moving forward with perspective, patience and participation

The universe is continually expanding. The earth is continually rotating. Our bodies are continually growing. The dog across the street is continually barking (oops...I should've left that one out)! Everywhere we look there is continual movement. It doesn't take one long to realize that in the physical world, there is continual forward movement--movement toward becoming...well...what it will become next! It just seems that God has programmed the universe to change--to move forward. For us humans, though, moving forward can feel risky, frightening or even threatening. So, how do we adapt? How do we choose to move forward into God's future without feeling like we're being pushed over a cliff? Three words: PERSPECTIVE. PATIENCE. PARTICIPATION. First of all, many times our resistance to moving forward is simply a matter of our perspective. We choose to see certain things as sacred/non-negotiable that aren't really sacred/non-negotiable at all. God gives us huge freedom in how ministry is carried out; the possibilities are endless! When our perspective allows us to see possibilites instead of protecting our turf, moving forward is easier. Secondly, it takes great patience to move forward, often because we cannot clearly see what the end result will be or when it will come. Learning to ride the train, being confident in its ultimate destination but not knowing the exact route, requires a deep level of patience. Lastly, a surefire way to move forward without feeling forced to move is participation. When you dive in, give all and serve, even while having some uncertainties about it all, you become a part of the movement of God, rather than just observing it from the sidelines. It's hard to criticize something when you're too busy making it happen! So, remember: perspective, patience, participation. Three ways to help move forward into God's future!