Faith @ First - August 7, 2026
There is something sacred about the first day of school.
I still remember those mornings when all three of my children climbed onto the same school bus (see photo). It felt so simple then—a quick hug, a wave from the sidewalk, and off they went together. These days, life looks a little different. My children now attend three different schools, which means three different schedules and three different sets of teachers, classmates, and adventures. Some mornings I feel more like an air traffic controller than a mom!
As I watched them head off this year, I was reminded that every new school year is really an invitation to begin a new journey. It's a chance to learn new things, embrace new routines, meet new people, and trust God with the unknown. Of course, any parent, grandparent, teacher, or school employee can tell you that this journey is rarely a straight path. There are unexpected detours, difficult assignments, changing friendships, moments of triumph, and moments when we wonder if we'll ever find our footing again.
That's exactly what inspired our new worship series, Twists and Turns: What Board Games Teach Us About Faith. Over the next four weeks, we'll discover what some of our favorite games can teach us about following God through the unexpected paths of life. This Sunday we'll begin with Candy Land. It may sound like a lighthearted game, but when we view it through the story of Ruth and Naomi, we discover a powerful reminder that even when life takes unexpected turns, God never abandons us on the journey.
During worship we'll also be praying a special blessing over all students, teachers, administrators, school staff, bus drivers, and everyone who helps shape this new school year. So be sure to bring your backpacks, kiddos—and school personnel, we have a sweet surprise waiting for you too!
Until then, keep the Faith@First, and I'll see you Sunday!
Pastor Nicole
