I'm Not Scared, Just Changing

Greetings River Church, my brothers and sisters! On Monday I turn 70. This number is daunting to me; I’m certain that the whole Y2K computer challenge mysteriously added 10 years to my life. But a number of years ago, Cynthia and I decided that 70 would be an appropriate date to “retire.” Can a pastor every really retire? We can change our position, but we don’t give up our calling. I am called to be a pastor for the rest of my life. But now is a necessary time for transition. I have been honored to be one of your pastors, and to partner with Todd and Denise and our whole team these last 10 years. But, it is time to pass on my part of the leadership of our church to a younger generation. The future is bright for the River; her best days are likely ahead, and we have so many gifted young leaders here!

I am going to attempt to share with you three big macro changes that Jesus is gently, but relentlessly, bringing about in my discipleship and pastoral calling. These have also turned into passions I have for the church, for our church. They will be framed as correctives to mostly unintentional swings in the broader evangelical church, but also in the specific ways we as individuals follow the way of Jesus. My hopeful prayer is that this will bring you encouragement and prompt questions and excitement about the future.