Everlasting... Even In Transition

Once again, for whatever reason, I had DeGarmo & Key's classic, "Casual Christian" playing in my mind this morning. It probably doesn't help that my favorite online streaming radio station has played it a few times over the past couple of days... including last night, before typing this!

Then something clicked as I prayed for God's help, what He might have for today' perspective.

I'm always amazed at how pastors and their families transition in ministry. Most often, there truly is a calling and a moving, to another church or place of ministry in the sovereign hand of God. It is true and genuine and when it's all said and done, people stand, understanding the move was from God; as sad as parting ways is to endure.

Every once in a while, the transition is a struggle... because it's outside the will of God, quite frankly. I don't know how pastors handle it when they get it wrong. Many don't do well; many more, it takes a while to recover.

That said, whatever the details of the transitions that take place within the pulpit (and the success and difficulty thereof), it's the deacons, administrators and staff that remain. For very extended and prolonged periods of time, those who hold these position within the church go above and beyond to make sure the church moves forward, in its' ministry, mission and purpose to the community they serve.

These church leaders and many more volunteers who serve in key positions are planted, committed and involved; wanting what's best for their families, their church and the communities in which they work, play and worship.

Now, that's not to say, pastors aren't those things... for surely they share the same sentiment; whether they've led the church for two years or twenty-five. But let's be honest... if a pastor is called to another church, community or ministry, then he or she is no longer involved in the day to day activities of the former church and the former community. Thus, what happens to the church during times of pastoral transition and their influence and impact on the community during these times are crucial.

So would you join me in prayer?

On this #deaconThursday, for these church leaders, who even this moment, find themselves in states of pastoral transition. May God grant to them an anointing in the decisions to be made and directions to be taken. Pray for wisdom, as conversations are had and meetings are held, that God would lead, guide and direct their every step. Pray for grace, as these times are difficult and the circumstances that surround them are flooded with many emotions, depending on the nature and reason that started it all. Pray the church's impact and influence in their community would increase, as they and the body of Christ testify to the goodness and greatness of God, even during times of uncertainty. Just as God has moved pastors out of a pulpit and to other churches and ministries, pray the sovereign Hand of God would divinely fill the pastoral roles that stand vacant.

May the people of God be passionate for Him.
Living lifes of great faith in the midst of great uncertainty.
May the church light up the night,
An everlasting light to the community.
Because those who follow Christ will be known for their love.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

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