How do you react when you hear the word “change”? If you’re like most people, that word probably makes you feel a bit uncomfortable. Few people like the idea of change, even when it’s necessary and beneficial. Change brings many unknowns; because of this, it often triggers some anxiety. We know what to expect when things remain static, but change forces us to step back and formulate a new game plan. We might even have to develop a new set of skills, in order to respond to new circumstances. When change occurs, we can no longer move forward in our comfortable “business as usual” mindset.
Change, as uncomfortable and intimidating as it may be, is part of life. We can all see the truth in the statement, “The only thing that is constant is change.” Anyone who has changed jobs, started a new relationship, or relocated is well aware of this fact. We all know that change is an unavoidable part of life.
Change is even a part of the life of the church.
Change is in the air at Pilgrim Church. Many unforeseeable and unavoidable factors have pushed us into a period of change. First, there is the pandemic. There is no doubt that the pandemic has caused us to reconsider how we do ministry. Secondly, you have a new pastor, which I hope you are excited about! However, with new leadership comes a new leadership style and new ideas, which can be a big change. Lastly, our music worship leaders in both the traditional and contemporary services have moved on to new phases in their lives. While we are excited for them and wish them the best, their departures mean our music ministry and worship services will be changing.
Of course, all this change has caused some anxiety about the future. However, we aren’t going to look forward with fear or let our anxiety get the best of us. Instead, we are going to flip the coin, so to speak, and look at our current situation not just as the closing of one chapter, but also as an opportunity for a new beginning at Pilgrim Church.
Even though we are going to miss Patrick and Marilyn and there is change in the air, I feel confident that God has something special waiting for us in the future. So, let us move forward trusting in His faithfulness! I know that God has amazing things in store for us at Pilgrim Church.
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8
Blessings, Pastor John