restore what once was.

 Much of the midwest suffered from major flooding damage over the past month, my hometown was no different. My family's home was safe and my parents survived, but much of our town, even this historic and beloved Suspension Bridge did not. 

It is amazing for me to think that what once meant nothing to me, means everything to me now. It is that age-old philosophy that we do not know the true value of what we have, until we do not have it anymore.  I am reminded today what God continually feels as He sees His children and His creation turning their backs on Him, not understanding the true value that He gives to us, to our lives, and to our world.  The good news is that if we turn back to Him and walk with Him...everything can and will be restored.  I pray not only for the lost historical landmarks in my hometown, but also for its people (past and present) to unite with one another to bring hope to our city and Glory to our God!