Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding. (Jeremiah 3:15)
I don't know about you, but when I was a small boy, the phrase, "The king is dead; long live the king" always confused the heck out of me. I mean, can't you make up your mind? Is he dead or alive? It took me a few years to understand the clear meaning of the statement and the transition of power in the royal progressions. The subjects of a kingdom are often sad that the king is dead (Almost as often as they are glad). They may have been treated with respect and honor by the previous king, or at least been granted providence of necessary services and national leadership, so now there is apprehension as to whether the new king can rule with the same conviction.
A pastoral change is not unlike a royal transition. The pastor is our shepherd and our spiritual leader. Many congregants look upon the pastor as being almost superhuman, a Christ-like figure, a called and ordained servant of the Word who is both intelligent and wise and who often puts his own interests behind those of everyone in the congregation. There can be a lot of pressure trying to be all things to all members of the flock...and many times a flock can misbehave when they start putting their own interests or opinions in front of the worship of Christ and His teachings. Like a king, a Pastor's job can be tough, so finding an individual that can handle it all wonderfully is a gift from God.
We are losing our gift from God. It was shocking to hear of Pastor Whiteners’s intention to move to another congregation. I have come to rely on his calm Christian leadership and have always appreciated his excellent sermons and the myriad of ways he serves our congregation. He will be sorely missed. But he is leaving... and the shock must be mollified if we are continue to carry on as a thriving, benevolent, serving, loving Christian congregation. We have an exceptional associate pastor already and we pray for guidance with respect to the upcoming pastoral–call decision making. The call process and transition period can be difficult. (Been there, done that – I have never belonged to a church in my life that did not experience a pastoral change in the time I have been a member there). We must "step on the gas and wipe that tear away", proceed with the proceedings and use our faith and wisdom in a peaceful manner for we know that nothing is gained by adversarial contention or division:
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:35
The call process can be an excellent opportunity to bond and grow as we review and sharpen the APLC mission that may have become complacent (possibly relying too much on an excellent pastor). Let's take advantage of the situation to strengthen our resolve as followers of Christ. The king is dead; long live the king.
"Carry on.
Love is coming.
Love is coming to us all".
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young
Dear Heavenly Father, bring us together in this time of transition. Guide us to your perfect plan. Protect us from our self-interests and grant us peace. Amen.
Contributed by Donald
Monday November 30, 2015
Liturgical Year C: Week 1
Liturgical Color: Blue
Sunday Gospel reading: Advent1
First Sunday in Advent