This week as we entered the last three months of 2025, I have encouraged you to reflect, refocus, and reset so you may finish the year in the best possible way. As I reflect on the previous nine months of 2025, I am savoring the sweet memories made, remembering the difficult days, and praising God for the lessons learned through it all. 

It just so happens that next week we have a fall break from school. I am looking forward to a week off from work, but I am also excited that our family will be going on vacation for a portion of the week. This time away will be an extra opportunity for me to reflect, refocus, and reset.

Julie and I have shared before one of our favorite quotes from author Mark Batterson.

Change of place + change of pace = change of perspective

As you reflect, refocus, and reset for the remainder of the year, I encourage you to have a change of place and change of pace. Perhaps you do not have the time, money, or opportunity for a true vacation. However, a change of place is simply time spent pulled away from your everyday routine. Maybe you can sit on the beach alone for a few hours, go on an extended walk in a place you don’t normally walk, or go to a local park to sit alone. Your version of change of place and pace may be a ride alone through the countryside or a boat ride down the river. The point is that you be intentional about slowing down, pulling away, and being in a place that isn’t in your daily routine. Savor this time with God and he will use your change of place and change of pace to change your perspective. 

Let’s pray. Dear God, open my eyes, ears, mind, and heart to Your presence today. Help me to begin the process of reflecting, refocusing, and resetting as I approach the last 90 days of 2025. May reflecting Your light be my primary goal. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.