Where We Are

"‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’" —Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) 

It’s likely that at some point, you’ve paused to think over the journey that brought you to this moment. From your place of birth to where you are today, countless decisions have shaped your path—some made by others, some made by you. And for most of us, that journey hasn’t been a straight line. It includes detours, delays, and unexpected side paths.

Some of those side paths may have come from poor decisions or misguided advice. Others may have felt like wilderness seasons—lonely, confusing, or painful. But here’s the grace: even in those rugged places, God never left us. Jeremiah 29:11 was spoken to a people in exile, far from home, wondering if God had abandoned them. And yet, God’s word was clear: “I know the plans I have for you.” Not “I had plans,” or “I’ll make new ones once you get back on track”—but “I know.” Even here. Even now.

If you find yourself on one of those detours today—unsure, weary, or wondering how you got here—know this: God’s plan still holds. The path may feel unclear, but the presence of God is not. Grace does not wait for perfect conditions. It meets us in the middle of the mess and whispers, “You are not alone.”

Some detours are not of our own making. Illness, injustice, grief, or loss may have rerouted our steps. But none of these places us outside the reach of God’s grace. God’s plan is not a reward for the unblemished—it is a promise for the beloved.

This is the promise of ever-present grace: that God’s plan is not derailed by our detours. That divine love is not contingent on perfect choices. That even when we feel lost, God is still leading.

God’s plan is not a rigid blueprint—it’s a living promise. It bends toward redemption. It weaves grace into every twist and turn. And it assures us that no matter how far we’ve wandered, we are never beyond the reach of hope. The future God promises is not just distant—it begins now, in the assurance that we are not alone.

And when the path feels especially unclear, the community of faith—those we worship with on Sunday morning, and those who walk with us through daily life—help us listen for God’s voice. We are not meant to journey alone. In worship, in prayer, in shared reflection, we find companions who help us recognize your presence and discern the next faithful step.

God of the journey, we thank you for walking with us through every valley and detour. When we feel lost, remind us that your purpose still unfolds. When we doubt, renew our trust in your constant presence. Help us to see your grace not just in the destination, but in the path itself. Surround us with companions who help us listen and guide us toward hope. With confidence, we trust that you are with us—here and now. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim