Some Last Thoughts

Someone asked me recently, what my last words to St. Paul would be. Let me have a go…

God is Good.
In the midst of life and ministry, I remain convinced of God’s goodness and providence. God is at work in the administration of our many ministries. God is at work in the daily lives of St. Paul members. This past year God has been challenging many of us to greater depth of commitment to him through prayer, study, the sacraments, and service. I am consistently reminded that ministry happens out of our fullness, not our emptiness. Because of this, let us endeavor to set aside time weekly and daily to spend with God. Though it doesn’t come easy, the rewards will carry St. Paul UMC to heights unimaginable.

Ministry is Complex.
The world around us is changing rapidly—technology, styles, cultural values, ethical norms. So is the church as a whole in the US—lower attendance and enthusiasm, diminished influence in society, fear of losing cherished memories and traditions. And when these two collide—they do in EVERY church—it creates a frenetic tension that deposits great pressure on the church and its leaders. Pastors today, myself included, feel this pressure at every moment in their ministry. Teaching and preaching, pastoral care, and administrative concerns, among others, are constantly constrained between two realities—ministry as it has been and ministry as it will be. Negotiating the present to honor the past and prepare for the future is perhaps the greatest challenge of the church in our day. Be in prayer for the leaders of our church. Encourage them at every turn. And walk with them in loving fellowship as they discern the future direction of our church.

The Future is Bright.
Things change. For some, this is a mantra for taking life in full apathy or skepticism. However, I believe progress is inexplicably linked with attitude. Change brings opportunities for further growth, more in-depth exploration of identity, and fresh approaches to carrying out the Mission of Jesus Christ. With a new music minister and a new associate pastor bringing to St. Paul a new cadre of gifts and graces, new perspectives on life and ministry, St. Paul stands at the threshold of better, brighter days. The future will be what we make of it today! So, let’s make the most of it!

Blessings in Christ,
JON