Justin March leads the Bethany Lutheran Church Men’s Ministry and sends a weekly email message to the Men’s group every week.  Justin has generously permitted us to post his weekly reflections here.

I have been traveling
the last 2 weeks, and let me tell you, things are different out there. Airport
restaurants close early, in-flight snacks and beverages no longer exist, and
masks must be worn the entire flight. Hotels no longer offer hot breakfast,
cleaning services are only done upon request, and there are limitations to the
use of gyms and swimming pools. Even in my travels by car, the things I am used
to have drastically changed. Most restaurant dining rooms are closed, many rest
areas have shut down, and finding a bathroom is not as easy as it once was.

 Yet, amongst all the
changes, all the disgruntled travelers, and all the inconveniences, I found
both trips enjoyable. I was still able to reconnect with family and friends. I
was still able to see the countryside. I was still able to meet new people and
listen to their stories. And I was still able to relax, unwind, and reboot
after a tumultuous 2020. Yes, many things have changed in the way we travel,
but one thing has not. God is still with us and wants us to have new
experiences, meet new people, and spend time with loved ones.

 No matter how this
world changes or forces us into different habits, we can still make the most of
what God is trying to show us. We can still enjoy the beauty he has created
around us. We can still share stories, laugh, cry, and fellowship with one another.
And we can still spread his messages of love, forgiveness, sacrifice, and
grace. It does not matter how much this world changes, God is still with us. If
we have faith in him, if we have trust in him, and if we follow his path for
us, he will continue to make this life enjoyable, one day at a time!