Transitions can be bittersweet and sometimes difficult. The stress of leaving something in order to pursue something else comes with mixed emotions. It is the in-between stages of life that can be stressful, frustrating, exciting and draining all at the same time.
I currently find myself in a transition and not just any transition, a major life-changing transition. I have served as a youth pastor for 15 years, and this week I will lead my final youth group service. I am leaving full-time youth ministry in order to serve as Church Relations Director at the College of Prayer (www.collegeofprayer.org). I figured I have led over 200 Wednesday nights such as these at this church and countless more at others. It's sad to close the book on this youth pastor journey. I think of the countess students I have had the privilege of knowing and pointing to Jesus over the years. What an honor, but it is still emotional.
So, what is it that is getting me through the emotions, not only of leaving an assignment, but of packing to relocate, saying goodbye to a community we love and then starting a new ministry assignment? The answer is simple: I am keeping my eyes on Jesus. By keeping my eyes on Jesus, the next season of my life has become clear. Paul said in Philippians 3:13-14, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." I know in my heart that God has called me to this next ministry assignment. Although I have a lot to learn starting my new position, I can picture the next 5+ years of my life.
No matter what the transition is, it is essential to start with the end in mind. Give God the opportunity to help you develop a picture of the future. For anyone who tries to focus on anything or anyone other than Jesus during a transition, they can expect to fall flat on their face every time. A picture of the future is like a carrot on a stick that keeps you moving forward in the midst of whatever comes your way during the transition.
May God bless you in whatever transitions you face in life.
