Standing in the back of the sanctuary someone shared this — “This church has redeemed church for me. The way you lead has brought me back to Jesus. I find such hope because of this place and you.”
I am continually grateful for what Jesus is up to. This man also shared how concerned he has been that I’m going to leave the end of June. There’s that real sense of “how can we go on?” in the middle of loss. It’s true for me too. There’s a difference ahead and none of us know what it will feel like, look like, or what we will become in the middle of it.
I think that sometimes in a season of change we can forget that Jesus has this. That as He has called me on, equally so He is calling all of you on in the future of the church expressed as Westside Journey UMC.
At our last church council meeting, while listening for what Jesus would speak into our lives, this word came. I share it here to remind you of the plans Jesus has for you. You too have a life to look forward to into which Jesus is leading.
Here’s the word:
“Just you wait children. I have great plans for you all. I love the sincerity of your hearts, your tears, your desire to honor and follow Me! I have plans that I’m unfolding. And these good plans include all of you. Never fear about change. When you till your gardens, when you pull up one plant to plant others it is not a frightening task but a joyous one. Don’t you love working the soil and watching new growth come forth? So now. I’m not uprooting plants but I am Moving some plants around.”
“It is a season to till the soul.” (Note: the word changed here to SOUL and suddenly I knew the metaphor of the garden was of our souls too.).
“ It is a season for me to plant within you and through you and those plantings will bring great movements of my Spirit. Yes, Brian is moving on but I am yet at work mightily. I have great plans for you and your new pastor and great plans for this upcoming year.”
“So do not fear. Rejoice. Celebrate. You’ll see Me bless!”
I hope you can hold onto this and place Hope in the One who has this and has us. He is the One who has made this place a “Safe Haven” which was a phrase that also came through listening at the meeting. Stay in His love.