Good morning, and a most blessed Thursday to you.

An interesting phrase came up in our Wednesday Night Alive small group on “Families in Faith.” The group focuses on parenting through a Biblical lens, but this phrase really rings true not only for parents with their children, but also for all of us as children of God the Father.

The phrase is: “Committing to many, many moments of change.”

What does that mean? It means finding small pockets of time to build relationships—to share conversation and engage with one another. That might happen at bedtime, around the dinner table, or while driving together.

In the context of parenting, it’s about being intentional in relationship with our children. But when we think about committing to many moments of change with God, we approach it differently. We are seeking those moments throughout our day—turning to the Lord at bedtime, at the dinner table, or even in the car.

It’s amazing how different a commute can be when, instead of listening to the radio, you listen to hymns—or simply enjoy the beauty around you. Even in a busy city like Dallas–Fort Worth, there are still birds, trees, and patches of grass amidst the concrete. Instead of getting impatient at a red light, take that moment to worship, to pray, and to turn to God. Those little moments can shape your heart and change your perspective for the day.

I’m reminded of Jesus’ words before His ascension in Matthew 28. After giving the Great Commission—telling His disciples to go, baptize, and teach—He ends with this powerful promise:

“And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

God is with us at all times, in every place and circumstance. He is always available for us to engage with Him—whether in studying His Word, worshiping in Word and Sacrament, or learning together in small groups.

Those are moments of change—opportunities to encounter God. And so are the ordinary moments: sitting at a red light, waking up in the morning, laying down at night, eating a meal, taking a walk, or exercising. Every opportunity is an opportunity to engage with God, because He is always there.

While the thought that “God is always there” might seem daunting, I hope it brings you comfort. God is by your side through every high and low, every joy and every sorrow. None of it surprises Him. He holds your days in His hands.

What a blessing that, in every one of those many moments of change, God is there—transforming us, molding us, and walking with us.

So I encourage you, as children of our heavenly, loving Father: commit to many, many moments of change. See what God has in store for you and how He will work in the little moments, because He is present in all of them.

Let’s pray.
Heavenly Lord, we thank You that You are always here—ready to engage with us, to share who You are, and to remind us of Your great love.
Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, who entered creation, died for our sins, rose to new life, and ascended to the Father.
Thank You for sending Your Spirit to dwell within us—to lead, mold, and shape us.
You are never far off and never unwilling to meet us where we are.
Lord, use the many moments of today to change us, grow us, and make us more like the people You created us to be.
We praise You in the holy and blessed name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

I can’t wait to worship with you this Sunday. Until then, God’ bless!

Pastor Malinak