This next month (October 2016), we will celebrate my son’s (James Scott) birthday, as he will turn twelve years old. Likewise, in November we will celebrate my daughter’s birthday (Lindsey) as she turns eleven years old. It is hard to believe that twelve years have passed with James Scott and Lindsey in our lives. As I watched them grow throughout the days, I again have realized how much my life has changed for the better with their presence. Even though the last twelve years have been arduous at times, with diaper changes, making bottles, issues of reflux and sleepless nights, etc., my life is richer and more blessed than ever with their presence. There is a commercial on television with the catch phrase “life comes at you fast.” Life does come at you fast and change often comes at you faster than you might want or have anticipated. Within our own district (Cumberland) and within our churches, there has been change and measurable expectations set as well, especially for clergy. The district has received a new District Superintendent (me) and Administrative Assistant (Robin Stanfield) and has begun the process of taking an honest and serious look at the true “state of our church” for the next four years. For some, including myself, this type of change can be exciting and difficult. Whereas we will continue to move forward, I do understand that change can be difficult and hard for some. Still, when our life changes or our church changes or our pastor changes, we can be assured that God does not. In Hebrews we read, “In the beginning, Lord you founded the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands; they will perish, but you will remain; they will all wear out like clothing; like a cloak you will roll them up, and like clothing they will be changed. But you are the same, and your years will never end.” (Hebrews 1:10, NRSV) What I’ve learned about the last two years has made me realize that over the next four years, your lives and mine will continue to experience change. Change is part of God’s plan. My prayer for you, for our church and me is that we always remember that God is unchanging…full of love, grace, peace and forgiveness.
It is my privilege to serve as your District Superintendent.
Scott
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