All of us face transition at different moments in our lives and ministries. And there are numerous articles and books which provide helpful input on how to navigate well these transitions.
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In my mind, there are a few elements which are crucial to navigating well any transition: keep your eyes on the larger objective; seek counsel from others in your community; and build a flexible process
When transition occurs, don’t allow all the details that might be involved to cause us to lose sight of the larger objective. It’s the “why” question of transition that will give us the strength to work the “how” questions. I went to see my doctor trying to find a way out of a marathon run with one of our children three weeks before the event: “So, why are you doing all this running and preparation?” he asked. I replied: “I want to run a marathon with one of our children.” His words refocused my heart and mind: “Then that’s why you are out there and need to be out there training for the next three weeks. Focus on that larger objective.” When we focus on God’s larger objective for our lives (even if at times unseen) we will be enabled to address all those details, preparations and at times tedious work to navigate that transition.
Seek good counsel. Seek that input from people who know us or who have journeyed with us. They can see the pieces in our history that the Lord is using to move us further in our journey. And they can see where the Lord might be leading us in this transition. Their wisdom is invaluable in large part because they know us and stand with us. Outside input is also helpful. Mentors, a coach, and your personal community are all places where you can find needed counsel.
Finally, build a flexible process. I’m not talking about a strategic plan, but the framework that will move you from one spot to another. There will be some action steps (some “to dos”), but there also will be the identification of large categories that need to be addressed, to be thought through and planned for. And that process needs to be flexible because as you “move” some important things will change and give way to other things that will need to be addressed.
We all like the comfort of the “known” – where we live, what we do, and where our friends live. Transition can feel like chaos. That’s another reason why we must hold on tight to our Saviour’s sovereign hand and trust His heart that He knows what He is working in us and through us in this transition.
Many of you have followed me in this journey. Now a transition must be made to allow our new International Director to share his heart and journey. However, if you are interested in continuing to journey with me as a fellow pilgrim, know that this blog will migrate to a new domain: TATJourney.com as of April 1st. All existing content will still be available on the site.
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Thoughts Along The Journey 