One of the great leadership books of all time is Spencer Johnson’s “Who Moved My Cheese”. If you lead anything – home, business, a committee or if you manage people or resources or are managed by someone else, this is a great read.
The simple but powerful summary is that change is always a part of our lives.
Case in point: one of our church’s administrative assistants resigned to take another job. She had served on my staff for over eight years and was a great team member. My youth pastor is in his 11th year. My admin has been with me for nearly seven years. I’m in my 18th year as senior pastor at Union Chapel. I’ve been blessed to have long term staff!
But I knew it was just a matter of time until my cheese got moved! Life is fluid. Other than our covenant relationships (marriage, parenting, etc.) nothing stays the same for long.
I’ve drawn two conclusions that helped me sort out these transitions.
First, enjoy stability while it lasts.
Second, prepare for change. A man in my church often says “I love change!” What he means is that change is growth and opportunity for God to reveal what’s next. Change is a normal part of life and one to be anticipated, not dreaded!
The Lord has supplied a wonderful person for our staff and I’ll admit I didn’t see it coming. I was dreading the change and loss of a great co-worker and friend, but God had a plan already in place.
He always does!
Blessings!
Pastor Mark
