As we emerge from this pandemic, I feel like we are entering a season ripe with possibility and potential for the work of Christ. I can hear the words of Isaiah echoing down through the centuries when God said to him “behold I am doing a new thing. Do you not perceive it?’ I believe God is doing a new thing in our church and in the Christian church overall. The truth is, I think God has been leading us towards new opportunities, and new ways of fulfilling the mission of the church, for some time. But this disruption brought about by Covid has forced us to pause and genuinely consider how God may be leading us into the future.
I'll be honest. I am at once excited, and nervous, about what God has for us going forward. I am nervous (actually frightened might be a better word) because I know that stepping out in new ways means change, risk and uncertainty. But I am also excited because I believe that if we will take those risks, if we will follow God's lead and step out in bold new ways, the potential is unlimited. I believe God is preparing us for what can be the most exciting and most fruitful season of ministry we have ever seen. Honestly, I don't know yet what all that will look like. But if God is in it, I know it's going to be great!
So where do we begin? I've given that tremendous thought and prayer over the past several months. And what I continually hear from God is this: start with the kids. Truthfully, there is much to be done, and there is great opportunity, in many areas of our ministry. But I believe our first giant step forward is to redevelop our Nextgen and student ministries at all campuses. We need to invest time, resources, energy and prayer into raising up a generation of young people who are passionate followers of Jesus. I think this generation is facing greater and more complex challenges than any before it. But I also see in this generation the potential to be world changers. What they need more than anything to navigate these challenges, and fulfill their potential, is a solid foundation in Christ.
As we reemerge from Covid, there really is much to be done. But I believe the place God is calling us to begin is with our kids, pouring our love, prayers, gifts and talents into these precious young lives.
Have a blessed day and I look forward to us being together this weekend for worship in person or online.
Love you all,
Pastor Steve