The “In betweens”
We are “in between.” What, you say? Right now we are all “in between”: between Christmas and New Years. More on that later.
While visiting in the Philippines our ladies, Marilyn Sherley, Linda and I were “inbetween”: life before the trip and now life after the trip. It was a significant interlude; visiting a new country with hot humid weather (30+C), language issues (Tagalog and English), and customs (Christmas decorations began September 1!). Food was different and rice was served at every meal. A rooster crowed every morning at 3 a.m. The time change was a challenge as our night became day. Travelling in congested traffic with a driver where we weren’t in control was eye opening. No hot leisurely showers! “In between.”
Yet, the “in between” became a chance to intentionally reach out and go beyond our comfort zone; talking to many Lutheran women, to be honored as guests with special greetings, gifts, and songs. As a giving people, our challenge was to receive it all with gracious thanks. But more importantly, it was listening to joyous voices, to sad voices, to hurting voices and joining hands in prayer to our Lord for His guidance. Romans 12:15 tells us to “rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.” So that is what we did. It was joining together in unity of our faith in Christ and His will for our lives. A wonderful “in between” that God gave us.
So where are we today? Sometimes the aftermath of Christmas gets us down. Looking to the New Year do we fear what might come? Health issues, loneliness, disappointment, a loved one who rejects the faith?
Ask the Lord to show you in this “in between” moment; where does He want youto serve in the New Year? Trust in Him. The past is behind us, Christmas is over and the New Year abounds with potential to serve the Lord with gladness.
“O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come our shelter from the stormy blast and our eternal home.” LSB #733
Serving in His Strength” is a blog
published by the Member Development Committee of
Lutheran Women’s Missionary League–Canada, Inc.
Lutheranwomen.ca
2026