A Message from Pastor Bob

CHANGE!

 What often happens when we’re dealing with change and uncertainty? For one, Ecclesiastes 3:1 is quoted: There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. Or we think of Hebrews 13:8, which assures us that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

 It’s comforting to remember such Bible verses, and to be supported by loved ones. But it is also important to note a biological reality, which is that our brain, when confronted with something new tells us, “This is a threat!” It’s believed that most of our daily activities – up to 45% – are done on “auto pilot.” So when we something new, different, or annoying comes along, our brain doesn’t say, “Well, would you take a look at that!” Nope…it goes into “fight or flight” mode, even when the simplest of changes comes along. Most adults can learn to control their reactions, but when we’ve encountered too much change in one area of our lives, or in a part of our makeup that is critical to our identity, anyone can get a little grumpy.

 Yet we soon realize that change in inevitable. When we’re developing into young adults, we get crabby with the complexities and responsibilities that come with growing up. As we’re growing older, we get frustrated with changes that come with what we’re losing – health, hair, mobility, memory, and more. So yes, change is inevitable.

 What can help us, especially when changes seem constant in our church and spiritual life? We can – we must – adopt the idea that change is inevitable and progress is possible. When the new and different overwhelm us, we must ask if this is a necessary change and an improvement? If the answer yes, we can see it less of a threat and more of a positive action.

 One of the toughest lessons I learned early in my ministry is that the church is constantly changing. Growing up in and being active in the church made church on “constant” in my life. Church offered identity, community, and comfort. But as a “church professional” I understand that the church, due to its human nature, changes often, even daily, and even in a healthy congregation.

 This realization makes me find daily comfort in that Hebrews 13:8 statement: Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. So when we see change in the church, I don’t go into “fight or flight” mode. I usually remain calm and think, “Well, would you look at that!” I try to discern if this change is going to bring about something good or positive, if it will help us spiritually or in other ways, and if we’re going to be a better church family because of it. Sometimes I still get crabby. But then I pray, “Change my heart, O God, and renew a right Spirit within me.”

 Friends in Christ, to be part of a church family means we must navigate constant change. We must not allow changes to make us lose our Christian focus. And we must instigate necessary changes to stay committed to sharing the Gospel in word and deed and to growing Christian disciples.

Change is annoying. It can be downright devastating. But as one author said, “Hold on! With God in charge, you’re in for the ride of your life!” As we keep our eyes on Jesus, let our church family move forward with confidence and boldness. May we not be swayed or derailed by change. And may we remember that Jesus Christ – the Son of God that promises the forgiveness of sins and eternal life – is the same yesterday, today, and forever!

 Peace,

Pastor Bob