TIMING AND TRANSITION
Hello God
We have many things in common with each other but if there is one thing we have in common more then anything is that we are all moving on in time and are constantly in a state of TRANSITION. Whether as young people, young families, starting new job, working thru health issues, retiring, or even in a pastoral search we are all in a state of transition. Winter becomes Spring, Spring becomes Summer, Summer becomes Fall, Fall becomes Winter. And then the whole process repeats itself. This shows that times moves along. For the most part we do well and are satisfied moving along and transitioning thru life experiences. For that God, we give you thanks for blessing us. And sometimes God we can feel overwhelmed, frustrated and even scared about these transitions we are involved in . Sometimes we feel like we are doing these things all on our own and not sure where we will get the strength and energy to move forward. These may be the times our boat takes on water and we begin to sink. We should remember how you responded to your disciples when their boat was rocking and taking on water. When times are rocky, and life is challenging we actively seek words of encouragement and support. We look to the Bible where there was much transition and movement of time . Here we can find words of wisdom and support .
Like in Joshua 1:9 where we read
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Or in ISAIAH 43:1-3
But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel:“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;” Isaiah 43:1-3a
God when we are burdened and bogged own with decisions and transitions may we turn to you and the Word where there is much support and words of wisdom that will buoy us and give us the strength we need to get thru these times. Help us to be humble enough to depend also on fellow friends and family for support. We know that even you relied on the support of your disciples while you walked this earth. God continue to give us wisdom and strength to continue to get thru . We lean on you to make our transitions and time travel easier.
We pray for our leaders in government. Whether Internationally, Federally, Provincially or Locally there are many decisions to be made and we ask that you give all our leaders, wisdom, integrity and clarity of mind to make the decisions they are faced with.
We also pray for those in the world that do NOT experience the peace we feel here in Canada. We ask that you hold close those that are powerless and are suffering from war. Stand by the innocent children and families in areas that are not safe. Sometimes we feel so powerless, yet we know you hold all in your hand.
As we move on with Pastoral Transition here at WMC we ask that you continue to guide the process. We ask that you be with Matthew Dyck Bailey as he continues to ponder serving us here at WMC. Be with leadership as we process new beginnings and reflecting on those who have supported and served faithfully over this time of transition. Continue to give wisdom and support to Clare and Paul as they currently lead us. We are so blessed for their leadership.