“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” — Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)
This week, I have been thinking about what it means to be a nimble and agile church. I was really impressed with how quickly we were able to move inside after our planned outdoor worship service was suddenly rained out. Worship and ministry continued, even when a quick pivot was needed.
The world around us changes every day. New challenges arise, needs shift, and opportunities appear where we least expect them. Sometimes, it can feel easier to stay put in what we know and resist change or to look back and long for the past. Yet, God invites us to move in response to his leadership, to stay nimble and agile in our faith and ministry.
To be nimble means to move quickly and lightly. To be agile means to adapt with grace. When we follow Jesus, both qualities matter. Our discipleship and our ministry together do not follow a fixed path. It is a living and growing journey of trusting God to lead us through unexpected twists and turns, or to guide us with holy nudges in unexpected directions. Sometimes it is through a conversation that becomes an opportunity for prayer, a new way to serve, or a change that deepens our trust in God’s guidance.
As a church and as Disciples, being nimble and agile means we listen closely to God’s voice and hold our plans with open hands. We move when he moves, trusting that he is already making a way in the wilderness.
This week, let's ponder this question: How might God be inviting you or our church to be more nimble and agile in responding to his lead?
A Prayer for Following God’s Lead:
God of new beginnings, help us to stay flexible and faithful. Keep our hearts open and our hands ready to serve. When you move, may we move with you? Make us nimble and agile in our discipleship and our shared ministry. Make us quick to listen, quick to love, and quick to follow your lead. In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen.
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!