Transitions

By Pastor Kevin Van Wyk
​Transitions are everywhere…

The consistory voted this month to send our formal request to transfer from the RCA to ARC (www.arc21.org). The Classis Servant Team (Executive Committee) has received it and is in process of creating a team to make a recommendation to the classis, which will likely vote on it on Nov. 2, 2021.  This team will first meet with the consistory and then the congregation. 
 
Annice moved to Prairie Ridge.
Sharon moved to the Christian Home.
Jerry and Dorothy moved to Wisconsin Rapids. 
Al has transitioned to a large cast on his ankle. 
Jason transitioned to a new job.
Others have finished school and are starting full-time work.
Others are adjusting to a baby in the house.
Others are adjusting to chemo or physical therapy.
We’re all transitioning to a post-mask world.
 
Some of these transitions are exciting and positive. We welcome the change.
 
However, some of these transitions are hard and frustrating. It’s these transitions, I want to speak to.
 
As Jesus prepared the disciples for life without his physical presence, he specifically called Peter to “feed my sheep” and even as he navigates a life where “when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go” (John 21:18 ESV), he is simply instructed to “follow me.” (John 21:19) While this passage speaks to Peter’s future death on the cross, the certain implication of “stretching out one’s hands”, there is a message for all of us. 
 
As we navigate difficult transitions, Jesus calls us to follow him. In practical terms that means two things to me, if I can steal from the infamous hymn… trust and obey. 
 
Following Jesus starts with the foundation of trusting him regardless of the situation. With our denominational change, I have several questions about how they will handle retirement, health insurance, and church-pastor conflicts. I, along with others, am asking the questions and giving some input, but ultimately we trust that God will take care of the details and lead us forward.
Following Jesus also means obeying his commands; to do what he would do and ultimately be like him.  Doug and I will be hitting some of those key commands in the coming weeks. Consider two now… 

1. Humility: These days we have the Proud Boys, Pride month, and a host of messages about being proud of who you are. Jesus calls us to have a completely different attitude. How is yours? 
2. Love: This is our great challenge, to love others, to be kind when we are tired and frustrated, to go beyond the first mile, to sacrificially give of our time and resources to help others. Will you serve or complain about others not serving you?

 
So, I urge you in the midst of difficult transitions to trust and obey. He will carry you through.
 
Lord, Help us trust you when we are uncertain about the future. When fears and worries creep into our lives, speak peace and hope into our hearts that we might lean on you and know your love. Help us then to walk in humility and love, so that others may see the power of your love in us. Amen.