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As a younger adult, I made "forever" decisions. I thought that if I could
ever buy a new car, I would have a good car "forever." (When you are
thirty years old, you have only been an adult for nine years. You have not
experienced adult life long enough to understand the realities of twenty
years of adult living.) At that age, refrigerators do not wear out--they
last "forever." The roof on the house does not wear out--it's guaranteed for
twenty-five years, and that is close to "forever." I thought I would not
outgrow my suits and my neckties would always be in style!
I now have lived long enough to know that nothing lasts forever. No
situation is ideal forever, and no circumstance is promising forever. We do
not truly experience that reality until we live long enough as an adult for
a car, a roof, and a refrigerator to wear out; for styles to change; and for
situations and circumstances to make significant transitions.
As young adults, the reality of transition is exciting--it means
opportunity! As older adults, the reality of transition is frustrating--it
means change! Young adults are invigorated by the prospects of opportunity.
Older adults are wearied at the thought of more transition in our constantly
changing lives.
The Westark Community College wants to discuss the possibility of buying
this congregation's present property. Until those discussions occur, we
will not know if there is a decision to be made. If any decision is needed,
it will be made by the congregation.
Joyce and I came here with the awareness that this decision was not
certain, but was a possibility. My prayer regarding this has been simple:
"Lord, help us make the wisest decision for Your work and worship for both
now and the future."
Daily pray with me that the Lord work in all our minds, hearts, and spirits
before, during, and after any decision. If you are aware of members who
might be troubled by any decision (whatever that decision might be), please
pray for them. Do not pray, "Lord, help that person decide X." With
sensitivity and respect, pray for their hearts and minds. May we all pray
for each other's attitudes and spirit. We need love for the Lord and each
other, not campaign efforts.
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