Scripture: Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”_

Our church building is currently under contract, and we are moving to a new location in late September 2023. We will rent a temporary space as we reach out to new segments of our city, new people and we will implement new styles of evangelism. Our worship times are going to different for our congregation and different than most churches. We will worship in a variety of places at different times on non-traditional days. All of these changes can be both scary and exciting for our church members.

As we journey through life, we often find ourselves stepping into new chapters that bear semblance to the experience of welcoming a newborn or when a church moves to start anew. Just as the arrival of a baby reshapes a family, and a church’s relocation opens a path for spiritual growth, these transitions hold profound parallels that can teach us valuable lessons about embracing change.

1. Embrace the Promise of Newness:

When a baby is born or a church relocates, the old gives way to the new. The past may have been wonderful, but God’s promise of a fresh start is a beacon of hope. Just as Isaiah reminds us, God is always at work, creating new paths and opportunities even in the most unlikely places. Instead of dwelling on what was, focus on what can be, and trust that God’s plan is unfolding.

2. Nurture and Adapt:

Much like a baby requires care, nurturing, and adaptation, so does a church in transition. Just as parents learn to adjust to their child’s needs, a church must adapt to its new surroundings and community. Maintain open communication, listen to concerns, and be willing to change as you navigate through uncharted waters.

3. Impact Through Radical Obedience:

Throughout the Bible, we find examples of individuals who were called to take radical steps, leading to significant impacts for generations to come. Consider Abraham, who was asked to leave his homeland, or Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt. Their obedience, though challenging, paved the way for God’s greater purpose.

4. Trust God’s Timing:

Sarah, though past childbearing age, gave birth to Isaac according to God’s timing (Genesis 21:1-7). Similarly, a church transition may not align with our timeline, but God’s plan is always perfect. Trust in His timing and believe that He is orchestrating a beautiful narrative.

Practical Steps for Easier Transitions:

• Prayer and Seek Guidance: Seek God’s wisdom and guidance through prayer. Corporate prayer is important but so is individual and family prayer. Seeking His will and purpose for the new season is very important.  While it’s natural to have reservations about forthcoming changes and perhaps even differing viewpoints, it’s important to place trust in your leaders. If the course of action aligns with scriptural principles and you find yourself in disagreement, remember that this could simply be a matter of differing perspectives. Recognize that these leaders have been entrusted with their roles by God. In times of uncertainty, rely on your faith in God and exhibit the willingness to follow the guidance of those appointed to lead.

• Community Involvement: Engage with the new community, building relationships and understanding their needs and concerns.  The church is embarking on a transformative journey, driven by a passion to connect with individuals in previously untouched regions, where the message of Jesus is yet to take root. Our focus remains firmly fixed on the vibrant communities we aspire to touch and the lives we aim to impact. Through this transition, our unwavering commitment is to extend love, faith, and fellowship to those seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus. It’s not solely about the move or the changes, but about embracing new beginnings that allow us to weave our story into the colorful tapestry of these communities, guiding them toward the light of Christ.

• Celebrate Growth: Acknowledge the milestones and victories along the journey. Just as each step in a child’s development is celebrated, mark the progress of your church in the new location. Certainly, here is a scripture passage that emphasizes rejoicing when a person is saved:

Luke 15:7 (NIV) I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”

In light of our church’s transition and new outreach activities to follow after the move, this passage holds a powerful message. As we have listed our church for sale and have already witnessed interest, remember that each soul reached and saved is a cause for celebration not only here on earth but also in the heavens. Just as the angels rejoice, let our congregation also rejoice as new people are drawn into our fellowship.

In anticipation of the influx of new members, prepare your hearts to welcome them with open arms. Embrace the diversity that they bring, for in embracing differences, you mirror the all-encompassing love of Christ. Let our unity be a testament to the power of faith and fellowship. We will celebrate every individual who joins our congregation, recognizing that each person’s unique journey is a testament to the transformative power of God’s grace.

May our church’s transition be a herald of even greater spiritual growth, outreach, and the joyous celebration of lives touched by the love of Christ.

– Foster Unity: Create an environment where everyone is included and valued. Just as a family works together to care for a newborn, a church should unite to support one another.

When God called Abraham to leave his country and go to a land He would show him, Abraham responded in unwavering faith and unity with God’s plan. He trusted in God’s promise and left his familiar surroundings, family, and homeland. As a result, Abraham became the father of many nations, and his descendants inherited the land promised to him. His obedience and unity with God’s led to a legacy that has impacted generations.

When God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses initially questioned his ability and expressed uncertainty. However, as he embraced God’s plan and unified his heart with God’s purpose, he led the people through the miraculous parting of the Red Sea and guided them toward the Promised Land. Moses’ unity with God’s command brought forth liberation for the Israelites and a profound spiritual journey.

Divided Response – Israelites (Exodus 32): While Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments, the Israelites grew impatient and created a golden calf to worship. Their lack of unity with God’s commandments led to division and disobedience. This resulted in consequences, including God’s anger and a delay in entering the Promised Land. Their failure to remain unified with God’s instructions hindered their progress and caused setbacks.

Lesson: The examples of Abraham and Moses illustrate that a unified response to God’s drastic changes and commands leads to blessings, growth, and impact. When individuals are aligned with God’s will, regardless of the challenges, they become vessels through which God’s purposes are fulfilled. Conversely, a lack of unity can lead to strife, delays, and missed opportunities.

As you navigate your own journey and embrace changes, remember the importance of unity with God’s plan. Trust in His guidance, remain aligned with His will, and stand united in faith, just as Abraham and Moses did.

Remember, whether you’re cradling a newborn or embarking on a new chapter with your church, God’s presence is with you. Embrace the journey, lean into His guidance, and trust that the path ahead holds blessings beyond measure.